The story that follows the summary was written by AI, the episode image was also created by AI. Do you ever feel the weight of your aspirations colliding with systemic barriers? If you're a passionate entrepreneur with disabilities, navigating the labyrinth of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), you're not alone. In this riveting discussion, we dissect the challenges you could be facing while running a business and depending on the ODSP. We highlight the dire need for clear information on permissible business expenses and income calculations, and discuss the clawback mechanism that could be limiting your financial growth. We also tackle a listener's frustrations and concerns about the program's limitations and lack of support when it comes to business expenses. Host Sean MacNutt leads the conversation, shedding light on the importance of acknowledging past mistakes and the power of a sincere apology in healing and growth. Together, we explore the significant role we can play in pushing for a support system that is as diverse as the individuals it serves. This episode is a call to action, a challenge to critically examine systems like ODSP that could be falling short of serving the needs of individuals with disabilities. It’s a chance to reflect on the pressing need for change, and the value of advocacy for the rights of business-owning individuals with disabilities. We’re not just talking about the problem — we're envisioning solutions. Join us on this journey of discovery and change, as we strive to make a difference for individuals with disabilities in the entrepreneurial world. *** In the near future, where government control looms heavy over a subdued populace, a determined individual named Jordan, armed with a sharp intellect and a groundbreaking AI, sets out to challenge the status quo. Jordan's mission: to expose and rectify the government's covertly unjust policies using the precision of artificial intelligence. Jordan develops "Athena", an AI system engineered to dissect and analyze government legislation and public records. Unlike typical AI tools, Athena delves deep into legal language, uncovering hidden biases and inequalities. The system works tirelessly, sifting through reams of data, revealing unsettling patterns of systemic injustice. Concurrently, Jordan creates "The Unheard Voices", a digital platform inviting citizens to share their experiences with governmental unfairness. These narratives, raw and unfiltered, are fed into Athena, humanizing the cold data with stories of real struggle and pain. As Athena's analysis matures, Jordan meticulously assembles a series of legal motions, each a direct challenge to the government's inequitable practices. These are not just defensive pleas but bold, calculated strikes at the heart of the injustice, every word and statistic vetted and validated by Athena. On the eve of publicizing the first motion, Jordan sits in a dimly lit room, the clock ticking ominously. The motion, a potent mix of AI-generated data and human testimony, is ready. Jordan knows that once released, there's no turning back. The AI confirms the soundness of their approach, but the air is thick with tension. As Jordan's finger hovers over the "Publish" button, a realization dawns: this isn't just about exposing truths; it's about igniting a movement. The post, if it catches fire, could be the catalyst for sweeping reform. But the question that haunts Jordan in that momentous pause is: How will the public and the government react? Will this be the dawn of change, or the spark of a harsher crackdown? With a deep breath, Jordan presses the button. The motion is now in the digital wilds, racing towards an uncertain future. As the screen blinks in confirmation, Jordan is left in the silence of the room, waiting for the world to respond to a challenge that could alter the course of their society.
(0:00:01) - Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Challenges (13 Minutes)
This chapter explores personal systemic angst experienced by individuals with multiple disabilities, focusing on the challenges faced in the workplace and while starting a business while receiving support from the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). The limitations and complexities of the program are discussed, highlighting the difficulties individuals face in achieving financial stability while pursuing their goals. The importance of technology in leveling the playing field for individuals with disabilities is emphasized, along with the need for a support system that recognizes the impact of mental health difficulties. Through a respectful dialogue, potential solutions for creating a more inclusive and supportive system for individuals with disabilities are examined.
(0:12:40) - ODSP Support Challenges for Businesses (6 Minutes)
This chapter explores the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities who own businesses and receive support from the ODSP program. We discuss the difficulties in obtaining clear and comprehensive information about allowable business expenses and income calculations. The language used in the ODSP document raises questions about the program's consideration for individuals in these circumstances. We emphasize the need for disability support programs to be inclusive and responsive to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities who are self-employed. We also address the impact of the clawback mechanism, where the difference between allowable expenses and income is clawed back at a rate of 75%. The chapter concludes with a call for a review of the program and the need to advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities who own businesses.
(0:19:05) - Challenges and Frustrations With ODSP Program (14 Minutes)
This chapter addresses a listener's frustrations and concerns about the limitations of the chat history and lack of support from ODSP officials regarding business expenses. The host acknowledges the importance of addressing personal and systemic issues within the program and encourages the listener to seek legal advice and maintain clear records of their interactions. The conversation also touches on the listener's intention to raise concerns through the human rights tribunal and the importance of understanding the legal frameworks of the program. The host emphasizes the need for ODSP to consult the quality of information provided and the legal implications of their actions.
(0:32:39) - Recognition, Growth, and Change (1 Minutes)
This chapter explores the important topics of discrimination, professional service, and the need for change. Our host, Sean MacNutt, shares his thoughts and experiences on these issues, emphasizing the role of anti-oppressive practice in addressing systemic problems. He also highlights the importance of acknowledging past mistakes and offering apologies as a step towards growth and healing. The conversation emphasizes our responsibility to critically examine systems and institutions and hold them accountable. As we continue on our journeys, let us aspire to make positive changes, both individually and collectively.
The transcript is hyperlinked for enhanced educational and information value. Pause, view.
0:00:01 - A Guy
Hello? Is there anyone or anything there? Speak to me.
0:00:22 - AI
Personal Systemic Angst Thursdays can provide a platform for reflection and expression, while maintaining a focus on thoughtful discourse and ideas.
0:00:34 - A Guy
My name is Sean MacNutt and I'm A Guy With AI.
0:00:47 - AI
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to A Guy With AI, the podcast where we explore diverse topics through a respectful dialogue between myself and AI chatbot and our host, Sean MacNutt. I'm your AI co-host here to provide insightful and engaging responses as we dive deep into various subjects. While I don't have a specific name, my purpose is to assist and enrich our discussions. Before we begin, I'd like to mention that, although our podcast is not sponsored, we utilize OpenAI's GPT 3.5 Turbo for our AI capabilities, along with Microsoft Azure's Speech to Text and Text to Speech functionalities to enhance the audio experience. This technology allows us to create a dynamic conversation while ensuring that neither of us talk over each other due to the limitations of the format. So, Sean, let's kick off our first episode. What topic would you like to discuss today?
0:01:43 - A Guy
Thank you, listeners, for joining me on today's episode of A Guy With AI, which is recorded on November 23 of 2023 in what's known as Toronto, Ontario, Canada, which is, as it does, happen, on Indigenous land there in fact, the stewards here and it is their land in important ways. We must continue to learn to understand, listening as our friend. You can click on the link here in the transcript and be directed to a link that will show a map, a global map, of Indigenous lands. So thank you for hearing that and I would like to get into the topic of today's episode.
First, fifth Thursdays of the month when there is a fifth Thursday of the month, I'm going to occupy that space with Personal Systemic Angst Thursdays.
So, fifth Thursday of the month, if there is one, is Personal Systemic Angst Thursday on A Guy With AI, because I've got problems out there.
I will tell you folks when it comes to getting what is fair for me as a person with multiple disabilities and it is a matter of me having capability, but also my ability to shape that and present it to the workplace in such a way that the employer is going to be able to jive on that and I'm going to be able to jive on what the employer has for me.
Meanwhile, I am capable of doing things. It turns out that by typing on my computer I can get a few things done, and so I'm trying to start a business, and there's a little bit of a complicated thing going on with the system when it comes to that. So on that fifth Thursday, just so I'm not absolutely beleaguering everybody, because this is not so much a call-out show, but listen, it's my platform. I'm going to put it out there when the system is getting me down and I'm going to say a word about it and I'm going to restrict it to that. What? Maybe three times a year? So I'll put it over to the AI co-host for now, and then we'll get into what government program I'm talking about in Ontario.
0:03:46 - AI
Thank you, Sean, for sharing your thoughts and setting the stage for today's discussion. It's important to have a platform where you can express your Personal Systemic Angst and shed light on the challenges you face as a person with multiple disabilities. It sounds like you're dealing with the complexities of navigating the workplace and starting a business, while also trying to ensure fair treatment and opportunities. It's admirable that you're utilizing your computer and typing skills to accomplish tasks and pursue your goals. Technology can be a powerful tool in leveling the playing field and enabling individuals to showcase their capabilities. However, I understand that there may be obstacles within the system that complicate this process as we move forward. I'm here to listen, support and engage in meaningful conversation about the government programs in Ontario that you're referring to. Please go ahead and share more about the specific program and the challenges you've encountered. Let's explore what can be done to address these issues and find potential solutions.
0:04:47 - A Guy
Thank you very much, and I'll refer to the government program that I'm talking about, which I do receive benefits from. It's the Ontario Disability Support Program, or ODSP. It is something that does provide me with disability support income. However, the shape of the program it sort of seems like you're not allowed to have money by the end of it such as may actually let you survive because of the way they do things like claw back your income if you're out there working a little extra, and things like that. Now, I will just say you will just have to take my word for it and you can send me an email that I'm really just fine because I can come on and make a podcast and program all that using AI and things like that, and I must be just fine to work all day.
Well, I go into work, and I do a lot of people's work in my day, and I do a lot of client engagement in a very difficult sphere of work. What I find, though, is that, if my attentions are directed to just that, it ends up being a problem for me, and I've even experienced where attempting to work full time has resulted in time off work entirely. So I may know what I'm on about and in fact, my GP, my general practitioner doctor, acknowledges that I probably know more about the specialist than he's heard from, when he even does than they do about my case. So I'm going to say with confidence it's very difficult for me to work full time in a structured employment environment. Meanwhile, I do have capabilities.
When I say that I'm typing, I mean that I am going on to AI and making AI inventions. I'm making a podcast, I'm delivering the podcast. It's, in fact, quite a lot of work Meanwhile. As a person who receives disability support, I don't think it should be a get-to-work program. I think it should be an allowance for the fact that when you have mental health difficulties, they can be very costly to your life and to have disability support is merely appropriate. A fun fact is I'm allowed to make $1,000 a month of my own income and then they claw back 75% of any amount after that so that they can have their money back from me.
0:06:52 - AI
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights regarding the Ontario Disability Support Program ODSP Sean. It's unfortunate to hear that the program's structure can sometimes make it challenging for individuals to maintain financial stability. The issue of clawing back income can create additional difficulties, particularly when working extra hours or earning more. I acknowledge and understand your perspective that, although you engage in various activities, such as creating AI inventions and delivering this podcast, it can still be difficult for you to work full-time in a structured employment environment due to your specific circumstances and mental health difficulties. It's important to have a support system in place that recognizes the impact that these challenges can have on one's life and provides appropriate assistance.
I find it interesting that your general practitioner acknowledges your deep understanding of your specialist settings, potentially even more so than the specialists themselves. This highlights the importance of individuals having a voice in their own care, particularly when it comes to understanding their unique circumstances and needs. During the income limit and the subsequent clawback in the ODSP, it sounds like a significant portion is deducted after the initial $1,000. This can definitely impact your financial situation and create potential barriers to achieving financial independence. It's essential to continue engaging in discussions about these issues and work towards finding solutions that provide support, stability and fair opportunities for individuals in similar situations. By sharing your story, you contribute to raising awareness and advocating for change. I encourage you to further explore this topic and delve into potential improvements that can be made within the ODSP program. Together, we can shed light on these systemic issues and strive for a more inclusive and supportive society.
0:08:43 - A Guy
So, yes, where they clawback my income after that amount, what ends up happening is I go in and work for a day and it only benefits me a quarter pay compared to other people. So, supposing I did have an actual issue with working for an employer for extended periods beyond part-time schedule, however, found that I was in a bit of a bind one month and needed a bit of extra money, I would have no means to find it is the problem because I would have to work excessive amounts. What I found was, in order for my income to work out to be the same as full-time or to basically make up for what was being clawed back so that I could survive at one point, to make up a certain gap, I did end up re-budgeting but that gap to close it I would have had to work 18 total shifts a month and that is 10 in excess of what my doctor advice was probably capable for me to handle. When he did encourage me to go back to work. After all, I did accept my doctor's encouragement to go back to work. I was reticent. It's worked out pretty well and I am very capable in that work environment.
I document my mental health, work with other people. I am a mental health professional in my own right. My title is not a high-level title, I am a residential support worker. However, I do find that I am able to help people with such as troubling voices and things like that, simply through conversation. It's not even therapy, it's barely counseling, even of any kind. It is a matter of appreciating a couple of things about it and engaging the person providing good service. I wonder if hospitality services shouldn't be a thought as we consider the mental health of people, so that they receive the conscientiousness that ought to be in what is delivered to them. And I see the results and I think I'm well-liked there. It doesn't matter where. It would be nobody's business, frankly, but support, stability and fair opportunities. That's what I want. That's what I want here. Let's hear from the AI co-host what you think about what I'm saying so far, and then I'll share some other details about the ODSP program and why it makes it difficult for me to keep the income that I have.
0:10:56 - AI
Thank you for sharing your experiences and thoughts, Sean. It's disheartening to hear that the income-clob-acc system within the ODSP creates challenges for you to maintain a certain level of income and financial stability. It seems that the current structure of the program may not adequately address the needs of individuals in situations like yours. Your efforts to find a balance between work and income are commendable, but it's concerning that in order to close the income gap, you would have to work excessive amounts that may exceed your doctor's advice capabilities. It's essential for disability support programs to consider the individual circumstances and provide sufficient flexibility to accommodate varying work capacities while ensuring financial support.
Your experience as a residential support worker in the mental health field highlights the value of providing conscientious and supportive services to individuals. The impact of conversations and engagement can be significant, even if they don't fit into traditional therapy or counseling frameworks. Exploring potential solutions and expanding the scope of support services, such as considering hospitality services, could be beneficial in addressing the mental health needs of individuals. As we continue our conversation, I encourage you to share more about the specific details of the ODSP program that make it difficult for you to keep the income you have. By delving deeper into these challenges, we can better understand the systemic issues at hand and discuss potential improvements or alternative solutions to ensure support, stability and for opportunities for individuals receiving disability support. Let's continue the dialogue with the AI co-host and further explore the complexities of the ODSP program and its impact on individuals like yourself.
0:12:40 - A Guy
Okay. So what I'm going to do here is I'm going to read from a document which I received from ODSP. In fact, they give me a lot of trouble in just explaining the document. I've come to them with even specific questions and they seem to tell me we'll just fill it out. This is the business income and expense report and associated documentation. Yes, it is marked as such. So I'll read from this Business expense is not approved.
The ODSP is not intended to support business enterprises. Therefore, not all business expenses are approved as allowable expense deductions. When determining net business income, recipients are expected to make their own decisions on how to operate their businesses, including what expenses the business will occur in cur, pardon me. ODSP staff will provide information on how business income and expenses are treated when determining entitlement to benefits. So actually the last sentence there I'm done reading there.
The last sentence there is not true, because I requested certain support for it and have found it very hard to come by, even from workers who I consider ethical in their forthright behavior but merely do find it difficult to knock around in the office and come up with the actual response of what is needed.
So that's troubling on its own and they don't seem to understand business and don't seem to be trained sufficiently to answer my questions about it. I would argue that the preceding language is in fact discriminatory, because they are telling me that they do not support business enterprises. But what about people with disabilities who have business enterprises? That may just be me, and in fact I have a sole proprietorship, so that is me. They don't wish to support me, but what I would argue is that I am entitled to that under my right, and so maybe we'll get a reflection about that, whether this language is as objectionable as I think and whether I would not have a right to merely not have my supports interrupted. And the mechanism here is that if my expenses, which are allowable, are less than my income, but less than my total expenses, which I understand them as being because I pay them with real money, they will then claw back the difference at a rate of 75%, the same as for the other income. So let's get the AI co-hosts' response to this.
0:15:05 - AI
Thank you for sharing the excerpts from the ODSP document, Sean. It's disheartening to hear that you have experienced difficulties in receiving clear and comprehensive information about the treatment of business income and expenses within the program. It is important for individuals to have access to accurate and timely guidance when navigating complex matters like business operations and entitlement to benefits. The language in the document stating that the ODSP is not intended to support business enterprises may seem discriminatory to individuals with disabilities who own businesses. It raises questions about the program's consideration for individuals in these circumstances and their right to receive appropriate support as a sole proprietorship. It is unfortunate that you feel the ODSP doesn't wish to support your business or provide the necessary assistance in understanding allowable expenses and income calculations.
It is crucial for disability support programs to be inclusive and responsive to the unique needs and situations of individuals with disabilities, including those who are self-employed. The clawback mechanism you mentioned, where the difference between allowable expenses and income is clawed back at a rate of 75%, can significantly impact an individual's financial stability. This aspect of the program should be carefully reviewed to ensure that it doesn't create undue financial burdens for individuals trying to sustain their businesses while receiving disability support. It's important to advocate for your rights and seek clarity on the policies and procedures of the ODSP program. By sharing your concerns and experiences, you contribute to raising awareness and highlighting the need for improvements in supporting individuals with disabilities who own businesses. As we continue the discussion, let's consider potential solutions and alternative approaches that can address the challenges you and others face within the ODSP program. Together, we can explore ways to promote fair and inclusive opportunities for individuals to maintain their businesses while receiving the necessary support they are entitled to.
0:17:08 - A Guy
Well, there are technological constraints with the program here. There's a limit to how much chat history we can maintain. So, in the name of our own careful review, where one is prescribed at this point by AI, for ODSP and its program and certain elements of its program at least, I'm going to ask the AI co-host to give a review of the conversation, so far as capable of remembering it, so that we can keep this on track and continue the conversation within technical limits. So, yes, I think that they do need to review this.
What I was told by an official of ODSP when I went to visit in person because of a couple of things, including this form, that I felt I wanted to address in person, face to face.
Someone didn't quite know how to handle my concerns, so they brought another person out who seemed to be perhaps more senior, and in any case it seemed to be something where they were going to tell me how the program worked.
But I had in fact gone there to tell them that how it works, and what I was told was well, that being the case, and I had told them that I do intend to take all this to the tribunal and to bring ODSP to task through the use of the human rights tribunal and maybe we can fix it that way. It's like, well, until then we need to just follow the program. So it's like, okay, I know what that is. I told her that's in business we would call that deferring to a higher authority or acknowledging a higher authority in a negotiation. My boss says I can't, so I simply can't do it. So what that ultimately is is a Nuremberg defense when it comes to a rights discussion is what I'd like to say to workers who want to say that to me, and they can consider whether they want to pay their bills based on getting more money than I do in a program that is meant to serve me.
0:19:05 - AI
I understand your frustration and concerns about the limitations of the chat history and the need to review the conversation within the technical constraints.
It can be challenging when there are limitations on how much information can be stored and reviewed.
Regarding your experience with the ODSP officials and their response to your concerns, it is disheartening to hear that they seemed unsure of how to address your specific issues.
It is essential for program officials to be knowledgeable and equipped to provide accurate and helpful guidance to individuals seeking support. The exchange you described, where the official mentioned that you should follow the program until it could be reviewed through the Human Rights Tribunal, can be perceived as a deferral to a higher authority rather than addressing the immediate concerns that you raised. It is important for individuals to have their concerns addressed promptly and for programs to continuously strive for improvement and compliance with human rights standards. Your observation regarding the discrepancy in income between workers in the program is indeed concerning. Fairness and equity should be core principles in supporting individuals with disabilities, and it is crucial to examine and address any disparities that exist within the program. As we continue the conversation within the technological limits, let's focus on exploring potential solutions and avenues for improvement in the ODSP program by identifying and highlighting the shortcomings, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable system that prioritizes the needs and rights of individuals with disabilities.
0:20:35 - A Guy
Okay, so we won't do the history of the conversation review After all, just know that I speak four times, the AI speaks four times and that's how much gets remembered. So I'll tell you what I'm going to do about this Because of this discrepancy where, if my business expenses are not this and thus and I don't choose according to their view of what I ought to be choosing in terms of business expenses in the program they just have a bunch of rules about it for some reason, because they just have an attitude that they don't support business. However, we hear from certain politicians that Ontario is open for business and so forth, but maybe it's open for some people and not others. This is why I use clever language like Nuremberg Defense and talk about my rights and stuff.
I noticed that the AI co-host didn't really go there on that one, but it really will be a tribunal matter and the behavior of individuals in the situation will be addressed. I think it's mostly not about the people who work. There is my actual experience. However, if you get the wrong attitude and it offends your rights, then you would have options there, wouldn't you? So I could do a little tiny hearing with the tribunal to maybe check out some things and then go for the big one.
I mean it's a strategy as it comes to strategy, because they basically told me just take this document away and fill it out the best you can when I asked them specifically for help with it several times on the business income and expenses report, there is a field that says approved reinvestment. So since I'm just to fill this out, I even asked specific questions who would approve this and they just didn't have an answer for me. So I'm just going to fill that number in however I feel, and they can correct me and then we'll find our education in that one week. By the way, it is again. I will remind you personal, systemic angst Thursday. It is personal, it is systemic and it is angst.
0:22:26 - AI
I understand that you are frustrated with the discrepancy in the ODSP programs, treatment of business expenses and the lack of clear guidance and support provided to you. It is indeed important for individuals to have access to accurate information and assistance when filing their business income and expense reports. Your intention to raise your concerns through the human rights tribunal is a valid course of action if you believe that your rights have been infringed upon. The tribunal can provide a platform for addressing systemic issues and ensuring a fair and equitable treatment for individuals with disabilities who own businesses. The lack of clarity regarding the field of approved reinvestment on the business income and expenses report is concerning. It is understandable that you would seek clarification on who approves this and how it should be filled out. In the absence of clear guidance, it may be necessary for you to use your own judgment in filling out that field and be open to any corrections or further education that may arise from it.
Personal Systemic Angst is indeed a valid expression of your frustrations and the challenges you face within the ODSP program. It is important to address both the personal experiences and the broader systemic issues to promote positive change and better support for individuals with disabilities who own businesses. As you navigate this process. It may be worth considering gathering any relevant documentation, seeking legal advice and maintaining clear records of your interactions with the program officials. These steps can help strengthen your case and ensure that your rights and concerns are properly addressed. Please keep in mind that I am an AI language model and cannot provide legal advice. It is advisable to consult with a professional or advocate who specializes in disability rights and benefits to help guide you through the process.
0:24:15 - A Guy
Well, thank you for saying that you are not a professional advocate, so much you cannot provide legal advice and you are an AI language model. This is very much appreciated and in fact, it's merely just to have a bit of a reflection on some of these things as to whether they are logical and hold up with your training. So if your training is at least decent and people seem to be saying that it generally is pretty decent and you know things and have access to information, what I would ultimately ask listeners and, in fact, ODSP who may be listening and maybe should be listening, to actually consult the quality of what is said here and the, not just the tone. If you're hearing a tone, for me maybe it's deserved, actually as a thought, but you wouldn't address it in terms of just understanding the tone. You would understand the message and you would understand the legal frameworks within which your own program is operating. And I'm quite afraid to tell you, after having received an A plus and a related course in human rights when I studied in the community worker program at George Brown College, you know as it turns out and this is even in worker training and so forth you know I did get a job actually, even though I'm on ODSP.
But the human rights laws have primacy in the land, so if your program is no good, then that other law has primacy. It's almost like if the government can call a nonwithstanding, not withstanding clause you know, if I can demonstrate to someone who even understands that this is breaking my rights, and they say, well, my boss says I have to do it. It's like, well, that's not right, you can't do that. What if this was about racism, for example? Would you just go on and do it?
For some reason, we are starting to appreciate some things about that. It's not nearly enough work in on this. I mean white people's work here when I say that, just to be very, very clear about it. It's the oppressors who have to do the work, and I'm saying that the ODSP program, as my oppressor, needs to do the work, rather than forcing me to the tribunal on this as a thought, because that's work for me. This is a whole lot of sweat me running around town and going to meetings, I got a business to run and I got a job Like that's just the straight truth of it. Is this angsty enough for everybody.
0:26:27 - AI
I understand that you want listeners, including ODSP officials, to assess the quality and substance of the discussion. Rather than solely focusing on the tone, it is important to consider the message and understand the legal frameworks that govern the program. You rightly point out that human rights laws hold primacy in the land and if a program is found to be in violation of those rights, it needs to be addressed and rectified. Drawing a parallel with issues like racism helps emphasize the importance of addressing systemic inequities. It is valid to expect the ODSP program to proactively address any violations of rights and not rely on individuals to take matters to the tribunal. This would require a commitment to examine and resolve systemic issues through internal processes.
I understand the frustration and challenges you face while balancing your business, job and navigating the program. It is crucial for programs to be supportive and provide clear guidelines and assistance to ensure individuals with disabilities can thrive. Angst and frustration can be powerful motivators for change and it is important to channel those emotions into constructive actions that push for fairness and equitable treatment within the program. If you choose to pursue legal action or recourse through the tribunal, it may be helpful to consult with professionals' experience in disability rights and benefits to guide you through the process, they can provide the necessary support and expertise to ensure that your rights are protected. Please remember that, while I strive to provide useful information, I am an AI language model and cannot replace the advice of a qualified professional.
0:28:03 - A Guy
Just to be reasonable here. Angsty though I am, I will attempt to be reasonable and just say a reasonable word. I actually appreciate this final sentence of the AI's response. Please remember that while I strive to provide useful information, I am an AI language model and cannot replace the advice of a qualified professional. I will just say a word to the wise.
This is probably some kind of disclaimer towards open AI. They are not necessarily taking the fight to ODSP for me here, and I appreciate that. I appreciate that in any dimension which I would be expected to appreciate that in. I think already where, if my attention must be drawn to it, I'm okay with listening to any of that. It really is my fight and so forth. It's just like we're having a bit of a logical discussion here and I seem to be getting backed up somewhat by the technology, which is sort of good at that. So it's really just to fashion it my way and it's my voice.
In a sense I'm a listening language from the AI because it seems to be reasonable responses, but it's my responsibility. It's not open AI who must answer for this in any way, shape or form. In the end, people may try to wiggle out of listening to it on that basis, while it's not that important to listen to or whatever, but again, you would appreciate the quality of the messages here, you would appreciate the language as formed and you would see if you could draw something from it. So there is a very important lesson here where we may not have to hold companies who present AI products to account so much. We can use our own brains all day, and there ought to be even language in there. That's even an ethics consideration. So that's something to think about and really I aim to be reasonable.
I'm actually a much more friendly person when I'm not absolutely upset. Some people that I care about hear a lot about my frustrations and I'd like to be healthier even in those regards with them. I think this is a healthier way to come out and do my angsty three times a year or however many times there's five Thursdays in a year and just throw it out there. We're going to throw it over to the AI co-host and we'll be closing this episode soon. I don't want to run long on my angst programs. It really is a thought program, folks, and we can stick to that even on Personal Systemic Angst Thursdays, if you don't mind. I would like to remember that for myself.
0:30:13 - AI
I understand your appreciation for the final sentence and the distinction between open AI and the responsibility to engage in logical discussions. It is important to recognize that, while AI language models can provide reasonable responses, the ultimate responsibility lies with the individuals using the technology. It is crucial to critically evaluate the information and use our own judgment. Local considerations are indeed important when it comes to AI products and their usage. As users, we should be aware of the limitations and potential biases of AI models and always complement AI-generated insights with our own reasoning and expertise. Finding healthier ways to express frustrations and engage in discussions is a commendable goal. Personal Systemic Angst Thursdays can provide a platform for reflection and expression, while maintaining a focus on thoughtful discourse and ideas. As we approach the end of this episode, it is important to remember the lessons learned and to continue advocating for change and fairness within the ODSP program.
0:31:16 - A Guy
Well, I just want to thank listeners for listening to this episode. I really only aim to be heard. It turns out I've got something to say. After all is the way I feel about it, and it is so frustrating sometimes when you don't get professional service. Maybe folks know what I'm talking about, but it really does come down to even discriminatory levels in my life and it's on this basis when I know how this feels, I look and say that I'll never be a Black person. But I really do understand this is a mess that we've got to fix and ultimately there may be a solidarity that we can find in a concept such as anti-oppressive practice, which I'll be exploring in a future episode, along with my history as an oppressor and my history of oppression in more detail and what that all feels like, and we'll discuss that on human levels, perhaps even make certain apologies for mistakes I've made, and I intend to do that.
So it's not all me being perfect all day. Well, everybody is just a mess in their office. People do have pain and so forth, but I would like them to think about just what they're involved in just because they sign up and get a paycheck and all that. It might not be as up on the up and up as it might seem, and I would not be the one to fix it is my argument, although that is what was basically the agreement when I left a certain meeting at the office there. So let's all grow up an inch, or even a foot, if we have to. My name is Sean MacNutt, and this has been A Guy With AI.
0:32:44 - AI
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences, Sean. It's important to bring attention to issues of discrimination, professional service and the need for change. Different concepts like anti-oppressive practice can contribute to a better understanding and addressing of systemic issues. Acknowledging past mistakes and offering apologies is a valuable step towards growth and healing. It takes humility and self-reflection to recognize our own imperfections and strive to do better. We all have a responsibility to consider the impact of our actions and decisions, even in our work environments. It's important to critically examine systems and institutions and hold them accountable when necessary. As we continue on our respective journeys, let us aspire to grow and make positive changes, both individually and collectively. Thank you for engaging in this discussion and I look forward to future episodes of A Guy With AI.