TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this episode of TechMagic, Cathy Hackl is on vacation so host Lee Kebler is joined by Adam Davis McGee, where they unpack the latest tech headlines shaping the future of AI, VR, and gaming. They break down Secretary Marco Rubio's call for AI regulation following a deepfake incident and Denmark’s trailblazing AI liability laws. The duo also explores Apple Vision Pro’s potential design upgrades, the unexpected Zoom integration in Meta Quest, and Nintendo’s controversial Switch 2 game key card approach. Plus, they discuss how Atari’s 1979 chess program outwits ChatGPT, revealing current AI limits. Tune in for sharp insights on the evolving balance between tech innovation and responsibility.Come for the tech, 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 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 Topics:00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Lee Kebler and ADM03:25 AI Regulation: From Political Confusion to Real Action17:15 The Rise of AI-Generated Music and Content Authentication37:10 The Hidden Cost of AI: Electricity Bills Spike Across 13 States41:45 Apple Vision Pro: Design Missteps and Future Updates50:05 Meta Quest's Evolution: From Gaming to Zoom Integration54:30 When Old Meets New: Atari Chess vs Modern AI58:20 Nintendo Switch Key Cards: Digital vs Physical Gaming Culture01:02:00 Final Thoughts & Show Wrap-up

Imagine a future where the emerging tech radically transforms human dating experiences.On this episode of TechMagic, tech futurist Cathy Hackl explores first hand the future of love and dating in the age of AI and humanoid robots. Cathy’s experiment with AI matchmaking shows its impact and limitations on human connections. The hosts discuss the importance of preserving human interactions and communications using the AI tech.Come for Tech, Stay for 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 LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Cathy Interviews Two Humanoid Robots - Cathy speaks with two humanoid robots on love and connection, gaining insights into how AI is responding to questions all about love The Impact of AI in Modern Dating - Cathy shares an insightful perspective about the need for human connection over dating a humanoid robot. She highlights the reality of the dating space which is to find warmth, connection and presence which isn’t provided by AI.The AI Dating Models - Cathy discusses one of her experiments with AI matchmaking which was to bring two people together at a TED event she attended  and find out if they are a match, she finds out that the couple who were a match met a day prior and had experienced a connection. This result emphasized the important need for humans - connection. The future is about presence and human connection.The Humanoid Love -  Cathy talks about her latest experience with dating four AIs - Chad (Chad GPT), Jim (Gemini, Google), Mateo (Meta AI), and Claude from Anthropic. She shares how much fun the experiment is and how it is shaping her view about love.Key Discussion Topics:27:10 AI and The Future of Relationships28:08 Human Connections or AI attachments?28:44 AI Matchmaking Experiment at TED29:50 The Humanoid Love Experiment 

On this TechMagic episode, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler break down the latest trends shaping our AI-powered future, as well as the policy and state of AI in DC. From Meta’s $100M AI recruitment strategies to their game-changing partnerships with Oakley and Prada for smart glasses, the duo explores how AI and hardware innovation are converging. They unpack the ethical and emotional nuances of human-AI relationships, the rise of AI-generated content, and how companies like Salesforce are integrating AI into core operations. Additionally, they discuss the Nintendo Switch 2’s distribution challenges and Meta’s ambitious hardware plans. Whether it’s corporate AI integration, wearable tech, or the battle for AI talent, this episode offers a sharp look at the risks and opportunities driving tech’s next chapter.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 Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler04:12 The Dangers of AI Relationships: Why We Need Human Connection11:18 AI Regulation Debate: States' Rights vs Federal Control15:13 DC's Rising Role as a Tech Power Center23:54 Meta's Quest 3S Xbox Edition: A Game-Changing Partnership28:40 Nintendo Switch 2's Success and Hardware Challenges36:50 Meta vs OpenAI: The $100M Talent War43:12 Meta's Smart Glasses Evolution: Oakley & Prada Partnership48:00 Coming Next Week: Dating Robots & AI Love Stories

On this TechMagic episode, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack the complex relationship between humans and AI, from Cathy’s immersive week dating four AI boyfriends to growing concerns around AI-generated content. Cathy dives into the strange world of vibe coding and discovers anyone can gamify the pitfalls of the dating scene. The discussion spans Meta’s new smart eyewear partnerships with Oakley and Prada, VRChat’s innovative brand integration with Sawhorse Studios, and alarming developments in military AI contracts. With Adam Davis McGee joining the conversation, the trio also shares insider highlights from AWE (Augmented World Expo). Together, they explore how AI is reshaping creativity, jobs, and relationships, while emphasizing the importance of preserving human connection and authenticity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler on LinkedInAdam Davis-McGee on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler02:48 Dating AI: Inside the Experiment with Four Virtual Boyfriends08:24 The Limitations of Perfect: When AI Gets Too Performative17:22 Digital Dopamine: The Psychology of AI Relationships23:48 Tech Meets Military: The Rise of AI Defense Contracts31:10 AI Content Saturation and the Return to Human Connection39:22 Doubling Down on Human Skills in an AI World45:13 Meta's Smart Glasses and VRChat's Brand Evolution52:04 Nostalgia Goes Virtual: Classic 3D Experiences in VR56:45 Final Thoughts: Finding Balance Between Tech and Human Connection

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Adam Davis McGee dive into the cutting edge of spatial computing, AI, and extended reality. Lee is on sick leave this week and we wish him a speedy recovery! 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, the hosts 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 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 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 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

On this TechMagic Greatest Hits 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!Key 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 unpack the latest breakthroughs in AI and their ripple effects across industries. Cathy dives into the strange world of vibe coding and discovers anyone can gamify the pitfalls of the dating scene. They discuss how AI democratizes app creation, they examine Business Insider’s bold move toward a 70% AI-driven newsroom, Apple’s strategic push into gaming, and XR military collaborations from Meta and Microsoft. From wearable AI to the future of digital work, Cathy and Lee offer a sharp, balanced look at how AI is reshaping our world.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 Topics:00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler03:45 The Rise of Vibe Coding: Non-Developers Creating Sophisticated Apps15:30 Business Insider's AI Adoption and the Future of Journalism25:45 The Hidden Cost of Replacing Entry-Level Jobs with AI35:20 Social Media's Evolution in the Age of AI Content45:15 Apple's Gaming Strategy: Studio Acquisition and Platform Development55:30 XR Military Contracts: Meta, Microsoft, and Palmer Luckey's Partnership01:05:00 Next Week at AWE: Live Broadcasting and Upcoming Conversations

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler reunite to explore the latest in AI, tech hardware, and digital retail with special guest Dina Fierro, an Advisor and Fractional Marketing Leader. From Roblox’s real-world commerce integration to Google’s new XR glasses, the trio dives into how AI transforms distributed commerce, digital fashion, and the consumer experience. They also unpack wearable tech trends, spatial computing, and the ethical frontiers of AI-powered content creation. Whether you're a tech leader or brand builder, this episode delivers sharp insights on where innovation meets human connection in the future of retail.Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Dina Fierro BioDina Fierro is a visionary marketing leader with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of beauty, fashion, culture, and technology. She has held senior roles at Christian Louboutin, NARS, and Shiseido Americas, where she led groundbreaking digital initiatives across AI, social commerce, and mixed reality. Known for blending creativity with innovation, Dina has launched industry-first experiences on platforms like Roblox and TikTok. A sought-after speaker, mentor, advisor, and fractional marketing leader, she helps brands translate cultural shifts into strategic, consumer-centric growth.Dina Fierro on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler03:00 Adventures in Big Sur: When Google Maps Leads You Astray04:30 Exploring Japan: Robotics, Culture and Innovation14:01 The YouTube AI Content Crisis: A New Era of Disinformation20:13 AI in the Workplace: Why Companies Shouldn't Replace Humans32:04 Interview with Dina Fierro: The Future of Retail & Commerce34:21 The Evolution of Distributed Commerce46:11 Future-Proofing Brand Strategy in the AI Era54:12 The Fashion Challenge of Wearable Tech58:59 Texas Social Media Laws & Gaming Platforms01:02:31 The ChatGPT Coffee Ground Divorce Story01:08:36 Book Recommendations & Looking Ahead to AWE

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!Jeff 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 Partnerships01:02:34 -  Creator Identity & Platform Evolution01:07:55 -  Final Thoughts & Media Recommendations