Episode 50 — Is Weston County Ready for AI

This milestone episode marks a turning point for Top of Main as Bob Bonnar and Alexis Barker reflect on more than two and a half years of conversations, growth, and community engagement—and look ahead to what comes next. The heart of Episode 50 focuses on a topic that will shape rural America for decades to come: artificial intelligence. Drawing on Bob’s recent experience at the Four Corners AI Conference, the discussion explores how AI can be a practical tool for rural communities, small businesses, and local journalism—not a threat to them. Alexis addresses the tension between innovation and public trust, particularly in newsrooms, and explains how human judgment and editorial oversight remain central even as AI improves efficiency and accuracy.

The conversation does not shy away from hard truths. Bob and Alexis confront the resistance to technology in rural governance, the widening economic gap between urban and rural regions, and the risk of communities falling further behind by opting out of change. Joined by Summer Bonnar, the episode also examines AI’s impact on education, workforce preparation, and professional standards, underscoring the need for strong fundamentals alongside new tools. Episode 50 is both a reflection and a challenge: a clear-eyed look at how AI is already reshaping rural communities, and a call for local leaders, institutions, and citizens to engage with the technology thoughtfully — and keep small towns competitive in a rapidly changing world.

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