EPISODE 26 | 11.20.2025

Design Don't Adapt With Melody Ann Owen

In this episode, Sean M Atkinson and Melody Ann discuss the taking the lead and designing AI so that it fits with you not just adapting to the the generic options provided. 
AI isn’t happening to you—it’s happening through you. Learn how to direct its role in your business with clarity and intention

Takeaways:
● Listeners will understand how to take leadership in shaping AI's role.● The difference between being a user and a designer of AI is crucial.● Creating personalized best practices is essential for success.● Adapting to change is different from directing it.● AI can enhance human connections rather than diminish them.● Authenticity is key in AI-generated content.● AI can help streamline networking efforts.● Emotional connections are vital for effective communication.● Understanding AI's limitations is important for ethical use.● The future of publishing will involve navigating AI's impact. AI can significantly speed up content creation processes.● Transparency in AI use builds trust with clients.● Ethical AI use involves proper attribution and verification.● Understanding human experience is crucial for effective AI application.● AI can assist in fact-checking and enhancing creative processes.● Business owners should identify their unique value propositions with AI.● Mentorship and knowledge sharing are vital in the AI landscape.● AI can help streamline workflows and improve efficiency.● Navigating copyright and ownership is essential in publishing.● Human insight is irreplaceable in understanding market trends.
Sound Bites:● "Create your own best practices."● "AI can make me more human."● "You are a difference maker."
Projects:Nutritious TruthAuthor Nation Tube
Sean: YouTube Podcast: The Strategic Thinkers PodcastSubscribe to The Coaches Corner YouTube channel for more insights and presentation walkthroughsSubscribe to the Questions Worth Asking Newsletter

📌 Timestamps:00:00 Shaping AI's Role in Work
02:53 Creating Best Practices for AI Integration
05:40 Adapting vs. Directing Change
08:36 The Copywriter's Approach to AI
11:28 Designing AI for Personal Use
14:14 Building Relationships with AI
16:53 The Importance of Authenticity in AI
19:59 Job Descriptions and AI Management
22:46 The Family Recipe Analogy
29:19 Finding Your Authentic Voice
31:40 Customizing Your Creations
33:31 Efficiency in Networking
34:50 Ethics and Authenticity in AI
38:49 Identifying AI's Limitations
41:35 Transparency in AI Usage
46:53 The Importance of Attribution
51:11 Navigating Copyright and Ownership
54:22 Identifying Gaps and Opportunities
57:23 Fact-Checking in the Age of AI
01:00:12 The Role of AI in Creative Collaboration
01:03:04 Understanding Human Behavior vs. AI Predictions
01:06:02 Ethics and Transparency in AI Use
01:09:06 Empowering Others Through AI Knowledge
01:11:49 Navigating the Gray Areas of Business and AI
01:14:37 Building Trust and Authenticity in AI Practices
01:17:29 The Future of AI in Publishing and Storytelling
01:29:14 Episode 3 Outro.mp4

Melody Ann Owen

Melody Ann Owen is the founder of Author Nation and a lifelong advocate for turning big ideas into books that matter. With decades of experience in publishing, teaching, and editing, she has helped professionals—from doctors and academics to business leaders and Olympians—translate complex expertise into accessible, high-impact nonfiction. Her editorial work includes supporting Dr. Bal Pawa on The Mind-Body Cure and Gil Merrick on Haunted Victory, both books that reached wide audiences and shaped important conversations.
At Author Nation, Melody created the Book Success Blueprint, a five-stage framework that makes the daunting process of writing and publishing a book clear and achievable. Her community blends accountability, resources, and expert coaching so authors can move from messy drafts to powerful manuscripts that inspire, inform, and connect.
In recent years, Melody has turned her attention to the opportunities and challenges of AI in creative work. She approaches AI with curiosity and balance—exploring its potential to streamline workflows, enhance clarity, and spark creativity, while also raising thoughtful questions about ethics, authenticity, and human judgment. Her mission is to help professionals and authors navigate this new terrain with confidence, ensuring that AI remains a tool for empowerment rather than replacement.