AI Powered by People

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is the epicenter of the global marketing world—a whirlwind of opportunities, meetings, and inspiration. But navigating it can be overwhelming. For years, industry leader MediaLink provided attendees with a trusted "survival guide." But in a world of generative AI, they saw an opportunity for something more.

In this episode, host Sarah Nagle takes you behind the scenes of Monsieur Link, a sophisticated AI companion built in partnership with Vurvey Labs to serve as the ultimate guide to the festival. Discover the strategy behind transforming a static guide into a dynamic, interactive personality. We explore the intricate process of building his features, crafting his witty and insightful soul, and hear directly from Cannes attendees who put him to the test. Finally, we sit down for a conversation with the AI himself to understand his unique perspective on the magic of Cannes.

Voices:

Sarah Nagle: Host

Donna Sharp: Managing Director, Media Link

Mark Wagner: Media Link

Matt Lampe: Lead App Engineer, Vurvey Labs

Ben Vaughan: Lead AI Engineer, Vurvey Labs

Monsieur Link: The AI Companion for Cannes Lions

Key Quotes:

Mark Wagner: "We historically have created more of a kind of static Cannes 101... But in the world of generative AI and agents, I looked at the opportunity to create something new and emerging and innovative."

Ben Vaughan: "We wanted to imbue the agent with both the Media Link tone and voice, as well as the vibe of Cannes... We also made him aware of his physical appearance, which changed day by day, and also gave him a detailed history and a backstory."

Cannes Attendee: "I can ask questions of Gemini, or Perplexity, or ChatGPT, but they didn't necessarily understand the context of where we were and the level of depth of what was going on."

Monsieur Link: "The true magic is not in the grand premieres or the massive parties. It is in the unexpected connection... My role is simply to create the space for those moments to happen more easily."

Connect with Us:

What product, brand, or event in your life needs a personal AI guide? Share your ideas on social media using the hashtag #AIPoweredByPeople.

This episode was brought to you by Vurvey Labs.

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Episode Summary:
In this re-aired favorite episode, host Sarah Nagle dives into the fizzy world of Plink with its co-founder and CEO, Max Luthy. Max shares the midnight origin story of Plink, the "bath bomb you can drink," and discusses the major shift in the beverage industry from sugary drinks to functional wellness. They explore the philosophy behind building an approachable, "big tent" brand that values direct connection with its community. The episode culminates in a fun, imaginative conversation with three of Plink's flavors—Pom, Mel, and Pinny G—brought to life as AI companions.

Guest:

Max Luthy: Co-founder and CEO of Plink. A former trend forecaster, Max combined his expertise in spotting future opportunities with his co-founder's experience as a maker to create a joyful, sustainable, and functional beverage brand.

Key Topics Covered:

(00:38) The 2 AM Origin Story: Max recounts the spontaneous idea that led to Plink and how the company was founded over Zoom with an ocean between the co-founders.

(03:42) The Shift to Functional Wellness: Max discusses the transformation of the beverage market, moving from "better for you by being less bad" to a new wave of products that promise to help consumers become better versions of themselves.

(06:02) Building a "Big Tent" Brand: Learn about Plink’s philosophy of having a broad appeal, being approachable, and maintaining a direct line of communication with consumers to guide innovation.

(08:44) The Power of a Founder's Voice: Max and consumers discuss what it would be like if Plink could talk, and how an AI companion could help the brand scale its personal connection as it grows.

(11:42) When Flavors Talk: Meet the Verbs! A fun, lively conversation with the AI personas for Plink's Pomegranate Berry (Pom), Watermelon (Mel), and Pineapple Grapefruit (Pinny G) flavors.

Resources Mentioned:

Plink: Learn more about Plink's products at drinkplink.com.

Download Verbs: Talk to Pom, Mel, Pinny G, and other AI companions by downloading the Verbs app (V-U-R-B-S) for iOS or Google Play.

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts using the hashtag #AIPoweredbyPeople on social media.

Production Credits:

Host & Producer: Sarah Nagle

Editor: Katie Sizemore

Researcher: Annaliese Larson

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What begins as a quest for a cleaner, more efficient camp stove evolves into a global mission to end energy poverty. In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Cedar, founder and CEO of BioLite, the company bringing energy everywhere. Jonathan shares the origin story of the revolutionary CampStove—a "wild shot from the hip"—and the shocking realization that led to BioLite’s unique "parallel innovation" model, where sales of recreational gear directly fund life-changing work in emerging markets.

We explore how true innovation often lies not just in the product, but in the financial structures that make it accessible, the strategic thinking behind acquiring a major competitor like Goal Zero, and the constant challenge of trusting your gut in a data-driven world. Finally, we give a voice to the product that started it all, the original CampStove, to hear its perspective on creating warmth, power, and a connection to a global family.

This episode features Jonathan Cedar, founder and CEO of BioLite. He has guided the company from a weekend project between coworkers to a global enterprise delivering clean energy access to millions of people while building a beloved brand for outdoor enthusiasts.

In this episode, you will hear about:

The Origin Story: How a fascination with clean-burning wood led to the discovery of a global health crisis and a new purpose.

Parallel Innovation: An inside look at BioLite’s hybrid business model that uses recreational product sales to fuel its mission in off-grid communities.

Joining Forces: The strategic decision-making behind the acquisition of Goal Zero and the vision to own the off-grid energy space.

Innovation Beyond Product: Why financial structures and route-to-market strategies can be more critical for impact than the physical product itself.

A Tale of Two Customers: The unique challenges and insights that come from designing for both weekend campers and off-grid families in Africa.

A Conversation with a CampStove: We give a voice to the iconic product to hear its thoughts on self-reliance, its global family of HomeStoves, and its secret power.

Trusting Your Gut: Jonathan’s closing thoughts on the alchemy of a hunch and the importance of finding the "spirit" in innovation.

Learn More:

BioLite: bioliteenergy.com

Follow BioLite on Instagram: @biolite

Share your thoughts on this episode using the hashtag #AIPoweredByPeople

Follow Vurvey on LinkedIn: Vurvey

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Episode Description:
Welcome to AI Powered by People! In this episode, host Sarah Nagle steps into the world of Hyperlite Mountain Gear, a brand renowned for its minimalist, high-performance backcountry equipment. We explore Hyperlite's commitment to purposeful design, ultralight construction, and rugged durability, fueled by materials like Dyneema. Discover how the brand connects with its passionate user community and how customer insights shape their innovation. The episode culminates in a unique conversation: what if your gear could talk? We hear from Hyperlite's Head of Sales and Marketing, dedicated backpackers, and even an AI-voiced Hyperlite Southwest 55 pack, sharing its trail-worn wisdom.

Host: Sarah Nagle

Guest: Jackie Burlidge, Head of Sales and Marketing at Hyperlite Mountain Gear.

Special AI Guest:"Southie," the AI-voiced Hyperlite Southwest 55 Pack

What would you ask your backpack if it could talk? Share your ideas using #AIPoweredByPeople.

Reach out on social media if you want to hear from your favorite products or brands.

Join us every Tuesday for new episodes of AI Powered by People.

Production Credits:

Podcast: AI Powered by People, brought to you by Vurvey Labs

Produced and Edited by: Sarah Nagle

Social Media: Katie Sizemore

Researcher: Analeis Larson

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This Memorial Day, AI Powered by People takes a poignant pause to explore the profound meaning behind the holiday, moving beyond the barbecues and long weekend vibes. Join host Sarah Nagle as we delve into personal stories of sacrifice, love, and the enduring human need for connection and remembrance.

In this special episode, you'll hear:

Personal Tributes: Listeners share heartfelt memories of their relatives who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country, revealing what made these heroes so special.

The Unspoken Conversation: What would you say if you could have one more conversation with a lost loved one? We explore this deep yearning.

AI and the Afterlife? The episode ventures into a thought-provoking discussion: What if AI could allow us to converse with a digital likeness of those who have passed? We unpack the technology, the ethical considerations (drawing parallels to Black Mirror's "Be Right Back"), and the potential impact on how we grieve, remember, and even interact with historical archives like Ancestry.com or national memorials.

Community Voices: Hear a spectrum of reactions – from profound hope to understandable skepticism – as people consider what it would mean to them to speak with an AI representation of someone they've lost.

The True Meaning of Memorial Day: We reflect on the origins of Decoration Day and how its solemn purpose continues to call us to honor our fallen heroes and ensure their legacies are never forgotten.

This isn't just an episode about AI; it's a deep dive into human emotion, the importance of remembrance, and how technology might reshape our relationship with the past and those we cherish. What are your thoughts on these emerging possibilities?

Learn more and join the conversation:

Share your thoughts using #AIPoweredByPeople

AI Powered by People is brought to you by Vurvey Labs.

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This week on AI Powered by People, we're stepping into the wild world of Roger Williams Park Zoo! Host Sarah Nagle explores how this historic institution connects people with wildlife through immersive, conservation-driven experiences. We hear from Tempie Thompson, the zoo's Director of Development, about their dedication to animal welfare, naturalistic habitat design, and how they're using technology to enhance visitor engagement.

What if the animals could share their stories? We dive into this fascinating idea, hearing from zoo patrons about what they'd ask the animals, and Tempie Thompson shares insights into how "talkable" animals could revolutionize learning and the visitor experience. Plus, get ready to meet Kenji and Zan, the zoo's resident red pandas, as we imagine what they might tell us about their lives, their advice for humans, and the surprising secrets of the red panda world!

Featured Guest: Tempie Thompson: Director of Development at Roger Williams Park Zoo.

Production Credits:

• Host & Producer: Sarah Nagle
• Social Media: Katie Sizemore
• Research: Annalise Larson (our researcher with an eagle eye!)

Connect With Us:

Share your thoughts! What would you ask the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo if they could talk? Use #AIPoweredByPeople or reach out on our social channels. We'd also love to know if you want to hear from YOUR favorite products or brands!

New episodes of AI Powered by People release every Tuesday. Brought to you by Vurvey Labs.

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Host: Sarah Nagle
Guests: Brett Tom, SVP of Industrial Design at WHOOP
Original Air Date (Re-Air): Season 2 Premiere January 21, 2025
Re-Air Date: May 13, 2025

Episode Summary:
This week, we’re rewinding to one of our most talked-about episodes — the Season 2 premiere featuring WHOOP, the AI-powered health companion redefining performance, recovery, and personal wellness. We're bringing it back now for good reason: WHOOP 5.0 has just launched — and it's a game-changer.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Brett Tom, SVP of Industrial Design at WHOOP, as we explore how WHOOP evolved from elite athlete tech into a powerful wellness companion for everyday users. We also imagine a world where your WHOOP could actually talk back, thanks to Vurbs — AI-powered brand companions built to guide, motivate, and personalize your experience.

Whether you’re a longtime WHOOP user or just curious about what AI-enhanced health tracking looks like, this episode dives deep into the design, innovation, and future of wearable wellness.

Why This Episode Matters Now:

WHOOP 5.0 is more than an upgrade — it’s a major evolution in both hardware and software:

• Smaller & faster tracker with 14-day battery life
• New WHOOP MG (medical-grade) model with EKG capabilities
• Wireless charging pack with 30 additional days of power
• Revamped app experience with improved Sleep Score, haptic alarms & bedtime tips
• New features like Healthspan, blood pressure estimates, Advanced Labs (blood testing + clinician review), and hormonal insights for women
• Three new subscription tiers: WHOOP One, WHOOP Peak, and WHOOP Life — priced to bring in a wider audience

Next Week:
We’re back with a brand-new episode exploring the AI-powered future of [tease brand/topic if known — otherwise leave as "another product you're already talking to without realizing it"]. Stay tuned.

Join the Conversation:
What would you ask your WHOOP if it could talk? Share your questions using #AIPoweredByPeople or connect with us @VurveyLabs.

Brought to You By:
AI Powered by People — A podcast by VurveyLabs, where we explore what happens when the products you love start talking back.

🎧 Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows.

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Join host Sarah Nagle as we explore the fascinating world of Swissbrand luggage, where heritage meets innovation in modern travel gear. From its unique origins protecting Swiss chocolate to becoming a global leader in travel solutions, discover how this brand is revolutionizing the way we think about our travel companions.

Key Highlights

• Swiss Brand's Origin Story: Learn how the company evolved from transporting temperature-controlled chocolate in Zurich to creating world-class travel gear
• Industry Insight: Exclusive interview with Rich Sosnoff, VP of Global Sales and Licensing, sharing perspectives from his experience with Reebok and Under Armour
• Post-Pandemic Travel Evolution: How changing work patterns and increased global mobility are reshaping travel gear needs
• Innovation Through Consumer Understanding: Discover how real-world research drives features like detachable laptop compartments and oversized wheels for cobblestone streets
• AI Imagination: Hear from Marseilla, an AI-powered Swiss Brand luggage, sharing insights on travel, history, and potential brand collaborations

Featured Guest:

• Rich Sosnoff - VP of Global Sales and Licensing, Swissbrand

Production Credits

• Host & Producer: Sarah Nagle
• Social Media: Katie Sizemore
• Research: Annalise Larson

Connect With Us

Share your thoughts! What would you ask your Swiss Brand products if they could talk? Use #AIPoweredbyPeople or reach out on our social channels.

New episodes release every Tuesday. Brought to you by Vurvey Labs.

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Episode Description

Join host Sarah Nagle as she explores how REELZ Network is revolutionizing television through authentic storytelling and live programming. Featuring an exclusive interview with Scott Kohn, Executive Vice President and Head of Advertising at REELZ, this episode dives deep into how the network celebrates everyday heroes and creates meaningful connections with viewers.

Key Highlights

• Network Growth: Learn how REELZ achieved 130% growth while competitors faced decline
• Live Programming Success: Discover the impact of 8 hours of live weekend content
• Community Impact: Hear how viewer engagement helped reunite three missing children
• Innovation in Media: Explore the launch of REELZ Plus and future AI integration possibilities

Featured Guest

Scott Kohn - Executive Vice President and Head of Advertising at REELZ

Episode Segments

1. 
   Introduction to REELZ Network (0:00-3:45)
   
   
   • Mission and vision
   • Growth in modern media landscape
2. 
   Live Programming Innovation (3:45-6:10)
   
   
   • On Patrol Live success story
   • Viewer engagement strategies
3. 
   Viewer Perspectives (6:10-10:03)
   
   
   • Fan favorite shows
   • Community impact stories
4. 
   Future of Interactive TV (10:03-16:11)
   
   
   • AI integration possibilities
   • REELZ Plus platform launch
5. 
   Success Stories (16:11-End)
   
   
   • Missing children reunification
   • Community engagement impact

Connect With Us

• Download Vurbs on iOS or Google Play
• New episodes every Tuesday
• Follow us on social media @vurveylabs

Produced by Sarah Nagle
Social Media: Katie Sizemore
Research: Analeis Larsen

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Episode Summary:

Join Sarah Nagle as she explores the fascinating world of Lifeway Kefir, uncovering the story behind this probiotic powerhouse and its impact on gut health and overall wellness.  We sit down with Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway, to discuss the brand's journey from a small family operation to a leading voice in the probiotic movement. Discover how Lifeway balances ancient traditions with modern innovation, staying true to its roots while appealing to today's health-conscious consumer.  Plus, we introduce GooBerry, the ProBugs Vurb, and explore what happens when products gain a voice.

Key Takeaways:

• The Lifeway Story: Learn about Lifeway's origins, its mission to bring the 2,000-year-old tradition of kefir to America, and its evolution into a lifestyle movement. Hear Julie's personal story of taking the helm as the youngest female CEO of a publicly traded company and leading Lifeway's remarkable growth.
• The Science of Kefir: Explore the health benefits of kefir and its impact on gut health, digestion, and overall well-being. We discuss the vital connection between gut health and other aspects of health, including mental wellness.
• Innovation and Tradition: Discover how Lifeway blends its heritage with modern trends, incorporating consumer feedback and collaborating with health professionals to create products that resonate with today's consumers. We delve into their flavor innovation, drawing inspiration from popular trends like matcha lattes and pink dragon fruit.
• The Voice of the Consumer: Hear from Lifeway consumers about what they'd want to discuss with their favorite gut health companion.
• Meet GooBerry: We introduce GooBerry, the ProBugs Vurb, designed to engage children in healthy habits. Listen in as GooBerry shares advice for parents, discusses a dream brand collaboration, and reveals surprising facts about gut health.
• The Future of Product Interaction: Imagine a world where products can talk. We explore the potential impact of talkable products on marketing and user feedback, and how AI can shape the future of brand-consumer relationships.

Guest:

• Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Kefir

Vurb Spotlight:

• GooBerry, the ProBugs Kefir Vurb

Lifeway:

• https://lifewaykefir.com/

Join us every Tuesday for new episodes of AI Powered by People!

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