Ep. 86 | Greg Sowell on Building, Automating, and Staying Human in the AI Age 🎙️WCYL Podcast

What happens when a global network engineer, automation expert, and light-suit maker sits down to talk about tech, tinkering, and the future of AI?

In this episode of We Code, You Launch: The Startup Community Podcast from CodeLaunch & Improving, host Jason W. Taylor welcomes Greg Sowell, a longtime network plumber turned automation consultant and podcast host of Why Am I? 

They explore what it means to “build cool stuff,” how AI is reshaping the tech industry, and why physical making (yes, like microcontrollers and rave suits) still matters in a digital-first world.

Greg shares real stories from the early days of IRC, the transformative power of connecting online for the first time, and how to navigate tech burnout while staying curious. He also dives into his passion projects; from tricked-out light suits to Operation (yes, the board game) with a literal shock twist.

Oh, and he ends the episode with a card trick that will blow your mind.

This one is about building tech, but even more about building identity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode :

💾From Floppy Disks to Border Gateway Protocols
Greg’s journey into networking started with a dial-up modem and an IRC channel—proof that curiosity + access can change everything.

🤖Automation Still Needs Experts
Even in an AI-driven world, infrastructure tools like Ansible don’t run themselves. You still need experienced operators to troubleshoot, interpret, and secure mission-critical systems.

🤔Founders Should Still Tinker
Microcontrollers and creative maker projects aren’t just fun, they train your brain to build, debug, and iterate. That kind of hands-on thinking is fuel for early-stage founders.

🧠AI Won’t Replace Human Intuition (Yet)
Yes, AI can generate code, but it still can’t match real-world context, architecture judgment, or the ability to debug layered systems. Experienced humans still matter.

😀Joy Fuels Longevity in Tech
Whether it’s tricking out a subwoofer or building LED rave gear with your partner, side projects with heart can keep burnout at bay, and your passion alive.

🔗 Connect with Greg Sowell on LinkedIn
Check out his projects and maker content here

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