Sara Giusto: How Virtual Influencers Are Changing Human Connection

Sara Giusto: How Virtual Influencers Like Imma Are Changing Human ConnectionSara Giusto, virtual human producer at Aww Inc., joins the MINDED Podcast to discuss how virtual influencers like Imma are reshaping human connection and digital storytelling. From her artistic roots to creating lifelike digital personalities, Giusto explains why Imma is more than just a CGI creation - she's a symbol of global creativity and connection.In this episode, Sara reveals:📌 Watch the full episode to learn how art, technology, and imagination are intersecting to create the next era of influencers.🔗 Subscribe to the MINDED Podcast for more insights: https://www.mindedpodcast.com/🔗 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindedpodcastFull disclosure :This content features Imma, a CGI virtual influencer, whose appearance and actions are computer-generated but not intended to mislead. We have full authorization from the creators of Imma to include this character in our video.Timestamp:00:00:00 — Introduction: Meet Sara Giusto, Virtual Human Producer 00:01:17 — Discovering Imma: The Art of Creating Virtual Reality 00:02:49 — Surprised or Expected? Why Virtual Influencers Are Thriving 00:04:16 — Overcoming Barriers: Cost, Innovation, and Digital Humans 00:06:54 — Why Imma Feels Real: The Power of Emotional and Visual Cues 00:08:06 — Imma and Tokyo’s Cultural Influence: Fashion, Identity, and Connection 00:10:06 — The Evolution of Imma’s Personality: A Collaborative Team Process 00:13:23 — AI vs. CGI: The Misconceptions Behind Virtual Influencers 00:14:27 — Creating the Future: Imma as an AI-Driven Digital Companion 00:15:35 — Emotional Connection Through AI: The Key to Imma’s Popularity 00:16:30 — The Future of Human-AI Relationships: Companionship and Growth 00:22:10 — Imma as an Agent of Connection: Engagement and Beyond 00:27:01 — Behind the Spotlight: Sara Giusto’s TED Talk Experience 00:34:18 — Artistic Inspirations: Sara Giusto’s Vision Board and Key Influences 00:39:05 — Finding Balance: Disconnecting from Tech to Reconnect with Reality 00:41:01 — Imma’s Recommendations: Favorite Book, Show, and Future MINDED Guest FAQQ: Who is Imma, and why is she significant?A: Imma is a hyperrealistic virtual influencer developed by Aww Inc. She embodies Tokyo’s culture and fashion, bridging digital innovation and human connection.Q: What challenges do virtual human producers face?A: Challenges include labor-intensive CGI work, ensuring AI-driven interactions are authentic, and overcoming public misconceptions about virtual personalities.Q: How will virtual influencers evolve in the future?A: With AI integration, virtual influencers like Imma will become more autonomous, providing personalized content, advice, and real-time interactions.