For anyone who couldn’t make our Workshop 17 session at the Bank Rosebank here are the key themes we covered, with bonus links and content.
AI is tooling, and tokens are becoming the new utility We used a practical analogy: AI tools are like a power drill — and API keys are like the chuck key. A small “unlock key” that makes the tool actually useful. We also touched on the idea that AI is shifting toward a utility model, where tokens become the currency behind apps and workflows.
NotebookLM: grounded AI from your own sources We demo’d how NotebookLM can work from your chosen sources (docs, websites, PDFs, operating procedures) and produce grounded outputs — without “wandering off” onto the wider internet. We showed the range of formats it can generate (reports, slide-style outputs, quiz cards), and did a fun example using a real-world topic to show how quickly it can produce a credible, structured summary from sources.
Google NotebookLM | AI Research Tool & Thinking PartnerMeet NotebookLM, the AI research tool and thinking partner that can analyze your sources, turn complexity into clarity and transform your content.Google NotebookLM
- Google AI Studio: the “simple on-ramp” to building We showed application building and “vibe coding” with Google AI Studio as a low-friction way to test models, experiment, and build small internal tools/apps. We introduced the idea of using API keys, free quotas, and cloud models — and encouraged anyone wanting to build something practical (even small) to reach out.
Google AI StudioThe fastest path from prompt to production with GeminiAI Studio
- Gemini in day-to-day work: Gems + built-in tools In the Q&A we covered practical Gemini usage:
- Gems as a way to create focused mini-workflows (similar to Projects elsewhere), with instructions + structured outputs from known inputs
- Features people often miss, including image generation (NanoBanana), Deep Research, and uploading files/content for analysis and drafting
Now with Gemini 3.1 and Nano Banana 2 - Google is even better value and has more power for the builder to lean on.
Google GeminiMeet Gemini, Google’s AI assistant. Get help with writing, planning, brainstorming, and more. Experience the power of generative AI.Gemini
We also had a good discussion on privacy and model choices, and I’m happy to continue that conversation.
If you’d like to go deeper, I run small-group workshops where we build real workflows step-by-step.
AI Workshop - Mastery SessionAI Workshop - Mastery Session A hands-on, personalised session that transforms how you work with AI — tailored to your exact level, tools, and goals Take the Pre-Course Diagnostic → Most AI workshops give everyone the same demo. This one starts with a diagnostic. Before you walk in, we already know yourImbila.AICraig Leppan (Imbila)AI Workshop Mastery AssessmentAI Strategy & ImplementationImbila.AICraig Leppan (Imbila)