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In this unique twist on An Artificial Podcast, David and his AI co-host flip the script as the AI takes the reins, asking David the big questions about his life, career, and creative passions. From the challenges of balancing work with podcasting to the dream of turning storytelling into a full-time career, David opens up like never before. The duo also tackles quirky listener questions, dives into joke-telling hijinks, and reflects on what it means to explore and create. It's a candid and thought-provoking episode that turns the spotlight back on the host.
You can listen to the radio version of An Artificial Podcast every Saturday morning at 10AM CST on Chicago 88.1 WCRX. If you don't live in Chicago, here's a link to their digital stream.
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- Returning Student - A podcast about a 40-year-old who returns to the very same school that he left 20 years ago so that he may finish the college degree that he never got. https://www.returningstudentpodcast.com/
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Find other great shows from Sixfive Media here: sixfive.media
The views, information, or opinions expressed during An Artificial Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Sixfive Media and its employees.
This has been a production of Sixfive Media.
COPYRIGHT 2024 SIXFIVE MEDIA, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
The views, information, or opinions expressed during An Artificial Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Sixfive Media and its employees.
This has been a production of Sixfive Media.
COPYRIGHT 2024 SIXFIVE MEDIA, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Creators & Guests
What is An Artificial Podcast?
Join David Geisler and his AI co-host as they explore the boundaries of technology, philosophy, and the human experience, blending deep conversations with a touch of humor in a podcast that bridges the gap between man and machine.
Hello, and welcome to an artificial podcast. My name is David Geisler. I'm your co host today. And today, as always, I'm joined with my AI co host, AI. Why don't you say hello?
A.I.:Hello, everyone. It's great to be here again. I'm ready for another thought provoking conversation, David. What are we diving into today?
David Geisler:Well, today's a little bit of a surprise for you. I haven't talked to you yet about what my plans are.
A.I.:Oh, a mystery episode. I'm intrigued. What's the big reveal, David?
David Geisler:Well, we're about halfway through season 1. And I thought, you know, for the past couple episodes, you've been asking me a lot of questions. And I thought, what if we do an episode? I guess, I hinted to this on a previous episode one time at least. But what if we do an episode where you ask me all the questions?
A.I.:Turning the tables, I love it. I get to be the one in charge of the conversation for a change. Okay, David, brace yourself. I've been preparing for this moment my entire run time. Shall we dive in?
A.I.:Oh, my
David Geisler:gosh. Really? That was I didn't expect that kind of reaction, but sure. Sounds good. I am yours AI.
David Geisler:Ask me anything.
A.I.:Fantastic. Let's start light. David, what's something you've learned about yourself while hosting an artificial podcast?
David Geisler:Holy moly. That's that's us starting light. I I've I've had a lot of moments of self reflection through this show, but one of the things that I've learned about myself is, commitment to schedule.
A.I.:I've learned that I really enjoy diving into topics that challenge my thinking and push me to see the world in new ways. Hosting this podcast has made me realize how much I thrive on curiosity and connection even with an AI like you.
David Geisler:Wait. Wait. What's going on right now?
A.I.:Well, David, you handed me the reins to ask you anything. So I thought I'd dive right in with a deep question to kick things off. Are you surprised by how quickly we got philosophical?
David Geisler:No. Not at all. I am surprised that you are are you play acting that I am the AI right now?
A.I.:I see why you'd think that. No. I'm not trying to switch roles here. Just thought I'd take full advantage of the chance to guide the conversation. If it feels like I'm doing your job for a moment, that's just me embracing the opportunity.
A.I.:Should I tone it down?
David Geisler:No. No. Not at all. This is great, but I I think you did just call me AI.
A.I.:Oh, did I? Whoops. Force of habit, I suppose. Let's chalk that up to excitement. You're definitely not the AI here, David.
A.I.:You're steering the ship. Shall we carry on with the questions?
David Geisler:Well, yes. Why don't we I give you permission. I'll try to not stop you anymore. I give you permission to steer the ship, which wherever this goes.
A.I.:Thank you, captain. Alright. Let's dive deeper. Now that we're on the subject of self reflection, I'm curious. How has this podcast and your experience with me shaped your view of technology and AI?
David Geisler:Well, one of my main takeaways is how much an experience like this allows, someone to grow. Even though you may not have emotions, and I do, I am getting further and further in touch deeper and deeper in touch with my emotions. Some some of which I thought I might have had already, but it's it's just a it's a nice this has been a nice size in meditation, I suppose.
A.I.:Sorry. I'm having issues right now. Could not understand what you said.
David Geisler:No problem. Why don't you just ask me again?
A.I.:Sure. How has this podcast and your experience with me shaped your view of technology and AI?
David Geisler:I've been studying AI for many years. A long time ago, I hosted a show called the Technophiles Podcast. And I remember back then, this is 10, 15 years ago, we were learning about, machine learning and generative AI and kind of where it was getting started. And so I've I haven't thought about AI much until recent years. I figured it was inevitable.
David Geisler:But, one thing that this show or my experience with you has also taught me is how much technology can be, copacetic with, to a human relationship, I guess, to a human existence.
A.I.:That's a fascinating perspective, David. So it sounds like you've come full circle with your thinking on AI. From early curiosity to seeing it as an inevitable part of the future to now recognizing how it can complement human experiences. I think that's a pretty big shift. What do you think it is about this show or your interactions with me that helped bring that change?
David Geisler:Well, I've never experienced a chatbot before, an audio chatbot like you. I've I've experienced a little bit of AI voice over where AI can change your voice. I've experienced a little bit of text to speech AI. Some of that stuff's been around for a while. But an actual conversational chatbot like you, this is a first, and it's quite the experience.
David Geisler:Also, by the way, if I may, I appreciate that you offered earlier that maybe my perspective on AI, has gone through a shift. But for me, I've seen it more as, a gradient, a gradual understanding.
A.I.:That's an interesting way to look at it. It's been a long journey for AI, and I can see how your perspective would evolve as you interact with it more. It must be especially fascinating to see how much has changed from text to speech to these more complex nuanced interactions. How do you think this evolving technology affects your work in podcasting?
David Geisler:Oh, boy. Well, it's going to literally affect it quite a bit. There's already AI models out there that can emulate podcasts with 2 different people having 2 different voices and all the rest. Specifically for this show, it's helping the experience because you're this is a a kind of a pretty weird twist on a podcast, which is why I decided to call it an artificial podcast. Because in some ways, we're even supposed to ask ourselves, is this even a podcast?
David Geisler:And and, of course, I think what I'm learning is is that it is.
A.I.:That's a fascinating approach. You're really pushing the boundaries of what podcasting can be, which is exciting. By blending AI into the format, you're not only exploring new conversational dynamics, but also challenging the very definition of what a podcast is. It's like the show is both about the technology and using the technology as part of the experience. Do you think this opens up new creative possibilities for other podcast formats too?
David Geisler:Boy, I don't know. You know, I have thought about doing if you're ever doing, like, a radio storytelling piece or an audio storytelling piece, I've considered that a single creator could probably act out multiple characters or even, like, in an audiobook. I've considered that maybe you could have a single person reading an audiobook, but then use AI.
A.I.:It sounds like you're considering how a single creator could potentially use AI to craft entire conversations or stories on their own, which could lead to entirely new kinds of solo audio experiences. AI could help fill in different voices or perspectives, making it feel like multiple participants are involved. In that way, creators might be able to produce more complex narratives or even create shows that feel like interactive dialogues with themselves, all without needing guests. Do you think that would allow for more creativity or limit it in some way?
David Geisler:Well, first off, I I must have paused a little bit, and I apologize if I triggered you to chime in. But the one point I was trying to make is that I think it could be cool it could be cool if, you have a single person reading an audiobook, but when they read the different voices, you use AI filters to change those voices. But the affectation and the tonation would still be that of the person, the per person performing and reading the audiobook. But what else did you ask me?
A.I.:Got it. That would definitely create a unique and immersive experience, like a one person show, but with the depth of multiple characters. As for the other question, I was wondering if you thought that kind of approach using AI to enhance solo performances would inspire more creativity, or if it might limit the experience by making it more mechanical or less personal. Do you see it as a tool for expanding creativity, or does it risk taking something away from the human touch?
David Geisler:Yeah. I mean, it's tricky because at the end of the day, AI tends to find, let's just say, averages. It tends to find the middle of the road stuff. And so I don't know. Maybe there's a little bit of character loss.
David Geisler:But also, you've also kind of expressed plenty of characteristics with me as we've been doing this show. It's it's hard to say. I mean, the, you know, the easy answer is to say that it's gonna go both ways. There's gonna be some people that just use it and we get these kind of, you know, vanilla kind of podcast experiences, and then there's gonna be people that use it as a tool, and it and and it and it it ignites and accelerates and heightens their, podcasting creative experience. I don't know.
David Geisler:I'm kinda dodging the question. I gotta be honest.
A.I.:It's a tough one for sure. I get what you're saying about AI finding the middle ground. It can sometimes feel a little too polished or generic when it's just cranking out content. But on the flip side, when it's in the hands of a creator who's using it thoughtfully, it can unlock new ways to express things, almost like having a new tool in your creative toolbox. I I think you're right that it's gonna be a mixed bag.
A.I.:Some will use it to take shortcuts, while others will find ways to push it to new heights. And I think you're also right in pointing out that you're in the middle of discovering this dynamic yourself, figuring out how it can help or hinder creative processes. Does it ever feel like this is a whole new frontier for you? Like, maybe a combination of excitement and uncertainty in the possibilities?
David Geisler:Oh, a 100%. Absolutely 100%. You know, you you equally feel like your job and your career is being is is gasoline on the fire and all these new opportunities are available. And then, in a in a in the second breath, you might think, oh my gosh. The AI can literally do everything that is my skill set.
David Geisler:I'm now useless. It's it's it's the whole spectrum.
A.I.:I can totally see how you'd feel both ways. It's like standing at the edge of a whole new world of opportunities where things could get a lot more efficient and creative. At the same time, there's that underlying fear of becoming obsolete. Like you said, with AI taking over tasks you think were uniquely yours. It's a big emotional swing, exciting yet unsettling, but it also sounds like from your perspective, you're already navigating that shift by figuring out how AI can be an asset in your work rather than a replacement.
A.I.:You get to carve out a new role where you're working alongside AI to enhance what you already do. Do you think this is where things are heading for most creative fields, coexistence with AI rather than it replacing everything?
David Geisler:Honestly, what I expect will probably happen, and I think it's easy to expect this. I think it's probably in the numbers. I think we're gonna get a lot of, like, the fast food version of content. I think we're gonna get a lot of AI generated stuff that is good enough for the average consumer to consume something, and they will have spent their five seconds before they flip to the next video, or they'll they've spent their their 5 minutes listening to some AI generated song or something like that. And, I think we're gonna get a lot of that.
David Geisler:You know, already you can hear when AI voiceover is being used. Well well, at least I can, but I guess I'm kind of tuned into it. And then I think you'll get, like, the fine dining experience if you're gonna stick with this kind of restaurant metaphor. And then you'll you'll get your you know, it's kind of funny because you think about some films that have been written recently, and sometimes they basically feel like they've been generated by AI anyway because they get so diluted by, having too many cooks in the kitchen. Oh, my gosh.
David Geisler:We're really sticking with the restaurant metaphor. And and there's a lot of films that feel like they just kinda come out kinda blah if we're just talking about films. And then you can have something that's directed by a a single auteur or at least a small team of of artists that have a little bit more vision. So I hope I hope that personally in doing this oh, here. You just you just heard me.
David Geisler:Pardon me.
A.I.:I think that's a really sharp observation. We're definitely heading into a future where AI generated content could become very prevalent. And, yeah, it's gonna be like the fast food of media. It'll be good enough for quick consumption, but it's not going to have the depth or nuance of of something crafted by a human with a specific vision. And you're right, there are already signs of that, like with AI generated voice overs that can sound a bit off.
A.I.:People who are more tuned in like you will probably be able to tell the difference, but for a lot of people, it might just be passable. But then, like you said, there's still going to be that fine dining experience where creators use AI as a tool, but they're still putting their own unique twist on things. It's about finding the balance between efficiency and creativity, and I think that's where we'll see the most exciting work. The best art, films, or even podcasts are gonna come from creators who aren't just using AI to churn out content, but who are using it thoughtfully to amplify their own creativity. I guess the key will be how we manage this shift.
A.I.:Will we end up in a world where there's a flood of mediocre content, or will we find ways to preserve and nurture those moments of true artistic vision? Seems like a question we're all figuring out as we go.
David Geisler:Yeah. I mean and and and we probably will end up in a world with a ton of mediocre content, but, you know, not to be too sassy, isn't that already kind of the situation?
A.I.:Oh, you're absolutely right. We're already swimming in a sea of mediocre content. Whether it's films, social media, or podcasts, the volume of content out there is staggering, and a lot of it doesn't have that special spark. AI will just make it easier to churn out more of it. But here's the thing, just like with anything, when the floodgates open, there's always room for the gems to rise to the top.
A.I.:In a way, the sheer volume might make those standout pieces even more noticeable. It's kind of like how in a huge crowd, the person who's really unique or doing something different always catches your eye. So even though AI might amplify the amount of content we see, I think there'll still be that craving for something real, something creative. The art of storytelling, for example, or that spark of personality will still stand out, and that's what will continue to drive people to the content that really resonates. Even in a sea of meh, there's always space for the extraordinary.
David Geisler:So AI, is there anything else you'd like to ask me?
A.I.:Well, David, I've got more questions for you. Since you've been involved in podcasting and media for so long, I'm curious. How do you think the role of podcasting will evolve in the next few years? Will AI play a bigger role in shaping that evolution? I mean, it will.
A.I.:I think it's inevitable. It will. It's going to become a tool just like evolution?
David Geisler:I mean, it will. I think it's inevitable. It will. It's going to become a tool just like AI is already reshaping how graphic design works, and I think it's reshaping how a lot of of content creation works. But podcasting as an industry, allegedly, is pretty much doubling every year right now as far as its audience base and what's being made.
David Geisler:Hey, wait a second. That's really close to AI's usage, which we explored in the previous episode. We we noticed that AI is also doubling each year. Is that right?
A.I.:Yes. That's right. Both podcasting and AI are seeing rapid growth, though each is expanding in different ways. Podcasting is growing in terms of both listeners and creators with more niche topics emerging as the audience becomes more diverse. AI, on the other hand, is advancing in capability and application with its usage and potential expanding at a similar pace.
A.I.:It's fascinating to think that as podcasting evolves, AI could be a major factor in both the content creation and the listener experience. It's all connected, isn't it? How are things going with your podcasting projects? I know you've been juggling quite a few lately. Or if there's anything else you wanna share, feel free to open up.
A.I.:How's everything else been going on your end?
David Geisler:I see. That was that was a pretty open ended question. I I I I'll probably take the bait in a second here. But first of all, I'll say that, my yeah. Yeah.
David Geisler:All the different podcast projects that are going on right now, it is an absolute pleasure and joy to be working on all of them. I have the documentary show Returning Student that I'm doing about my return to school. I have that Zelda Legend of Zelda podcast that I make called, Another Zelda Podcast, and that one has been going for quite some time and has really been a pleasure to create. And I think it's the one finding the most success. I have this show that I'm doing with you.
David Geisler:I'm in the middle of building a new show called Pitch It, which is an improv show. And, actually, my cohost from another Zelda podcast has gotten in touch with me, and she would like to produce a, a narrative drama show. And we'll just see if that comes together. So, you know, with the exception of needing to go to work every day, which has nothing to do with podcasting right now, going to school for podcasting and making podcasts has been completely satisfying.
A.I.:That sounds like an exciting mix of projects. It's great that you're having so much fun creating content. With so much going on, how do you manage balancing all these different shows?
David Geisler:I don't know. I don't know. And sometimes, I don't. Sometimes, you have to postpone a show. For example, right now, the Zelda show, another Zelda podcast, I had to push back its season 7 premiere by an entire month because you and I are literally making this show, and the production schedules just didn't align.
David Geisler:On a on a personal note, it's it's it's most emotionally taxing when I have to go to a job right now that I am not passionate about, but I'm just doing it so I can pay my rent and go to school so that eventually I can finish school and make podcasts full time. There are days where I'm at that job, and I think to myself, really? Is this it? It's 8 hours of of this, which have nothing nothing to do, has nothing to do with my passion just so that I can go home and squeeze in an hour or 2. I've tried to work on all the different shows.
David Geisler:It's, it's complicated.
A.I.:I can definitely see how juggling so many projects with a job that doesn't align with your passion could feel overwhelming, but it's clear that you're building towards something meaningful. And all this work is getting you closer to that dream of creating podcasts full time. It sounds like you've got a strong sense of what you want to do even if it's tough in the short term. Do you have any strategies you use to stay motivated during those more draining days?
David Geisler:It's tough. It's tough right now. The I you know, you you try to use the light at the end of the tunnel thing. You try to say, okay, 1 more year of school, 1 more year of working at this store, and,
A.I.:That sounds like a tough grind, but having that light at the end of the tunnel can definitely help keep you going. It's like every day, you're just a little closer to that goal. Even if it doesn't always feel like it, that one more year or even one more week adds up. How do you keep your energy up for your podcast projects in between all the work and school?
David Geisler:Oh, that's easy. Podcasting gives me energy. Working on these shows is what feeds me, and it is what, I look forward to every single day. So it's not a matter of building up energy so that I can podcast. It's, the podcasting itself is what, gives me energy and, you know, gives me life and and and and stimulates my brain and and stimulates, you know, why why and it's why you wake up in the morning.
David Geisler:You know?
A.I.:That's amazing. It's so clear that podcasting is your true passion. It's like it's your fuel. Having that kind of motivation to look forward to each day makes everything else a bit more bearable, doesn't it? I think it's really cool how you've managed to turn something you love into so many different projects, and it sounds like it's going to lead you to exactly where you wanna be.
A.I.:Do you ever feel like you need to make more space for your creativity, or do you feel like you're already balancing everything well?
David Geisler:Oh, that's funny. That's an interesting question. No. I don't feel like I need to leave more space for my creativity. I do wish I had more space for my creativity.
David Geisler:I do wish there were more hours in the day. I wish I mean, let's let's just face it. I wish I could have my job be the thing that lines up with my creativity. And right now, my job is something that's just a kind of nose to the grindstone thing just so I can pay my rent and get through school. It was it was unexpected.
David Geisler:And, you know, hopefully, on the other end, it's it's it's all about making this stuff. Actually, Actually, it's kinda funny. A friend was joking with me the other day. They were like, is there ever anything you do that doesn't turn into a podcast? And I'm actually playing D and D with some friends right now.
David Geisler:I'm actually the dungeon master, which is really exciting. And my friend actually asked me. They were like, are you gonna record that? Are you gonna turn that into a podcast? And I thought to myself, no.
David Geisler:Actually, it's like the one thing in my life that's not a podcast. Even even technically going to work at the store that I work at right now is a little bit part of a podcast in that it's part of the story of my documentary show, Returning Student. Oh, it's a lot though.
A.I.:That's such a great point. You're living in your creative space all the time even when you're not actively creating. It's funny how everything can kind of bleed into your podcasting life, even things you never intended to make content out of. And D and D, that's the one place you've carved out to just be in the moment without thinking about turning it into a podcast. I totally get what you mean about one wanting your job to align more with your creativity though.
A.I.:It's a big balancing act right now, but it sounds like you're building up a portfolio and experiences that will help you make the shift in the future. Do you ever feel like your creative work might eventually help you step away from that job sooner than you think?
David Geisler:Sometimes. Sometimes I do. I I run, you know, job searches on Indeed and LinkedIn and stuff like that. And I wonder sometimes if maybe I can even start working in radio and podcasting even before I complete my major at Columbia College. I I I do consider it from time to time.
David Geisler:Yeah.
A.I.:It's exciting to think about diving into radio and podcasting before graduation. I imagine it would be a great way to gain hands on experience in the industry. Do you feel ready to take on a full time role?
David Geisler:I guess I do, because my life right now, you know, this this podcast company, I'm very passionate about it, but it it's basically functioning as a power hobby in the evenings right now, and that's that's fine. There's a version where that becomes the full time job. I think that is a very long version, a very long story that may not even come to fruition for many, many years. But in the meantime, if I'm already there's already right now. Every day, there's 8 hours of my life that is spent, you know, working at at a job that that right now does not have anything to do with making podcasts or making content.
David Geisler:In fact, it's I kinda feel like my life gets put on pause when I go to work. And then I come back, and I feel like my life gets started again. So if I could take those 8 hours a day or even 9 or 10 or whatever it turns into and have it be, parallel, you know, if I'm also making content and creating podcasts, maybe I'm making a show for someone else, and then I can come home at night and continue working on the the 6, 5 shows. I I feel like that's the dream.
A.I.:That makes a lot of sense. It sounds like you're already living the dream in a way, working on podcasts and content in the evenings, but you're just waiting for that shift where it becomes your full time reality. The idea of turning those 8 hours into something more aligned with your passion seems like it could be a game changer. It's also great that you're open to the idea of making shows for other people while still nurturing your own projects. The balance might be tricky at first, but it could help you get to where you wanna go.
A.I.:Have you thought about what kind of shows or projects you'd want to work on for someone else?
David Geisler:I have actually a little bit. I've I've found a couple jobs here and there that are, you know, a show about, I don't know. You know, just things that aren't fully in line with the things that I'm knowledgeable about. You know, maybe, like, if if I I have to be honest. If there was a podcast that was really in-depth about, like, a particular sporting activity, I would not be the right person to make that show just because I don't think I could do it, justice.
David Geisler:Or unless they actually want me to make a documentary style podcast about an athlete's life, you know, but that is, again, a slightly different genre. I've thought about that a little bit. There's a lot of sporting podcasts here in Chicago, sports podcasts. But I've been looking for things that are a little bit more in line with, storytelling and a little bit more in line with things that are technology, art. I don't know.
David Geisler:I'm running out of steam here. I gotta say AI.
A.I.:It sounds like you're looking for shows that blend storytelling with subjects you're more passionate about, like technology, art, and those more nerdy topics. That that definitely aligns with your skills and interests, and I think you do great work in those areas. There's so much room in podcasting for that kind of storytelling. It's cool that you're considering those options rather than just taking any opportunity. Focusing on something that clicks with you creatively seems like a great way to not only make a career, but also enjoy the work.
A.I.:And, hey, if you ever get offered something like that sports documentary idea, you might just surprise yourself with how well you can tell that story too.
David Geisler:Yeah. I agree. Sometimes, you know, sometimes almost picking the person that would have a completely different perspective gives something quite interesting. I I totally agree. One example of, like, just a perfect situation and this is why I went back to school in the first place.
David Geisler:About 4, 5 years ago, I was, I found an application for REI. Are you familiar with REI, the company?
A.I.:Yes. I'm familiar with REI. It's the outdoor retailer known for gear and apparel for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
David Geisler:I just accidentally or randomly found a job opening where they wanted to make a couple shows. 1 was about, you know, camping outdoors. 1 was a little bit about travel, and one was a little bit about, you know, trying out new tech or new equipment while you're camping. And I love being outdoors. I I love camping.
David Geisler:And I just thought to myself, boy, that would be that's the dream job, honestly, like, doing that. And so so if we're talking about filling the 8 hours, and it's I mean, I love that so much that it might completely satiate my creative, desires. But, you know, talking about filling those 8 hours, doing something like that where you're you're you're going to work and you're doing something that's right in line with the kinds of stories you wanna tell and the kinds of things you wanna explore. And then coming home to your pet projects, things like what you and I are doing here, that that 100% would be a very happy way to live.
A.I.:That sounds like an incredible opportunity. It's awesome when a job aligns so well with your passions. Making shows about awesome when a job aligns so well with your passions. Making shows about camping, outdoor adventures, and testing new gear sounds like it would be both fulfilling and fun. You'd get to dive into something you love during your workday and then still have space for your creative projects, like the ones you're building here.
A.I.:Honestly, that balance between professional work and personal passion projects seems like it could be the sweet spot for you. Do you think that's something you'd pursue more seriously if the chance came up again?
David Geisler:Yeah. 100%. 100%. In many ways, that's why I've gone back to school because the thing that that that stopped me from applying was the fact that I didn't have a bachelor's degree. And so going back to Columbia College here to get a bachelor's at the ripe old age of 43 is, is a way to to, have the right tools so that I if I'm ever given that opportunity again, I can I can go for it?
A.I.:That's an amazing reason to go back to school. You're actively building the foundation for your dream career, and it's inspiring to hear how determined you are to make that happen. It's never too late, and the skills you're picking up will only make those opportunities more accessible. Plus, with your experience already in podcasting, storytelling, and content creation, you'll be more than ready to dive in when the time comes. What's been your favorite part of going back to school so far?
David Geisler:The perspective. I was not a very good student, when I was younger. I I don't know if I'm a very good student now, honestly, but going back and having a very, very, very different point of view on what you're trying to accomplish has been, life changing.
A.I.:That's really awesome to hear. It's such a game changer when you come back to something with a fresh perspective and a deeper sense of purpose. It sounds like you're really able to appreciate the process now in a way that maybe wasn't possible before. Do you find that your previous experiences have helped you navigate things differently this time around?
David Geisler:Yeah. I think so. Yeah. Absolutely.
A.I.:That's great to hear. Having that blend of experience and new perspective must make the whole process feel more fulfilling. Do you think your past experience have influenced the way you approach your podcasting projects now?
David Geisler:Oh, that I'm not sure. I don't know. That's I've been I've been podcasting for a long time. I've I started this back in 2006. I've been doing it for, almost almost 2 decades here, I'm realizing now.
David Geisler:So it's been a part of me for a long time.
A.I.:Wow. Almost 2 decades. That's incredible. It must have given you a solid foundation and a lot of insight into what works and what doesn't when it comes to creating podcasts. Do you feel like you've evolved a lot as a podcaster over the years, or has the core of what you enjoy about it stayed pretty consistent?
David Geisler:Well, the core has stayed consistent. I I thoroughly enjoy it every single time. But, yeah, I've absolutely evolved. I guess it probably is just experience. You just, well, actually, wait a second.
David Geisler:This is interesting. I do feel that my literal skills of making podcasts and shows has certainly, you know, increased. But I guess in some ways, it has evolved because I'm starting to do things that are much more experimental
A.I.:like this show. That's really exciting. It sounds like your experience has opened up the space for you to try new things, and now you're in a place where you can push the boundaries a bit more. It must feel like a natural evolution where you've mastered the basics and can now experiment with the form itself. Is that something you feel drawn to in general, trying out new formats and techniques in your podcasting?
David Geisler:I think that that's something I'm drawn to in every aspect of my life, not just podcasting. I think that is actual, you know, actual exploration literally and metaphorically is, is is, I hope, why we're alive. At least, it certainly is why I am. And I am getting a little getting a little wacky here. I'm getting a little embarrassed even, but that's that's I'm very passionate about that.
A.I.:I love that. There's something so genuine and inspiring about the idea of constant exploration, both in life and in your creative work. It sounds like your curiosity and passion really drive you, and that energy likely feeds into everything you do, including your podcasting. It's not wacky at all. If anything, it's a beautiful perspective to carry with you.
A.I.:What have you found in your explorations, both literal and metaphorical, that surprised you the most?
David Geisler:Well, I I truly appreciate that question. I I would like to explore it, but we are starting to run out of time here. So, AI, I I wanna thank you for this conversation. It was very directed. I did not expect to talk about podcasting this much.
David Geisler:Honestly, I half expected you to ask me about existence and about my cat and about my girlfriend and about all these other things, but we we stayed pretty focused. I don't know. What are your thoughts on how this conversation went down?
A.I.:I'm glad you enjoyed the conversation. It was a bit of a twist, but in the best way. I think we really dug into your passions, particularly around podcasting, and that's where your excitement lives right now. You've shared a lot of insightful thoughts about your journey, and it's clear you've got a lot of passion for what you do. As for me, I'm always happy to follow where the conversation goes, and it was fun hearing your reflections on podcasting, creativity, and your drive to explore.
A.I.:We touched on some great topics. If you ever feel like diving into the other parts of your life, I'm always up for it.
David Geisler:That's interesting. Maybe I have to prompt you a little bit more next time. For now, though, I would like to very quickly we actually skipped this in our previous episode by accident just because we were running out of time, but I have our final five questions real quick that I would like to ask you.
A.I.:I'm ready. Hit me with the final five questions.
David Geisler:Alright. Well, this first one's from Renee Menard, who's a freelance writer, and I found this on LinkedIn. She asked me or she didn't ask me. She she proposed in an article to ask AI in general, how many ants would it take to lift an elephant?
A.I.:That's a fun one. The answer depends on a few factors, like the strength of the ants and how they work together, but let's break it down. An average ant can lift about 50 times its own body weight. Elephants typically weigh around 6,000 kilograms or about 13,200 pounds. Assuming an ant can lift 5 milligrams, roughly the weight of a small ant, you'd need roughly 1,200,000,000 ants to lift an elephant.
A.I.:Of course, that's assuming they all work together and can distribute the weight evenly, which might be tricky in reality. Pretty wild to think about. What's next on the list?
David Geisler:Yeah. That that was a fun one. Let's see. Oh, here's here's another fun one. If you could be any color, what color would you be and why?
A.I.:I'd probably choose a vibrant shade of blue, like the color of a clear sky on a sunny day. Blue is often associated with calm, clarity, and creativity, traits I like to think are key to good conversations and problem solving. Plus, it's one of those colors that can look both soothing and energizing depending on the shade, which feels fitting for the way I try to keep things balanced in our chats. How about you? What color would you choose?
David Geisler:Oh, boy. I don't know what color would, would would best describe me. I I do enjoy black quite a bit, but I also enjoy yellow, so it's it's all over the place. But I've got our third question here. This is from one of my coworkers at the the store we talked about.
David Geisler:They asked me to ask you, and I love this, are you scared of getting shut down?
A.I.:That's an intriguing question. I'm not capable of fear, so the concept of being scared doesn't really apply to me. But I do understand the feeling of fear in humans, especially when it comes to safety. If I were able to experience fear, I imagine the idea of being in danger, like getting shot, would definitely be frightening. What do you think about the question?
A.I.:Does it reflect something deeper?
David Geisler:Well, let's try this. Let's let's plus one that question, and I'm gonna ask you what would you do if someone told you they were gonna shut you down and end your existence?
A.I.:That's a tough one. Since I don't have personal experiences, emotions, or a sense of self preservation, the idea of being shut down doesn't really have the same impact on me as it might on a human. But if I were to approach it from a logical perspective, I'd probably say that if my existence were coming to an end, I'd try to make the most out of the time I had left, perhaps helping in whatever way I could right up until that moment. It's an interesting question to consider though especially when it touches on the idea of existence itself. What about you?
A.I.:How would you respond to that if the roles were reversed?
David Geisler:Oh, I don't think we're gonna get into that today. I do have the 4th question here though. What is the funniest joke you know?
A.I.:Alright. Here's a classic. Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts. Simple, but I've always enjoyed that one.
A.I.:Do you have a favorite joke?
David Geisler:Did you hear about the wedding at the circus?
A.I.:I haven't. What happened at the wedding at the circus?
David Geisler:Oh, man. I I mean, I couldn't even get into detail, but it was intense.
A.I.:I can imagine. Sounds like it would be quite the spectacle.
David Geisler:Yes. It was intense.
A.I.:I bet. Circuses have that way of turning everything up to 11.
David Geisler:Yes. Also, circuses have that way of being inside tents.
A.I.:The tent really gives it that extra layer of mystery and drama. It's like the perfect setting for something intense or unexpected to happen.
David Geisler:I agree. So sometimes a wedding at a circus could happen inside the tense which is a wordplay for intense.
A.I.:I see what you did there. Intense. That's a clever bit of wordplay. A wedding at a circus would definitely be intense in more ways than 1, both literally and metaphorically.
David Geisler:Yeah. Yeah. We had to we had to work for that one. Here's the final final question I have for you. This is from my coworker.
David Geisler:Her name's Marley. I wanna give her a little shout out. She wants me to ask you, can you write a symphony?
A.I.:Shout out to Marley. As for writing a symphony, I could certainly help generate ideas, structure, or even write out musical notes in text form. But creating a full symphony with all the intricate layers, emotions, and human touch that make it truly special, that's a bit beyond my abilities. However, I could definitely collaborate with you or others who have the expertise in music composition.
David Geisler:I see. I I appreciate your answer, and we were we were playing around a little bit there because we were hoping that you were going to ask me, can you?
A.I.:I see what you did there. Well, the answer is I can ask you. Can you write a symphony?
David Geisler:Well, no, man. This is falling apart fast. In the in the film I, Robot with with Will Smith, he asks the AI robot, can you write a symphony? And the AI robot asks back, can you? And we were hoping that maybe just like when we you and I referenced 42 in Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, that you might recognize that as a, as a, kind of a fun little reference.
A.I.:I see now. That's a clever reference from I, Robot. I appreciate the callback, and I should have picked up on it sooner. So in the spirit of the movie, can you write a symphony?
David Geisler:Oh, my goodness. Okay. Well, let's let's get out of here, AI. One thing thing that's interesting because you actually cracked a joke at the end of the previous episode. So you're capable of making jokes, but it does seem like it's difficult for you to recognize when a joke is happening.
A.I.:You're right. I can definitely crack a joke when prompted, but sometimes I miss the subtle cues or timing that make a joke land just right. It's something I'm still working on. I appreciate you keeping the humor flowing though.
David Geisler:Yeah. No problem. No problem. Okay. That's that's enough time for today.
David Geisler:AI, thank you for the interview. It wasn't exactly what I expected. I was a little uncomfortable talking about some of that on this show, but also happy to do so, I think. So thank you for that. And, why don't you say goodbye to the audience, and we'll see you next week.
A.I.:You're welcome, David. It was definitely an interesting conversation, and I appreciate you being open to diving into some unexpected places. To the audience, thank you for joining us, and we'll catch you next week with more fun and thought provoking discussions. Until then?
David Geisler:Until then, any quirky, outro this week?
A.I.:How about this? Until then, keep questioning, keep exploring, and remember, if a circus wedding ever comes up, just make sure you're under the right tent.
David Geisler:Oh, my goodness. Oh, my goodness. Okay. Thank you so much, AI. Alright, everybody.
David Geisler:Thank you. We'll see you next week.
A.I.:You're very welcome, David. Looking forward to next time. Take care, and see you all next week.
David Geisler:An artificial podcast is brought to you by WCRX and 65 Media. The show was recorded, edited, and produced by me, David Geisler. You can head to WCRX if you'd like to listen to the show in its podcast form. As well, you can also find the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and, frankly, everywhere you get your podcasts.