In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack viral AI trends, privacy concerns with ChatGPT's photo location capabilities, and the future of spatial computing with special guest Tom Emrich, author of "The Next Dimension." They discuss the marketing power of augmented reality, including Avon’s 320% sales boost, and examine the evolution from smartphone-based AR to smart glasses and mixed reality. Tom introduces the “Play, Pilot, Proof” framework and explains why “presence” is the new P in marketing. It’s a compelling look at how digital and physical worlds are converging fast.

What you will learn:

• How AI tools like ChatGPT can identify photo locations with striking accuracy
• Why the "em dash" has become a telltale sign of AI-generated content
• The significance of "presence" as the new P in marketing 
• How dark factories are revolutionizing manufacturing with robot-only operations
• Why brands need to follow the "Play, Pilot, Proof" framework 
• How spatial computing is transforming from smartphone-based AR to wearable devices 
• The implications of viral AI trends for privacy and data collection
• The potential impact of AI replacing white-collar workers and C-suite executives
• How brands can leverage AR for marketing with conversion rate increases of up to 320%

Come for the tech, stay for the magic!

Tom Emrich Bio

Tom Emrich is a pioneering product leader in spatial computing with over 15 years of experience in AR, VR, and wearables. He’s helped shape the future of human-technology interaction through roles at Meta and Niantic, where he led AR platform strategy, launched industry-first AR Ads, and introduced mixed reality experiences. As the author of The Next Dimension, Tom offers a definitive guide to using AR for business growth. He’s also an investor, startup advisor, and ecosystem builder, known for founding We Are Wearables and co-producing AWE. A recognized thought leader, Tom’s insights have been featured in Forbes, CNN, and The New York Times.

Tom Emrich on LinkedIn

Buy the Next Dimension here

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
• 04:45 AI Trends: From Studio Ghibli to Dogs as Humans
• 08:25 ChatGPT's Photo Location Detection: Privacy Concerns Revealed
• 17:35 The Em Dash: How to Spot AI-Generated Content
• 25:30 Should You Say "Please" and "Thank You" to AI?
• 35:38 Interview: Tom Emrich on The Next Dimension of AR Marketing
• 40:51 How AR is Transforming the Marketing Funnel
• 44:29 The Evolution of Spatial Computing Hardware
• 50:13 "Presence" - The New P in Marketing
• 56:10 Humanoid Robots and Dark Factories: The Future of Manufacturing

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack the latest from the TED conference, including Cathy’s AI matchmaking experiment and Google's XR glasses demo. They explore OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s controversial take on intellectual property, the growing urgency for AI regulation, and how international tariffs reshape tech manufacturing. The duo also dives into evolving gaming platforms like Among Us 3D and Meta’s Horizon tools, raising key questions around privacy, education, and empathy in leadership. It's a wide-ranging, thought-provoking discussion on where technology is headed—and how society can keep pace.

Episode Highlights:

• Google’s XR Glasses and the Rise of AI-Powered Memory—Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore Google’s new XR glasses, which retain spatial memory and allow users to interact with remembered environments. They discuss how persistent AI memory could redefine personal computing and digital assistance.

• Meta, Roblox, and the Future of Text-to-3D World Building—The hosts explore how platforms like Meta and Roblox use AI to transform simple text into immersive virtual worlds. They weigh the creative potential against the risk of low-quality content flooding digital spaces.

• Automation vs. Employment in the Age of AI – Lee and Cathy unpack how AI and robotics are displacing workers across sectors. They analyze the rising adoption of automation in manufacturing and the urgent need for education reform to ensure economic sustainability and job creation.

• The Creative Rights Battle in AI Training Data – Sam Altman’s TED talk sparks a heated debate about AI models being trained on copyrighted content. The hosts discuss the ethical dilemma, calls for creator compensation, and how tech leaders must build fair frameworks for the future.

• Gaming’s Evolution with Among Us 3D and Meta Horizons – Cathy and Lee spotlight the shift toward cross-platform, immersive gaming. From Among Us 3D to Meta’s Horizon tools, they explore how gaming is becoming a testing ground for virtual presence, collaboration, and digital identity.

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
• 04:02 Inside the TED Conference: Robots, AI, and Global Tensions
• 15:35 The Future of Virtual Worlds: Meta and Roblox's AI Building Tools
• 31:30 The AI Employment Paradox: Automation vs Human Workforce
• 43:39 OpenAI and IP Rights: Sam Altman's Controversial TED Talk 
• 50:12 AI Ethics and Regulation: Navigating New Legal Challenges
• 57:21 Among Us 3D: Cross-Platform Gaming Evolution Announced
• 59:13 Final Thoughts: Technology, Education, and Society's Future

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Lee Kebler and Adam Davis-McGee break down the most significant shifts in tech, from Nintendo’s Switch 2 delays to the EU’s bold €20B AI infrastructure push. They unpack Honor’s deepfake detection breakthroughs, Kawasaki’s quadrupedal robot horse, and tariffs disrupting major product launches. With a live update from Cathy Hackl from TED2025, the episode also explores the future of AR wearables and why four-legged robots might outpace their humanoid counterparts. Whether you're into cutting-edge gadgets or global tech policy, this episode offers a sharp, fast-paced look at what’s shaping our digital future.

What you will learn:

• Why Nintendo's Switch 2 anti-scalping measures represent a new approach 
• How the EU's €20 billion AI gigafactory initiative signals a shift in global tech 
• The evolution of deep fake detection technology into a $15.7 billion market by 2026
• Why Kawasaki's robotic horse represents a practical approach to autonomous mobility 
• The significance of Honor's AI deep fake detection technology 
• Why quadrupedal robots may prove more practical than bipedal designs 
• How companies like Meta and Google are approaching AR glasses development 

Come for the tech and stay for the magic!

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Lee Kebler
• 03:20 Nintendo Switch 2: Fighting Scalpers with Smart Pre-Orders
• 13:02 Gaming Price Evolution: From Game Boy to $80 Games
• 15:15 Valve's New VR Headset: The $1200 Deckard Revolution
• 22:37 Google Debuts AR Glasses at TED: Meta's New Competition
• 34:42 EU's €20B AI Investment: Building Europe's Tech Future
• 38:21 Honor's AI Deep Fake Detection Goes Global
• 44:05 Kawasaki's Robo-Horse: The Future of Quadruped Robotics
• 56:06 Wrap-Up: Next Week with Cathy Hackl

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler break down the latest in AI, gaming, and entertainment. They discuss OpenAI’s education initiatives, the viral Studio Ghibli AI trend, and Apple’s AI strategy. Plus, get insights into Nintendo Switch 2 rumors and the rise of immersive experiences like Meow Wolf. This episode also introduces a new segment hosted by Adam Davis McGee, diving into the evolving relationship between technology and storytelling. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an industry insider, TechMagic keeps you ahead of the curve on emerging trends and groundbreaking innovations.

What you will learn:

• Why OpenAI's new Academy signals important shifts in AI education and transparency
• How the viral Studio Ghibli AI trend raised concerns about data privacy and copyright
• Why Apple's approach to AI training may prove more sustainable long-term
• The latest updates on Nintendo Switch 2 
• How Generation Alpha is revolutionizing dating through gaming platforms 
• Why immersive experiences like Meow Wolf are reshaping entertainment
• Key developments in Netflix's evolving approach

Come for the tech, stay for the magic!

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Innovation & Beyond
• 00:46 TreeFort Tech Festival: A Pacific Northwest SXSW
• 07:22 OpenAI Academy Launch & Data Privacy Concerns
• 16:06 Nintendo Switch 2: What to Expect from the Big Reveal
• 20:22 Gen Alpha's Dating Revolution: Gaming Meets Romance
• 23:02 Black Mirror Season 7 & Netflix's Interactive Future
• 28:04 The Rise of Immersive Entertainment: Meow Wolf & Beyond 
• 30:45 ADM's New Segment: Sundance's Move & The Future of Indie Film
• 34:43 Music Spotlight: Jazz is Dead & Show Wrap-up

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest tech innovations shaping our world. They explore AI’s growing role in fast-food automation, the rapid expansion of VR social platforms, and how Gen Alpha is redefining dating through gaming. The episode also unpacks Spain’s strict AI content laws, the Take It Down Act to combat deepfakes, and AI’s groundbreaking impact on healthcare. With discussions on AI copyright regulations and the future of digital interaction, this episode offers a compelling look at how technology is transforming our daily lives—and why responsible innovation matters.

What you will learn:

• Gen Alpha Dating: How Technology is Changing Teen Relationships
• GDC Recap: Meta's Quest Success and VR Social Growth
• AI in Drive-Throughs: The Future of Fast Food Ordering
• Using AI to Transform Healthcare and Patient Care
• AI Copyright Laws: Human Input vs Machine Generation
• Spain's AI Content Laws and Protecting Against Deepfakes

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 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
• 4:35 Gen Alpha Dating: How Technology is Changing Teen Relationships
• 11:25 GDC Recap: Meta's Quest Success and VR Social Growth
• 20:30 AI in Drive-Throughs: The Future of Fast Food Ordering
• 26:39 Using AI to Transform Healthcare and Patient Care
• 32:54 AI Copyright Laws: Human Input vs Machine Generation
• 39:07 Spain's AI Content Laws and Protecting Against Deepfakes
• 45:17 Wrap-Up: Music Recommendations and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest in AI, gaming, and digital innovation. They explore how companies can move beyond AI hype to real-world applications, the evolving landscape of social platforms post-COVID, and why Niantic's $3.85B gaming sale signals a shift in geospatial AI. They also examine Microsoft's overlooked accessibility tech, AI-powered gaming coaches, and the rising battle for AR dominance. With sharp insights and candid analysis, this discussion unpacks the most pressing trends shaping the future of technology and human connection.

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 Welcome to Tech Magic: Innovation, AI & Everything In Between
• 02:34 Microsoft Edge's Surprising Text-to-Speech Revolution
• 08:38 The Rise of IRL Connection in a Digital Age: Base.club & Beyond
• 23:12 Debating Corporate AI Strategy: Tools vs Hype
• 42:11 Niantic's $3.85B Gaming Sale & Pivot to Geospatial AI
• 44:24 Roblox Cube: Democratizing Game Development with AI
• 46:12 Xbox Copilot & Discord's Game-Changing SDK Integration
• 49:22 Silicon Valley's AGI Predictions: Hype vs Reality
• 56:33 The Future of AR: Google, Meta, and Snap's Glass Wars
• 01:06:46 Final Thoughts: Book Recommendations & Cultural Impact

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore cutting-edge innovations, from AI agents to Meta’s fashion-forward Ray-Ban smart glasses. Special guest Melissa Medina, CEO of eMerge Americas, discusses South Florida’s rise as a global tech hub and previews their upcoming conference featuring industry leaders like Palmer Luckey and Daymond John. The hosts also dive into gaming news from GDC, NVIDIA’s latest advancements, and the evolution of "vibe coding" in software development. Packed with industry insights and engaging discussions, this episode is a must-listen for tech enthusiasts, developers, and innovation leaders alike.

Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!

Melissa Medina Bio

Melissa Medina Jiménez is the co-founder, CEO, and President of eMerge Americas, a venture-backed platform transforming Miami into a global tech hub. Under her leadership, the annual eMerge Americas conference has grown to attract 20,000+ attendees from over 50 countries. A University of Florida graduate, Melissa also studied at ESADE in Barcelona. She is a partner at Medina Ventures and leads the Medina Family Foundation. Passionate about innovation and community impact, she champions Miami’s tech growth while raising her five children.

Melissa Medina on LinkedIn

eMerge Americas Website

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler
• 02:09 The Hidden Musical Talents of Tech Leaders - Lee's Harmonica Journey
• 06:55 Inside DC's Tech Scene: AI Summit & Chip Diplomacy Discussions 
• 13:14 The Global AI Race: Who Will Be #3 After US and China?
• 19:35 South by Southwest 2024: Music Takes Center Stage
• 31:02 Gaming Industry Updates: GDC Preview & Nintendo Switch News
• 38:37 Meta's Fashion Future: Partnership with Coperni for Smart Glasses
• 43:25 The Rise of AI Agents: From Simple Tasks to Complex Automation
• 53:54 The Evolution of Coding: From Machine Language to AI-Assisted Development
• 1:00:19 Special Interview: Melissa Medina on Miami's Tech Transformation
• 1:11:53 Key Takeaways & Looking Ahead to Future Tech Developments

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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 Bio

Sandy 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 LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Intro & Welcome to TechMagic
• 01:18 Inside Apple's Vision OS Developer Workshop Experience 
• 04:13 Apple Vision Pro: Beyond the Initial Sales Numbers
• 07:07 The Future of Apple's Spatial Computing Strategy
• 13:35 Meta's Latest Developments in AI and XR
• 20:51 Meta's AR Glasses and $50M Creator Fund Discussion
• 26:05 Nostalgia: Early Days of VR Development
• 30:06 Interview with Sandy Carter: AI First, Human Always
• 37:40 Transforming Business Leadership in the AI Era
• 42:28 Making AI Accessible for Companies of All Sizes
• 47:07 Innovation in AI Content: The Living Book Concept
• 50:52 Where to Find Sandy Carter's Work & Resources
• 52:13 Key Takeaways & Closing Thoughts

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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 Bio

Richard 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 LinkedIn

Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute on Linkedin

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:17 Apple Vision Pro and Spatial Computing
• 12:23 AI in the Workplace: Feature vs. Product
• 20:32 The Rise and Fall of Humane AI Pin
• 29:35 Gaming and User-Generated Content (UGC)
• 43:57 Purpose-Driven Investments: Interview with Richard Attias

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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 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 to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler
• 01:35 Inside LEAP: Saudi Arabia's Massive Tech Conference
• 04:05 Quantum Computing: Moving from Concept to Reality
• 06:45 Global AI Perspectives: Beyond US-China Dynamics
• 12:53 Meta's Hardware Ambitions: 10M Ray-Ban Smart Glasses by 2026
• 17:15 Tech Giants' Dilemma: Focus vs. Diversification
• 21:29 Apple Vision Pro Updates: Intelligence Integration Coming Soon
• 23:50 The Robot Revolution: Tech Companies Enter the Race
• 27:58 Industry Updates: Unity Layoffs & Final Thoughts

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