Speaking & Seminars

Practical, jargon-free talks on AI, technology, and digital safety — from a journalist with nearly 20 years covering consumer technology and AI.

About Nicholas

Nicholas De Leon

Nicholas De Leon is a Senior Reporter at Consumer Reports, where he covers artificial intelligence, laptops, WiFi, and consumer technology. He helps audiences cut through the hype and understand what AI and modern technology actually mean for their everyday lives — and how to stay safe.

Nicholas has nearly 20 years of experience covering technology at Consumer Reports, TechCrunch, Vice, Gizmodo, and News Corp. He is a regular guest on TWiT's "This Week in Tech" with Leo Laporte and has appeared on Sirius XM, ABC Radio, KCBS-TV, AZFamily TV, WGN Radio, and more. He holds degrees in journalism and political science from New York University.

He has spoken at the University of Arizona School of Journalism about AI and is available for talks, seminars, and workshops throughout southern Arizona and beyond.

Nicholas lives in Catalina, Arizona.

Available Talks

Each talk can be adapted as a one-time session (60–90 minutes), a multi-session course, or a hands-on workshop. All are appropriate for general audiences — no technical background required.

AI in Everyday Life: What It Can Do, What It Can't, and How to Stay Safe

Artificial intelligence is already built into the products and services you use every day. This talk demystifies what AI actually is, shows how it works in the real world, and gives you practical tools to protect yourself from AI-powered scams and misinformation. Includes optional hands-on time with AI tools.

How to Spot a Scam in 2026

From AI-generated voice clones to sophisticated phishing emails, scams are more convincing than ever. This talk covers the latest tactics, explains exactly how they work, and provides a practical checklist you can share with family and friends. Draws on years of reporting on scam tactics and consumer safety.

Who's Watching You? A Journalist's Guide to Digital Privacy

Your phone, your smart home devices, and the apps you use every day are collecting more data than you realize. This talk explains who has your data, what they're doing with it, and the concrete steps you can take to protect your privacy — based on what I've learned reporting on consumer tech and digital privacy.

How to Know What's Real: A Journalist's Guide to Navigating the News

Deepfakes, misinformation, and AI-generated content are making it harder than ever to separate fact from fiction. Drawing on nearly 20 years in newsrooms, this talk gives you the tools journalists use to evaluate sources, verify information, and think critically about the media you consume.

Unplug and Recharge: A Guide to Digital Mindfulness

We're more connected than ever — and it's exhausting. This talk explores what constant connectivity is actually doing to our attention, our sleep, and our relationships, and offers practical, research-backed strategies for building a healthier relationship with your devices. Based on current research and reporting on screen time, notification management, and the science of digital wellness. No guilt trips — just actionable steps you can start today.

Who I Speak To

I speak to groups of all sizes and backgrounds — from community organizations and libraries to universities and corporate teams. If you have an audience that's curious about technology, I'd love to talk to them.

Recent & Upcoming Appearances

Check back soon for upcoming speaking dates.

Book a Talk

Interested in having me speak to your organization? I'd love to hear from you.

nicholas@daylayown.org

I'm based in southern Arizona and available for in-person and virtual presentations. Most community talks are offered free of charge. Corporate and private engagements are available — reach out and we'll find something that works.