Persona in Conversational AI: Designing with Empathy, Trust, & Ethical Care | With Jason Gilbert

Persona in Conversational AI: Designing AI Companions with Empathy, Trust, & Ethical CareIn this episode of the CDI Expert Series: Unprompted, host Michele sits down with Jason Gilbert, Lead Character Designer at Intuition Robotics, to explore the thoughtful design behind Lark, a companion robot created to support older adults who are aging in place.Drawing on his experience, Jason shares how Lark was built to strengthen human relationships, not replace them. He highlights the unique challenges of designing technology for a vulnerable population. Jason explains that trust, transparency, and user autonomy are central to Lark’s design, from safeguarding privacy to ensuring users remain in control.The episode also explores:How conversational AI can support older adults without replacing human relationshipsThe role of multimodal design (voice, lights, gestures, and screen) in creating more natural interactionsUsing generative AI to encourage creativity through art, poetry, and storytellingThe ethical responsibilities of designing empathetic AI systemsThroughout the discussion, Jason shares insights into the interdisciplinary work behind conversational AI, highlighting collaboration between designers, engineers, and psychologists to build technology that is both helpful and emotionally intelligent. The episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in human-centred conversational AI design and the future of compassionate technology.So, after reflecting on this episode: how can designers create technology that supports human connection rather than replacing it?-Contact UsThanks for tuning in to Unprompted, for more practical lessons, and behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive events, and candid insights, visit our website or follow us on your favorite social platform.Follow us on social media:X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/CDInstitute_Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Conversation_Design_Institute/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConversationDesignInstitute/ Find out more:Website: https://www.conversationdesigninstitute.comConnect with us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/conversation-design-instituteJason GilbertLead Character Designer at Intuition Roboticshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-f-gilbert-75186a156