TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack viral AI trends, privacy concerns with ChatGPT's photo location capabilities, and the future of spatial computing with special guest Tom Emrich, author of "The Next Dimension." They discuss the marketing power of augmented reality, including Avon’s 320% sales boost, and examine the evolution from smartphone-based AR to smart glasses and mixed reality. Tom introduces the “Play, Pilot, Proof” framework and explains why “presence” is the new P in marketing. It’s a compelling look at how digital and physical worlds are converging fast.What you will learn:How AI tools like ChatGPT can identify photo locations with striking accuracyWhy the "em dash" has become a telltale sign of AI-generated contentThe significance of "presence" as the new P in marketing How dark factories are revolutionizing manufacturing with robot-only operationsWhy brands need to follow the "Play, Pilot, Proof" framework How spatial computing is transforming from smartphone-based AR to wearable devices The implications of viral AI trends for privacy and data collectionThe potential impact of AI replacing white-collar workers and C-suite executivesHow brands can leverage AR for marketing with conversion rate increases of up to 320%Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Tom Emrich BioTom Emrich is a pioneering product leader in spatial computing with over 15 years of experience in AR, VR, and wearables. He’s helped shape the future of human-technology interaction through roles at Meta and Niantic, where he led AR platform strategy, launched industry-first AR Ads, and introduced mixed reality experiences. As the author of The Next Dimension, Tom offers a definitive guide to using AR for business growth. He’s also an investor, startup advisor, and ecosystem builder, known for founding We Are Wearables and co-producing AWE. A recognized thought leader, Tom’s insights have been featured in Forbes, CNN, and The New York Times.Tom Emrich on LinkedInBuy the Next Dimension hereKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler04:45 AI Trends: From Studio Ghibli to Dogs as Humans08:25 ChatGPT's Photo Location Detection: Privacy Concerns Revealed17:35 The Em Dash: How to Spot AI-Generated Content25:30 Should You Say "Please" and "Thank You" to AI?35:38 Interview: Tom Emrich on The Next Dimension of AR Marketing40:51 How AR is Transforming the Marketing Funnel44:29 The Evolution of Spatial Computing Hardware50:13 "Presence" - The New P in Marketing56:10 Humanoid Robots and Dark Factories: The Future of Manufacturing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack the latest from the TED conference, including Cathy’s AI matchmaking experiment and Google's XR glasses demo. They explore OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s controversial take on intellectual property, the growing urgency for AI regulation, and how international tariffs reshape tech manufacturing. The duo also dives into evolving gaming platforms like Among Us 3D and Meta’s Horizon tools, raising key questions around privacy, education, and empathy in leadership. It's a wide-ranging, thought-provoking discussion on where technology is headed—and how society can keep pace.Episode Highlights:Google’s XR Glasses and the Rise of AI-Powered Memory—Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore Google’s new XR glasses, which retain spatial memory and allow users to interact with remembered environments. They discuss how persistent AI memory could redefine personal computing and digital assistance.Meta, Roblox, and the Future of Text-to-3D World Building—The hosts explore how platforms like Meta and Roblox use AI to transform simple text into immersive virtual worlds. They weigh the creative potential against the risk of low-quality content flooding digital spaces.Automation vs. Employment in the Age of AI – Lee and Cathy unpack how AI and robotics are displacing workers across sectors. They analyze the rising adoption of automation in manufacturing and the urgent need for education reform to ensure economic sustainability and job creation.The Creative Rights Battle in AI Training Data – Sam Altman’s TED talk sparks a heated debate about AI models being trained on copyrighted content. The hosts discuss the ethical dilemma, calls for creator compensation, and how tech leaders must build fair frameworks for the future.Gaming’s Evolution with Among Us 3D and Meta Horizons – Cathy and Lee spotlight the shift toward cross-platform, immersive gaming. From Among Us 3D to Meta’s Horizon tools, they explore how gaming is becoming a testing ground for virtual presence, collaboration, and digital identity.Key Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler04:02 Inside the TED Conference: Robots, AI, and Global Tensions15:35 The Future of Virtual Worlds: Meta and Roblox's AI Building Tools31:30 The AI Employment Paradox: Automation vs Human Workforce43:39 OpenAI and IP Rights: Sam Altman's Controversial TED Talk 50:12 AI Ethics and Regulation: Navigating New Legal Challenges57:21 Among Us 3D: Cross-Platform Gaming Evolution Announced59:13 Final Thoughts: Technology, Education, and Society's Future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Lee Kebler and Adam Davis-McGee break down the most significant shifts in tech, from Nintendo’s Switch 2 delays to the EU’s bold €20B AI infrastructure push. They unpack Honor’s deepfake detection breakthroughs, Kawasaki’s quadrupedal robot horse, and tariffs disrupting major product launches. With a live update from Cathy Hackl from TED2025, the episode also explores the future of AR wearables and why four-legged robots might outpace their humanoid counterparts. Whether you're into cutting-edge gadgets or global tech policy, this episode offers a sharp, fast-paced look at what’s shaping our digital future.What you will learn:Why Nintendo's Switch 2 anti-scalping measures represent a new approach How the EU's €20 billion AI gigafactory initiative signals a shift in global tech The evolution of deep fake detection technology into a $15.7 billion market by 2026Why Kawasaki's robotic horse represents a practical approach to autonomous mobility The significance of Honor's AI deep fake detection technology Why quadrupedal robots may prove more practical than bipedal designs How companies like Meta and Google are approaching AR glasses development Come for the tech and stay for the magic!Key Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Lee Kebler03:20 Nintendo Switch 2: Fighting Scalpers with Smart Pre-Orders13:02 Gaming Price Evolution: From Game Boy to $80 Games15:15 Valve's New VR Headset: The $1200 Deckard Revolution22:37 Google Debuts AR Glasses at TED: Meta's New Competition34:42 EU's €20B AI Investment: Building Europe's Tech Future38:21 Honor's AI Deep Fake Detection Goes Global44:05 Kawasaki's Robo-Horse: The Future of Quadruped Robotics56:06 Wrap-Up: Next Week with Cathy Hackl Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler break down the latest in AI, gaming, and entertainment. They discuss OpenAI’s education initiatives, the viral Studio Ghibli AI trend, and Apple’s AI strategy. Plus, get insights into Nintendo Switch 2 rumors and the rise of immersive experiences like Meow Wolf. This episode also introduces a new segment hosted by Adam Davis McGee, diving into the evolving relationship between technology and storytelling. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an industry insider, TechMagic keeps you ahead of the curve on emerging trends and groundbreaking innovations.What you will learn:Why OpenAI's new Academy signals important shifts in AI education and transparencyHow the viral Studio Ghibli AI trend raised concerns about data privacy and copyrightWhy Apple's approach to AI training may prove more sustainable long-termThe latest updates on Nintendo Switch 2 How Generation Alpha is revolutionizing dating through gaming platforms Why immersive experiences like Meow Wolf are reshaping entertainmentKey developments in Netflix's evolving approachCome for the tech, stay for the magic!Key Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Innovation & Beyond00:46 TreeFort Tech Festival: A Pacific Northwest SXSW07:22 OpenAI Academy Launch & Data Privacy Concerns16:06 Nintendo Switch 2: What to Expect from the Big Reveal20:22 Gen Alpha's Dating Revolution: Gaming Meets Romance23:02 Black Mirror Season 7 & Netflix's Interactive Future28:04 The Rise of Immersive Entertainment: Meow Wolf & Beyond 30:45 ADM's New Segment: Sundance's Move & The Future of Indie Film34:43 Music Spotlight: Jazz is Dead & Show Wrap-up Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest tech innovations shaping our world. They explore AI’s growing role in fast-food automation, the rapid expansion of VR social platforms, and how Gen Alpha is redefining dating through gaming. The episode also unpacks Spain’s strict AI content laws, the Take It Down Act to combat deepfakes, and AI’s groundbreaking impact on healthcare. With discussions on AI copyright regulations and the future of digital interaction, this episode offers a compelling look at how technology is transforming our daily lives—and why responsible innovation matters.What you will learn:Gen Alpha Dating: How Technology is Changing Teen RelationshipsGDC Recap: Meta's Quest Success and VR Social GrowthAI in Drive-Throughs: The Future of Fast Food OrderingUsing AI to Transform Healthcare and Patient CareAI Copyright Laws: Human Input vs Machine GenerationSpain's AI Content Laws and Protecting Against DeepfakesCome for the tech, stay for the magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like Will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler4:35 Gen Alpha Dating: How Technology is Changing Teen Relationships11:25 GDC Recap: Meta's Quest Success and VR Social Growth20:30 AI in Drive-Throughs: The Future of Fast Food Ordering26:39 Using AI to Transform Healthcare and Patient Care32:54 AI Copyright Laws: Human Input vs Machine Generation39:07 Spain's AI Content Laws and Protecting Against Deepfakes45:17 Wrap-Up: Music Recommendations and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest in AI, gaming, and digital innovation. They explore how companies can move beyond AI hype to real-world applications, the evolving landscape of social platforms post-COVID, and why Niantic's $3.85B gaming sale signals a shift in geospatial AI. They also examine Microsoft's overlooked accessibility tech, AI-powered gaming coaches, and the rising battle for AR dominance. With sharp insights and candid analysis, this discussion unpacks the most pressing trends shaping the future of technology and human connection.Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like Will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Innovation, AI & Everything In Between02:34 Microsoft Edge's Surprising Text-to-Speech Revolution08:38 The Rise of IRL Connection in a Digital Age: Base.club & Beyond23:12 Debating Corporate AI Strategy: Tools vs Hype42:11 Niantic's $3.85B Gaming Sale & Pivot to Geospatial AI44:24 Roblox Cube: Democratizing Game Development with AI46:12 Xbox Copilot & Discord's Game-Changing SDK Integration49:22 Silicon Valley's AGI Predictions: Hype vs Reality56:33 The Future of AR: Google, Meta, and Snap's Glass Wars01:06:46 Final Thoughts: Book Recommendations & Cultural Impact Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore cutting-edge innovations, from AI agents to Meta’s fashion-forward Ray-Ban smart glasses. Special guest Melissa Medina, CEO of eMerge Americas, discusses South Florida’s rise as a global tech hub and previews their upcoming conference featuring industry leaders like Palmer Luckey and Daymond John. The hosts also dive into gaming news from GDC, NVIDIA’s latest advancements, and the evolution of "vibe coding" in software development. Packed with industry insights and engaging discussions, this episode is a must-listen for tech enthusiasts, developers, and innovation leaders alike.Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!Melissa Medina BioMelissa Medina Jiménez is the co-founder, CEO, and President of eMerge Americas, a venture-backed platform transforming Miami into a global tech hub. Under her leadership, the annual eMerge Americas conference has grown to attract 20,000+ attendees from over 50 countries. A University of Florida graduate, Melissa also studied at ESADE in Barcelona. She is a partner at Medina Ventures and leads the Medina Family Foundation. Passionate about innovation and community impact, she champions Miami’s tech growth while raising her five children.Melissa Medina on LinkedIneMerge Americas WebsiteKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler02:09 The Hidden Musical Talents of Tech Leaders - Lee's Harmonica Journey06:55 Inside DC's Tech Scene: AI Summit & Chip Diplomacy Discussions 13:14 The Global AI Race: Who Will Be #3 After US and China?19:35 South by Southwest 2024: Music Takes Center Stage31:02 Gaming Industry Updates: GDC Preview & Nintendo Switch News38:37 Meta's Fashion Future: Partnership with Coperni for Smart Glasses43:25 The Rise of AI Agents: From Simple Tasks to Complex Automation53:54 The Evolution of Coding: From Machine Language to AI-Assisted Development1:00:19 Special Interview: Melissa Medina on Miami's Tech Transformation1:11:53 Key Takeaways & Looking Ahead to Future Tech Developments Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this TechMagic episode, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler welcome AI thought leader Sandy Carter, author of AI First, Human Always, and COO of Unstoppable Domains for a deep dive into AI-driven leadership and technological transformation. They break down the latest innovations, from Apple’s Vision Pro developer workshop to Meta’s bold moves in AR and spatial computing. Sandy shares expert insights on how business leaders can embrace AI while staying human-centric. Plus, hear exclusive details on her upcoming SXSW keynote. Whether you're an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or AI pioneer, this episode is packed with game-changing knowledge you won’t want to miss.Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!Sandy Carter BioSandy Carter is a renowned technology executive and author of "AI First, Human Always," her seventh book published by Wiley. As a leading voice in artificial intelligence and business transformation, she has interviewed over 450 companies to gather insights on AI implementation and leadership strategies. Known for her expertise in emerging technologies and innovation, Carter is a regular Forbes contributor and featured keynote speaker at South by Southwest for seven consecutive years. Her latest work focuses on helping businesses of all sizes navigate the AI revolution, providing practical guidance on integrating artificial intelligence while maintaining human-centric approaches. Carter's experience spanning roles at major technology companies like IBM and Amazon, combined with her deep understanding of AI applications for enterprises and small businesses, makes her a trusted authority in digital transformation and AI leadership.Sandy Carter on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Intro & Welcome to TechMagic01:18 Inside Apple's Vision OS Developer Workshop Experience 04:13 Apple Vision Pro: Beyond the Initial Sales Numbers07:07 The Future of Apple's Spatial Computing Strategy13:35 Meta's Latest Developments in AI and XR20:51 Meta's AR Glasses and $50M Creator Fund Discussion26:05 Nostalgia: Early Days of VR Development30:06 Interview with Sandy Carter: AI First, Human Always37:40 Transforming Business Leadership in the AI Era42:28 Making AI Accessible for Companies of All Sizes47:07 Innovation in AI Content: The Living Book Concept50:52 Where to Find Sandy Carter's Work & Resources52:13 Key Takeaways & Closing Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler, along with special guest Richard Attias, CEO of the Future Investment Initiative (FII), explore the latest trends in AI, spatial computing, and gaming. They discuss the future of Apple Vision Pro, the challenges of productizing AI, and the rise and fall of Humane AI Pin. They also highlight the potential of user-generated content (UGC) in gaming, with a focus on Grand Theft Auto VI. Richard shares his vision for purpose-driven investments and the global impact of AI and technology. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how these developments impact global competitiveness and the evolving tech landscape.Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!Richard Attias BioRichard Attias is a globally recognized strategist, producer, and CEO of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, a global nonprofit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. He is also the Founder and Chairman at Richard Attias, He has organized high-profile events such as the Davos in the Desert summit and the New York Forum Africa, bringing together world leaders, investors, and innovators to address critical global challenges.Richard is passionate about purpose-driven investments and aligning capital with innovation to shape a better future for industries, economies, and societies. His work has positioned FII as a catalyst for transformative change on the global stage.Richard Attias on LinkedInFuture Investment Initiative (FII) Institute on LinkedinKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Intro03:17 Apple Vision Pro and Spatial Computing12:23 AI in the Workplace: Feature vs. Product20:32 The Rise and Fall of Humane AI Pin29:35 Gaming and User-Generated Content (UGC)43:57 Purpose-Driven Investments: Interview with Richard Attias Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore groundbreaking innovations from Saudi Arabia’s LEAP conference to Meta’s ambitious hardware plans. They discuss Meta’s vision for 10 million Ray-Ban smart glasses by 2026, Apple's Vision Pro updates, advances in humanoid robotics, and the future of AI regulation. With insights on quantum computing, wearable tech, and military mixed reality, this episode delves into the rapidly evolving tech landscape and its impact on global industries.Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler01:35 Inside LEAP: Saudi Arabia's Massive Tech Conference04:05 Quantum Computing: Moving from Concept to Reality06:45 Global AI Perspectives: Beyond US-China Dynamics12:53 Meta's Hardware Ambitions: 10M Ray-Ban Smart Glasses by 202617:15 Tech Giants' Dilemma: Focus vs. Diversification21:29 Apple Vision Pro Updates: Intelligence Integration Coming Soon23:50 The Robot Revolution: Tech Companies Enter the Race27:58 Industry Updates: Unity Layoffs & Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.