TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the aftermath of a global Microsoft outage, share personal anecdotes, and present predictions for 2025 across three categories: obvious, unexpected, and controversial. Topics include the Nintendo Switch 2, generative AI, IPO trends, Intel’s potential business moves, challenges for Apple, and the evolving “new space race.” Come for the tech, and 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 - Introduction and Context06:45 - Prediction Framework08:30 - Obvious Prediction: Nintendo Switch 211:00 - Generative AI Trends14:20 - Unexpected Predictions: Niantic and Epic Games17:45 - Intel's Business Direction21:00 - Controversial Predictions: Apple Challenges24:30 - Geopolitical Tensions in Space29:00 - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest in technology, innovation, and media trends. They dive into the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and Cathy’s involvement with AI at CES and discuss shifts in media consumption, including the evolution of streaming services. The duo also covers Meta’s role in sports broadcasting, smart glasses, and gaming news like Purina's virtual pet game on Roblox. The episode also discusses new music tech innovations and reflects past trends. Filled with insights and personal stories, this episode offers a dynamic look at the intersection of tech and creativity.Come for the tech, and 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 - Introduction and CES Excitement02:11 - Media Consumption Trends03:32 - Amazon's Freevee Discontinuation08:28 - Excitement for 'Fallout' Series12:34 - Meta and Sports Broadcasting17:02 - Virtual Pets21:08 - Smart Glasses and AR Technology29:16 - Virtual Pet Games34:01 - Music Technology Innovations

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest in tech, from Nintendo’s expansion into physical experiences with Super Nintendo World, to the evolution of the metaverse and AI’s rapid growth. They discuss exciting developments such as AI company Perplexity's soaring valuation, OpenAI’s new hire to lead robotics, and Apple's smart glasses project. The hosts also reflect on wearable tech and its intersection with fashion and a thought-provoking conversation on AI and brain chip technology. A dynamic episode on the convergence of gaming, AI, wearables, and immersive experiences!Come for the tech, and 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 Topics0:00 - Introduction and Nintendo News5:36 - The Evolving Metaverse12:11 - AI and Startup Valuations18:23 - OpenAI's Robotics Initiative24:23 - Wearables and Smart Glasses 30:09 - The Intersection of Technology and Fashion36:15 - The Brain Microchip Decision Debate42:45 - Implications of Technology on Autonomy

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the exciting world of gaming, AI, and consumer tech. They discuss the innovative "Virtual Vote" initiative in Roblox to boost Gen Z voter participation, Nintendo's surprise music app launch, and Netflix's strategic move with Mike Verdu in generative AI for games. The episode also explores the complexities of AI in Hollywood, including the respectful revival of Christopher Lee in "Lord of the Rings" and Robert Downey Jr.'s commitment to his likeness. Cathy and Lee also analyze the gaming industry's trends and consumer interest in XR hardware while highlighting Oprah's endorsement of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. With insights on wearables and AR technologies, this episode offers a rich look into the future of tech—don't miss it!Come for the tech, and 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 Topics0:00 - Introduction and Current Events5:31 - Virtual Vote Initiative at Roblox12:23 - Nintendo's Music App Launch18:01 - Netflix’s VP of Generative AI24:33 - AI in Hollywood Discussions30:13 - Disney's Office of Technology Enablement36:01 - Gaming Industry Predictions42:44 - Consumer Interest in XR Hardware 48:55 - Meta's "Brave Eye" Sunglasses

In this episode of TechMagic, host Lee Kebler and guest co-host Katie McIntyre discuss AI and VR's evolving roles in technology, fashion, and marketing. Katie, a Toronto-based designer and founder of Matriarch, shares insights on "feminine futurism" and the challenges of AI influencers, highlighting potential ethical risks, particularly around body image. They critique Apple’s Vision Pro, comparing it with Meta’s VR approach, and question whether Apple understands user needs. The conversation explores the balance between AI and human connection, emphasizing that while AI offers intriguing tools, it cannot replace authentic relationships, urging more ethical development in tech innovation.Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!Lee 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 LinkedInKatie McIntyre BioKatie McIntyre is a visionary Creative Director, Fashion and Industrial Designer, Film Director, VFX Artist, Ivy League Lecturer, and Women’s Rights Advocate. Founder of Katie McIntyre Studio, she collaborates with artists like Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Lizzo, crafting iconic album and product designs, films, and VFX for live shows. Her “feminine futurism” philosophy drives collaborations with brands such as Mugler, Puma, and Amazon, and her work has graced stages like Coachella. Named a “World’s Leading Female VFX Artist” by Time and a “Leader of Tomorrow” by the St. Gallen Symposium, she is also CEO of Matriarch, dedicated to empowering women through innovative design.Katie McIntyre on LinkedInKatie McIntyre Studio WebsiteKey Discussion Topics00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction2:38 - Puma's AI Influencer Announcement10:01 - Authenticity in Marketing16:31 - Ethical Considerations of AI Representation22:21 - Apple's Product Announcements and M4 Chip28:01 - Critique of Apple Vision Pro and VR Strategy32:11 - Market Demographics and User Behavior36:13 - Applications of VR in Industry48:01 - AI as a Substitute for Human Friendship

In this episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl and co-host Lee Kebler discuss a range of timely topics, from AI developments and spatial computing to space exploration and sustainability. Cathy shares her experience at the Singularity University Summit in South Africa, reflecting on the continent's tech innovation. The hosts dive into Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, Vario’s simulation tech, and the significance of transparent innovation in VR. They also explore lunar farming, Adobe’s AI focus, and copyright shifts in publishing. Cathy and Lee celebrate marketing visionary Justin Brennan and discuss the implications of AI on creativity at the Adobe MAX conference. The episode wraps up with reflections on space tourism and future tech trends, inviting listeners to share their thoughts.Come for the tech, and 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 - Introduction and Personal Updates07:52 - Meta News: Ray-Ban Meta Glasses11:45 - Prototype VR Headset Discussion14:35 - Vario and Simulation Technology20:19 - Industry Recognition: Justin Brennan22:52 - Adobe MAX Conference Insights28:46 - Penguin Random House's Copyright Policy31:59 - AI Regulations and Legal Battles34:43 - Dispatch from the Fringe: Off-Planet Farming

In this episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl and co-host Lee Keebler celebrate their first anniversary while reflecting on their experiences at events like the Digital Design Days in Milan. They discuss the importance of creativity in technology, critique a new alarm clock, and dive into Apple's latest immersive film, "Submerged." Cathy shares her insights on the evolving metaverse and the tech industry's rapid changes, including SpaceX's recent successes and Adobe's AI advancements. Don't miss Lily's intriguing segment on preserving digital lives for future historians. Tune in for lively discussions on innovation and the future of tech!Come for the tech, and stay of 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 Topics0:00 - Introduction and Celebrating One Year5:01 - Cathy’s Experience at Digital Design Days10:01 - A Critique of New Tech Products15:01 - Apple's "Submerged" and Immersive Video20:01 - Reflections on VR and the Metaverse25:01 - Industry Developments and AI Legalities30:01 - Dispatch from the Fringe: Preserving Digital Lives35:01 - Future Trends in Technology40:01 - Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement

In this episode of TechMagic, Cathy is on away, so Lee Keebler hosts today's episode along with Adam Davis-McGee. They discuss Meta Connect, including the buzz around Meta's new AR glasses, Orion, and the implications of privacy concerns linked to smart tech. The discussion also tackles the rise of deepfakes and the future of AI with insights on OpenAI and NVIDIA's recent developments.Come for the tech, and stay of the magic!Lee 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 is an experienced Creative Director and Producer with a passion for creative storytelling in both the XR space and traditional media. From ideation to execution, he thrives on crafting compelling experiential narratives that captivate audiences and push creative boundaries. Adam is the Director of Partnerships at Collimation. Before that, he served as Senior Producer at Journey, Director and Producer at IN PROTEST, and Producer at WIRED.Adam Davis-McGee’s WebsiteAdam Davis-McGee on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics00:00 - Intro04:01 - The Surprising Struggle Over Ray-Bans and AI Upgrades06:19 - A Glimpse Into the Future of Everyday AR12:40 - The Unraveling of Privacy in a Tech-Driven World18:07 - How Deepfakes Are Impacting Our Youth27:07 - NVIDIA’s Bold Move and the Future of Safe AI Innovation39:34 - Zuckerberg’s VR Revolution

In this episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl and co-host Lee Keebler explore technology, gaming, and AI developments. They discuss Lee's experiences at the Portland Retro Gaming Expo, including Nolan Bushnell's insights on Atari and the Oculus Quest 3's competitive pricing. Cathy shares her participation in a MetLife event focused on women in STEM and her excitement about Meta's Orion holographic AR glasses. The conversation covers AI's implications, recent regulatory changes, and advancements in spatial computing, culminating in discussions about future trends in tech and gaming, alongside personal anecdotes and industry insights.Come for the tech, and stay of 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 LinkedIn