AI 101: Session 1: Mindset Reset

What It Is

Here’s what we noticed: Most people are stuck between two extremes with AI. They’re either terrified it’ll take their job, or they think it’s magic that’ll solve everything. Both are wrong. This session? We’re getting real about what AI actually does – and more importantly, what you need to do differently starting tomorrow.

Why It Matters

The gap between professionals who understand AI and those who don’t is widening every day. In this session, you’ll discover how to save 5-10 hours every week – time you can use for strategic work, creative projects, or getting home earlier. We’ll show you exactly how to identify those hidden hours in your current workflow. 

What You’ll Experience

• 90 minutes that actually change how you work (not just talk about it)
• Mark, Mike, and Jim sharing what’s really working right now
• Hands-on practice with other Santa Barbara professionals
• That “aha” moment when AI finally clicks

What You’ll Take Away

• Your personal AI Opportunity Audit (spoiler: you’ll find at least 5 hours hiding in your week)
• The real story about what AI can and can’t do (hint: the media gets it wrong)
• Three truths about AI that nobody’s talking about
• A simple worksheet that makes everything clear
• Confidence to actually start using this stuff tomorrow

What You’ll Do Tomorrow

• Open that AI Opportunity Audit and circle your biggest time-waster
• Pick one AI tool from our list (they’re all free or cheap)
• Set up your first AI assistant (seriously, it takes 10 minutes)
• Try our conversation starters instead of staring at a blank prompt
• Put 30 minutes on your calendar for AI practice (yes, just like going to the gym)

The Flow

     5:00 PM – Curated Networking and refreshments

     6:00 PM – Session Kickoff

     7:30 PM – Program Wrap

Who Should Attend

You know that feeling when everyone’s talking about something and you’re nodding along but secretly lost? That’s most people with AI right now. This session is for professionals who want to stop pretending and start doing. Perfect if you’re worried about your job, overwhelmed by the hype, or just want a straight answer about where to begin.