Author

Joe Finkelstein

Joe Finkelstein is an AI educator, columnist, and public speaker with over 20 years of experience in education and a passion for emerging technologies. He has been instrumental in making artificial intelligence accessible to diverse audiences, from elementary students to professionals. Joe writes a weekly column for The Macon Melody, where he explores AI’s impact on education, healthcare, entertainment, and daily life.

Beyond his professional work, Joe is deeply involved in the Macon community. He serves as president-elect of the Macon Kiwanis Club, is a member of the Macon Touchdown Club and a regular contributor at Storytellers Macon events.  He holds a degree from the University of Georgia. He holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and a teaching certification from Brenau University.  He also earned his Masters in Educational Technology from Georgia College and State University and a Specialist in Education Degree from Piedmont College.

Joe has been married to Ellen for over 33 years, and together they have raised two sons: Will, 28, and Jack, 25. In his spare time, he enjoys playing pickleball and cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles with the Macon Georgiadelphia Club. Originally from New Jersey, Joe has called Macon home since 2001.

Read Joe’s stories.

Joe's Latest Articles

Unlock the mystery of data centers: The heart of the internet

People often forget about the powerful engines humming behind the scenes of everyday life: data centers. These high-tech hubs are the backbone of our digital lives, yet they remain a mystery for many people outside the tech industry. 

Preserving the past with AI: How technology breathes new life into history

While AI is often seen as a futuristic tool used in robotics or self-driving cars, its quiet contributions to cultural preservation are equally groundbreaking.

How smart tools can help keep you safe

We’ve all been there: a message pops up that seems suspicious. Here’s the good news: artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the best tools we have for scam detection and protection.

A new kind of vacation: How AI can bring summer to you

Thanks to artificial intelligence, you can explore world landmarks, create your own summer camp or even jam out to an AI-generated beach tune, all without leaving your home or melting in a parking lot somewhere off I-75.

Summer smarts: How artificial intelligence can help families make the most of the season

Between trying to entertain the kids, plan meals, organize outings and preserve some semblance of structure, the “lazy days of summer” can quickly feel overwhelming. With just a smartphone or tablet and a few well-chosen apps, families can discover local adventures, whip up creative meals, keep kids learning and entertained and even turn memories into beautiful keepsakes.

How AI can bring voices from the dead into the courtroom

Joe Finkelstein writes about the ethics of AI applications for creating videos of the deceased.

Flying high: A father’s pride at 3,000 feet

Joe Finkelstein shares one of his proudest moments as a father, which took place on an Contour Airlines flight.

AI vs. procrastination: The ultimate showdown

Joe Finkelstein (AI Joe) shares some AI tools that can be used to maximize productivity.

Using AI to be a better neighbor

AI Joe shares AI applications that can be used to communicate with neighbors and create community flyers.

When AI answers differ: A look at how language models handle public figures

Joe Finkelstein (AI Joe) explores how different AI models respond to prompts about politicians and celebrities.

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