Tag: ROffice

Practical AI for Real-World Use with David Evans (Ep. 5)

Practical AI for Real-World Use with David Evans (Ep. 5)

What does artificial intelligence really mean for industries like finance, and why do so many get it wrong?

In this episode of The Outstanding Shift, Andrew Evans sits down with his brother, David Evans, Senior Machine Learning Model Developer at Duolingo, who had previous stints at Google and other major tech companies. Together, they dig into the myths, fears, and realities of AI, from its 70-year evolution to the transformative “Attention is All You Need” paper, and how today’s large language models (LLMs) can be powerful workflow tools rather than just flashy novelties.

Andrew and David discuss:

  • Why finance has been slow to adopt AI and what is really behind that hesitation
  • The surprising ways AI can (and cannot) think
  • Practical, compliance-conscious steps for integrating AI into your daily work
  • How to spot hype versus real utility in an AI tool
  • And more!

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About Our Guest:

David Evans is a Senior Machine Learning Model Developer at Duolingo, specializing in large language model applications for language learning. With a career that spans Google, multiple tech startups, and cutting-edge AI research, David brings a unique perspective on how AI is built, deployed, and adapted to solve real-world problems. His current work focuses on creating high-quality, freeform conversation experiences for Duolingo Max users, blending technical expertise with an understanding of human learning.

Building a Future-Ready Firm and Living with Curiosity with Frances Toler (Ep. 3)

Building a Future-Ready Firm and Living with Curiosity with Frances Toler (Ep. 3)

What does it take to build a financial practice that thrives beyond your own career and still leaves you time to pursue passions?

In this episode of The Outstanding Shift, Andrew Evans sits down with Frances Toler of Toler Financial to discuss intentional business structuring, succession planning, and the balance between personal identity and professional life. 

Fran also shares her deep love for birding, how nature fuels her curiosity, and why exploring outside the office matters just as much as growth within it.

Fran discusses:

  • The challenges seasoned advisors face in retiring and why many avoid it
  • Strategies for creating a multi-owner, department-led firm for long-term continuity
  • How to maintain personal identity without letting your practice completely define you
  • The value of curiosity and nature exploration as personal and professional inspiration
  • Birding as a gateway to understanding the interconnectedness of the natural world
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Rossby Financial: 

Connect with Andrew Evans: 

Connect with Frances Toler: 

About our Guest: 

Frances Toler, CEO of Toler Financial Group, provides fee-based financial planning and investment management for a diverse clientele. Fran celebrates over 23 years of experience in helping people, families, and businesses discover, plan, and implement strategies to achieve the security and prosperity they value. Many of her clients seek out her experience with sustainable investment options, income strategies, and a “planning first” approach.