AI is everywhere in the job search—and it’s being marketed like crazy. But if you’ve tried using it, you know the truth: it’s confusing, overwhelming, and easy to misuse.

In this episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, Chris Villanueva—Founder & CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma—pulls back the curtain on how to use AI responsibly and strategically in your job search without losing your voice, your sanity, or your results.

Chris breaks down where AI is powerful, where it’s dangerous, and how job seekers should actually be using tools like ChatGPT across their resume, cover letters, and outreach—especially as ATS systems continue to evolve.

You’ll hear real, practical examples, including:

• How to use AI for job search lead generation
• How AI fits into a smart job search strategy (and where it absolutely doesn’t)
• A breakdown of advanced search tactics (including sourcing decision-makers) and how to ethically use that data
• How to ask AI where you should apply if you’re feeling unclear or stuck
• Using AI to check spelling, expose keyword gaps, and identify the right titles and nouns recruiters look for
• How to tailor resume summaries and cover letters for specific roles without sounding robotic
• When AI helps creativity—and when it quietly sabotages your chances

Chris also shares updates on how ATS systems are changing, what job seekers need to do differently in 2026, and why relying too heavily on AI can actually reduce intent and callbacks.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:

👉 Get a free resume critique at letseatgrandma.com—reviewed by real experts, not AI. (You’ll also be subscribed to our newsletter for ongoing job search insights.)

AI isn’t the enemy. But using it blindly might be.

GOOGLE QUERY EXAMPLE IN THE EPISODE: site:Linkedin.com/in "VP of Operations" "Austin" "@gmail.com" OR "@yahoo.com” OR “@hotmail.com” OR “@outlook.com” OR “@aol.com” OR “@icloud.com"

CHATGPT QUERY EXAMPLE FROM THE EPISODE: Format the data below into a table with these columns: Full name, Company name, Website URL, Email, Phone Number

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