1007: Can AI Survive Without Fossil Fuels?

Is AI the new “Need” from The Lorax—a shiny invention that looks harmless but comes with hidden costs? That’s the tough question we’re asking in today’s episode, and the answer might change how you see both technology and energy forever. We’re diving headfirst into whether artificial intelligence is truly a tool for abundance or just another story of progress that leaves us worse off. Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": CardioMiracle.com/TBNS Think about it: the Lorax warned us about cutting down truffula trees for a quick buck, but are we repeating that story today with AI? People celebrate chatbots, automation, and algorithms, but nobody asks the deeper question—what powers it all? The servers behind ChatGPT don’t run on “good vibes” or environmental slogans. They run on massive amounts of energy, and right now, that means fossil fuels. In this episode, we break down the uncomfortable truth: without fossil fuels, AI doesn’t exist. Net Zero activists may dream of a world powered by renewables, but the demand for AI is exploding faster than windmills and solar farms can keep up. From corporate ESG mandates to government green agendas, we’re seeing a collision between fantasy and reality—and that’s where the future of innovation hangs in the balance. But here’s the twist: like the Lorax story, there’s more at play than just the danger of cutting too many trees—or in this case, burning too much fuel. What if AI isn’t just a flashy “need” but actually a tool that unlocks real abundance? From customer service to medical breakthroughs, from fighting human trafficking to expanding education, AI has the power to lift people up. The real question is: will we let fear and bad policy choke off that potential before it has the chance to grow? This episode isn’t just about AI or energy—it’s about how we think about progress itself. Is creation good, or should we always apologize for building? Is innovation dangerous, or is it the only way we survive and thrive? If you’ve ever wondered what the Lorax would say about ChatGPT, fossil fuels, and the future of human flourishing, you can’t afford to miss this conversation. ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (CardioMiracle.com/TBNS) for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being! 📧Submit Listener Questions to [e-mail] to hear your questions and perspectives answered and shared each and every week!  🎙️ WATCH The Brian Nichols Show, available on YouTube & Rumble. With over 1005 episodes featuring local candidates, elected officials, economists, CEOs, and more, each show educates, enlightens, and informs. 🔗Follow Brian on social media: X.com/Twitter (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/twitter) & Facebook (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/facebook) 🔔 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to The Brian Nichols Show for more captivating interviews and insights into common sense solutions for local problems! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices