Smart Tech Gets Smarter: Innovation Insights from CES 2025
On this episode of Human Centered, VML Chief Innovation Officer Brian Yamada joins host Nick Brunker fresh from CES 2025 to discuss the latest technological innovations shaping our future. From AI's evolution into the experience era to emotionally intelligent robots and breakthrough developments in health and accessibility, Brian unpacks how artificial intelligence is moving beyond content creation to fundamentally reshape how we interact with technology in our daily lives.
The conversation explores how brands can leverage these emerging technologies, the rise of local AI models, and what these developments mean for marketers and brands looking to create more meaningful consumer connections. Brian also shares insights on how companies can stay ahead of rapid technological change while maintaining authentic human connections in an increasingly AI-driven world.
The conversation explores how brands can leverage these emerging technologies, the rise of local AI models, and what these developments mean for marketers and brands looking to create more meaningful consumer connections. Brian also shares insights on how companies can stay ahead of rapid technological change while maintaining authentic human connections in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Creators and Guests
Host
Nick Brunker
Nick is a Forrester CX-Certified professional with a versatile portfolio including more than a decade of discipline in human-centered experience strategy, insight-based digital transformation, eCommerce & omnichannel planning. As part of VMLY&R’s CX practice, Nick is responsible for cultivating a deep understanding of customer motivations and business needs to deliver best-in-class experiences for our clients – and, as importantly, the people they serve. He collaborates with senior leaders to drive strategic alignment, push thinking into action, and helps architect CX measurement frameworks to achieve customer and business objectives. Additionally, he is actively expanding the agency’s industry footprint through thought leadership and IP development. During his career, Nick has partnered with various Fortune 500 clients across numerous categories, including Ford Motor Company, Google, General Mills, Fifth Third Bank, and Southwest Airlines, among others. He and his wife, Abbey, reside in Cincinnati, Ohio, with their children Nolan, Emma & Ainsley, and their ten-year-old pup, Bailey.
