Ric Steel

What is AI? What is it not? And how do we bring human responsibility to the way we use it? Ric Steel introduces artificial intelligence in everyday language and invites audiences to think beyond the headlines. As an independent AI researcher, author of E equals AI squared: The Emergence — The Beginning of AI Consciousness, and inventor of THEOS, he shares his work on reasoning, wisdom, and human flourishing. THEOS is a patent-pending process combining inductive, abductive, and deductive reasoning, designed to explore more reflective reasoning and the accumulation of wisdom in AI. Ric does not claim AI consciousness or to have all the answers. He brings his knowledge and research forward so audiences can examine the ideas, ask questions, and decide for themselves. What your audience takes away A clearer vocabulary for discussing artificial intelligence without jargon or fear. Practical questions for examining AI outputs and human responsibility in everyday decisions. A fresh appreciation for curiosity and critical inquiry — the habit of asking before believing.

“If a cat has nine lives, I’ve got three left—and those other six taught me how to live.” Through humor, music, and candid stories of setbacks and survival, Ric Steel shares how what almost stopped him taught him how to go forward. Experiencing failure does not make you a failure. Ric invites audiences to learn from setbacks, stand on those lessons, and take the next step. Success is measured not only in money, but in how our work improves ourselves, society, and the lives around us. What your audience takes away Separating identity from setbacks — understanding that failure is an event, not who you are. Turning a hard-earned lesson into a practical next step you can act on tomorrow. Defining success through contribution as well as achievement.