Hugh Forrest, Chief Programming Officer at SXSW, shares his 35 years of experience shaping this iconic festival. He reveals the origins of SXSW, inspired by the New Music Seminar, and recounts pivotal moments like Johnny Cash's appearance and Twitter's launch. Hugh discusses the festival's shift from music-centric to a wide-ranging tech and creative platform, its significant economic impact on Austin, and upcoming challenges with the convention center's reconstruction. He also touches on the intersection of quantum technology and AI, highlighting the ongoing adaptability of SXSW.

Exploring the future of SXSW with Hugh Forrest, highlighting creativity and the event's impact. Discussing Netflix, Applebee's, and the importance of audience engagement. Touching on AI, event planning, and the balance between tech and humanity in a tech-driven future.

Co-President and Chief Programming Officer for South by Southwest, Hugh Forrest, discusses the hype cycle of A.I. and the importance of community. Topics include trends at the intersection of tech, culture, and creativity, lessons from the social media revolution, and the upcoming SXSW Interactive with sessions on A.I., virtual and augmented reality, and more.