
Optimums Prime, Eleven Labs, and Creating Experiences
Podcast Overview:
In this episode of Wake Up With AI, Chris Carolan, George B. Thomas, and Niko Lafakis explore the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology, from new features in GPT models to the rise of AI-generated voices and personalized conversational agents. The hosts discuss the impact these developments have on marketing, cybersecurity, and even the entertainment industry. As AI continues to change the game, the team urges everyone to "wake up" and stay informed.
Key Topics Covered:
🎙️ The Latest in AI Voice Technology: 11 Labs and Beyond
Niko shares updates from 11 Labs, an AI platform specializing in text-to-speech and voice-to-voice software. He highlights how the platform now allows users to create personalized conversational agents with knowledge bases, customizable voices (including famous personalities like Snoop Dogg and Optimus Prime), and integrations that can be deployed directly on websites. The team discusses the potential and risks of this technology, particularly its use in marketing, customer service, and entertainment.
Quote: “Imagine having Snoop Dogg on your website guiding visitors through your services—it's creative and engaging but could also be misused if not done transparently.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: How would you use AI-generated voices and conversational agents to enhance user experience on your digital platforms?
🔍 The Evolution of AI Features: GPT’s New Canvas
George dives into the newly released “canvas” feature in GPT, where users can track changes in their AI-generated outputs. He emphasizes how this small but significant update can transform how people use AI for content creation, making it easier to see and manage revisions in real-time. This enhancement ties into the broader theme of transparency and user control in AI systems.
Quote: “It's a small feature, but it’s game-changing—being able to track what AI changes in real time makes the tool more transparent and user-friendly.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: How important is transparency for you when using AI tools for content creation or business processes?
🛡️ Skill That Pays the Bills: AI-Enhanced Cybersecurity
The skill spotlight of the day focuses on AI-enhanced cybersecurity. George explains how AI tools like Darktrace and CrowdStrike monitor networks in real-time, quickly identifying and neutralizing threats before they escalate. These tools offer proactive solutions that scan for vulnerabilities, keeping businesses secure even when human eyes can’t always be on the system.
Quote: “AI doesn’t just react to cyber threats; it predicts and prevents them, working around the clock to keep your business secure.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: Is your current cybersecurity system equipped to handle the pace and sophistication of modern-day threats?
🎥 Hollywood's AI Future: Voices and Beyond
Niko explores the implications of AI in the entertainment industry, particularly how voice replication technology could change film production. The team discusses potential scenarios where actors like Robert Downey Jr. or Scarlett Johansson may not even need to be on set anymore, as their voices and likenesses can be digitally recreated. The hosts debate the ethical and creative challenges this technology brings and what it means for the future of cinema.
Quote: “With AI voices and avatars, we’re entering a new era where even Hollywood’s most iconic figures could be digitally replicated, potentially changing film production forever.” – Niko Lafakis
Reflective Question: How do you feel about the use of AI in film production, especially when it comes to replicating the voices and likenesses of famous actors?
If today’s episode inspired you to explore how AI can transform your business, be sure to subscribe to Wake Up With AI. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with others who are curious about the future of artificial intelligence. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and join our community of AI enthusiasts as we navigate this evolving landscape together.
In this episode of Wake Up With AI, Chris Carolan, George B. Thomas, and Niko Lafakis explore the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology, from new features in GPT models to the rise of AI-generated voices and personalized conversational agents. The hosts discuss the impact these developments have on marketing, cybersecurity, and even the entertainment industry. As AI continues to change the game, the team urges everyone to "wake up" and stay informed.
Key Topics Covered:
🎙️ The Latest in AI Voice Technology: 11 Labs and Beyond
Niko shares updates from 11 Labs, an AI platform specializing in text-to-speech and voice-to-voice software. He highlights how the platform now allows users to create personalized conversational agents with knowledge bases, customizable voices (including famous personalities like Snoop Dogg and Optimus Prime), and integrations that can be deployed directly on websites. The team discusses the potential and risks of this technology, particularly its use in marketing, customer service, and entertainment.
Quote: “Imagine having Snoop Dogg on your website guiding visitors through your services—it's creative and engaging but could also be misused if not done transparently.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: How would you use AI-generated voices and conversational agents to enhance user experience on your digital platforms?
🔍 The Evolution of AI Features: GPT’s New Canvas
George dives into the newly released “canvas” feature in GPT, where users can track changes in their AI-generated outputs. He emphasizes how this small but significant update can transform how people use AI for content creation, making it easier to see and manage revisions in real-time. This enhancement ties into the broader theme of transparency and user control in AI systems.
Quote: “It's a small feature, but it’s game-changing—being able to track what AI changes in real time makes the tool more transparent and user-friendly.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: How important is transparency for you when using AI tools for content creation or business processes?
🛡️ Skill That Pays the Bills: AI-Enhanced Cybersecurity
The skill spotlight of the day focuses on AI-enhanced cybersecurity. George explains how AI tools like Darktrace and CrowdStrike monitor networks in real-time, quickly identifying and neutralizing threats before they escalate. These tools offer proactive solutions that scan for vulnerabilities, keeping businesses secure even when human eyes can’t always be on the system.
Quote: “AI doesn’t just react to cyber threats; it predicts and prevents them, working around the clock to keep your business secure.” – George B. Thomas
Reflective Question: Is your current cybersecurity system equipped to handle the pace and sophistication of modern-day threats?
🎥 Hollywood's AI Future: Voices and Beyond
Niko explores the implications of AI in the entertainment industry, particularly how voice replication technology could change film production. The team discusses potential scenarios where actors like Robert Downey Jr. or Scarlett Johansson may not even need to be on set anymore, as their voices and likenesses can be digitally recreated. The hosts debate the ethical and creative challenges this technology brings and what it means for the future of cinema.
Quote: “With AI voices and avatars, we’re entering a new era where even Hollywood’s most iconic figures could be digitally replicated, potentially changing film production forever.” – Niko Lafakis
Reflective Question: How do you feel about the use of AI in film production, especially when it comes to replicating the voices and likenesses of famous actors?
If today’s episode inspired you to explore how AI can transform your business, be sure to subscribe to Wake Up With AI. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with others who are curious about the future of artificial intelligence. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and join our community of AI enthusiasts as we navigate this evolving landscape together.
Creators and Guests

Host
Chris Carolan
Chris Carolan is a seasoned expert in digital transformation and emerging technologies, with a passion for AI and its role in reshaping the future of business. His deep knowledge of AI tools and strategies helps businesses optimize their operations and embrace cutting-edge innovations. As a host of Wake Up With AI, Chris brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to understanding how AI can drive success in sales, marketing, and beyond, helping listeners navigate the AI revolution with confidence.

Host
Nick Lafakis
Niko Lafakis is a forward-thinking AI enthusiast with a strong foundation in business transformation and strategy. With experience driving innovation at the intersection of technology and business, Niko brings a wealth of knowledge about leveraging AI to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. His passion for AI as a force multiplier makes him an essential voice on Wake Up With AI, where he shares insights on how AI is reshaping industries and empowering individuals to work smarter, not harder.