Alastair McDermott - The AI Powered Thought Leader

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Aug 26, 2025

Alastair McDermott, an author and human-first AI strategist, shares insights on blending AI with human expertise. He unveils his new book, discussing practical applications of AI to boost productivity and decision-making for professionals. Alastair highlights effective prompting techniques and the importance of a tailored AI setup while navigating the challenges of using these technologies. He emphasizes striking a balance between leveraging AI tools and maintaining authentic human connections in work and learning.

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ANECDOTE

From Engineer To AI-First Consultant

Alastair described moving from a corporate software role to running his own consulting business and rebranding into HumanSpark.AI.
He noticed AI's tidal wave early and decided to integrate it into his expert-focused services.

INSIGHT

AI As A Force Multiplier For Experts

Alastair argues AI is a force multiplier for true experts rather than a threat that destroys authenticity.
He insists you can stay credible while using AI if you apply human judgment and relationships.

INSIGHT

Four Big Opportunities AI Unlocks

Alastair outlines four AI opportunities: productivity, new capabilities, smarter decisions, and accelerated learning.
He says experts using AI at a high level gain superpowers in capability and learning.

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Author, speaker, and human-first AI strategist, Alastair McDermott, joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about his new book and how experts can use AI to enhance productivity, decision-making, and learning.

(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(00:46) - Alistair's Background and Journey
(03:02) - The New Book: Use AI, Stay Human
(04:15) - AI as a Tool for Experts
(06:55) - Practical Applications of AI
(10:00) - Technical Deep Dive: AI in Writing
(16:58) - Organizing and Managing AI Outputs
(23:40) - Ideal Reader and Learning AI
(24:51) - Choosing Your AI Setup: DIY vs. Subscription
(25:20) - The Importance of AI Expertise
(27:16) - AI's Role in Business and Personal Productivity
(28:25) - Challenges and Limitations of AI
(30:59) - Effective Prompting Techniques
(32:20) - Using AI for Coaching and Workshops
(35:35) - Advanced AI Usage Tips
(40:46) - Practical AI Tools and Resources
(45:28) - Final Thoughts and Resources

AI Summary

In this episode of Ditching Hourly, Jonathan Stark interviews Alastair McDermott about his new book, 'Use AI Stay Human: A Survival Guide for Experts in the Age of AI.' They discuss Alastair's transition from a techie background to running his consulting business, Recognized Authority, and eventually rebranding to Human Spark.AI. The conversation dives into how AI can be used to enhance productivity, decision-making, and learning for subject matter experts. Alastair shares practical tips on setting up effective AI workflows, structuring prompts, and the importance of human judgment in leveraging AI for business purposes.

Alastair's Links

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Use-I-Stay-Human-Indispensable-ebook/dp/B0FDQSKZRF
Website: https://humanspark.ai/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alastairmcdermott/

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