029: Digital Avatars in the Age of Generative AI with Soul Machine's VP of Strategy Shantenu Agarwal

Join us as we chat with Shantenu Agarwal, VP of Strategy at Soul Machines, who enlightens us about the fascinating role of avatars in personal assistance. Shantenu shares his unique journey of applying technology to the human experience, underlining the importance of empathy and trust in forging meaningful connections. We further explore the exciting world of AI and avatars and how they are employed to create more personal interactions between companies and customers Get ready for an in-depth discussion on the concept of real-time digital interactions. We take a close look at how Soul Machines' platform combines graphics and a digital brain to generate digital people representing brands. Shantenu talks about training these digital personas to behave in a friendly and helpful way, using interaction and gestures to build trust and create a worthwhile user experience. Shantenu also shares his thoughts on the advantages and potential challenges of using digital personas. We examine how lifelike digital personas can embody characters and create genuine experiences for brands and their customers and the potential of creating real-time engagement with digital characters. Tune in and get ready for a conversation that explores the new frontiers of technology, branding, and customer engagement. Show Highlights: Deep dive into Soul Machines' platform that combines advanced graphics with a digital brain to create lifelike digital personas for brands. Examination of the increasing trend of digital personas, their role in building trust and engagement with audiences, and the potential challenges and advantages associated with their use. A detailed exploration of the role of AI and avatars in personal assistance, including the use of large language models to facilitate more natural interactions. Examination of the concept of real-time digital interactions and how they differ from deep fakes and videos, providing better engagement and trust-building opportunities. The creation of lifelike digital personas for brands, their potential to enhance user experience, and the exciting prospect of real-time engagement with digital characters. Insight into how digital personas are being used in the entertainment industry and their potential to create an immersive and engaging experience for customers. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: www.soulmachines.com  *** Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.