In this conversation, Fred and Minh meet Doug Shapiro to explore the evolving landscape of the media business, emphasizing the shift from an attention economy to an action economy where trust becomes paramount. They discuss the implications of AI on content creation and consumption, the original sin of the internet, and the importance of authenticity in building trust with audiences. The dialogue also touches on the challenges and opportunities for creators in a rapidly changing environment, highlighting the need for innovation and adaptability.

In this episode, Fred Grinstein talks with Max Einhorn and Matt Wenhart, co-founders of Gennie, the generative production company behind the AI-powered recreations in Killer Kings—a new historical true crime series now airing on Sky History (part of the Hearst and A+E UK network). Max and Matt share how Gennie is using generative tools not as gimmicks, but as production-grade solutions to one of nonfiction TV’s longest-standing limitations: cost-effective, believable reenactments. They also dig into their scalable workflow, legal guardrails, and plans to build genre-focused IP beyond client work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gennie and Its Founders

02:51 Max Einhorn's Journey in Film and Television

05:46 The Role of Generative AI in Production

08:59 Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes

11:49 Announcing Killer Kings: A New Series

14:40 Creative Challenges in AI-Driven Storytelling

17:11 The Entrepreneurial Journey in AI and Media

24:05 Navigating the Evolving Media Landscape

26:23 Innovations in Production and Budgeting

29:57 Legal Considerations in AI and Media

31:19 The Impact of Generative AI on Creativity

38:29 Future Visions for Content Creation

41:04 The Role of Technology in Shaping Media

In this conversation, Fred and Minh explore the evolving landscape of AI in the creative industries, particularly focusing on filmmaking and music. They discuss the parallels between the music industry's transformation due to digitalization and the current shifts in filmmaking brought about by AI. The conversation delves into the importance of live experiences, the trust economy, and the potential for empathy and connection through new media. They also reflect on the future of art and creativity in a digital world, emphasizing the need for active participation and the evolving role of audiences.

Takeaways

AI is reshaping the creative landscape in filmmaking and music.

The music industry faced significant changes with the advent of digitalization, similar to what filmmaking is experiencing now.

Live experiences are becoming increasingly valuable in a digital age.

The trust economy is crucial in determining the authenticity of AI-generated content.

Empathy and connection are essential in storytelling and media creation.

The evolution of art is influenced by the speed and accessibility of digital tools.

AI can facilitate new forms of creativity and expression.

The audience's role is shifting from passive consumption to active participation.

The future of media may involve more personalized and interactive experiences.

Understanding the impact of AI on creativity requires a balance between innovation and tradition.

Chapters

00:00 The Buzz of AI in 2025

02:32 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Workforce

05:32 Lessons from the Music Industry's Digital Shift

08:32 The Future of Film and Music Intersections

11:29 The Evolution of Monetization in Creative Industries

14:32 The Role of Community in the Creator Economy

17:37 The New Era of Audience Engagement

20:28 Exploring the Future of Interactive Cinema

26:06 The Evolution of Media and Audience Engagement

31:37 The Intersection of Music and AI

38:53 AI Counterculture and Trust in Content

45:07 Empathy and Connection in