6 days ago
AI tools won't replace storytellers, but these 7 tools can make the job easier
AI won't replace human storytellers, but it can supplement their approach for a wider reach.
That was the underlying message of 'AI Tools for Storytelling: For Places, Companies & Brands,' a panel at the 2025 Builders Conference that drew professionals across civic, nonprofit and private sectors. Moderated by GateCheck Studio's Sean Blanda, the conversation featured Alanah Davis, Baltimore's chief storyteller, and Tim Kulp, chief innovation officer at Mind Over Machines.
While AI is a powerful assistant, storytelling still needs human direction, according to the panelists. Plus, there are certain things the tech just can't replicate.
'Don't go to [AI] for expertise,' Kulp said. 'You have the expertise. Go to it to help you format and formulate that expertise.'
At Mind Over Machines, Kulp's team uses Microsoft 365 Copilot and a custom agent called 'Katie' to track projects, extract useful case studies and support onboarding. For teams just starting with AI, Kulp warned against treating it as a low-stakes sandbox.
'You want to have a use case that is actually going to create the impact and change,' Kulp said, 'and that's not going to happen if everybody has a mindset of 'that's just the playground.''
Start with tasks like repurposing content or summarizing transcripts, he said, and measure against manual workflows to establish return on investment. That clarity helps with internal buy-in, builds momentum and encourages what he called 'the curious mindset.'
Using AI doesn't mean losing authenticity
As Baltimore's first chief storyteller, Davis faces the challenge of sharing narratives from a city government that's still catching up with 21st-century tech.
In her role, Davis wants to use AI tools like for transcription, but municipal IT restrictions often block or delay access. That means finding workarounds, like off-platform Google accounts or partnering with freelancers who can use the tools she can't.
Still, Davis remains optimistic about what AI can offer, particularly when it comes to outreach.
'I think it's important that we're learning it and that we're not afraid of it,' she said. 'I like to embrace it, even though I'm all about connection, humanity [and] authenticity.'
The AI tools worth your time
So what tools are worth checking out? The panelists shared a short list.
But keep in mind, panelists said: Whether you're working in city hall or a startup accelerator, the human component is irreplaceable.
'In order to do this, you have to have good storytelling already,' Davis said. 'Get the basic thing right before you extend it.'
