Colin Kaepernick on His Startup Lumi, Anime and AI as a Tool

Creators are fearful that AI is going to replace them. Are you addressing that?

Absolutely! We are very much communicating with creators around their concerns about AI. Our position is that the creator should be at the center of this universe, and AI is just the tool to help them create better and quicker on their ideas. Really, we look at [AI] as something that’s going to enhance and empower them and give them creative freedom that they weren’t able to obtain before … because the tools just didn’t exist for it.

We also have a whole new wave of creators that are not writers or illustrators by trade, but they can now bring their stories to life. And I think about in relation to kids. We’re talking and working with educators on how can we bring [Lumi] into classrooms to get it in front of kids, to help them create but also improve literacy by getting them engaged in reading.

Will AI replace artists who make money from using their skills?

I don’t believe AI will be replacing artists. We look at it very much like the way of putting the camera on iPhones that democratize the ability to take photos, but the craft of photography didn’t disappear or go away. We look at this as the same way, that illustrators and artists are still going to have phenomenal careers, we want to help enhance them and give them assistance on the writing side so they can get their stories out in the world.

In light of the changes in politics at the moment, what are your thoughts on how brands are aligning themselves with purpose-driven marketing?

Consumers are getting very intelligent and know when brands are being authentic and genuine. The new era of consumers wants to know that brands align with their values and vision for the world. Now more than ever, we’re seeing the power of consumers and their ability to back brands that stand behind them. The companies that do that in the long term are going to be the ones that exponentially outperform other companies.

Are you done with the NFL?

I still wake up every day at 4.30 [a.m.] and get my training in. Always ready to compete, always ready and prepared.