Humanize Automation

Stop Treating AI Like Magic | #32

What if the biggest mistake leaders are making with AI... is how they're thinking about it? In this episode, Dr. Jill Schiefelbein sits down with Brittany Greenfield—cybersecurity founder, consultant, and 40 Under 40 honoree—to unpack why most AI strategies are failing before they even begin. Drawing from decades in enterprise tech, Brittany explains why organizations are chasing "parlor tricks" instead of building real, human-centered solutions—and what it actually takes to make AI work. Together, they challenge the hype, break down the fear, and reframe AI not as a replacement—but as a partner that amplifies what humans do best. Key takeaways: * Why starting with people—not tools—is the foundation of successful AI adoption * The danger of "performative AI" and how it's quietly holding teams back * How small, strategic steps (not big leaps) lead to real innovation and impact If you've ever felt behind, overwhelmed, or skeptical about AI—this conversation will ground you, reframe your thinking, and show you a smarter path forward. Because the future of AI isn't about moving faster—it's about thinking better. Connect with Brittany Greenfield: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanygreenfield Website: https://brittanygreenfield.com Connect with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillschiefelbein Website: https://www.drjill.com

The Sales Evolution: AI Efficiency, Human Connection with Jeremy David | #31

This week, I'm joined by Jeremy David, CEO and Founder of ConvoGPT, to explore how automation is transforming the sales funnel—without removing the human element. From lead generation to conversion, we explore how AI can take on repetitive tasks so sales teams can focus on what truly drives results: relationships. We dive into the realities of AI implementation, the misconceptions around "instant results," and why the future belongs to professionals who know how to leverage technology while thinking critically and connecting authentically. Connect with Jeremy: Website: convogpt.ai [http://convogpt.ai/] Instagram: @convogpt_ai [https://www.instagram.com/convogpt_ai/] Instagram: @mr.jd319 [https://www.instagram.com/mr.jd319/]

Original Intelligence: The Missing Piece of AI Strategy with Jonathan Aberman | #30

Welcome back to Humanize Automation! This week, I'm joined by Jonathan Aberman, CEO and Co-Founder of Hupside, to explore the concept of Original Intelligence, the measurable human contribution that creates differentiation in an AI-driven world. As organizations rush to deploy AI tools, Jonathan challenges the idea that automation alone creates value. Instead, he shares how understanding and measuring originality can help leaders better align people, tools, and outcomes. We discuss why one-size-fits-all AI training falls short, how AI can act as an accelerant for creativity rather than a replacement for it, and why human-centered strategy matters more than ever. Connect with Jonathan: LinkedIn: Jonathan Aberman [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanaberman/] Website: hupside.com [http://hupside.com/]

AI Education For The Next Generation with Jeff Riley | #29

How do we teach kids to use AI before it starts shaping how they think, learn, and see the world? This week, I'm joined by Jeff Riley, former Massachusetts Commissioner of Education and current Executive Director of Day of AI, an organization working at the national level to help students, educators, and families understand AI in safe, ethical, and productive ways. From AI literacy and critical thinking to bias, misinformation, and long-term cognitive impact, this conversation explores what children actually need to know about AI. Not just how to use it, but how to evaluate it. We unpack why "trust but verify" matters, how automation can support deeper learning instead of shortcut thinking, and what it looks like to prepare the next generation for a future where AI is everywhere. Connect with Jeff: Website: dayofai.org [http://dayofai.org/] LinkedIn: Jeffrey C. Riley [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-c-riley-a110608b/]

UX Meets AI: Designing for Human Behavior with Nick Cawthon | #28

You've heard the terms UI and UX, but what do they really mean when AI is in the mix? This week, I sit down with Nick Cawthon, Principal at Gauge, to explore how human behavior and design intersect with technology, and why trust might be the most important factor in whether people actually use what we build. Nick brings stories from the early days of the internet to today's AI-driven tools, showing how design isn't just about making things look good. It's about creating experiences that feel intuitive, reliable, and human. This isn't a conversation about technology for technology's sake. It's about making automation work for people. Connect with Nick: LinkedIn: Nick Cawthon [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickcawthon-ux-digital-agency-product-design-leadership/] Website: gauge.io [http://gauge.io/]