The New Skill Imperative: Why AI Literacy Is Non-Negotiable Dr. Brandon Harrison-Smith speaks with Dr. Kofi Nyarko, a professor at Morgan State University and the founding director of the Center for Equitable Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Systems (CEAMLS). Together, they discuss the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, what it means for our daily lives, and why equity is a critical part of its development. The conversation covers how AI is changing education and the workforce for everyone.

Dr. Harrison-Smith and Dr. Nyarko explore the practical definition of artificial intelligence and its relationship to machine learning. Dr. Nyarko explains that AI systems are designed to mimic human thinking, and machine learning is one popular method used to achieve this. They also discuss the importance of using AI responsibly, highlighting the differences between predictive and generative AI. The conversation examines the risks of "hallucination" in AI models and how users can apply critical thinking to evaluate AI-generated content. Finally, they address the future of AI in education and the skills needed to adapt to a changing job market.

Episode Highlights: Defining artificial intelligence and its relationship to machine learning. Understanding the key difference between AI's ability to mimic human thought and true intelligence. Breaking down the two main types of AI, predictive and generative, and the risks of "hallucination" in models. Why AI must be developed and tested responsibly to ensure fairness and minimize harm. The necessity of using critical thinking to evaluate AI outputs and avoid misinformation. How AI is transforming the classroom, presenting both challenges for faculty and new opportunities for learning. How AI will reshape industries and create a significant advantage for those who learn to use it effectively. An overview of the efforts at CEAMLS to address bias and build more equitable AI systems.

Key Takeaways: "I think most people should just understand that AI at its core is just a system mimicking human thinking and human reasoning." "I like to use the term responsible AI... we like to use it responsibly. So we like to train responsibly, we like to put it in practice responsibly, and also to continue to test and evaluate." "Be a critical thinker. Don't always just take what comes out and just run with it." "I like to use AI to help me do some of the mundane things that's kind of difficult to do. For example, craft quizzes." "AI gives you such a leg up that you would be at a great disadvantage if you don't figure how to use it responsibly in what you do." "AI to me is going to be the same thing. We don't really know what's going to open up... But it's going to open up so many new opportunities that if you do not engage now, most likely you will be disadvantaged in the future." "Don't be afraid of AI taking your job... Be afraid of the person who uses AI well to come take your job."

Links: B-Xcellent Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@b-xcellentpodcast Dr. Kofi Nyarko: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kofinyarko/ Center for Equitable Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Systems (CEAMLS): https://www.instagram.com/centerforequitableai/

Dr. Castillo returns to the podcast today, not to discuss his groundbreaking research, but to delve into his new book, Building Your Epic Life: Your Journey, Your Way, Your Masterpiece, and explore the philosophy behind it. Offering listeners a blend of personal stories and practical advice, he shares his insights on transforming values and dreams into a tangible blueprint for a fulfilling life.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Castillo conducts an exploration of the profound themes of resilience, mentorship, and intentional life design. He opens up about his personal struggles and how they inspired him to write a book focused on helping others navigate their own challenges, emphasizing the importance of viewing failures as learning opportunities. Highlighting the power of having a strong support system of mentors and role models, the discussion also covers practical strategies for creating a roadmap for your life, complete with actionable exercises to help you define your purpose and stay on track. This episode is truly overflowing with wisdom for anyone ready to build their own epic life.

Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Luciano Castillo and his new book 02:07 - The personal struggles that inspired "Building Your Epic Life" 05:15 - Developing a resilient mindset to overcome obstacles 07:27 - Embracing failure as a key to resilience and success 19:13 - The importance of mentors and role models for growth 29:00 - Designing a "life blueprint" based on your values 37:00 - Using the book's exercises for actionable steps 40:14 - The five pillars of a well-rounded life 42:25 - What's next for Dr. Castillo and the book's message 47:47 - Who the book is for and where to find it

Key Takeaways: "As big as you could see somebody is, behind that, there's a lot of failures." "I'm always asking, even in any experience... what is the lesson behind that?" "When we're talking about the struggle, I mean, it is real. We all have a real struggle." "Failure, if you learn and you keep at it, could be the biggest lesson for you." "You have to adapt." "You want people that you could resonate with, that you could connect with. And you don't even have to have the same religious view or political views." "A leader is there to serve others. It’s not about glorifying themselves." "When you know where you're going, there's something different about you."

Links: B-Xcellent Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@b-xcellentpodcast Building Your Epic Life: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/building-your-epic-life-luciano-castillo/1147940980

Dr. Brandon Harrison-Smith broadcasts from the podcast's new home at Morgan State University with a major announcement: the "B-Xcellent" vision is expanding into "DARE to STEM," a new movement designed to empower future STEM leaders. This initiative moves beyond the podcast to foster community, discovery, and hands-on engagement, transforming the platform into a comprehensive resource for students and professionals in the STEM fields.

Born from community feedback, "DARE to STEM" is built on four pillars: Discover, Achieve, Reach, and Empower. The initiative relaunches the "Step into STEM" hands-on science event and introduces a library of career resources for navigating internships, grad school, and the workforce. As you will hear, the podcast's core mission of amplifying authentic voices in STEM remains central, providing strategies and stories to inspire excellence.

• The podcast moves to its new home at Morgan State University.
• The "B-Xcellent" brand expands into the "DARE to STEM" movement.
• DARE stands for Discover, Achieve, Reach, and Empower.
• The podcast continues with a new season featuring diverse industry voices.
• "Step into STEM," a hands-on community science event, is relaunched.
• New career resources will guide students through internships and beyond.
• The core mission remains: helping you be excellent in STEM.