TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this first part of a two-part episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler reflect on the key developments in the gaming industry in 2024. They explore Mike Verdu's appointment as Netflix’s VP of Generative AI for Games, his creator-first vision, and the rise of AI-driven tools to accelerate game development. The duo discusses Atari's nostalgic comeback, highlighted by founder Nolan Bushnell's insights on affordable VR tech like the Oculus Quest 3. They also tackle the staff exodus at Annapurna Interactive and its potential impact. The episode concludes with gaming-meets-music innovations, including Fortnite's Lofi Girl map, signaling a transformative era for gaming and media convergence.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 Topics00:00 - Introduction to Generative AI in Gaming01:39 - The Nostalgic Return of Atari03:13 - Impact of the Oculus Quest 303:45 - Turmoil at Annapurna Interactive07:09 - The Convergence of Movies and Video Games09:21 - Evolving Media Properties10:16 - The Lofi Girl Map in Fortnite

While Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler take a short holiday break, TechMagic brings you an interview with Katie McIntyre, Founder and Design Lead of Matriarch. Katie was a TechMagic guest cohost earlier in the season, and Time Magazine has ranked her as one of the leading female VFX artists and has featured her creations.Katie discusses her groundbreaking work in feminine futurism and shares her unique approach to integrating feminist art principles into design and technology. She also reflects on her experiences at Apple and Google and the challenges of being a woman in tech. She also unveils her new brand, Matriarch, aimed at empowering women in the tech and design industries. Tune in to hear about Katie's efforts to reshape the intersection of fashion, technology, and culture while inspiring the next generation of creatives.  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 LinkedInKatie McIntyre BioKatie McIntyre is a Creative Director, Fashion & Industrial Designer, Film Director, VFX Artist, Ivy League Lecturer, and Women’s Rights Advocate. As the founder of Katie McIntyre Studio, she collaborates with renowned artists like Nicki Minaj, Lizzo, The Weeknd, and Cardi B, designing iconic album covers, couture, and VFX for live shows. Her innovative philosophy of feminine futurism, which blends feminist principles with design and technology, has earned her international recognition and keynote speaking opportunities at prestigious institutions, including Harvard, Duke, and Carnegie Mellon. Katie has partnered with top brands like Mugler, Puma, and Nike, and her designs have been worn by stars such as Lizzo and Shenseea. As CEO of her brand, Matriarch, she advocates for empowerment through groundbreaking design and technology products. Her automotive design, Dakini, showcased by Mugler and Vogue Singapore, has made waves in the automotive industry. Named one of Time's "World’s Leading Female VFX Artists," McIntyre continues to inspire and innovate.

In the latest episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into their predictions for the tech landscape in 2025, exploring topics like AI, gaming, and the evolving role of technology in daily life. Cathy shares her optimism for the launch of World Labs and a shift in dating tech, while Lee highlights the indie gaming resurgence. They also reflect on concerns like China's influence in tech and the need for educational reform. The episode wraps up with personal goals for 2025, including health tech advancements and Lee's projects in writing and music distribution.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 Topics00:00 - Introduction and Context04:14 - Lee’s Tech Prediction for 202506:23 - Cathy’s Prediction: AI Will Continue to be Talk of the Town08:07 - Will Epic acquire Niantic?10:35 - Will Intel Sell Part of its Business to a Competitor?13:02 - Bringing Chip Manufacturing Back to America19:40 - Prediction of Tough Times Ahead for Apple23:20 - Impact of Geo Politics on Tech29:32 - Excitement over CES

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 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