Skeptics Wanted

SUMMARY

In 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 JOKE

Why don't skeptics trust Atoms?
Because they make up everything.

TAKEAWAYS

• Skeptical 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 TOOLS

• Skeptical Intelligence Is Crucial in the Age of AI – Forbes
• Even AMD CEO Agrees Technology is Overwhelming Right Now – Yahoo Tech
• Anthropic Takes on OpenAI and Google with New Claude AI Features – VentureBeat

CHAPTERS

00:00 - 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

KEYWORDS

skeptical 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