​​​Meeting Recording Links and Summaries

The AI Discovery Lab meeting recordings and summaries reflect a rich exploration of AI's capabilities and implications, spanning education, research, societal impact, and specialized applications such as sports analytics and healthcare. 
 

Recurring Themes

• AI in Education:

  • Development of tools for research, content creation, and critical thinking.

  • Exploration of AI's impact on teaching methodologies, including study guides, exam generation, and adaptive learning tools.

  • Concerns over copyright, ownership, and ethical considerations in generative AI.

• Emerging AI Technologies:

  • Introduction and demonstration of tools like Cursor AI, Gen, Claude, Gemini, and others.

  • Discussions on AI's potential in areas such as grading, investment analysis, and autonomous agents.

• Skill Adaptation and Collaboration:

  • Emphasis on adapting to rapid AI advancements and mastering new tools.

  • Collaboration for resource sharing, including presentations, websites, and tool directories.

• AI's Societal Impact:

  • Privacy and ethical concerns, including manipulation risks and the need for nuanced application.

  • Potential to enhance human connection despite the rise of virtual tools.

• Specialized AI Applications:

  • Use in sports analytics, healthcare, and realistic avatar creation.

  • Development of tools for business plans, graphical design, and multimedia content.
     

• 11/25/25  The meeting focused on demonstrating new features of Notebook LM and other AI tools, particularly highlighting their capabilities in generating infographics, slide decks, and analyzing different AI models. The group explored how these tools can be used in educational settings to create visual representations and evaluate sources, while discussing the importance of teaching students to question and verify AI-generated information. Concerns were raised about the rapid evolution of evaluation tools and the need for developing new foundational knowledge for assessing information in AI-driven environments, along with discussions about the ethical use of AI tools in teaching and the potential for standardized content.
   

• 11/18/25  The meeting focused on demonstrating new features of AI tools, particularly ChatGPT version 5.1, including research capabilities, personalization options, and improved accuracy in providing detailed information. Rick and James discussed the importance of hands-on experience with AI tools and the benefits of independent exploration, while also touching on the evolution of AI models and their rapidly changing capabilities. The session concluded with demonstrations of various AI tools and a discussion of upcoming developments in the AI market, including potential advancements from different companies.
   

• 11/4/25  The group explored how AI is transforming the workplace, focusing on the increasing role of AI specialists and the importance of developing skills for constant learning and adaptation. They discussed the challenges of AI adoption in the workforce, including employee resistance and economic implications, while also considering the future of work and society in a world dominated by AI. The conversation concluded with demonstrations of various AI tools and their capabilities in research, advertising, and website development, emphasizing the need for balanced perspectives in AI development.
   

• 10/28/25  The group discussed the current state and future of AI, focusing on the distinction between foundation models and the tools built on top of them. Rick explained that while there might be overcapitalization in certain AI tools and applications, the broader AI landscape is not in a bubble. He compared the AI ecosystem to a stack with different layers, including the application layer, cognition layer, network layer, and physical layer, emphasizing that the foundation models are advancing rapidly and are not leveling off. Rick also noted that overcapitalized tools at the application layer could fail if they cannot compete with more advanced models at lower layers..  There was a notable discussion among the group about AI adoption opportunities and challenges.  
   

• 10/21/25  The meeting began with Rick introducing upcoming Capybara work and demonstrating a new AI feature called Atlas that performed a three-tier analysis of NVIDIA, showcasing impressive data analysis capabilities. The group explored various aspects of AI technology, including its implications for art creation, the distinction between inspiration and learning, and the potential for AI to revolutionize software development and solve complex mathematical problems. Rick shared insights about AI-generated content and prompt engineering, while demonstrating practical applications of AI tools for business modeling, content creation, and local AI setups, highlighting both the potential and limitations of current AI technology.
   

• 10/14/25  The group discussed the implications of AI-driven grading tools, such as Canvas's upcoming rubric tool, on teaching and learning. They expressed concerns about the potential for AI to replace teachers, especially in asynchronous online settings, where machines might provide more efficient and immediate feedback. Jim suggested that teachers could transition to roles like facilitators, but questioned the economic viability of maintaining human involvement in an asynchronous environment. Rick agreed that the evolution of educational models would be necessary to address these challenges, potentially integrating online learning with face-to-face instruction to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
   

• 10/7/25  The team explored various AI platforms including Sora 2 for immersive content creation and Sora for art generation, with Rick providing guidance on setup and usage while demonstrating key features and capabilities. Rick discussed the evolution of AI technology, focusing on concepts like convergence and divergence, and showcased new tools like Agent Builder for visual AI workflow creation. The conversation concluded with discussions about educational technology tools and platforms, addressing concerns about rapid technological change and the importance of developing deeper understanding of AI systems rather than just using tools.
   

• 9/30/25  The meeting focused on discussing various AI developments and their capabilities, including new models from different companies and their features for creating interactive experiences and multimedia content. Participants explored how AI tools can be used in education and content creation, with demonstrations of different AI systems for generating images, videos, and personalized content. The discussion concluded with conversations about the challenges of teaching AI technologies in education and the importance of developing AI fluency through frameworks like the Four Ds, while also addressing concerns about rapid technological advancement and the evolving role of AI as a collaborative partner.
   

• 9/9/25 The meeting began with the demonstration of a card game created about teaching with AI, sharing  experiences with AI in education and discussing the concept of agentic systems. The group explored the evolution of organizational charts into work charts, discussing how AI systems could transform traditional structures and workflows while maintaining human oversight. Rick concluded by showcasing a new app he developed with Jim to generate prompts for ChatGPT-5, demonstrating how AI tools can be used to enhance workflow efficiency and decision-making processes.
   

• 9/2/25  The meeting began with demonstrations of AI-generated video content and tools, including horror-themed animations and image creation capabilities, followed by discussions about the ethical and legal implications of AI-generated music and art. The group explored various AI tools for email management and productivity, while examining the broader impact of technology on creative industries and human creativity. The conversation concluded with discussions about open-source creativity, the potential of AI tools to address specific challenges, and the importance of continued collaboration and experimentation within their lab environment.
   

• 8/26/25 The group focused on the release of ChatGPT 5, highlighting its new model hierarchy (Auto, Instant, Thinking, and Pro), personalization through managed memories, and the ability to build projects that integrate files for retrieval-augmented generation. Rick demonstrated advanced prompting techniques such as UltraThink, verbosity controls, reflection, and meta-prompting, emphasizing how these improve reasoning and reduce hallucinations. The team compared creating custom GPTs in ChatGPT versus PlayLab, noting trade-offs in accessibility for students. They also explored Google’s new “Nano Banana” Gemini image model for consistent, free image generation, and Flow video tools for creating engaging AI-generated content. Notebook LM was discussed as a platform for curated and user-built knowledge bases with features like mind mapping, summaries, and podcast generation. The conversation touched on applications in teaching, critical thinking, and creativity, including examples of using AI for Shakespeare analysis, acting training, and student projects. The session closed with reflections on balancing excitement with caution around AI, practical tips for staying current with news using tools like Perplexity, and a shared appreciation for learning together as a community.
   

• ​5/6/25  The group focused on the new Gemini 2.5 model and its potential for coding and reasoning, as well as the AI studio and its features. The team also discussed the capabilities of various AI models, the challenges of faculty engaging with AI tools, and the potential of AI tools for education. Additionally, Rick discussed the development of a new system that would allow users to create agents for various tasks, the importance of empathy in problem-solving, and the potential for integrating mind mapping into a tool.
   

• 4/19/25  The group discussed the potential of AI in healthcare and its integration into various industries, including the use of AI tools for coding and art creation. He also introduced a new tool called Perplexity and demonstrated the capabilities of Manus, an autonomous agent that can be given a goal to achieve. The group also discussed the challenges of the upcoming industry-wide layoffs and the need for retooling and retraining, as well as the potential of AI to replace high-priced coders.
   

• 4/15/25  This meeting focused on exploring and demonstrating various AI tools and platforms, including Google Cloud's Vertex AI, Firebase Studio, and OpenAI's models, highlighting their capabilities in image, audio, and video generation. The discussion covered the potential applications of AI in creative fields, such as poetry and storytelling, as well as the challenges and limitations of current AI technologies. The team also explored data visualization tools, voice cloning attempts, and the future possibilities of AI-powered features like unlimited memory context and natural language video clip requests.
   

• 4/8/25  The group discussed capabilities of Gemini Advanced with its 2.5 Pro model, focusing on its deep research functionality, and discussed the implications of AI research tools on various industries. The  functionality of a new tool was explored, emphasizing its ability to edit and restructure content, and discussed the potential of multimedia tools in education. The team also discussed the concept of knowledge and its monetization, debating whether knowledge should be copyrighted and if it's fair to restrict access to knowledge for profit.
   

• 4/1/25  The meeting focused on exploring and discussing various AI tools and their applications in education and content creation. Participants demonstrated and experimented with different AI models for image generation, text analysis, audio processing, and video creation, highlighting both the potential and limitations of these technologies. The group also considered the broader implications of AI in academic settings, including ethical concerns and the need for guidelines on appropriate use.
   

• 3/25/25  The group focused in on on the notebook LM and its features, and demonstrated several features of a new AI tool, likely Google AI Studio. The team also discussed the new Gemini model, the use of a tool for generating graphics and text, and the challenges of integrating AI tools with existing knowledge bases. Lastly, they discussed the new image generation capabilities of Sora, the concept of chain of thought models, and the potential impact of AI on various fields.
   

• 3/4/25  The group discussed various aspects of their work, including the potential of a new tool called Scanniverse and the role of blockchain technology in data storage and AI. He also demonstrated how to use AI tools like Claude and Pico to efficiently generate and customize content for a movie pitch deck, and emphasized the importance of engaging with students on authentic learning. The discussion also covered the pricing and usage of 11 labs, a cybersecurity competition, and password security, with a focus on the potential of different AI tools and platforms.

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• 2/25/25  The meeting covered a range of topics related to artificial intelligence and its applications in education and career development. Participants discussed the creation and use of custom GPT models, demonstrated various AI tools for coding and career exploration, and explored the potential impacts of AI on learning and decision-making. The group also addressed concerns about AI's influence on education and critical thinking, emphasizing the need for institutions to develop their own AI systems and for education to focus on developing skills applicable across industries in an AI-driven world.
   

• 2/18/25  The group discussed the potential and limitations of AI tools, particularly Chat GPT, in education and data privacy. They also explored the implications of AI on privacy, the potential for government overreach, and the need for critical thinking and skepticism in the face of misinformation. The team also introduced a new tool, AI Studio, and discussed the importance of educators learning about these tools to help students use them effectively.  

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• 2/11/25  This meeting covered the impact of AI on various aspects of society, including education, work, and personal development. Discussions ranged from adapting to AI advancements and their potential implications to practical applications of AI tools in content creation and workflow optimization. The participants also explored philosophical questions about AI's capabilities compared to humans and shared personal experiences with using AI in their professional and personal lives.

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• 2/04/25 This meeting covered various aspects of AI technology and its potential impacts. The discussion ranged from personal AI projects and recent AI developments to the application of AI in fields such as genetic research, business operations, and workforce dynamics. The conversation also touched on the ethical considerations, regulatory challenges, and future implications of AI integration in society and industry.

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• 12/03/24  The group discussed the potential of AI in education, including the use of AI tools for research, content generation, and critical thinking skills. They also explored the concept of a personal digital commonplace book, the importance of adapting to different communication modalities, and the need for skill set adaptation in the face of rapid AI changes. The conversation ended with plans for future meetings, the distribution of their Powerpoint presentation, and the creation of a mini website to showcase their assets and resources
   

• 11/26/24 The group discussed the potential of various AI tools, including Mark Map, Explore GPT, and Whimsical, for project planning and presentation. He also explored the use of Photoshop, AI in filmmaking, and the power of a new system for creating scripts. Lastly, he discussed the potential of AI tools like video editing and image generation in Runway, the capabilities of Microsoft's Copilot agents, and the potential for organizing resources in a more efficient manner.
   

• 11/19/24  The group discussed the transformative potential of AI systems with near-infinite memory, expected to be available in 2025, and its implications for long-term relationships and complex tasks. They also explored the development of a system that uses AI to ingest PDF files and convert them into exams, and the process of creating and administering exams within their application. Lastly, they demonstrated a tool for grading student work, discussed the challenges of grading and assessing, and introduced a new feature on their machines, a locally installed Chat GPT.

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• 11/12/24  The group discussed the new features and capabilities of Claude, an analysis tool, and its potential for complex analysis and information digestion. The team also explored the use of AI tools like Chat GPT and Notebook LM for various tasks, including investment analysis and understanding company directions. The conversation ended with discussions on the potential impact of AI on society, the distribution of information and resources, and the need for collaboration to achieve a better future.

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• 10/29/24  The group looked at a new AI tool, Gen, and discussed the capabilities of various large language models, including Claude, Gemini, and Chat GTP. He also demonstrated the development of a smart contract and the potential of AI in education, while emphasizing the importance of physical human connection. Lastly, the team discussed their experiences with AI tools, including character AI, transcribing audio recordings, and automating processes using Chat GPT and Make.com.
   

• 10/22/24 The group discussed web search functions, table and graph generation, and the potential of a new AI tool called Perplexity. They also explored the functionalities of a new tool that can generate study guides from podcasts or YouTube links, and a chatbot that can adjust reading levels and revise paragraphs. The team also discussed the implications of generative AI tools on copyright and ownership, and the potential of AI-driven email filters and autonomous agents.

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• 10/15/24 The group discussed the rapid advancements in their field and the importance of mastering new tools like AI and Chat GPT. They also explored the potential of creating custom graphics and business plans using AI tools, and the idea of compiling a list of AI tools for future use. Lastly, they brainstormed the development of a tool that would help users identify the appropriate combination of AI tools to solve a problem, and discussed the development of a healthcare application using a tool called 'cursor'.

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• 10/08/24  The group discussed a new tool called Cursor AI, designed for those unfamiliar with coding or app development, and demonstrated its use in creating a simple website with a button that leads to a login page. He also introduced a new version of AI called Chat GPT, which was the main topic of discussion in the news, and demonstrated how to adjust its reading level and voice of output. The team also discussed various tools and their functionalities, including Pika, Leonardo AI, and the potential of using AI for generating engaging TikTok videos for educational purposes.

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• 10/01/24  The group discussed their experiences with various AI tools, including GPT, Chat GPT, and Claude, and how they can be used for tasks such as style revisions, voice generation, and creating podcasts. They also explored the potential of using these tools for creating web applications and databases, and the importance of not feeling overwhelmed by the diverse range of tools available. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of individuals imagining ways to use AI to solve problems and the potential of tools like voice changers for language learning.

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• 09/24/24 The group discussed the use of Chat GPT, a tool that requires a paid version for customization, for data analytics and AI tutoring. The team also discussed the potential of using AI tools like GPT for educational purposes, with a focus on creating custom tools for courses and businesses. They also explored the use of AI tools for graphic design, language learning, and citizenship exam preparation, with a focus on the potential of these tools to enhance understanding and language skills.
   

• 9/17/24  Rick discussed the potential of AI tools like Chat GPT and its notebook feature to simplify complex ideas and concepts, and how they could be used to break down complex subjects like organic chemistry and quantum physics into understandable concepts. He also discussed the concept of the money supply, its implications on the economy, and the interconnected nature of the economy. Additionally, Rick discussed the importance of asking good questions, the potential of AI tools in generating content, and his personal workflow involving AI tools for his homework. He also highlighted the importance of humanizing AI, the issue of AI bots trying to check for certain patterns, and his concerns about the accuracy and reliability of AI checkers.

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• 09/03/24 The group discussed the latest developments in artificial intelligence, focusing on its potential to improve efficiency and the need for a nuanced approach to its use in education. They also explored the complexities and potential issues surrounding new technologies, including privacy concerns and the potential for manipulation. Lastly, they demonstrated the capabilities of various AI tools and discussed the importance of understanding and utilizing large language models.
   

• 8/27/24  The group explored the integration of cameras and AI into sports tracking systems, focusing on basketball and soccer, to analyze performance and identify areas for improvement. He also discussed the potential of using a 3D animation system for efficiency analysis during practice sessions and the possibility of utilizing Google AI Studio for editing game footage. Additionally, he touched on the challenges of data analytics, the potential of AI to improve sports performance, and the concept of creating a realistic avatar of a late family member.​​​​