Hungry Authors

Hungry Authors


90. How to Be an Appreciative Critic of AI with Chad Allen

August 25, 2025

In this episode of the Hungry Authors Podcast, Chad Allen, an editor, coach, and writer, returns to explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in writing and publishing. The conversation delves into the basics of AI and large language models like ChatGPT, the benefits for writers, and ethical concerns surrounding AI’s use. Chad and the hosts share personal experiences and insights on how AI can enhance creativity, streamline processes, and address emotional challenges. Despite the potential for misuse, they emphasize the importance of balancing appreciation and caution in leveraging AI as a helpful tool for professional writers. Chad leaves listeners with the advice to adopt an “appreciative critic” mindset.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

01:05 Chad Allen’s Background and Current Work

01:32 Diving into AI in Writing and Publishing

05:03 Personal Experiences with AI

08:57 AI’s Role in Writing and Editing

20:00 Ethical Considerations and Practical Uses of AI

22:42 Navigating AI in Publishing

23:26 Ethical Dilemmas with AI-Generated Content

25:04 The Value of Authenticity in Writing

30:50 Future of AI in Writing and Publishing

35:44 Personal Experiences with AI Tools

41:45 Advice for Writers on Using AI

Chad R. Allen is a writer, speaker, editor, and writing coach. A 25-year publishing professional, he has worked with such bestselling authors as Michael Hyatt, Caroline Leaf, Mark Batterson, and Phyllis Tickle. He is the creator of BookCamp, a training center and community for writers, as well as Book Proposal Academy, an online course. His passion is helping writers craft must-read books that reach large audiences, and he blogs at http://www.chadrallen.com/.

Author of Do Your Art, Chad has been published in such online places as LifeHacker, The Accidental Creative, and The Good Men Project. Chad holds a B.A. in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an M.A. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. He and his wife, Alyssa, live with their two children in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Hear more from Chad on his blog, or by following him on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.

Interested in joining Chad’s writing group, BookCamp? Learn more here!