Jim Donio

1. SUMMARYIn this episode, Jeremy and Jim dive into the tension between AI hype, mass delusion, and grounded innovation. With Jeff Bezos calling AI an “industrial bubble,” and The Atlantic warning of cultural anxiety, the hosts explore whether this boom is all smoke—or fuel for something more lasting. They break down Google’s new Gemini Enterprise suite for small businesses, revealing how to use it (or any LLM) for real tasks like sales forecasting and inventory planning. Plus: how to filter AI news without getting lost in the noise, and why predictable costs and automation-ready workflows are a win for SMBs.2. THE AI JOKEWhat do you call a Gemini who's also a DJ? A remix.3. TAKEAWAYSJeff Bezos frames AI as a bubble, but one likely to drive long-term innovation—not collapse.The Atlantic's “mass delusion” thesis calls out AI’s role in creating digital illusions and cultural anxiety.Google’s Gemini Enterprise bundles AI tools for businesses at $21–$30/user, aiming to simplify AI adoption.Predictable per-seat pricing can help SMBs budget for AI without surprises.“Seat creep” is real—scale wisely and measure ROI before rolling out to larger teams.Tools like Gemini offer no/low-code agent-building options to automate summaries, routing, and data tasks.Beware of fake AI apps—especially post-launch. Only download from trusted sources.The “Sales Pulseboard” tip shows how to merge POS data with local context to make smarter staffing/inventory calls using LLMs.4. RESOURCES AND TOOLSJeff Bezos calls AI investment an “industrial bubble” — Financial TimesAI Is Fueling Cultural Anxiety — The AtlanticGoogle ramps up Gemini Enterprise for SMBs — TechCrunchGoogle's $5M “Small Business B(AI)sics” Training — Google Blog5. CHAPTERS00:00 – AI Joke: Remix and Gemini Wordplay 00:23 – Bezos on AI: Bubble or Breakthrough? 01:10 – Survivors of the Bubble: Risks and Optimism 02:12 – AI Hype and Cultural Anxiety (The Atlantic) 03:21 – Filtering the BS for Small Businesses 04:28 – Real Talk: How AI Investment Affects SMBs 05:30 – Hallucinations and the Case for Workflow Checks 06:49 – App Store Fakes and AI Safety Tips 07:23 – Gemini Enterprise Explained: Pricing and Bundles 09:18 – Seat Creep: Watch Those Subscription Costs 10:30 – Predictable Costs & Free AI Training for SMBs 11:52 – Tool Tip: Building a Sales Pulseboard 13:38 – External Factors: Events, Weather, and Demand 14:59 – Custom GPTs and Automation Possibilities 16:25 – Why It’s Worth It: Long-Term Automation Wins 6. TOOLTIPQuick Win: “Sales Pulseboard”What it is: A one-page Google Sheet that merges your last 30–60 days of sales with simple local context (events + weather) and a prompt you can paste into an LLM (Gemini/Claude/ChatGPT) to get plain-English staffing and inventory suggestions.Why it helps: Catches demand spikes (market days, local games, heat waves) so you can tweak staffing, hours, or SKUs—without buying new software.You’ll need (free or freemium):Google SheetsAny LLM in your browser (Gemini, Claude, or ChatGPT)Optional: links to local event calendars + a 7-day forecast pageSteps:Export sales from your POS as CSV for the last 30–60 days. In Sheets, add columns: Date, Hour, Category, Item, Qty, Net Sales.Summarize with a Pivot Table:Rows = DateColumns = Category (or Hour)Values = Sum of Net Sales and Sum of QtyAdd context tabs:Events: Paste dates/times of nearby events (games, festivals, farmer’s markets).Weather: Paste 7-day highs/lows + notes (rain, heat, storms).Prompt the LLM (paste this, or upload the CSV/Sheet link if supported):You are a retail operations analyst. Using the “Sales”, “Events”, and “Weather” tabs, find day-of-week and hour patterns, flag correlations with events/weather, forecast the next 2 weeks at a high level, and output 5–8 specific actions (staffing, hours, inventory, promos). Include a simple table with predicted busy periods and a confidence score for each.Act on 2–3 changes this week (e.g., add a Friday evening shift, pre-prep top SKUs) and set a calendar reminder to review results next week.Streamline: Once you've perfected the prompt and steps after a few weeks, make a custom GPT or Gemini app, so that all you'll need to do each week is export the sales data, upload to the GPT, and go!Optional automation: Paste the AI’s recommendations into a one-page doc and share to your team Slack/WhatsApp every Monday.

SUMMARYIn 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 JOKEI asked my employees where they see the business in five years. They said, "hopefully, still open."TAKEAWAYSPerplexity’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.RESOURCES AND TOOLS5 Things You Should Never Outsource to AI – ForbesComet Browser with AI Agent Superpowers – Digital TrendsWalmart CEO: AI Will Change Every Job – AP NewsCHAPTERS00:00 – Cold Open: Bad Jokes & Bot Confessions01:00 – Why We Switched Episode Topics Last Minute02:30 – What Perplexity’s New Browser Can Do for SMBs04:00 – Automating Research, Meeting Prep & Competitor Tracking06:00 – What You Should *Not* Outsource to AI (Forbes Article)08:00 – Voice, Decisions, and Values: Where Humans Still Win10:00 – Walmart CEO's AI Warning for Every Job13:00 – Is AI Really Replacing Workers? The Real Stats16:00 – Practical Tips for AI Adoption in SMBs18:00 – The 3-Minute “Human + AI” Skills Audit20:00 – Team Exercises, Micro-Demos, and AI Happiness Metrics22:00 – Closing: Assess, Adapt, and Don’t Fear the Future

1. SUMMARYIn this episode, Jeremy and Jim tackle the buzz around AI—what’s real, what’s hype, and what it actually means for small businesses. They discuss viral claims like a future three-day workweek, AI agents handling bank payments, and AI reshaping culture. But they don’t just critique; they equip you with a practical framework to spot exaggerated promises and focus on the real, incremental changes AI can make today. With humor and grounded insights, they help business leaders make smarter decisions amid the AI noise.2. THE AI JOKEAt the staff meeting, HR said, AI would only take “repetitive tasks.”The intern leaned over and whispered, “So… my entire résumé?”3. TAKEAWAYSAI headlines are often exaggerated—use a critical lens to assess claims.The “3-day workweek” idea is exciting but unrealistic for most SMBs right now.Google’s AI Agent Protocol (AP2) may allow AI to make payments—raising big risk flags, especially for banks.AI’s impact on culture is complex—it influences what we create and consume, often without us realizing.Productivity gains are happening, but they’re incremental: think hours saved, not days off.Small businesses can get ahead by adopting simple AI tools that automate admin and enhance focus.Be skeptical of terms like “transformative” and “revolutionary”—they often lack substance.Instead of chasing the next big thing, focus on measurable improvements in your workflow.4. RESOURCES AND TOOLSWhat banks need to know about Google’s AI Agent Protocol (American Banker)A.I. Is Coming for Culture (The New Yorker)Zoom CEO Says AI Will Bring a Three-Day Workweek — Should We Believe It? (Yahoo Finance)5. CHAPTERS00:00 - Icebreaker & The Intern’s Résumé Joke01:00 - The AI Hype Cycle: Joke Edition02:30 - Is AI a Fad? Real Conversations with Skeptics03:00 - Google’s AI Agent Protocol and Risk for Banks04:20 - AI and the Reshaping of Culture06:30 - Music Algorithms, Influencers, and Culture Echo Chambers08:00 - The 3-Day Workweek: Fact or Fiction?10:00 - How Small Businesses Are Actually Using AI12:30 - Practical Gains: Productivity vs Time Off13:30 - What AI Could Really Do for Your Work-Life Balance15:00 - Clickbait Culture and The Need for Skepticism16:30 - Framework: How to Spot Hype in AI Headlines18:00 - Final Thoughts: Baby Steps Toward AI Adoption

SUMMARYIn this episode, Jim and Jeremy dive deep into the evolving regulatory landscape of AI and what it means for small and medium businesses (SMBs). From California’s SB 53 disclosure law to Senator Cruz’s proposed federal “AI Sandbox,” the hosts explore how regulation—or the lack of it—creates both risk and opportunity. They unpack how SMBs can harness AI for advertising and operations while managing data privacy, ethical use, and tool overload. With humor, realism, and actionable advice, this episode arms business owners with the mindset and strategies needed to navigate AI's Wild West.THE AI JOKEI opened my toolbox this very early this morning and asked the screwdriver why it looked so upset. It said, “I screwed up.” But the hammer chimed in, “Yeah, well, I’m beat.” At which point the tape measure stretched out, yawned, and whispered, “Guys… let’s just keep this short.”TAKEAWAYSAI regulation is heating up: California’s SB 53 mandates transparency, while the proposed federal “AI Sandbox” delays regulation for innovation's sake.SMBs have a real chance to leverage AI ahead of regulation—if they plan ahead.87% of SMBs expect growth from AI advertising tools, but many feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options.Ethical risks—like misleading ads and biased automation—can damage trust and reputation.AI-generated content must be curated to reflect brand voice and avoid “AI slop.”Tool overload is real; take small, strategic steps rather than automating everything at once.An “AI Safety & Transparency Checklist” can help SMBs document use, track tools, and stay compliant.Digital housekeeping—organizing AI tools and data—is the essential first step before scaling adoption.RESOURCES AND TOOLSCalifornia AI Disclosure Law (SB 53) – VoxSenator Cruz’s AI Sandbox Proposal – ReutersAmazon Ads SMB AI Research – Amazon AdsCHAPTERS00:00 - Toolbox Talk & The AI Joke 00:51 - Intro to AI Regulation and the "AI Sandbox" 02:08 - U.S.-China Tech Arms Race & Regulation Hesitations 03:09 - California’s SB 53 and Tech Regulation Ripple Effects 04:36 - Wild West vs. Preparedness: The Regulatory Gap 05:27 - AI in Advertising: Growth Stats & Real Sentiment 07:09 - AI Slop & Algorithmic Penalties 08:23 - Brand Voice, Quality, and Ethical Concerns 10:24 - Tool Overload & Incremental AI Adoption 12:13 - AI Safety & Transparency Checklist Explained 15:05 - Why Digital Housekeeping Matters for AI 16:25 - Closing Thoughts: AI is Already in the Living Room

1. SUMMARYIn Episode 34, Jeremy and Jim tackle the growing disconnect between AI hype and business reality. As Wall Street frets over the failure rate of enterprise AI investments (95% yield no ROI!), small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are finding more grounded success. The duo unpacks a wave of Gen Z career shifts as young adults abandon white-collar dreams in favor of six-figure trade jobs like plumbing and HVAC. What emerges is a powerful message: while big corporations flounder with bloated AI budgets, small businesses and individuals who act thoughtfully and strategically are poised to win. There's risk, yes—but the opportunity to thrive has never been greater.2. THE AI JOKEWhy did nobody believe the dad when he said he saw Medusa at the supermarket?Because it sounded like just another myth-stake.3. TAKEAWAYS95% of enterprise AI projects are reportedly delivering zero ROI.Small businesses that implement AI thoughtfully are still seeing strong returns.Wall Street's fear of an "AI bubble" is based largely on large-scale failures, not SMB outcomes.Big businesses often throw money at AI without clear goals—leading to waste.Gen Z is pivoting hard toward the trades, chasing job security and high early income.Trade careers now offer paid training, less debt, and tangible job security.Blue-collar roles may be safer for now, but eventual automation risk still exists.SMBs should consider creating apprenticeship pipelines to attract new talent.4. RESOURCES AND TOOLSWall Street Fear: Most AI Investments Yield Zero Return – The Telegraphhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/08/20/ai-report-triggering-panic-and-fear-on-wall-street/Generative AI Projects Are Flunking – Futurismhttps://futurism.com/ai-agents-failing-companiesYoung Adults Abandon White-Collar Jobs for Skilled Trades – SFGATEhttps://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/young-adults-changing-career-paths-ai-20824566.php5. CHAPTERS00:00 - Opening Joke: Medusa Myth-stake00:25 - Wall Street's AI ROI Panic01:30 - Why Enterprise AI Fails02:15 - The SMB Advantage with AI03:10 - MIT Study and the GenAI Divide04:00 - Aircraft Carriers vs. Speedboats Analogy06:00 - The "AI Bubble" and Overspending06:36 - Feature Topic: Gen Z Abandons White-Collar Jobs07:51 - The San Francisco Perspective and Its Limits08:30 - Trade Careers as the New Safe Haven10:00 - The Ripple Effect Across the U.S.11:08 - A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs12:05 - Gen Z: The Influencer + Builder Generation13:00 - Creating Talent Pipelines for Trade-Driven SMBs14:00 - Final Thoughts: Seize the Moment6. KEYWORDSAI investments, ROI, small business strategy, generative AI, Wall Street panic, AI bubble, trade careers, Gen Z, vocational training, apprenticeships, skilled trades, SMB hiring, blue-collar tech, enterprise failure, AI hype, HVAC jobs, plumbing, job automation, MIT GenAI Divide, career pivots

Jim hits on the misconceptions surrounding AI, emphasizing that ChatGPT is just the tip of the iceberg. Jim and Jeremy explore the idea that most people currently have a limited understanding of AI technologies, likening ChatGPT to Kleenex in the world of tissues. Listen as they acknowledge the overwhelming influx of information and the importance of staying informed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

SUMMARYIn Episode 33, Jim and Jeremy unpack how skeptical intelligence, learning-oriented AI, and critical thinking are becoming essential tools for business leaders navigating the AI boom. They dig into three timely articles—from AMD’s cautious optimism to Anthropic’s Claude “Learning Modes”—and discuss how small business owners can use these insights to stay sharp, stay relevant, and stay sane. Listeners will hear practical tips, candid critiques of AI “slop,” and why thinking critically is more important than ever in an age of over-automation and information overwhelm.THE AI JOKEWhy don't skeptics trust Atoms?Because they make up everything.TAKEAWAYSSkeptical intelligence is a must-have skill in the age of AI—don’t trust tools blindly.AI-generated content often lacks depth and voice; Jeremy coined it “AI slop.”Critical thinking should never be outsourced, especially with automation tools.Even tech leaders like AMD’s CEO feel overwhelmed by the pace of AI.Claude’s “Learning Modes” offer a new way to engage with AI—Socratic and exploratory.Small businesses may be better positioned to adopt AI thoughtfully due to built-in caution.Learning AI tools is now a dual opportunity: get tasks done and upskill while doing so.AI will reshape every job, even if it doesn’t replace everyone.RESOURCES AND TOOLSSkeptical Intelligence Is Crucial in the Age of AI – ForbesEven AMD CEO Agrees Technology is Overwhelming Right Now – Yahoo TechAnthropic Takes on OpenAI and Google with New Claude AI Features – VentureBeatCHAPTERS00:00 - AI Joke: Skeptics and Atoms 00:16 - Defining Skeptical Intelligence 01:00 - The Rise of “AI Slop” and Critical Thinking 02:22 - Human Oversight and AI Failures in Big Business 03:26 - Why Small Businesses May Be Smarter AI Adopters 04:12 - AMD’s CEO on the Dizzying Pace of AI 07:10 - Jobs Won’t Be Replaced, But Will Be Reshaped 08:22 - Deep Dive: Claude’s Learning Modes and Socratic UX 10:12 - AI Tools That Adapt to You (Not the Other Way Around) 11:01 - Personal Use Case: Using Claude to Improve Marketing Strategy 13:19 - How to Activate Claude’s Learning Modes 14:03 - Learning AI By Using AI 16:26 - When to Learn vs. When to Let AI Work for You 17:32 - The Real Upside: Smarter, Not Just Faster 19:28 - Closing Thoughts and Claude Download Reminder KEYWORDSskeptical intelligence, Claude AI, Anthropic, AMD CEO, AI learning modes, AI slop, critical thinking, small business, AI tools, AI adoption, job reshaping, Socratic AI, AI tutoring, AI for entrepreneurs, human-AI collaboration, business strategy, AI upskilling, Claude vs ChatGPT, Notebook LM, automation risks

In this episode, Jeremy and Jim explore the seismic shift marked by GPT-5—a model so powerful yet primitive, it feels like the dawn of a new AI civilization. They cover key developments such as agentic AI, multi-model routing, and tool usage that push beyond chatbots into full-on collaboration. From fears of job loss in white-collar industries to the rise of AI-generated entertainment and the dream of personal AI tutors, the hosts balance concerns with excitement. This "Stone Age" moment isn't the end—it's the start of AI learning how to think, plan, and act. The conversation highlights both the disruption and opportunities GPT-5 introduces, especially for business owners ready to evolve.

In this episode, Jeremy and Jim unpack the rapid transformation AI is bringing to the business world. They explore Microsoft's newly released list of 40 job categories most and least at risk from AI disruption, discuss how startups like Trunk Tools are leveraging AI agents in niche sectors like construction, and emphasize the need for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to build a real AI strategy. The hosts highlight that the winners in this AI wave won't just be the biggest companies with the best tools, but the nimblest—those with clarity, focus, and a plan. The conversation offers a grounded, practical roadmap for SMBs who want to start small, avoid pilot purgatory, and unlock early wins with purpose-built AI.

In this episode, Jeremy and Jim tackle the sobering implications of a recent court order requiring OpenAI to retain all ChatGPT conversations—even deleted ones—for potential use in legal proceedings. What does this mean for privacy, business ethics, and small business owners who treat AI like a therapist or brainstorming partner? From deepfake scams to surveillance-level subpoena power, the risks are real—but so are the opportunities. With trademark optimism and some healthy skepticism, the duo explores how AI confessions could actually support transparency, trust, and even proof of innovation—if used wisely.

In this episode of AI Made Easy for Business, Jeremy and Jim explore how emerging agentic AI tools are reshaping the small business landscape by automating tasks once handled by assistants, recruiters, and even customer service teams. From AI-generated music acts fooling listeners to autonomous agents logging into apps and responding like trained employees, the conversation highlights both the exciting opportunities and ethical challenges ahead. With practical tips for getting started—like beginning with low-risk, repetitive tasks and setting up AI agents like real team members—this episode empowers entrepreneurs to adapt quickly, embrace imperfect-but-useful tools, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

In this episode of "AI Made Easy for Business," Jeremy and Jim dive into an MIT study exploring how overreliance on AI tools like ChatGPT may diminish critical thinking and lead to "cognitive debt." They unpack the distinction between using AI as a tutor versus a crutch and share real-world examples—including Jim’s personal health transformation—of how technology can support, but not replace, thoughtful human effort. From AI-written one-liners to online leadership courses, this episode offers both caution and inspiration for anyone navigating AI’s expanding role in work and life.

In this conversation, Jim and Jeremy discuss the evolving landscape of work in the age of AI, particularly focusing on gig workers and the necessity for adaptation. They explore the importance of curiosity, the role of AI as a tool for efficiency, and the human elements of gratitude and empathy that AI cannot replicate. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals to embrace change, develop relevant skills, and leverage AI for competitive advantage in their careers.

This conversation explores the intersection of culinary arts and artificial intelligence, discussing the origins of Michelin stars, the role of AI in enhancing creativity and efficiency in cooking, and the ethical considerations chefs must navigate. The speakers share personal experiences with AI tools that assist in recipe development and cooking techniques, emphasizing the potential for AI to inspire and innovate in the kitchen while maintaining a connection to cultural roots and personal brand identity.

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the transformative impact of AI on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of being nimble and adaptable in a rapidly changing business landscape. They explore the advantages of leveraging AI tools to enhance efficiency and decision-making, while also addressing the balance between speed and thoughtful strategy. The discussion highlights the necessity for entrepreneurs to embrace lifelong learning and innovation to stay relevant in today's market.

This conversation delves into the challenges startups face regarding funding, the importance of mentorship, and how AI tools can assist in navigating these hurdles. The speakers discuss the barriers to capital access, the role of mentorship in entrepreneurial success, and how AI can complement human guidance. They also explore the complexities of securing grants and funding opportunities, innovative thinking for business growth, and the significance of community and incubators in the startup ecosystem.

In this conversation, Jeremy and Jim discuss the current landscape of knowledge sharing and the role of AI in democratizing access to information. They explore the importance of community, the challenges faced by small business owners in navigating technology, and how AI can accelerate learning and collaboration. The discussion emphasizes the need for breaking down silos and fostering a culture of sharing knowledge freely to empower individuals and businesses alike.

In this conversation, Jim and Jeremy discuss the evolving landscape of social media, particularly with the integration of AI technologies. They explore the implications of OpenAI's new social media platform, the challenges and opportunities it presents for businesses, and strategies for optimizing content for AI consumption. The discussion emphasizes the importance of adapting to these changes and leveraging AI tools to enhance user engagement and business growth.

The conversation explores the transformative impact of AI voice bots on business operations, emphasizing their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to enhance customer service. The speakers discuss real-world applications, challenges in sensitive areas, the importance of understanding customer intent, and the significance of brand voice in AI interactions. They also provide insights on how to get started with AI tools and the necessity of iteration and adaptation in implementing these technologies.

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the integration of AI in document management, highlighting the challenges and benefits of using AI tools to streamline workflows. They emphasize the importance of organizing files effectively to enhance AI efficiency and the necessity of preparing businesses for AI integration. The discussion also touches on the significance of file accessibility and the role of various AI tools, such as Claude and Gemini, in improving document management processes.