Small Steps with AI

About

AI isn't just a search engine. It can help you think through a hard decision, organize your house, plan your retirement, and sometimes — if you let it — say exactly what you needed to hear. Small Steps with AI is hosted by Jill from the Northwoods, a real person figuring out how this technology fits into real life. No coding. No hype. Just small steps.

Episodes

• 6 - Using AI as a Writing Partner — When to Use It, When Not To 2026-05-06

  This episode explores using AI as a writing partner to overcome writing blocks and produce clear, professional communication. It provides examples of how AI can help draft resumes, board member emails, and resignation letters by focusing o…

• 5 - Slushie Help from AI 2026-04-29

  This episode details the process of troubleshooting a refurbished slush machine with the help of AI. It covers the initial curiosity, learning the chemistry of slush, building recipes, and systematic testing to identify the machine as the…

• 4 - Do You Need to Be Polite to AI? 2026-04-22

  This episode discusses the importance of politeness to AI, referencing Sam Altman's views and a survey on user behavior. It explores why courtesy to AI can lead to better outcomes and habits, and the potential impact of user interaction on…

• 3 - Pushback On AI Mistakes Explained 2026-04-15

  This episode discusses common AI mistakes and how to approach them with healthy skepticism. It provides a three-tier framework for verifying AI-generated information and outlines six steps to take when AI gives incorrect answers.

• 2 -Four Ways to Talk to AI and Get Real Answers 2026-04-08

  This episode explores four ways to communicate more effectively with AI to receive useful and specific answers. It covers techniques such as providing context, challenging AI responses, engaging in deeper exchanges, and disagreeing with AI…

• 1 - The Night AI Made Me Cry 2026-03-31

  The host shares a personal experience where AI offered an unexpectedly profound and comforting response, leading to an emotional reaction. This episode explores the surprising ways AI can interact with individuals in everyday life.