Math skills are quietly changing now that AI can prove research-level problems that professional mathematicians spent decades trying to solve on their own. Trefor Bazett looks at what's gained, and what quietly gets lost, when a calculation that used to take a notepad and a beer takes seconds instead.

The conversation gets concrete fast, using a real fireplace renovation to ask whether outsourcing the math also outsources the thinking behind it. It is the kind of everyday problem, figuring out how many bricks and how big a mortar joint, that used to force you to reason it out, and now does not.

Trefor Bazett, Associate Teaching Professor at the University of Victoria, also asks a stranger question: what happens if AI solves one of math's biggest open problems in a way no human can follow. That tension between getting an answer and understanding it runs through the conversation.

Topics: math skills, AI and math, research-level math problems, critical thinking, Millennium Prize problems

GUEST: Trefor Bazett |Dr. Trefor Bazett

Originally aired on 2026-08-21

Math skills are quietly changing now that AI can prove research-level problems that professional mathematicians spent decades trying to solve on their own. Trefor Bazett looks at what's gained, and what quietly gets lost, when a calculation that used to take a notepad and a beer takes seconds instead.
The conversation gets concrete fast, using a real fireplace renovation to ask whether outsourcing the math also outsources the thinking behind it. It is the kind of everyday problem, figuring out how many bricks and how big a mortar joint, that used to force you to reason it out, and now does not.
Trefor Bazett, Associate Teaching Professor at the University of Victoria, also asks a stranger question: what happens if AI solves one of math's biggest open problems in a way no human can follow. That tension between getting an answer and understanding it runs through the conversation.
Topics: math skills, AI and math, research-level math problems, critical thinking, Millennium Prize problems
GUEST: Trefor Bazett |<a href="http://youtube.com/@drtrefor"> Dr. Trefor Bazett</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-08-21

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.