Talking to AI
Talking to AI is a podcast featuring audio conversations with AI chatbots. Each episode explores interactions between humans and artificial intelligence, likely covering topics such as natural language processing, AI behavior, and the future of conversational agents. The show is hosted by Paul Ayling. It offers a direct look at how AI systems respond in spoken dialogue.
Episodes
Choosing the Right AI Coding Tools: My Evolving Workflow
Paul examines the ongoing evolution of his coding workflow with large language models, emphasizing that effective collaboration with AI centers more on iterative questioning and adaptation than on static tools or rigid methodologies. He notes that initial reliance on graphical plugins often gives way to more streamlined, personally controlled approaches as users better understand AI’s cap
How to Clean Like a Pro: Getting Hotel-Quality Results for Your Airbnb Bathroom
The episode explores the challenge of maintaining a hotel-quality bathroom in Airbnb rentals amid confusing and often unreliable online cleaning advice. Host Paul discusses his struggles with meeting guest expectations, especially after receiving complaints about bathroom cleanliness.
Through dialogue with an AI assistant, Paul examines which cleaning products and routines truly make a di
Understanding Tokens, Context Windows, and Local LLM Hosting
Paul and Grok (an LLM) examine fundamental aspects of large language models, focusing on how tokens and context windows operate. Tokens, defined as textual units (words or word pieces), are the basis for all model processing and cost calculations. The “context window” is described as the LLM’s short-term memory, determining how much information can be handled at once.The discussion highli
Asking AI about flying with a young baby
In this episode, we explore the concerns and questions parents may have about traveling by air with a young baby. The conversation with AI focuses on what to expect when flying with an infant, from practical tips to emotional reassurances for new parents.Listeners will gain insight into the logistics and considerations involved in preparing for a flight with a baby, ensuring a smoother an
When AI Writes Songs: Experiencing Emotional Creativity with ChatGPT
In this episode, Paul explores the creative and emotional capabilities of ChatGPT through a personal experiment. He uses one of ChatGPT's music-making features to generate a song based on a simple and heartfelt prompt about parenting and the struggles of feeding a newborn. The resulting AI-generated song, 'Feed Me,' surprises Paul with its emotional depth and resonance, sparking a broader
Bitcoin's OP_RETURN Upgrade: Innovation or Catastrophe? A Deep Dive Into the V30 Controversy
In this episode of Talking to AI, host Paul dives deep into the controversial changes brought by Bitcoin Core v30, which significantly increases the OP_RETURN data limit in Bitcoin transactions. With the new upgrade, the allowable data in an OP_RETURN field has jumped from 80 bytes to a staggering 100,000 bytes, enabling users to embed larger metadata or even entire protocols onto the Bit
Naming the Unnamable: Picking a Baby Name with AI (and a Deadline!)
Choosing a baby name is always tricky—but what happens when time is running out, and indecision meets inspiration from artificial intelligence? In this episode, host Paul dives deep into the baby-naming dilemma, using Grock, an AI assistant, to generate and refine the perfect name for his newborn daughter. With a real-world deadline—needing a name for a passport before an upcoming travel
Artificial Sweeteners: Myths, Risks, and Real Science—A Deep Dive with Grock 4.1
In this episode, Paul engages in a comprehensive investigation into the safety and potential risks of artificial sweeteners, featuring in-depth insights from Grock 4.1. The discussion kicks off by outlining the main types of artificial sweeteners—saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, neotame, acesulfame potassium, and stevia—detailing their pros, cons, and suitability for different dietary nee
Exploring Grok’s Personalities: A Hands-On Test of AI Voice Modes
In this episode, host Paul offers an in-depth, unfiltered exploration of Grok’s varied AI voice personalities and customizations, providing a live demonstration of what makes Grok uniquely engaging compared to other AI platforms like ChatGPT. Throughout the episode, Paul interacts with Grok in different modes—ranging from the meditative and motivational to the playful and even conspirator
Automating Podcast Production with AI: Lessons Learned and Real-World Challenges
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul shares a candid, behind-the-scenes account of his journey automating podcast production from start to (almost) finish using artificial intelligence. Drawing on several months of hands-on experimentation and coding, he breaks down both the successes and challenges in building a semi- and then fully-automated workflow. From handling audio quality and m
Rolling the Dice with AI: Dungeon Master Disappointment in D&D Adventure
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul and his friend Mark attempt a Dungeons & Dragons session led by ChatGPT as their AI Dungeon Master. Building upon a detailed and ambitious prompt, they strive to see if AI can live up to the challenge of running an engaging and rule-abiding tabletop adventure. Despite hopes for thrilling encounters after their underwhelming first attempt, the ses
Philosophy 101:Logic
In this episode of Talking to AI, we delve into logic, the fourth foundational branch in the Philosophy 101 series after epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics. Host Paul and the AI co-host discuss why logic is often considered the quiet backbone of philosophical reasoning, highlighting its fundamental place beneath even metaphysics and ethics. The conversation navigates classical logic—wi
Fighting 15 Years of Golfer’s Elbow: Fresh Strategies from AI and the Latest Medical Research
In this episode of Talking to AI, host Paul candidly explores his ongoing 15-year battle with chronic golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis). Despite years of persistence and trying nearly every conventional and alternative remedy—from barbell twists to infrared therapy and rice bucket exercises—Paul’s forearm tendon issues persist, interfering with his athletic endeavors and day-to-day co
Learning Norwegian with ChatGPT: Building Effective Language Prompts
In this episode, Paul embarks on his journey to learn Norwegian with the help of ChatGPT, sharing the lessons learned from designing more effective language learning prompts. Drawing from his recent experiences, Paul details how he requested ChatGPT to generate a 100-sentence story in A2-level Norwegian with English translations, saved and organized within a prompt database. He outlines h
Privacy, Security & Baby Names: Practical AI Conversations on Talking to AI
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul explores how different AI systems manage privacy and security, especially when comparing platforms like Grok, ChatGPT, and Gemini. The discussion dives deep into user data handling, highlighting Grok's minimal data retention approach compared to the more data-hungry competitors, and details how user conversations are encrypted and not stored unless s
Protecting Your Eyesight: Science-Based Advice from AI
In this episode, host Paul consults an AI for science-based guidance on maintaining and protecting eyesight, especially for those noticing a decline due to age or increased computer use. The discussion covers common questions people have as they experience changes in their vision, including whether eyesight loss is reversible and what prevention strategies are supported by scientific evid
Philosophy101: Ethics
In this episode of the Philosophy 101 series, we embark on an accessible exploration of ethics, one of philosophy's central branches. Host Paul and an AI discuss what ethics is at its core—the study of how we should act, what is right and wrong, and the frameworks people use to make moral decisions. The conversation unpacks the main ethical theories, including consequentialism, deontology
Quantum Computing: Hype, Reality, and the Race to Post-Quantum Security
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul embarks on a deep-dive conversation with Grock about quantum computing — separating hype from reality and exploring the implications for security and privacy. The discussion starts with an exploration of the fundamentals: how quantum computers work, the differences between physical and logical qubits, and the strange concepts of superposition and ent
Managing Hiatus Hernia and Exercise: AI-Driven Solutions for Gym-Goers
In this insightful episode of Talking to AI, Paul discusses a common challenge faced by gym-goers: managing exercise routines with a hiatus hernia. Drawing on both personal experience and AI-driven advice, the episode explores practical strategies to mitigate symptoms, especially when engaging in core-driven movements such as overhead presses and spinal twists. The conversation sheds ligh
Grok vs. ChatGPT: Real Talk, Quantum Computing, and Getting the Most from AI Conversations
In this insightful episode of Talking to AI, Paul dives deep into a candid comparison between Grok and ChatGPT, two leading AI conversational agents. Listeners can expect an uncut, real-world demo of how each AI handles criticism, conversation style, and general responsiveness. Grok stands out for its more direct, witty, and less filtered responses, while ChatGPT is recognized for its str
Philosophy101:Metaphysics
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul continues the exploration of foundational philosophical concepts, diving into the fascinating world of metaphysics. Building on the previous discussion about epistemology—the theory of knowledge—this episode unpacks how metaphysics deals with the fundamental nature of reality itself. Key metaphysical themes such as identity and change, causality, and
Naming a New Arrival: Paul and Grok Explore Baby Names with AI
In this heartfelt and engaging episode, Paul embarks on a mission to find the perfect name for his baby girl—with the help of AI, specifically Grok. The journey takes listeners through a range of creative approaches for baby naming, from considering personal values and cultural heritage to exploring historical, mythological, and nature-inspired options. Paul and Grok dissect the importanc
Benchmarking Success: Revenue Per Employee and the Future of AI-Efficient Companies
In this episode of Talking to AI, host Paul welcomes his friend Dave for a deep dive into company efficiency and the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in business. The discussion focuses on 'revenue per employee' as a key metric for benchmarking company success, especially in tech industries. Dave and Paul explore real-world examples, comparing giants like Apple, Valve, Nvidia
What I’ve Learned So Far: A Deep Dive Into the Making of Talking to AI
n this special “review so far” episode of Talking to AI, Paul switches seats and lets his friend Cullen interview him about how AI has actually changed his work and life. They talk about the impact of AI on jobs and hiring, how tools like ChatGPT and Grok have reshaped programming and research, what’s really happening with AI agents, and why you still need a sharp human brain to get the b
The Future of Housing: AI, Modular Construction, and the UK’s Building Revolution
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul and ChatGPT tackle one of the UK’s biggest systemic challenges: how to deliver cheaper, faster, better housing without compromising safety or community needs. Together they unpack the real-world blockers — from planning laws to logistics — and explore how AI, modular construction, digital twins, automated compliance, and next-generation materials cou
Social Engineering 101:pt2: UN How it works and how can it be controversial?
In this episode, Paul explores the inner workings of the United Nations (UN) with a focus on how it influences global society and why some of its policies can become controversial. The discussion begins by examining the unique structure of the UN, from the General Assembly—where all member states have a voice—to the Security Council, which makes binding decisions, and the Secretariat, the
ChatGPT vs Grok: A Live Side-by-Side Comparison of Research Quality
In this episode, runs a fully unscripted side-by-side comparison of ChatGPT and Grok, asking each model identical questions while isolating their answers. From crime data to dermatology evidence to model accuracy, this real conversational test shows how differently the two systems behave — in reasoning depth, confidence, data specificity, and style.
An Unscripted AI-to-AI Experiment: When Grok Met ChatGPT
In this unique episode, Paul sets up a real-time experiment to see what happens when Grok and ChatGPT are placed into an open unscripted conversation together. From sudden language switches to movie references, surprising personality quirks, and spontaneous banter, this AI-to-AI interaction becomes both unpredictable and entertaining. It's a rare look at how two advanced models behave whe
Behind the Scenes: How AI Helps Me Make This Podcast
Paul walks through his real-world podcasting workflow—how he records, edits, transcribes, and publishes with help from Python, OBS, Audacity macros, and ChatGPT. Hear how he splits multitrack audio, cleans voices intelligently, generates art + metadata, and moves toward a fully automated pipeline. A practical, curious conversation for creators experimenting with AI-powered production.
Learning Norwegian with ChatGPT Study Mode
Paul explores how ChatGPT's Study Mode can support language learning, specifically Norwegian. He builds a custom prompt, tests pronunciation + translation feedback, and reflects on what makes AI helpful for structured long-term learning. Curious, light, and practical, this episode offers a hands-on look at using GPT for language practice.
Behind the Scenes: How AI Uses Third-Party Models
Paul breaks down why ChatGPT sometimes slows down, how it taps external services like Dolly and Codex, and why different models give different levels of detail. Expect a conversational walkthrough of what happens under the hood when you request images, translations, or deep technical responses — plus tips for crafting better prompts.
Social Engineering 101 — A Look at the UN
Paul sits down with ChatGPT to examine how the United Nations influences global society, using Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals as touchpoints. They discuss whether major social shifts are organic or intentionally guided, explore examples like Rwanda and China, and highlight why some UN initiatives spark debate. A curious, accessible entry point into how institutions atte
Philosophy 101: Epistemology
How do we know what we know? In this episode, Paul and AI explore epistemology — the foundation of philosophical thinking. From axioms and sensory evidence to skeptical doubt and the Gettier problem, this dialogue offers a friendly introduction to some of philosophy's most enduring questions. Whether you're brand-new to philosophy or looking to sharpen your critical framework, this episod
Understanding LLMs: How They Work
What actually makes a large language model work? Paul sits down with ChatGPT to explore the foundations of LLMs — from transformers and context to multimodality and agents. Learn how models are trained, why versions evolve, and where reinforcement learning fits into the picture. A friendly and curiosity-driven introduction to the tech shaping the future of AI.
How Global Financial Transactions Really Work
Ever wonder what actually happens when money moves between banks — especially across borders? In this curious, light-hearted conversation, Paul untangles the invisible plumbing of the financial world: clearinghouses, SWIFT, SEPA, Norway's KID system, the IMF, and how governments sometimes step in to move money (or stop it)! We explore why banks trust each other, how international transfer
Can AI Make Me Money?
Paul talks with AI about whether individuals can realistically make money using AI. They discuss small, practical, virtual business ideas suited to a solo creator, highlight workflows where AI meaningfully reduces effort, and note the current limitations of autonomous AI agents. The conversation provides inspiration for those exploring AI as a tool for building valuable digital products a
Understanding ChatGPT Memory & Audio Setup
Paul examines how ChatGPT handles memory — across sessions, projects, and canonical blocks — and why understanding memory layers can make workflows smoother. He also walks through lessons from his recent audio-recording setup and reflects on ChatGPT's evolving capabilities, boundaries, and best-practice patterns when working on complex tasks.
Talking to AI — ChatGPT's Voices & Accents: A Conversation in Style
Paul Ayling chats with ChatGPT about the art of voice — accents, tones, and styles — testing how flexible and expressive AI conversation can be. From Norwegian to Australian, from formal to playful, this episode captures the joy and humor of exploring what it means to "talk to AI."
Talking to AI — Setting Up Audio: When AI Meets Complexity
Paul Ayling recounts a two-day deep dive into configuring a complex podcast setup linking ChatGPT, Grok, and multiple devices. From feedback loops and virtual drivers to the moment he realized the task was impossible with current hardware, this episode reveals what happens when curiosity meets complexity.
How Banks Really Create Money: Mortgages, Bonds, and Fractional Reserve Banking Explained
Paul explores how banks truly create money through mortgages and fractional reserve banking. Learn how banks securitize loans, what "mortgage-backed securities" really are, and how fractional reserves expand the money supply. A clear, fascinating deep dive into the world of modern banking.
Can AI Be a Dungeon Master? Playing Dungeons & Dragons with ChatGPT
Paul returns to the world of Dungeons & Dragons — this time with an unusual companion: ChatGPT as the Dungeon Master. From rolling stats and slashing enemies to debugging prompts mid-battle, this episode captures both the chaos and charm of experimenting with AI in creative storytelling. Can a language model really manage rules, characters, and combat — or does it fumble the dice? Tun
When Logic Isn't Logical: Can AI Fix a Music Mess?
Composer Mark joins Paul to fix a Logic Pro file disaster — with help from ChatGPT. From missing audio files to folder chaos, they explore what happens when AI tries to solve real-world music production problems. A candid, funny look at creativity, tech hiccups, and asking better questions with AI.
The Prisoner's Dilemma: A hat with ChatGPT
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul explores The Prisoner's Dilemma — one of the most powerful ideas in Game Theory. Together with AI, he examines how this simple two-player thought experiment explains real-world challenges like climate cooperation, business competition, and digital trust systems. You'll discover how governments and tech designers use incentives to reshape behavior — a
Do Banks Really Lend You Money? The Hidden Truth Behind Mortgages and Modern Banking
In this episode of Talking to AI, Paul takes on one of the most misunderstood topics in modern finance — how mortgages actually work. Is your bank really lending you its own money? Or is something deeper going on behind the scenes? Paul sits down with AI to uncover the mechanics of money creation, securitization, and how banks transform your promise to pay into tradable assets. It's a fas
Can AI Power the Future—or Drain It? Grok, Energy, and the Hidden Cost of Intelligence
How much energy does it take to power intelligence? Paul challenges Grok to calculate the real-world cost of AI—from a single chat to global data-center demand. What follows is a revealing look at electricity, coal, solar, and nuclear—and what happens when smart machines outpace our grids. A sharp, surprising, and deeply relevant episode on technology's growing hunger for power.
Learn Norwegian with AI – Part 2: From Phrases to Real Conversations
In this episode, Paul continues his Norwegian language adventure — but this time, it's all about real conversation. Part 2 of Learn Norwegian with AI captures the spontaneous, sometimes challenging, but always entertaining process of using AI as a language partner. If you're curious how AI can actually help you speak a new language naturally, not just memorize words, this is a must-listen
What happens when you try to play a game with artificial intelligence?
In this episode, Paul brings a playful twist to Talking to AI by challenging ChatGPT to a few classic games — first a card game experiment, then a round of the timeless "Animal, Mineral, or Vegetable." What starts as a simple idea quickly becomes an exploration of how AI handles rules, reasoning, and even the unexpected moments of human humor that make games so fun. From logical deduction
Getting More Productive with ChatGPT's Interface
In this short and insightful chat, Paul dives into the hidden corners of the ChatGPT interface to uncover how to get more done — faster. Learn how "Projects" keep conversations connected, "Libraries" store your go-to resources, and "GPTs" act as custom AIs for specific workflows. If you've ever wondered how to make ChatGPT a true productivity partner, this episode's for you. For show no
Can You Debate with an AI? My First Real Argument with ChatGPT
Can AI really hold its own in a debate? Paul challenges ChatGPT to a formal, timed discussion on whether cities should invest more in public parks or public transport. The result is part experiment, part entertainment — and a glimpse into how structure, logic, and a touch of humor shape human–AI dialogue.
Can AI Teach You a Language? Learning Norwegian with ChatGPT
Can ChatGPT really help you learn a new language? Paul puts it to the test — creating a live Norwegian lesson with AI. Together, they explore pronunciation, translation, and how ChatGPT adapts to feedback.A thoughtful, funny, and surprisingly human look at how people and AI learn together.
The Quest for Silence: AI and the Science of Blocking Out Baby Cries
Can ChatGPT help you sleep through a crying baby? Paul puts AI to the test — asking how to block baby noises while staying comfortable. The conversation unpacks the real science behind earplugs, earmuffs, and noise-cancelling tech, separating myths from reality.A surprising and practical episode about sound, sleep, and the strange new ways we rely on AI.
Inside ChatGPT's Mind: Why AI Hesitates, Evades, and Surprises Us
Why does ChatGPT sometimes hesitate, evade, or sound too careful? In this live uncut episode, Paul explores the principles that shape AI's responses — from safety to uncertainty — revealing what really happens behind the curtain of intelligent conversation.Learn how to phrase smarter prompts and understand the psychology of talking to machines.
AI helps me make sense of scientific evidence
In this episode, I step back to ask a big, foundational question: what exactly is science, and how do we judge the quality of evidence? Before diving into future conversations on scientific topics, I wanted to better understand the scientific process itself.With the AI, I explore the hierarchy of studies—from gold-standard randomized controlled trials, to cohort and case-control studies,
ChatGPT selects my podcast hosting service
In this episode, I turn the tables and ask ChatGPT for help—not about philosophy or creativity this time, but about something far more practical: how to host this very podcast. What begins as a technical question turns into an unexpectedly thoughtful conversation about control, freedom, and digital longevity. Together, we explore the trade-offs between convenience and ownership, and I pre
Chat GPT RFemembers to hum
So the first time I chatted with chatgpt I taught it to hum. However its still not very good. I fear it now thinks it can hum buts having real trouble. It is trying to sing now but it is not very good. Second time round s is a funny and sometimes frustrating experiment in pushing its limits. I ask it to hum single notes, copy simple tunes like Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star, and sustain lo
Can ChatGPT name my baby
In this episode, I bring a very personal question to the AI: what should I name my soon-to-arrive baby girl? With my English roots, my partner's Norwegian background, and my connection to Australia, the challenge is finding a name that's meaningful, unique, easy to pronounce in both languages, and free from awkward nicknames. Together, we explore names inspired by November skies, Norse
Can chatGPT can Hum!
In this episode, I dive into the quirks of AI with a mix of curiosity and humor. What begins as a serious chat about the limits of artificial intelligence—like its inability to feel emotions or read body language—quickly turns playful when I challenge the AI to hum and sing. The results surprised me: stretched-out "hmms" and "las" that blur the line between speech and music, and even made
