Deacs.AI

Wake Forest University - Information Systems · isweb.ar53.wfu.edu

Welcome to Deacs.AI podcast, where Wake Forest innovators unpack the real-world magic of artificial intelligence through candid conversations. Join IS colleagues Michael Ferrari and Ryan Scholl as they explore how AI is transforming work across campus, one fascinating story at a time. Get ready to discover the human side of technological innovation.

96 episodes

26d ago latest

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Episodes 97

Welcome to Deacs.AI: Our Origin Story
1y ago · 37:03
Do you want to know how Wake Foresters are using AI? Join Ryan and Michael as they introduce the DEACS.AI podcast series. They'll explore artificial intelligence through real-world stories - from writing emails and learning to DIY projects and lasagna recipes. Discover practical ways AI can change your work and life. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Real World AI for Productivity: Insights from Greg Collins
1y ago · 36:45
Can AI really write better emails, take smarter meeting notes, AND plan your dinner? Wake Forest tech leader Greg Collins shares his real-world experiences using tools like Gemini, ChatGPT, and Zoom AI Companion, cutting through the hype to find what actually works at the office and home. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Real Life Jack Ryan with Guest Thomas Brister
1y ago · 43:33
Jack Ryan dives into the world of Artificial Intelligence. Beyond the campus, AI is a major player in international relations. Tom Brister brings his classroom and national security expertise to the discussion, touching on everything from scholarly assignments to AI's role in modern warfare, from innovative teaching methods to the potential for a new kind of arms race. Hear his journey from skeptical observer to everyday user and why understanding this technology is vital for navigating future global affairs. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
The First Inning of the Artificial Intelligence Ballgame with Guest John Montana
1y ago · 1:05:40
Stepping up to the plate, John Montana provides insight on how higher education can leverage its unique position to lead the conversation, foster critical engagement, and ensure that future graduates are equipped not just with knowledge, but with the skills to navigate a rapidly changing pedagogical landscape. How is higher ed grappling with AI's transformative evolution? We discuss strategic approaches to building AI fluency and why redesigning the learning experience is essential to prepare students for the complex world ahead. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: Making Of Tales from the AI Frontier
1y ago · 11:15
Watch out Pixar! Go behind the pixels with Michael, creator of Wake Forest's "Tales from the AI Frontier" video series. He pulls back the curtain on using AI image generators, large language models, and other tools to build animated explainers, design his custom AI avatar, and streamline the entire production process. Learn how AI can help you conquer technical hurdles and bring your video ideas to life! For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Six Fingered Zombie Santa with Guest Kevin Frazier
1y ago · 1:04:30
Can Artificial Intelligence and the Arts co-exist? Theatre professor Kevin Frazier rifts on how AI tools are opening doors to new forms of creativity and collaboration. We'll explore how artists and educators are harnessing AI to push the boundaries of design and theater, and what roles humans still play. It's a journey into the future where technology and art intertwine to create the extraordinary. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: Come Vibe Code with Me with Guest Amy Triana
1y ago · 21:38
Amy is playing in the sand again - the AI sandbox, that is. Join her tour of Google's experimental playground, AI Studio. Have you ever wanted to turn the dials and pull the levers of the magical AI machine? Then this is the episode for you. From controlling prompt structure to explaining complex topics with tiny cats, Amy will introduce you to AI Studio. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Glue on Pizza with Guest Will Tomlinson
1y ago · 49:37
Is Generative AI the next Industrial Revolution, or something far more disruptive? Explore the duality of AI: the mind-bending potential and the profound concerns. This episode tackles the tough questions. We discuss the creative (and sometimes hilarious) outputs of ChatGPT against the ethical implications of AI trained on scraped data, the potential for loss of human connection, inherent biases, and the comparison to world-changing technologies. Join us as we marvel at its capabilities and take a critical look at the societal risks and the urgent need for thoughtful regulation. For questions,
Quick Dive: From Code to Composition - How AI is Assisting Creators
1y ago · 15:36
Dive into the practical side of generative AI with Ryan and Michael as they reveal insightful uses for these tools, from developing a new AI-focused website and generating placeholder code, to exploring creative music generation. Learn how these technologies can assist in real-world projects, boost productivity, and offer new avenues for creative expression. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Blown Away: An Educator’s AI Awakening with Guest Adam Friedman
1y ago · 50:54
How is AI really changing the academic landscape? Education Professor Adam Friedman discusses its impact inside and outside the classroom, learning from his kids, navigating student use, faculty adaptation, and the future of teaching in the age of artificial intelligence. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: The Gem Rush - Mining for Custom AI
1y ago · 21:18
This episode is a real gem. Forget mass-produced jewelry; we're talking about hand-cut luxury: Gemini Gems. These tiny powerhouses are your own custom artificial intelligence experts. Learn how to build a personalized AI army so versatile it can streamline tedious work tasks, help with complex project management, personalize your nutrition plan, or coach you to clean up at the poker table. Ready to polish your own digital diamonds? Tune in and start building your AI superpower today! For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
The Painter's House Needs to be Painted with Guest Jeff Teague
1y ago · 49:44
AI is changing everything, including cybersecurity. Information Security expert Jeff Teague breaks down how artificial intelligence helps protect campus systems, why you need to be smart about data privacy when using these tools, and how to navigate the complex security frontier safely. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
I Learned How to Use AI by Cheating with Guest Amy Slack
1y ago · 54:42
Amy Slack partners with artificial intelligence for just about everything these days. From meal planning and care giving and research and shopping to personalized tutoring and course design and information synthesis. She brainstorms ideas and crafts emails and critiques documentation and plans projects and even solves problems. If you're ready to discover practical applications of AI that can simplify your life and boost your productivity, talk to Amy ... or listen to this episode ... or (pro tip!) do both. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: The Podcast So Far Recap
1y ago · 30:52
Ryan and Michael reflect on the journey so far, revisiting key conversations and insights from past episodes. They dive into what they’ve learned through their ongoing discussions about AI—and how those insights are shaping their perspectives. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Making a Call to the AI Bullpen with Guest Mark Anderson
1y ago · 45:45
Can playing with digital action figures actually sharpen your communication skills? When is the right time to call AI for help? Wake Forest's top message-crafter and Assistant Vice President of Strategic Communications, Mark Anderson, shares how even whimsical experiments with new tech can lead to serious breakthroughs in how we connect. From unusual prompts to perfecting the University's voice, discover fun ways to get started and the surprising benefits of these smart tools. Learn how to harness their power for everything from daily emails to crisis communications, without losing your authen
Quick Dive: Generative AI Meets Juice Boxes and Homework
1y ago · 10:24
Join Ryan for a solo ride through the creative chaos of parenting with AI. From building trivia games that pit his kids against each other to creating custom coloring pages and tutoring tools, this episode explores how generative AI can keep kids entertained, learning, and even improving their baseball swings—all while limiting screen time. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Building Better Thinkers: Why STEM Minds Need a Palette of Liberal Arts with Guest Dr. Fred Salsbury
1y ago · 58:01
At the crossroads of hard science and humanities: Dr. Fred Salsbury explores a compelling idea. How does a liberal arts education equip STEM students to engage more deeply and critically with sophisticated computational tools? What follows is a discussion about unlocking not just technical skill, but the crucial ability to evaluate, connect, and truly understand the outputs of these powerful new systems. It’s about more than just getting the answer; it’s about the vital, human-centered skill of thinking behind it. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
"It's Complicated": Philosophical Thoughts on Using Generative AI for Learning with Guest Betsy Barre
1y ago · 1:10:19
The future of intellectual development is at a crossroads. Betsy Barre, Assistant Provost and Executive Director of the Center for Advancement of Teaching, explores the 'messy,' nuanced relationship between advanced digital cognition and the human educational process. From the temptation of effortless answers to the profound need for deep analytical engagement, this conversation goes beyond the surface to ask: how do we cultivate robust comprehension in an age of intelligent systems? For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Johnny Cash Singing Barbie Girl and Educators Leveling Up with Generative AI with Guest Elizabeth Ricks
1y ago · 1:02:32
High school says no. Industry demands yes. Where does Generative Artificial Intelligence fit into the higher education and professional environments? Visual Analytics Professor Elizabeth Ricks tackles the thorny questions surrounding these concepts. Is collaborating with them a moral lapse, or essential for tomorrow's careers? Communication is key. Context matters. Conquer your weaknesses and amplify your strengths. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: Crafting Worlds and Slaying Dragons with AI
1y ago · 17:48
It will be hard to out-nerd this episode in the future. Beyond professional applications, AI is becoming a powerful tool for personal passions and hobbies. Join Michael as he details how his friend uses generative AI to build immersive tabletop gaming campaigns, reducing hours of prep work and unlocking a new level of creativity for storytelling, character design, and in-game challenges. Beyond professional applications, AI is becoming a powerful tool for personal passions and hobbies. Join Michael as he details how his friend uses generative AI to build immersive tabletop gaming campaigns, re
Is the Cost of Knowledge Acquisition Now a Dad Joke? with Guest Shannon McKeen
1y ago · 1:07:17
We are on the cusp of an educational renaissance, but is it at the cost of human social skills? According to Shannon McKeen, generative artificial intelligence is reshaping the very foundation of learning. In this episode, we'll debate how AI forces educators to rethink everything from assessment design to promoting genuine cognitive effort. Hear how he leverages artificial intelligence to foster deeper student engagement and prepare tomorrow's leaders for an unpredictable professional world. And that's not a dad joke, but ChatGPT has given him hundreds of them. For questions, comments, or any
Agent Jessica Reynolds: Her Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It... with Guest Tim Synder
1y ago · 51:11
Remember those awkward telethon calls at dinnertime? The University Advancement team came up with a pretty wild idea to connect with alumni across generations, moving beyond old tactics to build deeply genuine relationships using an artificial intelligence agent. Uhh, what? Hear how they're using an AI-powered Virtual Engagement Officer to redefine connection, boost donor engagement without an army of human fundraisers, achieve an astonishingly low opt-out rate, and even learn Wake Forest's unique campus lingo. Don't worry, she won't say, "Go Demon Deacons!" We discuss the unexpected benefits,
Quickish Dive: No Holds Barred - Former Student Tells All!
1y ago · 28:01
What has the AI revolution looked like from a student's point of view? We're joined by Gabe Martineau, a recent Wake Forest graduate, who shares his unique experience of starting college before the ChatGPT boom and finishing after. Discover how faculty approaches, student usage, and the very nature of learning have evolved in just a few short years. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Superheroes in RAGs? with Guest Juan Hernandez
1y ago · 51:27
Wake Forest Professor of Practice Juan Hernandez lives a double life. In his day job, as an industry Head of Artificial Intelligence, he uses AI to produce results, drive market strategy, and spark productivity through ideation and eliminating meetings. In his part-time gig, he shapes the minds of the new up-and-coming business elite by guiding them toward knowledge self-acquisition. His secret AI superpower ... Retrieval Augmented Generation. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at
Quick Dive: Unlocking AI at Wake Forest - Workshops, Groups, and More with Guest Sarah Wojcik-Gross
1y ago · 17:27
Where do you even begin with learning about Generative AI on campus? Look no further, as Sarah Wojcik-Gross joins us to navigate the central hub for all things AI at Wake Forest. We highlight key resources including the official guidelines, hands-on workshops for tools like Adobe Firefly, the annual AI Fest, and the Deacs.AI podcast itself. For questions, comments, or anything else, email us at

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Deacs.AI

Episodes 97

Welcome to Deacs.AI: Our Origin Story

Real World AI for Productivity: Insights from Greg Collins

Real Life Jack Ryan with Guest Thomas Brister

The First Inning of the Artificial Intelligence Ballgame with Guest John Montana

Quick Dive: Making Of Tales from the AI Frontier

Six Fingered Zombie Santa with Guest Kevin Frazier

Quick Dive: Come Vibe Code with Me with Guest Amy Triana

Glue on Pizza with Guest Will Tomlinson

Quick Dive: From Code to Composition - How AI is Assisting Creators

Blown Away: An Educator’s AI Awakening with Guest Adam Friedman

Quick Dive: The Gem Rush - Mining for Custom AI

The Painter's House Needs to be Painted with Guest Jeff Teague

I Learned How to Use AI by Cheating with Guest Amy Slack

Quick Dive: The Podcast So Far Recap

Making a Call to the AI Bullpen with Guest Mark Anderson

Quick Dive: Generative AI Meets Juice Boxes and Homework

Building Better Thinkers: Why STEM Minds Need a Palette of Liberal Arts with Guest Dr. Fred Salsbury

"It's Complicated": Philosophical Thoughts on Using Generative AI for Learning with Guest Betsy Barre

Johnny Cash Singing Barbie Girl and Educators Leveling Up with Generative AI with Guest Elizabeth Ricks

Quick Dive: Crafting Worlds and Slaying Dragons with AI

Is the Cost of Knowledge Acquisition Now a Dad Joke? with Guest Shannon McKeen

Agent Jessica Reynolds: Her Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It... with Guest Tim Synder

Quickish Dive: No Holds Barred - Former Student Tells All!

Superheroes in RAGs? with Guest Juan Hernandez

Quick Dive: Unlocking AI at Wake Forest - Workshops, Groups, and More with Guest Sarah Wojcik-Gross

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Episodes 97

Welcome to Deacs.AI: Our Origin Story

Real World AI for Productivity: Insights from Greg Collins

Real Life Jack Ryan with Guest Thomas Brister

The First Inning of the Artificial Intelligence Ballgame with Guest John Montana

Quick Dive: Making Of Tales from the AI Frontier

Six Fingered Zombie Santa with Guest Kevin Frazier

Quick Dive: Come Vibe Code with Me with Guest Amy Triana

Glue on Pizza with Guest Will Tomlinson

Quick Dive: From Code to Composition - How AI is Assisting Creators

Blown Away: An Educator’s AI Awakening with Guest Adam Friedman

Quick Dive: The Gem Rush - Mining for Custom AI

The Painter's House Needs to be Painted with Guest Jeff Teague

I Learned How to Use AI by Cheating with Guest Amy Slack

Quick Dive: The Podcast So Far Recap

Making a Call to the AI Bullpen with Guest Mark Anderson

Quick Dive: Generative AI Meets Juice Boxes and Homework

Building Better Thinkers: Why STEM Minds Need a Palette of Liberal Arts with Guest Dr. Fred Salsbury

"It's Complicated": Philosophical Thoughts on Using Generative AI for Learning with Guest Betsy Barre

Johnny Cash Singing Barbie Girl and Educators Leveling Up with Generative AI with Guest Elizabeth Ricks

Quick Dive: Crafting Worlds and Slaying Dragons with AI

Is the Cost of Knowledge Acquisition Now a Dad Joke? with Guest Shannon McKeen

Agent Jessica Reynolds: Her Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It... with Guest Tim Synder

Quickish Dive: No Holds Barred - Former Student Tells All!

Superheroes in RAGs? with Guest Juan Hernandez

Quick Dive: Unlocking AI at Wake Forest - Workshops, Groups, and More with Guest Sarah Wojcik-Gross