TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

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

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

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

In this episode of Tech Magic, host Lee Kebler welcomes special guest Adam Davis-McGee for an insightful conversation that explores the latest in AI, VR, and accessibility tech, including OpenAI’s custom chip ambitions, legal updates on AI-generated content, and groundbreaking haptic displays, making NBA games accessible to blind and low-vision fans. They also discuss the evolution of music technology, Meta’s Horizon platform challenges, and the security concerns surrounding AI tools in government. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of emerging technology. For this episode, co-host Cathy Hackl is away attending the LEAP conference in Saudi Arabia. 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 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 LinkedInAdam Davis-McGee BioAdam 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 LinkedInKey Discussion Topics00:00 - Intro & Update from Cathy in Saudi Arabia03:10 -  Music Tech Innovation: NAM Conference Highlights07:10 -  AI Copyright Laws: New Rules for Creative Works14:17 -  OpenAI's Bold Move into Chip Design21:53 -  Meta's Horizon Challenges & VR Gaming Future29:15 -  Innovative Haptic Display for Blind Sports Fans34:04 - Super Bowl Tech: Minimalist Marketing Trends38:54 - Final Thoughts & Recommendations

In this 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 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 LinkedInJeff Barrett BioJeff 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 LinkedInKey Discussion Topics00:00 -  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 Partnerships

In this episode of TechMagic, Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore groundbreaking trends in tech. They discuss the rise of DeepSeek AI and its disruption of traditional business models, the strategic importance of spatial computing and XR technologies for U.S. leadership, and key takeaways from the NAM show. The duo highlights open-source innovation, shifts in AI adoption, and hardware advancements shaping the future. Listeners gain valuable insights into how these developments impact global competitiveness and the evolving tech landscape.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 Intro01:27 The DeepSeek Disruption13:15 U.S. Leadership in Spatial Computing32:16 NAM Show's AI-Free Innovation39:50 Super Bowl Tech Predictions44:11 Retro Gaming Nostalgia

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest innovations from CES 2025, delving into groundbreaking AI developments and the dynamic creator economy. They reflect on the impact of AI on technology and society, share insights from global tech hubs, and discuss the future of dating technology. With engaging discussions on the evolving landscape of social media and the attention economy, this episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of innovation and culture.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  02:44 AI RAN Alliance   05:21 The Creator Economy in Dubai   10:21 Tech's Growing Presence in Washington, DC   12:08 The Attention Economy  24:38 Emerging Tech Hubs and Global Perspectives -  44:47 The Future of Dating Technology -

In this exciting episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler kick off 2025 live from CES in Las Vegas. They delve into the latest AI trends, explore groundbreaking health tech like Withings' innovative health tracking mirror, and discuss the buzz around the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. With insights into AI’s growing role across industries, reflections on CES's vibrant atmosphere, and a light-hearted look at quirky innovations, Cathy and Lee provide an engaging mix of humor, predictions, and expert analysis. Tune in for a captivating journey through the ever-evolving world of technology!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 Intro03:15 AI Takes Center Stage at CES05:05 The Wild World of Startups10:28 Positive Vibes Amidst Challenges12:43 Anticipation for NVIDIA's Keynote28:17 Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks31:24 Fortnite's Media Evolution

In this Greatest Hits episode, we revisit an outstanding show from earlier this year. Join us on TechMagic, where Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler look back at the tech events of 2024 and recap the latest tech developments. They discuss the buzz surrounding CES, Apple Vision Pro's release, and spatial computing's evolving landscape. They also dive into the intersection of AI and journalism, explore the future of gaming, and delve into a groundbreaking innovation—the eTongue, which mimics human taste. Packed with insights, predictions, and lively conversation, this episode offers a refresher at one of the best episodes in 2024.Come for the Tech, and stay for the Magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform 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] Intro  [00:04:10] Apple Vision Pro Announcement  [00:12:01] The Future of Spatial Computing  [00:19:13] OpenAI vs. New York Times Lawsuit  [00:30:16] The Rise of AI in Daily Life  [00:46:16] Walmart and Unity Partnership  [01:04:23] The eTongue: A Taste of the Future