Matthew Mercer on AI, Art, and Why Humans Still Win
April 23, 2026 · 53 min
Why listen
A voice actor reflects on creativity, AI, and why human storytelling cannot be automated away.
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In this episode
- How years in retail and food service built real empathy for character work
- An honest case for why replacing artists with AI misses the point entirely
- Practical ways to stay grounded when success brings pressure and burnout
- Why storytelling is a fundamental human need, not just entertainment
About this episode
Voice actor and Critical Role Game Master Matthew Mercer joins Tawny Platis to make friendship bracelets while they talk about creativity, empathy, and the real purpose behind storytelling.
Matthew also talks about:
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The early grind of voice acting, CD demos, long audition drives and anime background roles
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How working in QA, retail, and food service shaped his empathy and perspective
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Why storytelling is a fundamental human need, especially during difficult times
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His honest take on AI, creativity, and why replacing artists misses the point
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Balancing success, burnout, and the pressure of supporting others in the industry
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Using hobbies like gaming, gardening, and getting out into nature to stay grounded
From dystopian sci-fi and horror to real-world fears about technology and creative industries, the conversation moves between big-picture ideas and everyday realities. It’s thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly personal, philosophical and goofy af.
Matt and Tawny also get into it about their irrational fears, camping, and avoiding rabies at all costs.
Every bracelet made during this episode is available for purchase, with 100% of proceeds going to the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center.
Remember, every bracelet has a story, and every story helps a cause. Tune in and enjoy the conversation!
Follow Matthew Mercer:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewmercervo/Web: https://www.matthewmerceronline.com/
Follow Tawny:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tawnyplatis/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tawnyplatisWeb: https://tawnyvoice.com/
About String and Tell with Tawny and Kristen
Voice actors Tawny Platis and Kristen DiMercurio challenge each other to voice act in deliberately miscast performances every Thursday! After the games, they chat about voice acting, art, and entertainment while they make friendship bracelets based on what they just performed.
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