In this episode, Zane and Greg dive into Google's breakthrough compression technology (also known as "Pied Piper" in tech memes), but the real conversation is about something more important: how to approach AI projects with actual purpose and rigor.

We discuss why most AI initiatives fail, how to protect yourself from runaway token costs, and why having a business-like framework matters even for side projects. Then we pivot to a different kind of networking: how conferences and genuine human connection lead to unexpected opportunities and real professional growth.

The episode takes a fun turn when we imagine building an AI agent that actually serves you when you're out late (hint: Grubhub, Uber, and finding open Taco Bells at 2 AM). But ultimately, it's about this theme: the human you are matters more than the AI agent you build.

We wrap with some hard-won wisdom about time management, maximizing what makes you happy, and why being present with the people you care about is still the best ROI you can get.

Topics covered: Google's TurboQuant compression, AI project frameworks, conference networking strategy, personal risk mitigation, and why time is your most finite resource.

This is Not a Bot? where we talk about technology and life at the human/machine boundary.