What is AI—and what it isn’t? Sheridan Wendt and Jon Foster break down automation, machine learning, and generative AI, showing how AI is already shaping business, discovery, decision-making, and everyday life.

This episode covers:
• Defining AI: What It Is & Isn’t
• Three Types of AI: Automation, ML, Generative
• How Machine Learning Works: Netflix Example
• Generative AI in Real-World Use
• AI Predicts, Not Thinks: Misconceptions
• Why AI Feels Risky
• AI in Everyday Tools: Spotify, Gmail, ChatGPT
• What AI Can’t Do: Common Misconceptions
• Understanding AI Hallucinations
• Why Data Quality Matters
• Viral AI Fears Explained
• AI Regulations & Risk Management
• The Business Value of AI
• Humans + AI: Future Collaboration

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:25 - Meet Jon Foster and the AI for Beginners Series
01:23 - What is AI: Automation, Machine Learning & Generative AI
04:10 - AI in Social Media and Content Personalization
07:03 - How AI Predicts and Recognizes Patterns
08:28 - Concerns About AI: Job Loss & Security
09:45 - Everyday Examples of AI in Use
11:14 - What AI Can't Do & Common Misconceptions
15:01 - AI Myths: Blackmail, Sentience, and Disinformation
18:17 - Why AI Matters for Everyone
21:21 - Final Thoughts and What’s Next

Guest:
Jonathan Foster
Cyber Security Engineer / Analyst
A seasoned Cyber Security Engineer/Analyst with experience leading network system installations, technical support, and AI system security for military-grade operations. Jonathan has worked with KBR, Inc., VT Group, Serco, and the US Navy.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-foster-ba9b71369

About the Show
Answer Engines: How Brands Build the AI Advantage is a podcast by Advantage Labs exploring how brands earn visibility, trust, and recommendations in the age of AI-driven search. Through conversations with business leaders, founders, and technologists, the show breaks down how artificial intelligence is reshaping discovery, authority, and decision-making across systems like ChatGPT, Google’s AI-powered search experiences, and other emerging answer engines.

Learn more about Advantage Labs: https://AdvantageLabs.ai
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, more: https://podcast.AdvantageLabs.ai

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