HEADER: (Podcast where the AI podcasters arediscussing the DOOLEY IN FORBES article about the introduction of, AI-generated podcasts.)
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This is the written Dooley article, “How to Create an AI Podcast About Anything,” in Forbes Oct 4 2024.
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This is streaming Google Audio of the AI two-voice podcast created, about, the Dooley Forbes article.
The audio is open-access, but may require a Google logon.
https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/c0fd2c1d-19dc-4454-923c-117dddf785a2/audio
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And this is a TRANSCRIPT of the Google AI Podcast (which is based on an upload of the Dooley article)
Brenda:
Okay. So AI podcasters, have you heard about this?
Apparently there's this Google AI experiment called NotebookLM, and it can whip up a podcast in seconds.
Adam:
Really?
Brenda:
You know, right?
Adam:
Wow.
Brenda:
Sounds wild.
Adam:
Yeah, it really does capture the imagination, doesn't it? Especially with all the buzz around AI right now.
Brenda:
Totally. And we're actually diving into a Forbes article all about this.
Adam:
Okay.
Brenda:
It's written by Roger Dooley, the marketing futurist guy.
Adam:
Oh, Dooley. Yeah. He always seems to have his finger on the pulse of what's next.
Brenda:
Exactly. And he's saying this NotebookLM thing is a game changer. It's not just some basic AI that reads a script. Apparently, you can upload a bunch of stuff like articles, reports, even YouTube links up to 50 different things.
Adam:
So it's like taking in all this information and then generating something new from it.
Brenda:
Yeah.
Adam:
That's fascinating.
Brenda:
Right. You give it these random pieces of your research or whatever, and it somehow has a conversation about it.
Adam:
Not just any conversation though, from what I understand. Dooley was really impressed by how realistic the AI voices sounded.
Brenda:
That's what I found so crazy. He describes it as kind of eerie, actually. These AI voices, they're not perfect, but they hesitate, they interrupt. They even throw in ums and likes. Who programmed AI to be awkward? It's strangely human.
Adam:
It's those little imperfections that often make something feel genuine, even if it's artificially generated.
Brenda:
For sure. To give you an idea of what this thing can do, Dooley used it on two long reports about the speaking industry, one from last year, one from this year.
Adam:
Smart. As an expert in that world, he would definitely be able to tell if the AI was just spitting out summaries or if it was actually understanding the nuances.
Brenda:
And that's where it gets really interesting. The AI zeroed in on the fact that the reports were from different years, and actually focused on the changes between those years.
Adam:
Oh, wow.
Brenda:
It wasn't just summarizing, it was analyzing like trends.
Adam:
That does suggest a deeper level of processing than you might expect. It's not just pulling out key phrases, it's recognizing context and temporal relationships and things.
Brenda:
Right. The AI understood that time had passed and things had shifted within the industry. I don't know about you, but that gives me chills.
Adam:
It certainly makes you think about the potential here, both positive and if we're being honest, maybe a little unsettling.
Brenda:
Totally. Okay, so how does this thing even work? Dooley makes it sound surprisingly simple.
Adam:
Okay.
Brenda:
You choose your files, upload them, hit generate, and wait a few minutes.
Adam:
Wow. It's amazing how accessible this technology is becoming even in these experimental phases.
Brenda:
I know, right. It seems like just yesterday, this would've been a whole production. And once it's done, you can listen to it right there on the NotebookLM website, share it with a link or even download the audio file.
Adam:
So in theory, you could create a quick audio summary of your research or presentation, even meeting notes and share it with colleagues.
Brenda:
Yeah.
Adam:
The possibilities are very interesting.
Brenda:
Right. It's like having an instant podcast episode about your work. But of course, there are always limitations with new tech. Dooley points out a few quirks. For example, you can't control how many AI speakers you get, and right now it's always one male and one female voice.
Adam:
So like a traditional two-person podcast format, but not a lot of flexibility yet.
Brenda:
Exactly. And the audio is only in English for now.
Adam:
Understandable, given the complexities of language processing. But yeah, it definitely limits the global reach for now.
Brenda:
For sure. Plus the length of these audio reviews can be anywhere from five to 15 minutes. It's kind of random, and there's no way to change it yet.
Adam:
That makes sense. I mean, teaching AI to recognize the ideal length for a given topic, that's a pretty nuanced challenge. Even human editors struggle with that sometimes.
Brenda:
Totally. And while these AI voices are eerily realistic, they're not perfect. Dooley says, there's still a few giveaways. The AI seems to love the phrase, deep dive.
Adam:
Ironically, that's exactly what we're doing right now.
Brenda:
I know. Right.
Adam:
It's as if the AI has already infiltrated our vocabulary.
Brenda:
Maybe we should watch out. I might steal our podcasting gig next.
Adam:
Perhaps we should be careful what we say about our AI overlords.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
But seriously, it is interesting how these systems latch onto certain phrases. It's a reminder that they're still learning, refining their understanding of human language and how we communicate.
Brenda:
It's all work in progress, right?
Adam:
Right.
Brenda:
But here's where it gets really interesting, and this is classic Dooley. He decided to try and boss the AI around a little. Give us some specific instructions. He wanted to see if he could control the output.
Adam:
Oh, this is good. So he was basically trying to be the director of his own AI podcast.
Brenda:
Exactly.
Adam:
Okay.
Brenda:
He told it to keep the audio overview under six minutes to avoid certain phrases like deep dive, for example, be a little less predictable.
Adam:
And listen, did our marketing futurist manage to tame the AI beast?
Brenda:
That's the million-dollar question. And the answer is, nope. It completely ignored him.
Adam:
No way. So much for AI taking direction.
Brenda:
Right. The audio was longer than he wanted, and it still used some of the phrases he told it to avoid. It's like it went rogue.
Adam:
Stubborn AI.
Brenda:
I know. Right.
Adam:
Imagine the possibilities, if it starts ignoring instructions on a larger scale.
Brenda:
Don't even get me started on those sci-fi scenarios, but on a less alarming note, it does highlight the limitations we're dealing with. It's not quite a collaborative process yet.
Adam:
More like giving a very literal minded intern of vague tasks and hoping for the best.
Brenda:
The perfect analogy. But limitations aside, even Dooley seems pretty optimistic about NotebookLM's future. He thinks it could be even more useful with a few tweaks.
Adam:
Like what?
Brenda:
Like letting users choose the number of speakers, having separate audio tracks for each voice, and maybe even generating video avatars. Can you imagine?
Adam:
That would be something else. Virtual podcast hosts, who'd be stepping into a whole new world of content creation.
Brenda:
It's mind-blowing. But it's not just about the flashy stuff. Dooley points out that NotebookLM has other cool uses beyond these audio overviews.
Adam:
Oh, absolutely. He was particularly impressed by its ability to create different types of content, not just the audio overviews.
Brenda:
Exactly. It can generate things like FAQs, study guides, really accurate summaries, and it even pulls direct quotes from your source material and tells you exactly where to find them. It's like a super-powered research assistant.
Adam:
It sounds like a researcher's dream, honestly. The ability to sift through mountains of information and pull out the most relevant bits. It could be a game changer for students, academics, anyone who deals with a lot of data.
Brenda:
Totally. But all this incredible tech, it really makes you wonder, what does it mean for the future of content creation? What happens to podcasters like us if AI can do this?
Adam:
Right. Are we obsolete, replaced by our robot overlords?
Brenda:
Maybe. Or maybe it's an opportunity, a tool to enhance what we do, not replace it.
Adam:
Now, that's an interesting thought. What if instead of fearing AI, we figured out how to work with it to amplify our own creativity.
Brenda:
Okay. Now you're speaking my language. That's a whole other deep dive waiting to happen.
Adam:
Indeed. But for now, let's not get ahead of ourselves. We've only just scratched the surface of this whole AI podcasting phenomenon. So we've established that AI can potentially whip up a podcast, faster than we can order a latte.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
But the big question is, what does this mean for the future of podcasting?
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
And for you, dear listener, what could it mean for, how you get your information?
Brenda:
Right. It's like, do we all just pack up our microphones and hand the reins over to the robots?
Adam:
Well, I wouldn't start writing your resignation just yet.
Brenda:
Okay.
Adam:
Think about it this way. Technology's always evolving, right?
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
It disrupts industries.
Brenda:
Yeah.
Adam:
Sure. But it rarely wipes out the human element entirely.
Brenda:
Okay. That makes sense. It's like digital cameras, they change photography, but professional photographers still exist. They have adapted.
Adam:
Exactly. Photography is a great example. AI might not replace human podcasters, but it could definitely change the game.
Brenda:
So instead of fearing AI, maybe we should be thinking about how to make it work for us.
Adam:
Now you're getting it.
Brenda:
Okay.
Adam:
Imagine AI as that super efficient intern we all wish we had.
Brenda:
Okay.
Adam:
Transcribing interviews, researching topics, even putting together show notes and social media posts.
Brenda:
Wait, an intern, who actually does the boring stuff, sign me up.
Adam:
Right. And think about what that frees you up to do. Focus on the creative side, the parts of podcasting that require that human touch, developing unique concepts, landing awesome guests, crafting those narratives that really resonate with your listeners.
Brenda:
It's like AI could handle all the logistics, and we get to be the artists, the storytellers.
Adam:
Exactly. And this isn't just about making our lives easier as podcasters.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
Think about the potential benefits for listening.
Brenda:
Oh, yeah. This is where it gets really interesting for everyone listening, how could this change your podcasting experience?
Adam:
Well, for starters, imagine getting a quick audio rundown of a dense research report, you've been meaning to read or that super long article you just don't have time for.
Brenda:
It's like the CliffsNotes, but for everything.
Adam:
Yeah, exactly. This could be huge for students, professionals, anyone who needs to stay up to date but doesn't have hours to spend digging through information.
Brenda:
Okay. But let's be real. A lot of us, we listen to podcasts because we want that human connection, that back and forth between the hosts. AI can't replicate that, right?
Adam:
Right. That dynamic is definitely what makes podcasts so engaging. But think about it this way. AI could help you discover more podcasts you'll connect with.
Brenda:
How?
Adam:
Imagine being able to get the key takeaways from say, a dozen podcasts and the time it takes to listen to just one.
Brenda:
Okay.
Adam:
You could quickly figure out which ones are worth your time.
Brenda:
That's actually really cool. It's like having a personalized podcast recommendation engine powered by AI.
Adam:
Precisely. It's about giving you, the listener, more control over how you consume information.
Brenda:
Right. But...
Adam:
Oh, there's always a but, isn't there?
Brenda:
There is.
Adam:
Okay.
Brenda:
As amazing as this technology seems, we can't ignore the potential downsides. We have to be cautious.
Adam:
Okay. Let's talk about the elephant in the room then. What are the potential risks of AI generated content?
Brenda:
Well, one concern is the potential for bias.
Adam:
Okay.
Brenda:
AI algorithms are built by humans, and humans are well inherently biased.
Adam:
So if the data used to train these algorithms is skewed. The AI could end up perpetuating those biases.
Brenda:
Exactly. Which is why it's so important to have diverse voices involved in developing and training these AI systems. We need to make sure they're as fair and unbiased as possible.
Adam:
It's not just about bias, right?
Brenda:
Right. There's also the potential for misuse.
Adam:
Absolutely. Like any powerful tool, AI can be used for good or for ill.
Brenda:
Yeah.
Adam:
Think about DeepFakes, AI generated audio or video, that can be incredibly convincing, even if it's completely fabricated.
Brenda:
Okay. That's getting a little Black Mirror for me.
Adam:
No, it's a bit unsettling. But it highlights the importance of being critical consumers of information now more than ever.
Brenda:
So it's not just about AI getting smarter, it's about us getting smarter about how we interact with AI.
Adam:
Now you're talking. We need to be aware of the potential pitfalls to question what we hear and see, to think critically about the information that's being presented to us. And that brings us to another important point. The potential impact of AI on our own critical thinking skills.
Brenda:
Oh, that's a big one. If we become too reliant on AI to summarize and analyze information for us, what happens to our ability to do it ourselves?
Adam:
It's a valid concern. Will we become so accustomed to AI doing the heavy lifting, that we lose the ability to think deeply and critically on our own?
Brenda:
So it's not just about AI potentially replacing jobs. It's about AI potentially changing how our brains work.
Adam:
It's a possibility, and it's something we need to be mindful of as we integrate AI into more and more aspects of our lives.
Brenda:
Because this is getting pretty deep, but it's important stuff to talk about.
Adam:
It absolutely is. And it brings up the bigger question, what kind of future do we want to create with AI? One where it amplifies our abilities, or one where it diminishes them?
Brenda:
Okay. So how do we make sure we're using AI responsibly and ethically, that we're not accidentally creating a world where we've outsourced our own intelligence?
Adam:
That is the million-dollar question, isn't it?
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
And there's no easy answer.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
But I think it starts with awareness, with acknowledging the potential risks as well as the benefits.
Brenda:
So it's about approaching AI with a healthy dose of both excitement and caution.
Adam:
Exactly. And with a commitment to using this technology in ways that benefit humanity as a whole.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
Not just a select few.
Brenda:
I like sound of that.
Adam:
Me too. But it's going to take a collective effort.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
We all have a role to play in shaping the future of AI, and ensuring it's used for good.
Brenda:
This has been a lot to process. I feel like we've gone from zero to 100 real quick.
Adam:
We have. And we're not done yet.
Brenda:
Oh, boy.
Adam:
There's still so much to explore.
Brenda:
Okay. So we've covered a lot of ground here. AI podcasters, robot interns, the potential rise of the robot overlords.
Adam:
We did cover quite a bit, didn't we? It's a lot to wrap your head around.
Brenda:
It really is. And you know what's funny? As we're sitting here talking about the future of audio and AI, I can't help but think, what if one day this very podcast is hosted by AI?
Adam:
Now that would be a meta moment, wouldn't it?
Brenda:
Yeah.
Adam:
Recording a podcast about AI podcasts hosted by AI.
Brenda:
Right. Talk about a deep dive, but seriously, this technology has the potential to change everything, and not just podcasts. Think audiobooks, educational materials, maybe even personalized news feeds, all generated by AI.
Adam:
You're hitting on something really important. This isn't just about entertainment. It's about how we consume information in general. Imagine a world where instead of scrolling through endless articles or social media feeds, you can listen to a curated audio digest tailored to your interests.
Brenda:
Okay. That does sound kind of amazing. No more information overload, just the stuff I actually care about.
Adam:
Exactly. But of course, there always two sides to every coin.
Brenda:
Right.
Adam:
What about the potential for echo chambers?
Brenda:
Oh, right.
Adam:
If we're only consuming information that aligns with our existing beliefs, are we really getting a balanced perspective?
Brenda:
That's a really good point. It's like we were talking about earlier, critical thinking is more important than ever, especially with AI stepping into the content creation game. We have to be mindful of what we're consuming and where it's coming from.
Adam:
Absolutely. But let's circle back to AI's impact on podcasting specifically. If this technology takes off, it could completely change the industry as we know it.
Brenda:
It's like the Wild West of audio out there. What do you think will change first?
Adam:
One thing's for sure. We're likely to see a surge in new podcasts.
Brenda:
Really.
Adam:
Think about it. With AI handling the technical stuff, the barrier to entry becomes much, much lower. You wouldn't need expensive equipment or fancy editing software. Anyone with an internet connection and an idea could create a podcast.
Brenda:
It's like the early days of blogging or YouTube, right?
Adam:
Democratizing content creation. Who knows what kind of amazing niche podcasts we might discover?
Brenda:
Precisely. And I wouldn't be surprised if we see more AI-powered tools specifically designed for podcasters. Imagine having access to an AI that can analyze your audience data, track listener engagement, and even suggest topics or formats that would resonate with your target audience.
Adam:
Whoa. It's like having a personal marketing team, but instead of humans, it's robots.
Brenda:
Exactly. AI could help podcasters even establish ones refine their content, reach a wider audience, and ultimately make their podcasts even better.
Adam:
Okay. That's exciting. But let's get even more futuristic for a second. What other crazy AI podcasting innovations on the horizon?
Brenda:
Well, we're already seeing hints of interactive podcasts.
Adam:
Where listeners can ask the AI host questions in real time.
Brenda:
Wow.
Adam:
Imagine taking that a step further. Podcasts that adapt their storylines based on listener feedback, creating it like a Choose Your Own Adventure type of experience.
Brenda:
You're just messing with me. That sounds bonkers.
Adam:
It does, doesn't it? But it's not as far-fetched as you might think. The technology is evolving rapidly.
Brenda:
Okay. So we've talked about all the cool stuff AI can do, but we have to remember Dooley's experience, right? That he couldn't fully control the AI. It had a mind of its own.
Adam:
Right. And that's a crucial point to remember. As impressive as this technology is, it's still in its early stages, it's not perfect, and it doesn't always behave the way we expect it to.
Brenda:
It's like that unpredictable intern again, full of potential, but also prone to making coffee in the break room sink.
Adam:
The perfect analogy. It's a good reminder that while AI can generate content, it's not yet capable of true creative collaboration at least, at least not in the way we humans collaborate.
Brenda:
So true. So where do we go from here? What does it all mean for the future of podcasts and for us as listeners?
Adam:
That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? I don't think any of us have all the answers, but I think it all comes back to this AI is a tool. Like any tool, it can be used for good or for ill. It's up to us collectively to decide how we want to use it.
Brenda:
You know what? That's actually a really good note to end on. AI is a tool, and it's our responsibility to wield it wisely. It's been quite the deep dive today, wouldn't you say?
Adam:
It certainly has lots to think about, and I hope our listeners are feeling just as energized and maybe a little terrified as we are.
Brenda:
Energized, terrified, and ready for whatever the future of podcasting holds. Thanks for joining us on this wild ride.
