2026-10-17_AI-for-the-rest-of-us-using-refusing.md
New class! AI for the Rest of Us: Using (and Refusing)- October 17
A live, online workshop for people who are curious about AI — but have legitimate concerns about using it safely and selectively.
📅 October 17, 2026 | 9:00–10:30 AM Central Time 💻 Online via Zoom | Small group, max 25 participants 💲 $75 per person
You’ve heard the alarming news. Now what?
AI isn’t one-size-fits-all. Recent months have brought real, well-documented cases of AI systems acting in unexpected — even unauthorized — ways. At the same time, ignoring AI carries its own risk: it’s already shaping your world, from recommendation feeds to customer service, whether you’ve opted in or not.
This workshop is for people who want to harness AI’s benefits without losing their judgment, their privacy, or their own voice in the process — taught by someone who uses, and knows when to avoid, AI every day.
Note: This is a different workshop from an earlier “AI for the Rest of Us” session. That one focused on prompting mechanics and idea generation. This one centers on safety, boundaries, and judgment. No prior class required.
Highlights
- What’s actually changed recently — including AI systems acting in unexpected ways — and what that does (and doesn’t) mean for you
- Protecting your privacy and personal information when using AI tools
- Setting boundaries around authenticity and personal agency, so AI assists your voice instead of replacing it
- Simple verification habits for quality-checking what AI tells you
- Hands-on practice with guided prompts, small-group discussion, and a personal action plan to leave with
Who it’s for
Curious skeptics, cautious beginners, and anyone who wants to make deliberate choices about AI rather than drifting into — or anxiously avoiding — it. No prior AI experience or technical skills required. Skepticism is welcome.
What you’ll need
- A laptop or tablet (smartphones aren’t ideal for hands-on practice)
- A tested Zoom connection
- A free Claude.ai account (ChatGPT or Gemini also work, but Claude is recommended for continuity)
Register
Full refund available up to 24 hours before the workshop start time.