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Home>Blog>Podcast>Lights, Camera, Algorithm: AI in Storytelling and Video Creation, with Erich Archer | Episode #0016

Lights, Camera, Algorithm: AI in Storytelling and Video Creation, with Erich Archer | Episode #0016

  • 2025-06-27
  • Posted by: Brad Groux
  • Category: Podcast
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Lights, Camera, Algorithm

What happens when Emmy-winning storytelling collides with cutting-edge artificial intelligence?

In this episode of Start Small, Think Big, Brad Groux sits down with Erich Archer, creative strategist, technologist, and creator of Smarty Pants AI, to explore how AI is transforming the art and business of video production. From lowering creative barriers to reshaping how we think about narrative, AI is no longer a future tool, it’s today’s creative partner.

And Erich is leading the charge.

From Traditional Sets to Smart Tools

Erich’s career spans two decades of high-end video production, including shows like The Biggest Loser and MasterChef. Today, his mission is radically different: empower creators at any level to produce stunning, story-driven content, without needing expensive gear or teams.

His platform, Smarty Pants, is a collection of over 100 AI tools and custom GPTs built specifically for content creators, entrepreneurs, and educators. These tools allow users to script, plan, generate visuals, and even produce short films using only consumer tech.

“We’re in the most accessible era of storytelling ever,” Erich says. “You don’t need a $50,000 setup, you need an idea, an internet connection, and the willingness to try.”

The Rise of the AI-Creator Hybrid

One of the most exciting themes in this conversation is how AI empowers, not replaces, creative professionals. Erich doesn’t see AI as an automation engine. He sees it as an amplifier of vision, giving creators back time to focus on the human aspects of storytelling: tone, emotion, rhythm, and resonance.

We talk about two of his most compelling recent works:

  • RUFUS: A short film blending history and AI to tell a 19th-century Cooper’s life story.
  • The First Artist: A cinematic exploration of prehistoric art and spirituality using generative tools.

These aren’t AI gimmicks, they’re emotionally resonant, visually stunning narratives made possible by a hybrid workflow of human creativity and machine augmentation.

Ethics, Deepfakes, and What Comes Next

Of course, with AI’s power comes a host of new responsibilities.

Erich and I discuss the ethical side of generative video, what it means to create responsibly, especially in an era of deepfakes, misinformation, and identity replication. His view: it starts with intentionality, transparency, and keeping humans in the loop.

“AI is like a camera. It’s neutral. It’s what we choose to point it at that matters.”

Why This Matters for Creators, Founders, and Small Teams

This isn’t just a conversation for filmmakers. If you’re a:

  • Founder or small business ownertrying to stand out with high-quality content
  • Educator or coachlooking to create courses, explainers, or promotional material
  • Marketer or strategistmanaging a lean team with big goals

…this episode will challenge you to rethink what’s possible with the tools already at your fingertips. AI isn’t about replacing storytellers, it’s about giving you superpowers.

At Digital Meld, we believe that staying curious and thinking boldly is the best way to lead through change. New SSTB episodes are released every Friday across all major podcast platforms (direct links below), with video available on Spotify and YouTube. Follow and subscribe to empower your AI journey!

Summary

In this episode, Brad Groux and Erich Archer discuss the transformative impact of AI on video production, exploring its ethical implications, democratization of creative processes, and the importance of transparency. They delve into practical applications of AI tools, the potential for untold stories, and the necessity for businesses to embrace AI for future success. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Keywords

AI, video production, generative AI, ethics, democratization, creative processes, custom GPTs, education, community impact, business leaders

Takeaways

  • AI is revolutionizing video production, making it more accessible.
  • Transparency and ethics are crucial when using AI tools.
  • AI can help democratize creative processes for small businesses.
  • Custom GPTs can streamline workflows and enhance creativity.
  • The future of AI presents unprecedented opportunities for creators.
  • Using AI can help unlock untold stories and historical narratives.
  • Education and community outreach can benefit from AI integration.
  • Business leaders must embrace AI to drive innovation and efficiency.
  • Documentation is essential for effective AI workflows.
  • Collaboration and feedback are key to successful AI projects.

Titles

  • Unlocking Creativity with AI in Video Production
  • The Future of Video Production: AI’s Role

Sound Bites

  • “AI is the great equalizer.”
  • “Learning is the job now.”
  • “Failure is not an option.”

References

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Video Production

02:48 The Impact of AI on Nonprofit Video Production

04:58 Ethics and Fair Use in AI Content Creation

07:30 Democratizing Video Production with AI

10:19 Leveraging AI for Creative Processes

13:00 Creating Custom GPTs for Efficiency

15:48 The Role of AI in Storytelling

18:06 Navigating the Taboo of AI in Creative Fields

20:42 Unlocking Untold Stories with AI

23:06 Visual Learning and AI in Education

28:40 Revolutionizing Education with AI

29:46 Getting Started with AI Tools

33:50 Documenting Your AI Journey

35:37 Embracing AI in Business

39:31 Creative Processes in AI Production

43:57 The Future of AI in Business

56:27 Wrapping Up

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Have show ideas or want to be featured or take part? Let us know in the comments.



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