In this episode, I speak with Jan-Willem Blom an AI filmmaker and creative director whose work sits at the intersection of classic storytelling, world-building and emerging AI tools.

Jan traces his creative origin story back to a video store in the Netherlands hours spent studying VHS covers. That early obsession with imagery, myth and struggle later became the foundation for how he approaches AI filmmaking today.

Jan argues that AI makes images faster, but stories still take time. We explore why struggle is the core of storytelling, how world-building is a way of seeing rather than a scale problem and why creators must intentionally preserve friction in their process.

Jan also breaks down his practical frameworks for:

• Developing stories through “what if” questions
• Testing ideas through teasers instead of full productions
• Building visual identity through posters, symbols, and tone

Key Themes We Explore

• Why “storytelling” is really struggle-telling
• Characters, world-building, and struggle as inseparable pillars
• How classic films taught us systems thinking through story
• Using AI to refine judgment, not replace it
• Why speed without intention creates noise
• The importance of creative anchors and long-term obsessions

Key Takeaways

• World-building happens at every scale, from a bus to a galaxy
• Great stories require time, friction, and reflection
• Tools should serve story not the other way around

🔗 Find Jan’s work: https://videostate.nl/

In this episode, I speak with Michaela, an Emmy and Peabody-nominated director who shares her journey through animation, virtual reality, and generative AI. We discuss the evolution of storytelling in the digital age, the importance of authenticity, and the challenges faced by creatives in a rapidly changing industry. Michaela also shares insights into her last project, Echoes of Legend, and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers navigating the complexities of the creative economy.

We dig into where AI truly adds value in the creative process, where it creates tension, and why authenticity, emotional intelligence, and disciplined execution matter more than ever for emerging and established creators alike.

Key Themes We Explore

• How generative AI is changing filmmaking and creative workflows
• The three lenses for using AI: enhancement, automation, and replacement
• Why authenticity is a competitive advantage in the age of AI
• The growing pressure on entry-level roles in the creative industry
• Why hard work and emotional intelligence still outperform shortcuts
• The role of networking and platforms like LinkedIn in building momentum

Key Takeaways

• AI should expand creative capacity, not erase creative responsibility
• Filmmakers must be intentional about how and why they use AI tools

You can connect with Michaela at https://michaelaternaskyholland.com/

In this conversation, Sandy Carter discusses her book 'AI First, Human Always' and explores the intersection of AI and human creativity. She emphasizes the importance of measuring AI success, the role of data quality, and the need for ethical considerations in AI deployment. Sandy also highlights the significance of engaging with AI tools, the evolving job market, and the future of data ownership, advocating for a proactive approach to AI adoption in business.

Takeaways

• AI has been around for a long time, but interest is renewed.
• Human creativity is essential for successful AI implementation.
• Metrics for AI success depend on the specific use case.
• AI can be a thought partner, not just a tool.
• Judgment should not be fully deferred to AI.
• Executives should not delegate critical decision-making to AI.
• Digital twins represent a significant advancement in technology.
• Starting with successful workflows is key to AI integration.
• Data quality is crucial for effective AI training.
• The future may see individuals monetizing their own data.

AI-First, Human-Always Leadership — A practical guide to using AI as a thought partner while preserving human judgment, ethics, and creativity.
👉 Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394189826

You can connect with Sandy at https://sandycarter.net/