Can You Be Creative and Use AI? Here’s What You’re Missing

What if the key to working with AI isn’t becoming an expert, but learning how to think more simply?In this episode, I sit down with Eli Wood to dig into how we can consistently replace complexity with insight. Eli leads Black Flag Design, a collective of creative technologists, designers, and product strategists tackling some of the most complex AI challenges out there.We talk about what it really means to build durable skills in AI, not just coding or technical mastery, but how to stay relevant and curious as this space evolves. Eli brings a refreshing perspective on the power of being a generalist and why simplicity isn’t a lack of depth; it’s a sign of real understanding.We also explore participatory design, the messy process of getting real user feedback (especially in high-stakes environments), and the often misunderstood relationship between creativity and AI. Spoiler: AI doesn’t kill creativity, it can actually amplify it.Key takeaways:Accessible on-ramps to AI skill-building and encourages embracing the technology rather than fearing it. The evolution of AI as a tool, similar to the transformation of photography.Adaptive learning and executive function as crucial skills for the future of work. Relationship-based approach to problem-solving, prioritizing clarity over jargon. Adaptive learning and communication will be critical skills for humans in the evolving landscape of AI. Resources Mentioned:The Creative Pragmatist by Amy Smilovic - https://tibi.com/products/the-creative-pragmatist-navy-green-multiTesting Business Ideas by David J Bland - https://amzn.to/3XW1jocSprint by Jake Knapp - https://amzn.to/3zCgLMcBuilding by Mark Ellison - https://amzn.to/3XZtrqMThe Creative Act by Rick Rubin - https://amzn.to/4f0DTEfLex Fridman: https://lexfridman.com/podcast/The Daily: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736Connect with Eli: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/notthatactor/[email protected] Tech Conference: https://poptech.org/More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast.