Advertise on podcast: TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this episode, Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler discuss the fears that AI could eliminate humanity, the sustainability of data centers, the impact of generative AI on creativity, and the latest in tech gadgets like Apple's foldable phones and smart glasses. They discuss the societal and environmental implications of rapid technological advancements and share insights on how consumers and companies are adapting. keywords: AI, generative AI, data centers, sustainability, foldable phones, smart glasses, social media, IRL meetups, tech industry, privacy concerns key topics AI and humanity's futureSustainability of data centersGenerative AI and creativityLatest tech gadgets: foldable phones and smart glassesRise of IRL meetups and social clubsPrivacy concerns with always-on devicesResurgence of physical media like CDs and vinylCorporate acquisitions of social platformsAI's influence on art and musicDesign and market considerations for new devices Sound Bites "I don't think it'll take that long for AI to destroy humanity.""Success in social media often depends on viral moments, not AI.""This watch could record conversations and cause privacy issues. I will lead to a lot of divorces." Chapters 00:00Introduction to the episode and guest backgrounds 01:59The timeline for AI potentially destroying humanity 04:02Environmental impact of data centers and sustainability challenges 05:58The role of Moore's Law and hardware limitations 08:01The influence of viral content and AI-generated art 10:14The resurgence of IRL meetups and social clubs 11:57Corporate acquisitions of social platforms like Meetup and Airtable 14:00The evolution and challenges of social media platforms 15:59Snapchat's new event planning features and smart glasses 18:12Apple's latest foldable phone and design strategy 20:01The market for high-end smart devices and user preferences 22:08Privacy concerns with always-on and recording devices 23:59The cultural shift towards physical media like CDs and vinyl 25:59The implications of AI in everyday life and privacy 28:02Snickers Hunger AI campaign and the future of marketing 28:59Closing remarks and next episode preview

In this episode, Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest in AI, gaming, music, and tech ethics, sharing insights on how emerging technologies are reshaping industries and our daily lives. They discuss AI-generated music, the future of agent-based shopping, and the shifting narratives around AI's role in society. keywords: AI, gaming, music, AI-generated content, intellectual property, tech ethics, agent commerce, AI watermarking, future of technology Key topics AI's impact on music and gaming industries. The story behind Atari re-releasing legacy titlesNetflix's gaming play and exclusive contentAustralian ban on AI-generated music and its implications. ARIA bans AI music from the charts. The ethics and legalities of AI in music and content creationThe shift in public narratives about AI's role in jobs and societyAI watermarking and its limitations in detecting synthetic contentThe potential and risks of AI-driven agent commerceGene editing and cloning in pets: ethical considerationsThe influence of storytelling and narrative in tech adoptionSound Bites "Madonna's AI recreated hit spent 16 weeks in the charts.""Agent commerce today feels like giving a teenager a credit card.""You still need human touch to truly connect.""Would you get a gene-edited dog?"Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest insights 01:54 Latest news in gaming: Atari's legacy re-release 04:02 Netflix's strategic move into gaming and exclusive releases 07:58 Australia's ARIA bans AI-generated music after Madonna's hit recreated by AI 11:55 Legal and ethical issues around AI-created music and IP rights 16:13 Global perspectives on AI copyright laws and industry responses 20:02 The future of AI watermarking and detection technologies 24:12 Agent-based shopping: convenience versus privacy concerns 28:09 Gene editing in pets and ethical considerations 32:00 Changing narratives around AI and job creation 36:11 AI in romantic relationships and social implications 40:05 The importance of human interaction in AI-driven experiences 41:59 Closing thoughts and future outlooks

In this episode, Cathy and Lee discuss the latest developments in tech, including Meta's settlement, new Apple hardware, AI market potential, and health tech innovations like regrowing teeth. They explore the implications of these advancements and what they mean for the future of technology and society. keywords: tech news, Meta settlement, Apple hardware, AI market, health tech, regrowing teeth, AI bubble, Linux, AI investments key topics Meta's settlement and its implications for social media and privacyNew Apple hardware releases and their market impactThe potential revenue and market share of AI companies like AnthropicInnovations in health tech, including regrowing teeth and robot-assisted blood drawsThe sustainability of the AI market bubble and investment risksThe significance of Linux's 35-year history in modern technologyThe influence of AI on employment, economy, and societyThe race of AI companies towards IPO and market dominancetakeaways Meta's settlement of 17 billion dollars is significant but not crippling for the company.Apple's recent hardware releases show a trend towards high prices and powerful specs, especially in the Mac Mini line.AI companies like Anthropic project enormous potential revenues, but market share assumptions are overly optimistic.Health tech innovations such as regrowing teeth could revolutionize dentistry and reduce costs.The AI market bubble may be unsustainable, with many companies overestimating their market share and revenue.Linux's 35-year history demonstrates its foundational role in modern computing and the internet.Investors should be cautious about AI IPOs, as the projected market sizes are often unrealistic.Sound Bites "Seventeen billion dollars is a lot of money, but not for Meta.""Apple's new Mac Minis are tiny but expensive.""Regrowing teeth could change dentistry forever."Chapters 00:00Introduction and Cathy back on the road 01:36Meta Settles for 17 Billion Dollars 03:37Apple's Hardware Launches and Price Drops 07:37Apple's Polishing Cloth Price Drop 09:19Google Pixel Eleven Pro Review 11:12Global Listeners and Appreciation 11:44Robot Drawing Blood and Medical Tech 16:27Regrowing Teeth: The Future of Dentistry 20:07AI Market Potential and Investment Risks 28:02Linux Turns 35: Its Impact and Future

Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler break down the biggest shifts reshaping tech and content creation. Explore AI watermarking's role in combating deepfakes, how social media algorithms now reward authenticity over virality, and why Apple's upcoming launches matter for creators. Plus: the creator economy's new degree programs, ethical questions around tipping robots, and what smart glasses mean for privacy. This episode cuts through the hype to reveal what actually impacts creators, brands, and the future of digital culture. Keywords: AI watermarking, social media algorithms, content creation, generative AI, authenticity, privacy, Apple launches, creator economy, smart glasses, ethical technology Sound Bites "Watermarking in AI is a complex challenge." "Upcoming Apple devices could redefine user experience." "Tipping robots raises new ethical questions." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 01:56 The integration of AI into schoolwork and watermarking 04:05 Watermarking in music and generative AI 05:49 Challenges of watermarking in AI generated content 08:00 Recognizing AI-generated content and voice 10:02 Social media algorithms and human authenticity 11:55 The return of MySpace and social media evolution 14:00 Monetization and creator economy updates 16:04 Upcoming tech launches from Apple and new devices 17:59 Legal issues surrounding Meta and AI 20:08 AI in youth and safety concerns 22:04 The future of smart glasses and XR 24:04 Apple’s new products and privacy focus 25:59 Parental control and screen time management 27:55 Robotic bartenders and tipping etiquette 30:00 Summary and closing remarks

In this episode, Lee and Cathy explore the impact of AI on content creation, social media platforms, and the future of technology. They discuss the challenges and opportunities AI presents for creators, platforms, and consumers, emphasizing the importance of ethical use and innovation. Outside of their tech executive roles, Cathy and Lee are also creators. Cathy is one of the top B2B creators and a top tech voice on LinkedIn and speaker. She recently launched a Travel and Tech video series on LinkedIn, Instagram and Youtube where she travels the world and brings her perspective on global tech. Lee is a talented musician with a significant following on Instagram and gifted writer too. He recently launched Dig, an animated short story series. Key topics AI's influence on content creation and monetizationChallenges faced by platforms like YouTube and TikTok due to AIOpportunities for platforms like Roblox and LinkedIn in the AI eraPrivacy concerns and data ownership in AI applicationsThe role of human creativity versus AI automationLegal and ethical considerations of AI-generated contentThe future of AI in sports, music, and entertainmentThe importance of authentic human stories in a digital world Key takeaways AI is transforming content creation but raises ethical and monetization challenges.Platforms are adjusting thresholds and policies to combat AI-generated spam and maintain quality.Opportunities exist for platforms like Roblox and LinkedIn to innovate and monetize differently.Privacy and data ownership remain critical concerns with AI and digital platforms.Authentic human storytelling continues to be valued over AI-generated content.Legislation and platform policies will shape how AI is integrated into media and entertainment. Sound Bites "AI is generating so much garbage that platforms have to increase thresholds""People want to watch humans, not AI robots""Hate the system, not the technology" Sections 00:00Introduction to the episode and guest overview 02:11Lee shares his new web series inspired by a solar eclipse 03:55Cathy discusses her travel series in Greece and personal passions 05:07The creative process and overcoming fears of rejection 07:22YouTube's monetization changes and AI's impact on creators 10:40The rise of AI-generated content and its effects on platforms 12:20Juxtaposition of real creators versus AI content for kids 14:01Opportunities for platforms like Roblox and LinkedIn 16:53The challenge of AI in music and media industries 18:20Concerns about privacy and data ownership in AI 20:18The importance of human storytelling and authenticity 23:12AI's role in sports and entertainment, maintaining human element 27:38The future of AI regulation and ethical considerations 33:54Media partnerships and trust in AI-generated news 40:55The limits of AI in entertainment and human connection 42:15Closing thoughts and call for positive stories in tech

In this episode, Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler discuss the current state of technology, AI, gaming, and the importance of human connection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. They share insights on global tech trends, the future of gaming, and the significance of ownership and authenticity in digital media. keywords: technology, AI, gaming, digital ownership, human connection, global tech trends, UGC, generative AI, tech landscape, innovation Key topics Current state of technology and AIThe evolution of gaming and UGC platformsOwnership and digital rights in mediaGlobal conversations on AI and quantum computingThe importance of human connection in tech development Takeaways Technology is at a point of recalibration, with a focus on responsible innovation.The gaming industry is shifting towards user-generated content and digital ownership.Global conversations on AI are expanding beyond generative AI to include quantum and material sciences.Ownership of digital media remains a concern, with a preference for tangible and owned content.Human connection remains central to meaningful technology use and development. Chapters 00:00Introduction and return to podcast 02:02Ownership of the podcast and its significance 03:18The changing landscape of technology and AI 04:55Overextension and recalibration of tech expectations 07:31Global conversations on AI and other emerging technologies 10:43Broader perspectives on innovation and global tech hubs 13:19Market trends and the return of startup innovation 17:21Content discovery challenges and digital ownership 20:07The future of gaming and user-generated content 26:16The decline of physical media and ownership issues 29:03Hollywood's embrace of gaming IP and UGC 32:16Launching new gaming studios and independent development 34:05The importance of authentic innovation in tech 37:33Interesting recent tech news and societal impacts 40:43Human connection versus technological automation 44:34The impact of AI on jobs and societal shifts 46:49Closing thoughts and future outlooks

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest developments in AI, gaming IP, and practical technology trends shaping the industry today. They explore why the current AI skepticism signals maturity, how AI solutions are moving beyond flashy features, and the rise of gaming as a prime entertainment and commercial frontier. In the second segment, Cathy interviews Adam Cohen-Aslatei, CEO of Three Day Rule, about how human-centered AI is transforming matchmaking. They discuss voice-first technology, data-driven compatibility, IRL dating resurgence, coaching as a skill, and why AI amplifies intuition rather than replacing human connection. Come for the tech and stay for the magic! Cathy Hackl Bio Cathy 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 LinkedIn Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn Lee Kebler Bio Lee 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 LinkedIn Adam Cohen-Aslatei Bio Adam Cohen Aslatei is the CEO of Three Day Rule, one of the longest-standing matchmaking companies in the United States, with over 15 years of industry experience. With a background spanning dating app development, including roles at Bumble and the Meet Group, he brings a unique perspective on the evolution of digital dating and human connection. Adam is recognized for pioneering the integration of AI-driven matchmaking with traditional human-centered approaches, leveraging over 80,000 successful match data points to create outcomes-focused dating solutions. Adam Cohen Aslatei on LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics:  00:00 Intro03:15 AI's "So What?" Question: Moving Beyond Hype to Real Utility06:22 Apple Intelligence and Gmail Show the Power of Unobtrusive AI Integration10:18 The Trough of Disillusionment: Why We're Excited About AI's Reality Check12:22 Robotic Snow Removal and Vocational Work: AI Supporting Human Infrastructure17:33 Tech Magic Transitions to New Home with Big Plans Ahead18:45 Three-Day Rule: Building AI Matchmaking on 15 Years of Real Data20:24 How AI Sentiment Analysis Detects Truth in Dating Compatibility25:28 Voice-First Technology Creates More Authentic Human Connection29:13 Why In-Real-Life Dating Experiences Beat Endless Digital Swiping31:18 Dating as a Learnable Skill: How Coaching Increases Match Success by 40%34:45 Three Day Rule's 70-80% Success Rate vs. Dating Apps' 9% Failure40:09 Gaming IP Movies and the End of Marvel Fatigue43:41 Super Mario Galaxy, Iron Lung, and the Rise of Game Adaptations46:48 Fallout Series Success: How Gaming IP Drives Video Game Sales49:51 Gaming's Hidden Economy: Slot Machines, Free-to-Play, and Esports Silos51:17 Walmart and Unity SDK: Selling Physical Products in Virtual Worlds52:04 1.1 Million Unity Developers Get New Revenue Channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler, unpack the realities behind today’s AI headlines. They explore OpenAI’s shift toward advertising, the growing human bottleneck in data center expansion, and why the AI conversation is moving beyond productivity toward physical and human-centred systems. The discussion dives into the surprising earning power of skilled trades, how XR is transforming workforce training, and why the metaverse was never just about VR headsets. From VRChat to The Sims, Cathy and Lee reveal where the spatial web is quietly taking shape, and what it all means for the future of work and technology. Come for the tech and stay for the magic! Cathy Hackl Bio Cathy 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 LinkedIn Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn Lee Kebler Bio Lee 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 LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics:  00:00 Intro00:33 The Shift in AI Conversation: From Productivity to Humanity05:15 OpenAI's Financial Crisis and the Ad-Supported ChatGPT Problem11:31 Can AI Intentionally Give Wrong Answers to Keep You Engaged?13:46 The Unexpected HVAC and Trades Shortage Fueling AI Infrastructure16:34 How XR Technology Transfers Expert Knowledge to New Tradespeople20:21 Meta's Metaverse Layoffs: Why Spatial Computing Is Still the Future25:33 VRChat Breaks Records While Gaming Embraces Living Worlds26:28 Luxury Brands Return to Gaming with Coach and The Sims28:08 Bethesda Revamps Fallout 76 After TV Show Success32:31 Book 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 return from a holiday break to unpack the most important ideas and innovations from CES 2026. Cathy breaks down how the AI conversation has evolved beyond large language models into embodied AI, agentic systems, world models, and on-device intelligence. The discussion spans standout demos, from attention-aware robots and immersive VR experiences to smart wearables and biodegradable batteries. Cathy and Lee also question whether AI is solving real problems or becoming an innovation theatre. We end with a forward look at 2027 as a critical inflection point for AI devices from Apple, OpenAI, and Meta. Come for the tech, stay for the magic! Cathy Hackl Bio Cathy 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 LinkedIn Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn Lee Kebler Bio Lee 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 LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics:  00:00 Intro: Welcome Back to Tech Magic in 2026 03:27 AI's Evolution: From Language Models to Embodied Intelligence 05:30 Glasses Galore: Meta Ray-Ban Displays and Wearable Utility 09:26 Robots Everywhere: From Laundry Folders to AI-Powered Lawnmowers 12:00 CES 2027 Inflection Point: Q3-Q4 2026 Device Announcements to Watch 16:11 Innovation Theater vs. Problem-Solving: Evaluating Real Tech Impact 18:21 Trinity Vehicle and Cool Concepts: NVIDIA and Will.i.am's AI-Powered EV 20:51 Biodegradable Paper Batteries: Flint's Sustainable Solution 23:04 XR Display Glasses and Next-Gen Wearables: X Real and Gaming Integration 24:01 Attention Labs: On-Device AI and Data Sovereignty in Robotics 27:53 Why On-Device AI Matters: Global Markets and Data Regulations 29:30 IXR Podcast Meetup: Felix and Paul's Interstellar Arc VR Experience 33:32 LEGO Smart Bricks: The Future of Educational Robotics 35:44 Final Thoughts: CES as Geekapalooza and Plans for 2027 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest tech developments, from Meta's bold moves in AR to Apple's Vision Pro journey one year later. They highlight Meta's success with Ray-Ban AI glasses, Apple’s challenges in AR innovation, and how creators are evolving into media moguls. Cathy also interviews special guest Jeff Barrett, who shares insights on building sustainable creator careers, the rise of nano-influencers, and the global expansion of digital content platforms. Whether you’re into cutting-edge tech or the creator economy, this episode captures 2025’s emerging trends. Come for the tech, stay for the magic! Cathy Hackl Bio Cathy 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 LinkedIn Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn Lee Kebler Bio Lee 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 LinkedIn Jeff Barrett Bio Jeff Barrett serves as the Chief Evangelist at the Shorty Awards, where he's been involved with the organization for 10 years. A former Shorty Award winner for Best Business Blogger, Barrett has evolved from a creator to an agency leader, demonstrating the possible progression within the creator economy. His journey began uniquely on MySpace and included creating a successful parody account on Twitter that inadvertently led to legitimate recognition in the marketing world. Barrett currently hosts the Shorty Awards show and runs a podcast called "It's No Fluke," which has produced over 130 episodes featuring leaders from major companies like Google, Meta, and the NFL. Jeff Barrett on LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics 00:00 -  Intro & Tech News Overview02:50 -  The Future of American XR: Competition and Innovation11:15 -  Meta's Metaverse Strategy: Make or Break Year28:18 -  Apple Vision Pro: One Year Later41:24 -  Interview with Jeff Barrett: The Evolution of the Shorty Awards47:32 -  The Creator Economy: Trends and Future Growth53:27 -  Building Sustainable Creator-Brand Partnerships01:02:34 -  Creator Identity & Platform Evolution01:07:55 -  Final Thoughts & Media Recommendations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl is joined by Samantha G Wolfe, founder of PitchFWD and NYU adjunct professor, to explore how AI and emerging tech are redefining relationships. From AI-generated love letters to dating in virtual environments, they examine the evolving boundaries between authentic connection and digital convenience. The duo discusses the ethics of emotional AI, the importance of human messiness, and the need for “non-AI pledges” in romance. Packed with Cathy’s real-world experiments and insightful commentary, this episode is essential for anyone navigating love, intimacy, and connection in a world increasingly shaped by technology. What you will learn: How AI companions are being used beyond loneliness reliefWhy the "messiness" of human relationships remains valuable How to navigate the balance between technology-enhanced and authentic human connections in modern dating using Cathy’s Tech Intimacy ScaleThe emerging challenges of AI-generated messages in relationshipsWhy creating "non-AI relationship pledges" might become important How spatial computing and 3D interactions could transform the future of digital dating and what Cathy’s building to disrupt this space Why human presence and in-person connections remain crucial  Come for the tech, stay for the magic! Samantha G Wolfe Bio Samantha G Wolfe is the founder of Pitch Forward and an adjunct professor at NYU, where she teaches pioneering courses on avatars, AI agents, and virtual beings. With a background in psychology, television, and emerging tech, Sam specializes in brand strategy for bleeding-edge technologies, helping visionary companies clearly articulate their value and future impact. Her expertise spans AI, spatial computing, XR, haptics, and metaverse innovation across 20+ industries. Known for her clarity, depth, and contagious enthusiasm, she bridges the gap between innovation and understanding through thought leadership, marketing strategy, and education, empowering the world to grasp the true potential of tomorrow’s tech. Samantha G Wolfe on LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics: 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Special Episode on Tech, Love & Life02:47 Dating in the Age of AI: Government Restrictions and Digital Romance12:20 Beyond Loneliness: The Many Reasons People Use AI Companions16:05 The Value of Human "Messiness" in Relationships21:00 Reimagining Digital Dating Through 3D Presence38:15 The Non-AI Relationship Pledge: Setting Digital Boundaries44:53 The Tech Intimacy Scale: Finding Balance in Modern Love50:20 Dating AI Chatbots: A Week-Long Experiment Preview58:54 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Human Connection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Adam Davis McGee dive into the cutting edge of spatial computing, AI, and extended reality. Join Cathy and Adam as they unpack Meta’s XR partnership with Palmer Luckey, Snap’s smart glasses ambitions, and Apple’s sleek AR design strategy. Cathy dives into the strange world of vibe coding and discovers anyone can gamify the pitfalls of the dating scene. The conversation also explores AI dating experiments, haptic tech in entertainment, and the evolving ethics of privacy in a spatially connected world. With insights from AWE and ILMxLAB, they reflect on the shift from storytelling to “story living” and highlight key legislation shaping AI security. A must-listen for anyone tracking the future of tech-human interaction. Come for the tech, stay for the magic! Cathy Hackl Bio Cathy 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 LinkedIn Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn Lee Kebler Bio Lee 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 LinkedIn Adam Davis-McGee Bio Adam Davis-McGee is a dynamic Creative Director and Producer specializing in immersive storytelling across XR and traditional media. As Senior Producer at Journey, he led the virtual studio, pioneering cutting-edge virtual experiences. He developed a Web3 playbook for Yum! Brands, integrating blockchain and NFT strategies. At Condé Nast, Adam produced engaging video content for Wired and Ars Technica, amplifying digital storytelling. His groundbreaking XR journalism project, In Protest: Grassroots Stories from the Frontlines (Oculus/Meta), captured historic moments in VR. Passionate about pushing creative boundaries, Adam thrives on crafting innovative narratives that captivate audiences worldwide. Adam Davis-McGee on LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics: 00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl06:33 Meta's Eagle Eye: Military XR Partnership with Palmer Luckey14:05 Apple's Liquid Glass: Paving the Way for AR Glasses17:25 Haptic Innovation: Apple's F1 Movie Trailer Experience19:18 Human vs AI: Why F1 Racing Needs the Human Element22:27 Browser History Dating: AI's Latest Match-Making Experiment26:27 Snap's Vision: Consumer Smart Glasses Coming in 202631:27 From Storytelling to Story Living: ILMxLAB's Immersive Future33:54 Closing Thoughts: Summer Break Announcement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Lee Kebler and Adam Davis McGee unpack the rapid shifts transforming AI, hardware, and creative industries. Cathy is away this week and will be back in the new year. Lee and Adam explore how RAM manufacturers are pivoting away from consumer electronics toward AI, and how this will spike gaming and device prices in 2026, why Meta’s mixed-reality delays open the door for Google’s surprising partnership with Warby Parker, and how Google may be quietly edging ahead in the AI race. In the second half, Lee speaks with Ryan McMahan, who breaks down the legal and ethical storm surrounding AI-generated music. Together, they examine copyright grey zones, artist rights, and why AI is becoming more of an accelerant for creativity than a replacement for human artistry. Come for the tech and stay for the magic! Key Discussion Topics: 01:40: RAM Shortage Will Devastate Consumer Electronics Pricing in 202606:12: Meta's Mixed Reality Delay & the Battle Between Google and Meta11:29: Why Google Will Win the AI Race Over OpenAI23:52: AI Music Generation and the Copyright Crisis on Spotify33:28: Meet Ryan McMahan: Artist Manager Fighting for Creator Rights35:34: Blanco Brown's Story: From Platinum to Fighting AI38:50: The First Major Artist Covers an AI-Generated Song40:45: Understanding Covers vs. Derivatives in Copyright Law45:51: AI as a Creative Tool, Not a Job Replacement50:32: The Fast Fashion Problem in Modern Music Production57:31: Independent Artists Need Representation at Policy Tables01:01:45: Creative Industry Workers Share AI Concerns and Opportunities01:04:17: Meta's Consent Prompt: Is Algorithmic Boost Tied to AI Training Permission?01:05:59: Key Takeaways: AI, Copyright, and the Future of Creative Work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore how the future of AI is being shaped through hardware innovation happening around the world. They break down breakthroughs in autonomous vehicles, humanoid robots, and spatial computing, highlighting why hardware ownership now determines who controls data, training models, and long-term AI power. Cathy shares insights from her travels across Saudi Arabia and Qatar, while the hosts examine China’s accelerating hardware ecosystem, Gen Alpha’s rejection of “AI slop,” and the shift toward vision-action models. It’s a fast, global look at where AI is really advancing, and why it matters. Come for the tech and stay for the magic! Key Discussion Topics:  [00:00] Intro[00:23] Saudi Arabia and Qatar are booming in tech and entertainment.[00:04:00] Formula One tech highlights the Abu Dhabi Championship showdown.[00:07:13] Autonomous racing vs. human drivers shows motorsports’ future.[00:10:23] NVIDIA's AlphaMoor offers open-source vision-language models.[00:14:23] Women often prefer autonomous vehicles to human drivers.[00:20:44] Owning hardware means owning data: the AI supremacy principle.[00:22:19] Global hardware innovations from Alibaba, Huawei, and ByteDance are under the radar.[00:26:51] "Human-authored" labels reveal widespread AI fatigue.[00:30:05] Gen Alpha rejects AI content, demanding authentic creations.[00:33:55] Copyright issues arise when sampling AI-generated music.[00:37:03] Cathy’s Middle East speaking tour and CES 2025 lineup updates.[00:39:33] Holiday spending is shifting to experiences over products.[00:42:14] Book picks: the future of storytelling and understanding people.[00:44:49] Gaming culture highlights: Dungeon Crawler Carl, FNAF 2, and Stranger Things.[00:46:34] Key takeaways: physical AI, hardware ownership, and authentic human connection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI is booming, VR is evolving, and AR is exploding into the real world—but most of it still feels underwhelming. On this week’s episode of TechMagic, host Lee Kebler welcomes Andrew Schwartz while host Cathy Hackl is away. Andrew is the Director of Metaverse Engineering at Nike, and together, they unpack the realities behind today’s AI hype cycle, revealing why generative AI can feel both astonishing and underwhelming. They explore brand risks in AI-driven content, the fight against AI slop in music distribution, and the long road to mainstream VR and AR adoption. Andrew and Lee also break down Pokémon GO’s execution-first success and the rise of identity-based tech, from digital product passports to personalized, location-aware experiences, offering a clear-eyed look at what truly comes next in immersive technology. Come for the tech and stay for the magic! Andrew Schwartz Bio Andrew Schwartz is a technology strategist and the Director of Metaverse Engineering at Nike, where he pioneered emerging technology integration within the Technology Innovation Office. Having coined the title "godmother of the metaverse" for industry luminary Cathy Hackl, Andrew brings deep expertise in blockchain identity, XR/AR/VR technologies, and spatial computing.  Andrew Schwartz on LinkedIn Key Discussion Topics:  [00:00] Intro[00:00] Welcome to Tech Magic with Andrew Schwartz[00:01] How "Godmother of the Metaverse" Became Cathy Hackl's Defining Title[00:03] Nike's Metaverse Engineering and Emerging Technologies[00:06] Technology First vs. Outcome First: The Real AI Hype Cycle Challenge[00:13] Why Coca-Cola's 70,000-Prompt AI Christmas Ad Reveals a Deeper Problem[00:16] Imperfection as Strategy: When Flaws Build Brand Trust[00:21] The AI Music Crisis: How Spotify and CD Baby Protect Indie Artists[00:27] Copyright, Authenticity, and the Future of AI-Generated Content[00:31] VR Headsets Are Impressive—But Where's the Killer App?[00:34] Apple Vision Pro: Great Technology, Missing Experience[00:36] Why Beat Saber Succeeded Where Other VR Games Failed[00:38] Content Over Hardware: Lessons from iPhone, iPod, and Atari[00:40] Pokemon Go Wasn't About AR—It Was About the Brand[00:42] Super Nintendo World Shows How to Make Technology Invisible[00:44] The Future of Identity: Digital Product Passports and NFC Activation[00:47] Music Recommendation: SAULT, Neo-Soul, and the Mystery of AI[00:49] Key Takeaways: Where Tech Magic Actually Happens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.