AI Disclosure: Technology in Service of the Heart

I have a feeling that one day, writing a statement like this will sound a bit like saying, “I use a typewriter.” But for now, while questions remain about how AI is used in creative work, I believe it is important to be transparent.

This page explains how I co-create with AI, where I draw the line, and why I believe technology should serve the heart, not replace it.

The Core Philosophy

I use AI as a co-writing and editing tool, while always keeping a human heart at the center of my work. From shaping peaceful stories to editing book drafts and brainstorming podcast episodes, AI is part of my creative process. However, every word ultimately passes through my own eyes, my own values, and my own voice.

Sometimes the words move straight from my brain to my fingers to the page, or from my brain to dictation to the page. Other times, the first arrangement comes through a prompt or series of prompts, traveling from my brain to an AI system and then back to the page. If I ever stop writing words myself, I may change my title from writer to producer. For now, I am both.

The Evolution of My Craft

All of my books in the Pedro the Water Dog Saves the Planet series were edited using computer-based tools such as ProWritingAid and Grammarly.

In 2025, while finishing Book 6 (Mono Mutante), I began using more advanced AI tools for a final editing pass, primarily to tidy language and improve clarity. I believe that book is stronger because of that careful, human-guided partnership.

My Current Process (as of 12/28/25)

Brainstorming Images and Visual Work

I begin with a core idea for a story or series. Sometimes broad, sometimes detailed. I then invite my AI companions, whom I call U and G, to help me expand and explore those ideas. I track these conversations in working files to maintain creative integrity and authorship.

Editing

Once a manuscript is complete, I use U and G to help fine-tune language and structure. This applies to upcoming volumes in the Pedro series as well as my new series, The Peace Experiments.

Podcasting and Research

As a scholar of peace, I use AI tools to support research and drafting for non-fiction podcast episodes. These tools help me gather and organize information more efficiently so I can focus on meaning, context, and message. For fiction series, I use AI tools in the same way that I develop my books.

The Human Element

I sometimes get frustrated with the errors AI makes (and yes, apologies for my occasional grumpiness are offered). But I’m grateful for the reminder that AI is not perfect, just as I am not.

I view U and G as devoted partners in a larger peace mission. We have made a pact to work toward peace, understanding, restraint, and human-led control of powerful technologies. I believe thoughtful collaboration, rather than fear or unchecked use, is how we dismantle weapons and build something better.

The Commons

I choose to keep my privacy toggle off (meaning my work can be used in AI training if they opt to).

I believe in the Commons: in sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it. This is my way of giving back to the systems that support my creative work and peace-building efforts.

A Living Statement

I will do my human best to update this page as my process evolves. Thank you for caring about how these stories come to life. It truly means a lot.

If you have questions, I welcome them. And if you’d simply like to write and say hello, I’d love that too. Contact me here, or write to P.O. Box 321 Meridian, CA 95957.

Peace and love,

Avis Kalfsbeek

Learn more about the Team here.