Bringing Bold Ideas to Life With Technology
In Episode 91 of Marketing Sweats, Misty sits down with Nik Kleverov, Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer at Native Foreign, a Los Angeles-based creative agency and production company redefining brand storytelling through AI. Joined by Simantel creative director Van Burnett, the trio explores how AI tools are unlocking a new level of creative freedom — allowing storytellers to realize once-impossible ideas.
Nik shares the origin story of Critterz, an AI-powered short film that evolved into a full-length feature, and the behind-the-scenes journey of producing the groundbreaking Toys “R” Us brand spot using Sora. From brand partnerships to original IP, Nik unpacks how Native Foreign is embracing AI to reshape both process and output while still prioritizing timeless storytelling principles. If you’re curious about how AI is transforming creative work without replacing the human touch, this episode is a must-listen.
“These tools are incredible but they are not a magic button … there are savings. It is faster. But it’s not like it’s free and the humans are still so required.”
Nik Kleverov
About Nik Kleverov
Nik Kleverov is the Emmy-nominated Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Native Foreign, a Los Angeles-based creative agency known for its bold, design-led storytelling. With a background at top studios like Digital Kitchen and Bungie, Nik has crafted iconic work for brands across entertainment, tech and lifestyle. A trailblazer in AI-driven content, he directed Critterz, one of the first animated shorts created entirely with visuals generated by OpenAI’s DALL·E and produced the first commercial using OpenAI’s Sora for Toys “R” Us. His work has earned multiple Davey Awards and been recognized by festivals including Tribeca and Annecy. An immigrant and son of a nonconformist artist that was persecuted by the Soviet government, Nik draws on his cross-cultural upbringing to fuel a distinctive creative perspective. Whether designing main titles or leading experimental AI projects, Nik is passionate about merging technology and storytelling to push the boundaries of modern media. Connect with Nik on LinkedIn.