Feeling overwhelmed by AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity? In this interview, psychologist and coach Dr. Alise Murray talks with AI strategist Marni Wills about how to use artificial intelligence in a thoughtful, human-centered way that supports productivity, focus, and creativity without increasing cognitive overload. You’ll learn how to “talk to AI” like a collaborator (not just a task machine), how to build custom AI assistants as “second brains” for work and family life, and why most jobs aren’t going away, they’re evolving. Marni also discusses responsible AI use, AI in education (including NotebookLM), and common concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. If you’re a busy professional looking for practical AI productivity strategies that protect your time, energy, and priorities, this episode will help you get started with one small doable step.

Ever opened ChatGPT (or Gemini… or Claude… or whichever shiny AI tool is screaming for your attention this week) and immediately felt two things at once?

1. Curious (“Wait… this could actually help me.”)
2. A little threatened (“Wait… is this coming for my job?”)

Same.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Marni Wills, AI consultant, former dual international athlete (rugby + netball), and still competing internationally in touch rugby, to talk about how to build a healthy relationship with AI. One that supports your focus and creativity… without turning your brain into an overworked customer service desk.

Marni’s take is refreshingly grounded: she’s not here to hype AI as magic, and she’s not here to fear-monger either. She’s here to help you think strategically (like an athlete on the field) about what you actually want, where your bottlenecks are, and how AI can support your strengths instead of replacing your humanity.

We also dig into the big questions a lot of people are quietly asking (or loudly avoiding):

• What about the environmental impact?
• What about teachers and other “human” jobs?
• What if AI actually makes overwhelm worse because now there are 9,000 tools and you feel behind?

Marni brings practical examples, mindset shifts, and a “start here this week” step that doesn’t require a tech overhaul or a personality transplant.

• Why thinking like an athlete helps you use AI more strategically 
• The difference between telling AI to do tasks vs. having a conversation that improves your thinking
• A safer, smarter way to use AI alongside experts (especially for health info)
• A nuanced conversation about AI + sustainability (including comparisons to everyday tech energy use)
• Why your job probably isn’t disappearing… but your job description might evolve
• How AI can help teachers teach more humanly (and reduce the soul-sucking parts of the job)
• The “AI-first mindset” for overwhelmed professionals: Can AI support this without creating more chaos?
• What Marni means by building “second brains” (custom AI assistants for different areas of your life)
• A surprisingly simple first step you can take this week to get better results immediately

• Marni Wills on LinkedIn: (search “Marni Wills” on LinkedIn)
• Marni’s website: https://businesswithaistrategist.com
• NotebookLM (Google): https://notebooklm.google
• ChatGPT: https://openai.com/chatgpt
• Claude: https://claude.ai
• Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai
• Google Gemini: https://gemini.google.com
• Jasper AI: https://www.jasper.ai

• AI isn’t a replacement for wisdom. It’s a tool that can support your thinking if you stay in the driver’s seat.
• If AI is making you feel behind, you don’t need more tools, you need a better approach.

Your Next Steps:

• Work with Me: https://www.dr-alise.com
• Take the free Prior 10 Life Assessment: https://www.prior10.com
• Connect on Social: https://www.instagram.com/dralisem

Want to get a snapshot of your own life in just minutes? Take the free Prior 10 Life Assessment at www.prior10.com/assessment.

The information contained and documents referenced in the podcast “Your Priority Centered Life” are for entertainment, educational and informational purposes only, and are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, professional medical or health treatment, diagnosis, or advice. We strongly encourage listeners to consult with medical providers or qualified mental health providers with issues and questions regarding any physical and/or mental health symptoms or concerns that they may have. Furthermore, the opinions and views expressed by podcast guests, partners and/or affiliates are not necessarily those of the podcast host. Dr. Alise Murray’s opinions and views are expressed in her individual capacity and are not to be construed as those of any of her podcast guests, partners and/or affiliates.