
The Adam Shilton Podcast
Hello, my name’s Adam Shilton, I’m a Founder, Technologist & TEDx Speaker and I’m obsessed with answering the question “How can we become irreplaceable in the Age of AI?”. Join me as we support you on your journey to becoming more prosperous, more purposeful, and more profitable. Please like and subscribe.
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Latest episodes

Jan 25, 2024 • 33min
The Trillion Dollar Question: Is There a Pain-free Shortcut to Mastery? - Carl Seidman (Pt. 1) | Ep.053
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us on Tech for Finance as we engage with the esteemed Carl Seidman, a financial heavyweight, in a riveting conversation about the convergence of technology and mastery within the finance realm. We navigate the often irresistible human penchant for shortcuts and ponder the ramifications for those striving for excellence in their respective careers. Carl, with his profound experience in FP&A, shares his wisdom on strategic planning, forecasting, and optimizing working capital, as well as his counterintuitive views on AI and technology. Beyond finance, Carl regales us with tales of his culinary escapades and an openness to exploring unconventional local cuisine while globetrotting.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
Listen in as we unravel the complexities and limitations of artificial intelligence in the finance sector. I reflect on my own journey from a know-it-all professional to one humbled by the enormity of what I don't know, stressing the significance of pushing one another towards continuous growth and staying abreast of the latest industry knowledge. We dissect the difference between AI tools that are simply user-friendly and those that truly harness data to propel businesses forward. We also delve into the past overestimations surrounding big data, and discuss the exciting prospects of generative AI, all while acknowledging the enduring value of established financial technologies.
In this enlightening session, we extend an invite to the AI Finance Club, underscoring the importance of integrating AI into financial work with prudence. Through personal stories, I illustrate the pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI without proper discernment, emphasizing the necessity for finance professionals to trust their instincts on when AI hits the mark—and when it doesn't. We also contemplate the influence of AI on junior team members and their ability to vet AI conclusions. Wrapping up the discussion, we confront the reliability of AI tools in research, comparing their capacity to provide credible data, and confront the challenge of discerning trustworthy information in an era where skepticism and verification are paramount.
------SHOW NOTES------
Find Carl on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlseidman/
Check out Seidman Financial - https://seidmanfinancial.com/
------CHAPTERS-------
(00:00) The Trillion Dollar Question
(04:58) Limits of AI in Finance Exploration
(15:37) Integrating AI in Finance
(30:39) Evaluating Research Tools and Credible Sources
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Jan 22, 2024 • 43min
AI is Lying to You: Don’t Let Biases Turn Your Work Into a Horror Film - Business Breaks (Pt. 2) | Ep.052
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we tackle the multifaceted challenges of AI, starting with its inherent biases that can skew results toward extremes. From an experiment that oscillates between beauty and grotesque in image generation to the frustrations of transforming a PDF into a coherent strategy document, we share firsthand the limitations of AI and the importance of specialized models for specific tasks. Our discussion also wades into the murky waters of ethical considerations in AI, especially in finance, where data privacy and the responsible use of sensitive information are paramount.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
Join us and our guest, Adam Shilton, as we navigate the delicate balance between embracing AI tools and maintaining human oversight. We recount Christian Martinez's advice from Kraft Heinz on using platforms like Google Colab for data protection and highlight the barriers small businesses face in accessing private AI platforms. Our conversation underlines the critical role of human validation to ensure brand compliance and explores the biases ingrained in AI, emphasizing the need for vigilance when utilizing AI-generated content.
Wrapping up, we explore the journey of building a following on LinkedIn, moving from a focus on vanity metrics to the creation of impactful content that inspires action. We get excited about the future of AI as we discuss tools like PodiumPage and the possibilities of AI co-pilots in professional settings. Adam shares his insights on leveraging technology and the upcoming AI Finance Club, offering avenues for our listeners to connect and learn more about his work in the finance technology sector. So tune in for an enlightening episode that examines the intersection of AI, ethics, and the power of personal branding.
------SHOW NOTES-------
Check out Business Breaks - https://businessbreaks.club/
------CHAPTERS-------
(00:00) Challenges and Considerations in Implementing AI
(06:22) Challenges and Biases in AI Usage
(21:48) Building a Following and Measuring Impact
(31:45) Future AI Tools and Co-Pilots
(35:38) Leverage and Future Projects With Adam
(42:01) Website and Newsletter Subscription Instructions
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 18, 2024 • 34min
THE Crazy Fast Way Finance Can Create More Impact with Less Effort - Sasha Orloff (Pt.2) | Ep.051
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we explore the transformative power of AI and automation in the finance sector, where technology is changing the game. We're talking about a landscape where AI-driven tools enable professionals to grasp market trends and competitor strategies with unprecedented speed and precision. Our conversation touches on how these advancements, from OCR to continuous close accounting, are not just reshaping the financial processes but also addressing the challenge of human bottlenecks. Whether you're a finance guru or just keen on how tech is revolutionizing industries, this insight is a gold mine.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
During our chat, the spotlight shines on the far-reaching benefits of AI across various sectors. Imagine starting with simple AI-powered writing prompts and evolving to the point where specialized tools become your ally in data analysis and time management. I even introduce you to the AI Finance Club, a hub for finance professionals to enhance their craft with AI. It's all about leveraging technology to stay ahead, and we discuss how even those in personal finance management can benefit from integrating AI into their strategies.
Wrapping up, we delve into the trust issues emerging alongside AI's advancements. From distinguishing authentic interactions from AI-generated content to pondering the implications of a simulated reality, we tackle it all. But it's not all serious business—I share some personal tech favorites that make everyday life a bit more interesting, like the Can of Soup app. Join us for a riveting discussion that merges the professional with the personal, all through the lens of AI's evolving narrative.
------SHOW NOTES-------
Find Sasha on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sashaorloff/
Check out Puzzle - https://puzzle.io/
------CHAPTERS------
(00:00) AI and Automation in Finance
(12:08) Benefits of AI in Various Industries
(19:03) AI Models
(27:30) The Future of AI and Trust
(33:09) Puzzle.io Introduction and Invitation for Feedback
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 15, 2024 • 40min
AI Soft Skill Hacks for Exhausted Finance Pros (that even introverts can use) - Business Breaks (Pt. 1) | Ep.050
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us on Business Breaks as we welcome the incredibly versatile Adam Shilton, who seamlessly transitions his symphony of skills from music to mastering the intricate world of finance technology. Adam shares the melody of his life, illustrating how the harmonies of collaboration and the technicalities of music production have tuned his approach to AI in finance. With a nod to his past in bands and a focus on the future, he reflects on how continuous learning and adaptation play a key role in both music and the evolving landscape of finance.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
Listen in as Adam discusses the crescendo of AI innovation in finance, distinguishing the nuances between the pre and post-chat GPT era. He orchestrates a comparison of AI's capabilities, from predictive analytics to generative AI's more sophisticated outputs. Adam also sheds light on how finance teams are adapting to new technology, offering practical applications of AI that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. As we delve into the democratization of AI tools like ChatGPT, Adam invites listeners to join the AI Finance Club, where the discussion on AI's utility in finance continues to unfold.
Wrapping up our conversation, Adam emphasizes the importance of crafting clear prompts for AI models, drawing from his experience with models like Claude 2.1. He shares strategies for optimizing prompts by breaking them down into manageable parts, ensuring AI-generated outputs are as accurate and useful as possible. Moreover, Adam provides insights on how finance professionals can harness AI and automation to advance their careers, highlighting the necessity of developing soft skills such as emotional intelligence alongside technical expertise. Tune in to discover how Adam's insights can help you fine-tune your career and the way you engage with AI in the finance sector.
------SHOW NOTES------
Check out Business Breaks - https://businessbreaks.club/
------CHAPTERS------
(00:00) Music and AI in Finance
(04:13) Transition From Music to Finance Technology
(10:57) AI Innovation in Finance
(25:19) AI and Career Advancement in Finance
(35:19) Clarity and Chunking in Prompt Design
(38:44) Optimizing Prompt Engineering for Better Output
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 13, 2024 • 56min
Beyond the Hype: The Surprising Truth About AI - The 'This Week in Tech' Show | Ep.049
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Could the current AI craze be little more than a high-tech version of the 'turbo' fad of yesteryear? in this session we scrutinise the real impact of AI on software and the bold move by OpenAI to launch a GPT store. Our conversation navigates the waters of innovation and pragmatism, raising the shield of skepticism against the advancing army of AI applications. We're questioning not just the glitz and glam but the substance beneath the surface that could redefine or overcomplicate the tech landscape.
As we venture further into the tech jungle, we come across the exotic creatures of low-code automation platforms such as Zapier and Make. These tools promise a revolution in our daily workflows, yet we pause to consider the puzzles they present when placed in the complex board games of enterprise and personal computing. Together with Daniel, we weigh the scales of convenience against the stones of security risks and the limitations faced when stepping off the well-trodden path. Moreover, we peek into the world of open-source AI models and the dream of running them locally, examining the hurdles that stand tall before the promise of a personal virtual assistant.
Our journey doesn't stop at the mechanics of technology; it also delves into the human aspect. We examine how indulging in books, such as audiobooks, can fuel personal growth and inspire critical thought amid the often-misleading marketing of AI products. Wrapping up, I share a glimpse into the importance of clear goals in technology usage, scaling personal aspirations alongside business growth, and the audacious plans for this podcast.
With an eye on becoming a leading voice in tech and finance, our dialogue extends an invitation to our listeners for feedback and engagement, as we aim to climb the peaks of podcast success with your invaluable company. Join us for this exploration of tech's true value, where curiosity meets candor.
------SHOW NOTES------
Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164
Subscribe to the 'Beanies in a Pod' Podcast - https://beaniesinapod.buzzsprout.com/
------CHAPTERS-------
(00:00) Potential Challenges of Open AI
(11:55) Low Code Automation and Future Trends
(15:34) Limitations of Low-Code Tools
(20:40) Comparing RPA and Discussing AI's Limitations
(29:30) Reading Habits and Artificial Intelligence
(41:11) Setting Clear Technology Usage Goals
(48:06) Scaling and Ambitious Goal Setting
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 11, 2024 • 36min
Create Confidence Without Hiring an Army Using Generative Accounting - Sasha Orloff (Pt.1) | Ep.048
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Could the secret to unlocking financial confidence in businesses lie within AI-enabled accounting platforms? Sasha Orloff, the innovative co-founder and CEO of Puzzle, joins us to navigate through the world of generative accounting, revealing how outdated tools are being replaced with tech that offers real-time, data-driven insights. In an era where financial clarity is paramount, Orloff breaks down how small and medium-sized businesses can harness the power of AI to make informed decisions without drowning in spreadsheets or waiting on delayed reports.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
The world of finance and accounting is on the brink of a major overhaul, and coding skills like Python are now becoming part of the accountant's toolkit. This episode peels back the layers of traditional financial analysis, illustrating the importance of unified data models and the integration of large language models that aim to demystify complex financial rules. Orloff offers an enthralling perspective on how AI is streamlining processes and boosting the integrity of financial reporting, fostering a future where finance professionals are freed from mundane tasks to focus on strategy and growth.
Finally, we tackle the strategic implications of AI in policy implementation and time management within companies. Imagine a CTO's dilemma in budgeting for technology—how can one balance the needs of the business without excess or shortfall? Sasha sheds light on how AI can simplify budget monitoring and cost allocation, enabling leaders to steer their ship with confidence and precision. Tune in to discover a new horizon where AI isn't just a tool but a transformative ally for business leaders aiming to sculpt a robust financial foundation.
------SHOW NOTES-------
Find Sasha on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sashaorloff/
Check out Puzzle - https://puzzle.io/
------CHAPTERS------
(00:00) Building Metaphors
(09:51) Generative Accounting for Better Business Decisions
(20:13) AI's Benefits in Accounting and Finance
(27:12) Python Integration in Excel, Importance of Metadata
(34:57) Effective Time Management in Policy Implementation
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 8, 2024 • 41min
How Finance Can Use Python Code to Automate (with ZERO Dev Skill) - Nicolas Boucher (Pt. 2) | Ep.047
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us on this enlightening journey through the landscape of Python automation, AI models, and the power of a logical mindset in coding. In this installment, Nicolas recounts an eye-opening personal experience where my logical approach, not deep coding expertise, led to a successful automation feat. Together with Nicolas, a returning favorite, we navigate the intricacies of applying specialized AI like Petal and Humata to tasks like digesting lengthy documents, overcoming the memory constraints that often hamper chatbots. We even explore the inventive integration of technology into daily life, such as utilising AI transcription tools like OpenAI's Whisper to enhance productivity during travel.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
Listen in as we share the valuable lessons learned from pushing AI transcription services to their limits. My recent endeavors to dictate notes while driving revealed the current boundaries of AI's ability to parse complex data and the significance of adapting our methods to its capabilities. The conversation takes a turn towards the future, discussing the exciting possibilities that lie ahead with advancements in AI like GPT-4 and the need for specialised bots. Nicolas and I ponder the potential of a marketplace for pre-trained models, sharing insights on how we are creating directories for finance-focused GPTs and the transformative effects of AI tools in organising our workflow.
Wrapping up this episode, we delve into the promising role of AI copilots in finance. From a task journaling exercise that can uncover efficiencies to 'lunch and learn' sessions that foster collaborative learning, we explore the many ways AI can streamline finance professionals' day-to-day activities. With Nicolas' invaluable perspective, we reflect on the challenges of staying updated in the fast-paced worlds of finance and tech, and the importance of accessible content. Our conversation ends on a high note, with mutual anticipation for the innovative discussions that lie ahead, always aiming to demystify the complexities of tech for our audience.
------- SHOW NOTES ------
- Where to find Nicolas - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bouchernicolas/
- Sponsor: AI Finance Club - https://www.techforfinance.com/ai
------- CHAPTERS --------
(00:00) Python Code, AI Models, and Automation
(03:24) Efficient Workflow and Task Allocation
(07:40) GPT-4 and Specialized Bots
(15:44) Image Generation and AI in Finance
(32:10) AI Copilot Potential in Finance
(39:39) Appreciation for Finance and Tech Updates
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Jan 4, 2024 • 32min
How to Use AI to Augment Your Skills & Get Your Work Recognised - Nicolas Boucher (Pt. 1) | Ep.046
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Imagine transforming the financial industry with a flick of technological magic. That's precisely the journey we embark on with Nicolas Boucher, the AI and finance maestro, who joins us to unravel the complexities of artificial intelligence's role in revolutionising finance. From pioneering adoption to advocating for AI's burgeoning capabilities, Nicolas walks us through a world where ChatGPT not only streamlines FP&A and budget forecasting but redefines what we thought was possible in the financial realm.
**Sponsor**
- Join the AI Finance Club
- www.techforfinance.com/ai
- Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off
As the financial sector evolves, so do the tools at our disposal. We navigate the nuanced landscape of free versus paid AI services, weighing the pros and cons while discussing user sophistication in leveraging these technologies. Nicola and I dissect the ways in which ChatGPT-4, with its dazzling Excel wizardry and advanced features, can be utilised effectively while maintaining confidentiality—a paramount concern in finance. Our chat demystifies the tech, offering practical strategies for finance professionals looking to enrich their toolkits without emptying their pockets.
The finale of our episode touches upon the synergistic relationship between AI and workforce development. Leadership plays a strategic role in harnessing AI's power to triple productivity and improve skill sets within finance teams. We share personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of clarity when commanding AI tools and the transformative impact they have on workplace efficiency. It's more than just a conversation; it's a guide for embracing the AI revolution, equipping finance aficionados with the foresight to thrive in a tech-driven future.
------- SHOW NOTES ------
- Where to find Nicolas -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bouchernicolas/
- Sponsor: AI Finance Club - https://www.techforfinance.com/ai
------- CHAPTERS --------
(00:00) AI in Finance
(04:55) Free vs Paid Versions of Chat GPT
(14:09) AI Finance Discussion on GPT Advancements
(22:43) Role of AI in Upskilling Workforce
(30:03) Team Training and Productivity Improvement
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Dec 22, 2023 • 24min
How to Use Poe to Create AI Bots for Free - Received.ai AI in Finance Webinar (Pt. 3) | Ep.045
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us as we wrap up our thrilling three-part journey through the landscape of AI in Finance, where the final leg takes us into the realm of bot creation with Poe. In this segment, I'm thrilled to share how Poe's robust free capabilities enable us to craft custom bots tailored to specific financial scenarios, like forecasting and headcount planning—tools that could revolutionize operations in sectors such as hospitality. You won't want to miss my personal story of employing AI to craft an entire presentation, a testament to the real-world utility of these advanced technologies. Plus, we delve into the world of image generation models and the community-driven bot library that could spark your next big idea.
Listen in as we also explore the transformative power of AI tools like ChatGPT, Llama from Meta, and Claude from Anthropic in creating efficient financial presentations. We discuss how these AI powerhouses can manage repetitive tasks with finesse, freeing up valuable time for finance professionals to cultivate personal relationships within their organizations. The episode takes an exciting turn as we consider the future potential of interconnected AI chatbots, reflecting on a unique experiment where two AI-enabled phones were set up to converse. Whether you're a finance expert or simply AI-curious, you'll find actionable insights on starting with free AI tools, ensuring data privacy, and identifying those 'lowest hanging fruit' opportunities where AI can make an immediate impact on your productivity.
------- SHOW NOTES ------
- Hosted by - https://www.received.ai
- ChatGPT - https://chat.openai.com
- Noteable - https://noteable.io
- Poe - https://poe.com
------- CHAPTERS --------
(00:04) Creating Bots With AI in Finance
(07:27) AI Tools for Financial Presentations
(16:24) AI for Finance Professionals - Getting Started
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Dec 20, 2023 • 16min
How to Use Noteable for Data Analysis - Received.ai AI in Finance Webinar (Pt. 2) | Ep.044
More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Could the right combination of AI tools revolutionize your financial analysis? That's the question we unravel as we venture into the fusion of Noteable and ChatGPT, examining their collective force in tackling complex data. This episode is a treasure trove for those seeking to supercharge their financial analytics game. Prepare to be guided through the intricacies of setting up Noteable as a dynamic database and watch as ChatGPT transforms into an interactive financial oracle. We navigate the creation of a financial analysis notebook, upload sample datasets, and pull back the curtain on the pro versions of these tools, revealing how they deftly manage and analyze massive data volumes.
The journey doesn't end with mere setup; the heart of the discussion lies in the critical examination of data quality and AI accuracy. No stone is left unturned as we illustrate the stark impact of inadequate data on forecasting accuracy, presenting a real-world scenario that demonstrates the pitfalls of sparse historical data. Listen closely as we dissect how even the most sophisticated AI can falter without a robust dataset, and underscore the importance of comprehensive data in predicting financial trends with confidence. This insightful conversation is designed to arm you, whether you're a seasoned financial professional or an AI aficionado, with the knowledge to leverage the latest AI advancements for superior data analysis.
------- SHOW NOTES ------
- Hosted by - https://www.received.ai
- ChatGPT - https://chat.openai.com
- Noteable - https://noteable.io
- Poe - https://poe.com
------- CHAPTERS --------
(00:06) Data Analysis With Notable and ChatGPT
(14:16) Data Quality and AI Accuracy Challenges
Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com