Oct 15, 2025
Last week’s Wednesday Webinar featured Kayla Lloyd from BBG&G Integrated Marketing, who shared insights on keeping the human element at the center of marketing in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.
Kayla emphasized that while AI is transforming how stories are created, it’s not replacing the human storyteller—it’s redefining how we work. AI can generate captions, outlines, and ideas in seconds, but it can’t feel awe, joy, or curiosity. Those emotions—the soul of the story—still come from human imagination and experience.
Balancing Automation with Authenticity
AI helps marketers save time and scale content, but authenticity must remain the priority. Studies show that consumers disengage when content feels overly automated, while emotionally driven campaigns consistently outperform fact-based ones. The “sweet spot,” Kayla explained, is where AI handles repetition, and humans create connection.
How to Guide AI with Human Creativity:
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Use brand voice templates and emotional intent in prompts.
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Train AI with past content that reflects your tone and values.
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Apply a “human empathy edit” before publishing—ensuring the final piece feels genuine.
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Establish brand guidelines and guardrails so multiple AI tools still reflect one consistent voice.
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Always tell AI what not to do to prevent tone drift or cliché outputs.
Kayla’s key reminder: AI doesn’t replace the storyteller—it replaces the blank page. The most successful marketers will be those who humanize automation, using AI as a tool to enhance creativity, not erase it.
Final Takeaways:
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Emotion before automation: Let data guide, but humanity drive the message.
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Prompts with purpose: Be clear, contextual, and intentional.
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Edit for empathy: Always review for tone and authenticity.
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Lead with imagination: Technology evolves, but curiosity and creativity remain timeless.
Huge thank you again to Kayla for sharing her time, as well as everyone who attended! Please see the slide deck for more detail, and the recording above.
About the NYSTIA Wednesday Webinar Series:
Back by popular demand, NYSTIA is once again hosting a free, weekly virtual workshop series in an informal, "coffee and conversation format. All are welcome to join and send invitations to your friends and colleagues! Each webinar is recorded and archived for post-event access. This season's webinar topics include: the outdoor recreation economy, tech in tourism, generative engine optimization, community branding, digital maturity, sustainable event planning, accessible recreation, & more! Sign Up for Free
Next Week: Accessible Recreation on the Canalway with Darby Racey from New York Power Authority/NYS Canal Corporation. Learn More & Register