How to build authentic connection at scale, w/Trevor McFedries & Lil Miquela

Narrative Focus

Trevor McFedries emphasizes the importance of narrative over technology in creating engaging content. He shares that while technological advancements in animation were exciting, the audience's focus remained on the story and characters, not the tech itself 1. This insight led him to prioritize storytelling, aiming to create scalable narratives that resonate globally, much like a modern Marvel or Disney 2.

The sexy technology stuff doesn't matter as much as the narrative.

--- Trevor McFedries

Trevor envisions a future where virtual characters can transcend language barriers, allowing stories to touch people worldwide 2.

   

Virtual Engagement

Virtual therapy offers valuable lessons in authentic engagement, as demonstrated by Alison Darcy's research on AI therapists. In a study, participants disclosed more when they knew they were interacting with AI, highlighting the potential for deeper connections through virtual means 3. Trevor McFedries applies this concept to his virtual characters, aiming to create relatable figures that reflect diverse experiences and foster understanding among audiences 3.

Growing up as a black kid into skateboarding in punk rock in Iowa, oftentimes meant I didn't fit in anywhere except for the Internet.

--- Trevor McFedries

This approach allows for scalable storytelling that resonates with individuals from various backgrounds, encouraging empathy and connection 3.