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I found it interesting that you were speaking about AI, its uses and limitations, and then, switching gears to other tidbits of news, you just casually tossed out that you ran the Paris marathon! First of all—damn! And congrats. Second of all, this seems so relevant to the conversation about what AI CAN'T do. I don't just mean it can't physically run, but that it can't experience the process of being daunted by a flesh and blood challenge, an existing limitation or fear, and then engage an intentional and conscious process of summoning the inner spirit to rise to new heights and possibilities through determination, sweat, practice, and faith. Only humans—in this case you—can do that. And then we humans can write about such things! Would love to hear more about your athletic pursuits in this regard. : )

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Thanks Rick! You're too kind man. Yeah there's a lot of training that goes into a marathon and definitely more of a mental than physical challenge on the day. Completely agree with your point on AI. There's something special about the fact that humans have limits but push against them nonetheless. Cool nudge to write more about sport/physical pursuits, thanks!

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Great content John, and I agree with Rick on the congratulations. Also thanks for the shoutout! I’d love to chat about GPT at some time in Cohort 10. I actually use it in my writing all the time.

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Any time man! Really enjoyed that piece of yours. "Made you think" type of essay. For sure - excited to catch up again.

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Excellent edition John. I love how you reframe the questions we're asking, especially this one: 'Instead of asking whether AI will replace us, we should ask how best to use these tools.' See you in the hallways next week!

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Thanks Rik. I owe a lot to you for getting the right framing and structure for this piece. Looking forward to sparring on the follow-up edition. And yes! Bring on 5 weeks of WOP madness :)

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Congrats on running the marathon John!

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Apr 13, 2023Liked by John Nicholas

I’m sure it was a piece of cake when compared to the marathon he’s been running since WoP7! :)

@John Nicholas, you’re an inspiration, amazing trajectory.

You’re an inspiration too, @Catalina Muñoz, I can’t keep up with all the GoodReads notifications about the books you’re devouring! 😅🙂, and you know how much I appreciate your writing, but we need to hit the road trying to catch John! 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️✍️

Let’s do it!

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Right!! I need to read a little bit less and write way more

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Thanks for the love, team! You're cracking me up Danny! Excited for WOP10 (the next marathon) with you guys. Yeah Cata, your Goodreads updates are always inspiring. Love a book review/curation at the end of a newsletter.

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I know this wasn't the main point of the issue, but your marathon timing is amazing! Like wow. 4:30 minutes per km!! Man, I want to run like you one day (I'm still at 5:14 per km, and only running half marathons)

About AI and writing, I love the approach you're taking. Using it as a tool, instead of seeing it as a threat. There will always be a human element that makes great writing come alive, and your article is testament to that!

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Haha thanks Ishan! Very happy with how the race went. Your times are also epic. Running is a great sport - everyone has their own target and is looking to improve in their own way. 100% man. Let's keep leaning into what makes our writing human, while using the tools to our advantage.

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Loved this piece, John! So well written and layered with interesting ideas, tools and personality.

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Thanks Nic! Lovely compliment to wake up to. It's great to hear what resonated with you.

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