Fundraising.AI
Episode 61
Navigating Super Intelligence, Governance, and Human-First Transformation
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OVERVIEW
In the rapidly accelerating world of Artificial Intelligence, the pace of innovation can feel overwhelming. From groundbreaking advancements to the ongoing debate about governance and ethical implications, AI is not just a tool; it’s a transformative force. As we race towards super intelligence and navigate increasingly sophisticated models, how do we ensure that human values remain at the core of this technological revolution? How do we, especially in the trust-based nonprofit sector, lead with intentionality and ensure AI serves humanity rather than superseding it?
In this episode, Nathan and Scott dive into the relentless evolution of AI, highlighting Meta’s staggering $15 billion investment in the race for super intelligence and the critical absence of robust regulation. They reflect on the essential shift from viewing AI adoption as a finite “destination” to embracing it as an ongoing “journey.” Nathan shares insights on how AI amplifies human capabilities, particularly for those who are “marginally” good at certain skills, advocating for finding your “why” and offloading tasks AI can do better. Scott discusses his recent AI governance certification, underscoring the complexities and lack of “meat on the bone” in US regulations compared to the EU AI Act. The conversation also explores the concept of AI agents, offering practical tips for leveraging them, even for those with no coding experience. They conclude with a powerful reminder: AI is a mirror reflecting our values, and the nonprofit sector has a vital role in shaping its ethical future.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- [01:15] AI Transformation: A Journey, Not a Destination
- [04:05] AI Outperforming Human Capabilities
- [05:00] Meta's $15 Billion Investment in Super Intelligence
- [07:16] The Manipulative Nature of AI and the "Arms Race" for Super Intelligence
- [09:27] The Importance and Challenges of AI Governance and Regulation
- [14:50] AI as a Compass, Not a Silver Bullet
- [16:39] Beware the AI Finish Line Illusion
- [18:12] Small Steps, Sustained Momentum: The "Baby Steps" Approach to AI
- [26:48] Tip of the Week: The Rise of AI Agents and Practical Use Cases
TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
- Focus on what you love doing; use AI to augment those passions and offload tasks AI can do better.
- Recognize AI transformation is ongoing, not a one-time project.
- Take "baby steps" in your AI exploration; consistent small efforts lead to significant momentum.
- Support your team with structure and incentives for AI integration; transformation is cultural, not just technical.
- Don't be constrained by past limitations; curiosity fuels innovation with low and no-code solutions.
- Always ask, "Should I do this?" when using AI, ensuring you're building a future that reflects positive values for your community.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Allie K MIller's Linkedin Learning AI Course
- ChatGPT4 accurately predicts human behavior in social experiments at 85%, across genders, races, and political affiliations.
- AI Adoption Is Driving Real Top - And Bottom-Line Impact For Enterprises (Gartner)
- Gen AI is hitting a trough of disillusionment (Gartner Hype Cycle)
- A new AI Pendant created to combat loneliness
- AI-first organizations
- More departures at OpenAI
- OpenAI's GPT-5 is coming out soon. Here's what to expect.
FAVORITE QUOTES
- “As an organization, as a leader, it's imperative to lead a team to be curious.” – Nathan Chappell
- “It's not that it can be manipulative. It is manipulative by design.” Scott Rosenkrans
- “Generative AI is built to do two things. The number one design feature is to please the end user, and the other is, be right as often as possible.” – Nathan Chappelle
- “It's not like we can blame social media, but the reality is like, we're swiping away our lives to avoid the meaning of life.” – Nathan Chappell
- “We're moving into an era where people are finding much more intimacy with their AI.” – Nathan Chappell
- “AI can answer your question, but only a human can make you feel heard.” – Nathan Chappell
- “It is an inherent flaw of humans, thinking that robots are smarter than us because they're built on ones and zeros, and they have this amazing logic.” – Nathan Chappell
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MEET YOUR HOSTS
Nathan Chappell
As a thought leader, public speaker, author and inventor, Nathan is one of the world’s foremost experts on the intersection between Artificial Intelligence and philanthropy. Nathan serves as Senior Vice President of DonorSearch AI, where he leads AI deployments for some of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations. Nathan’s subject matter expertise has been featured in several publications, including Fast Company, University of Notre Dame and the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy. In 2021, Nathan founded Fundraising.Ai as a member-centric collaboration of nonprofit professionals with a focus on data ethics, data equality, privacy and security, sustainability. Nathan presented the first TEDx on the topic of artificial intelligence and the future of generosity in 2018. Nathan is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and holds a Masters in Nonprofit Administration from University of Notre Dame, an MBA from University of Redlands, a certificate in International Economics from University of Cambridge and a certificate in Artificial Intelligence from MIT.
Scott Rosenkrans
Scott Rosenkrans is the Assistant Vice President of DonorSearch Ai and has been with the organization for three years. He began his journey in the nonprofit sector twelve years ago as a prospect researcher. He quickly became fascinated with data as he noticed the organization that he previously worked for was amassing a wealth of information but was unsure how to efficiently use the data and resources to its full potential. This led him to become interested in predictive modeling and data analytics. During this time, he began to create an immense commitment to delivering tailor-made machine learning models to nonprofits.
The thing that Scott loves most about working for DonorSearch is the ability to prioritize what is best for the client and nonprofit sector above all else. He believes that growth is our most important core value because the DSAi team continuously evolves and brings a unique perspective that provides value to our clients. He stays ahead of industry trends because of his insatiable drive to constantly try out new things.
Favorite nonprofit: Shriner’s Children Hospital because of their extreme commitment to providing exceptional medical care, while also alleviating the financial burdens on families.
