Cathy and Lee are taking a break this month, and August is Greatest Hits time on TechMagic as we pull out some special episodes from our vault. In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack the cutting-edge innovations transforming finance and commerce in 2025. Along with special guest Nabil Manji, SVP of Fintech Growth at Worldpay, the trio discusses the rise of digital wallets and embedded finance, as well as the power of AI agents and real-time payments. They explore how technology is redefining money movement on a global scale and tackle the impact of quantum computing on payment security. They look at the challenges of AI safety and what companies like Shopify are doing to lead the charge. A must-listen for anyone curious about the future of fintech.

What you will learn:

• How digital wallets are transforming global commerce
• Why embedded finance is revolutionizing delivery of financial services to customers
• The evolution of real-time payments across different global markets 
• How AI agents are reshaping commerce through automated purchasing 
• Why stablecoins are emerging as a crucial tool for cross-border payments 
• The impact of quantum computing on payment security 
• The challenges facing traditional retail experiences 
• Current concerns around AI chatbots and the need for stronger safety measures
• The growing pains of emerging tech trends, from Nintendo's preorder challenges to Meta's AI controversies

Come for the tech, stay for the magic!

Nabil Manji Bio

Nabil Manji is the Senior Vice President and Head of Fintech Growth and Financial Partnerships at Worldpay, where he leads strategic initiatives in emerging payment technologies and financial partnerships. With extensive experience in the payments industry, he oversees how Worldpay collaborates with banks, fintech companies, and card networks to shape the future of money movement. His expertise in payment infrastructure and involvement in Worldpay's Global Payments Report make him uniquely qualified to discuss how technological innovations are transforming the way we think about and handle transactions in an increasingly digital world. His strategic vision for the intersection of technology and finance provides valuable 

insights for businesses and professionals interested in the future of payments and financial technology.

Nabil Manji on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler
• 02:44 AI & Mental Health: The Rise of Digital Therapy Solutions
• 09:51 Nintendo Switch 2: When Preorders Go Wrong
• 18:06 Slate Auto: Reimagining the Electric Truck
• 25:44 The Three Pillars of AI in Payments with Nabil Manji
• 39:37 Digital Wallets: The Evolution of Modern Payment Methods
• 46:20 Cryptocurrency as Payment Infrastructure
• 49:20 Understanding Embedded Commerce & Finance
• 53:57 Quantum Computing's Impact on Payment Security
• 01:03:47 Meta AI Controversy: Safety Concerns & Celebrity Voices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cathy and Lee are taking a break this month, and August is Greatest Hits time on TechMagic as we pull out some special episodes from our vault. In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack viral AI trends, privacy concerns surrounding 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 fast converging.

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cathy and Lee are on leave this month, and August is Greatest Hits time on TechMagic as we pull out some special episodes from our vault. In this Greatest Hits 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While TechMagic hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler are on vacation, they spotlight a must-hear episode of Adspeak by Adweek. In this episode, Ryan Joe speaks with Adweek’s Rebecca Stewart and Audrey Kemp to unpack the fallout from Cannes Lions 2023, where AI-manipulated case studies led to major award revocations, most notably involving agency DM9. The trio explores how AI is reshaping creative submissions, the ethics of “scam ads,” and the introduction of new global integrity standards. For marketers, creatives, and agency leaders, this episode offers an urgent look into the future of advertising awards in an AI-driven world.

Come for the tech, stay for the magic.

Ryan Joe Bio

Ryan Joe is the Editor-in-Chief of Adweek, serving as the episode's primary host. With deep industry knowledge, he guides the discussion on award integrity and evolving standards in advertising recognition, particularly in light of recent controversies involving AI and creative submissions.

Ryan Joe on LinkedIn

Rebecca Stewart Bio

Rebecca Stewart is the Brand Editor at Adweek, bringing extensive expertise in advertising awards and industry recognition programs. Her in-depth knowledge of the Cannes Lions ecosystem and award evaluation processes provides valuable context on both historical practices and emerging challenges in creative recognition.

Rebecca Stewart on LinkedIn

Audrey Kemp Bio

Audre Kemp is Adweek's Agency Reporter, specializing in investigating and reporting on industry developments. Her detailed coverage of the DM9 controversy and subsequent changes to Cannes Lions' integrity standards offers crucial insights into the evolving landscape of advertising awards and accountability.

Audrey Kemp on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic's Special Episode
• 02:51 Understanding the Cannes Lions Award Hierarchy
• 06:17 Inside the Award Submission Process
• 09:38 The Rise of "Cannes Bait" and Scam Ads
• 12:48 DM9's AI Scandal: How It Unfolded
• 18:20 New Global Integrity Standards at Cannes
• 21:45 Balancing Creativity with Commercial Impact
• 24:48 Final Thoughts: The Future of Industry Awards

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the season finale of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler unpack the latest tech trends, from  Meta’s neural interface bracelet and Apple’s liquid glass UI redesign to Nintendo Switch 2’s record-breaking launch. They’re joined by special guest Johanna Salazar, co-founder of FoodStream Network, who shares her mission to build human-centered tech that addresses food insecurity and fosters community. 

The episode also explores pressing topics, including metadata copyright in AI training, the future of voice communication, and why inclusive, bilingual platforms are crucial in today’s global digital ecosystem. With industry insights and bold predictions, Cathy, Lee, and Johanna offer a powerful close to the season and tease what’s ahead when the show returns in September.

Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!

Johanna Salazar Bio

Johanna Salazar is a media executive, tech founder, and strategist with over 20 years of experience leading innovation at Viacom, MTV, Paramount, and IMG. She oversaw national production for MLS Season Pass on AppleTV and has built high-performing teams across global media and tech. As Co-Founder of FoodStream Network and Two Goats, she blends emerging tech, content, and community to drive impact. Born in Colombia, Johanna hosts The Media Machine podcast and champions systems that serve people and the planet.

Johanna Salazar on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to TechMagic Season 2 Finale
• 01:30 The Evolution of Tech: From VR to AI's Dominance
• 11:45 Meta's Neural Interface & The Future of Wearable Tech
• 16:35 Nintendo Switch 2: Breaking Sales Records Despite Limited Launch
• 22:15 Interview with Johanna Salazar: From Media to Tech Innovation
• 27:14 The Four Pillars Framework: Profits, Process, People & Planet
• 30:51 FoodStream Network: Building Tech Solutions for Food Security
• 40:25 Apple's Liquid Glass UI: Design Challenges and Vision Pro Connection
• 48:05 AI Fatigue & The Metadata Copyright Question
• 54:49 Looking Ahead: Space Communications & Season 3 Preview
• 56:47 Manhattan Jazz Quintet & Season Finale Sign-off

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this TechMagic episode, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler welcome Jeff Shardell, founder and CEO of Humble Brands, to hear about his journey from leading at Google to redefining sustainability in the CPG world. Jeff shares how his tech background shaped his approach to eco-friendly product design, scaling consumer goods, and building an authentic celebrity partnership with Jason Momoa. 

Cathy and Lee also dive into cutting-edge mixed reality news, from ByteDance’s lightweight Pico headset to Oakley’s NASA visor collaboration. Plus, how Gen Z’s gaming habits are reshaping career paths. With updates on AI’s impact on gaming jobs and Roblox’s new adult dating features, this episode bridges the worlds of innovation, sustainability, and immersive tech. The hosts also preview what’s coming in Season 3 after their summer break.

Come for the Tech, stay for the Magic!

Jeff Shardell Bio

Jeff Shardell is the CEO and Founder of Humble Brands, a sustainable personal care company known for its natural deodorants and eco-friendly packaging. With a distinguished background in tech leadership, including roles at Google during its early growth phase and Netscape, Jeff leveraged his experience scaling companies to revolutionize the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) industry. He co-founded gloss.com, which was later acquired by Estée Lauder, before launching Humble Brands with a mission to create better-for-you personal care products while reducing environmental impact.

Jeff Shardell on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Intro and Welcome Back, Cathy
• 04:15 Music, AI and the Future of Live Entertainment
• 13:12 AI's Impact on Gaming: Candy Crush Layoffs & Industry Changes
• 29:18 Jeff Shardell: From Google Executive to Humble Brands Founder
• 35:00 Building Authentic Celebrity Partnerships in CPG
• 40:23 Sustainable Innovation: Beyond Plastic Packaging
• 51:35 ByteDance's New Mixed Reality Hardware & Industry Trends
• 56:20 Space Tech: Oakley's NASA Visor Collaboration
• 01:00:31 Gen Z Gaming Skills Becoming Career Opportunities
• 01:07:08 Season Wrap-up & Summer Break Announcement

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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

Adam Davis-McGee Bio

Adam 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 LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Lee Kebler and ADM
• 03:25 AI Regulation: From Political Confusion to Real Action
• 17:15 The Rise of AI-Generated Music and Content Authentication
• 37:10 The Hidden Cost of AI: Electricity Bills Spike Across 13 States
• 41:45 Apple Vision Pro: Design Missteps and Future Updates
• 50:05 Meta Quest's Evolution: From Gaming to Zoom Integration
• 54:30 When Old Meets New: Atari Chess vs Modern AI
• 58:20 Nintendo Switch Key Cards: Digital vs Physical Gaming Culture
• 01:02:00 Final Thoughts & Show Wrap-up

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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

Episode 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 Relationships
• 28:08 Human Connections or AI attachments?
• 28:44 AI Matchmaking Experiment at TED
• 29:50 The Humanoid Love Experiment 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 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 & Lee Kebler
• 04:12 The Dangers of AI Relationships: Why We Need Human Connection
• 11:18 AI Regulation Debate: States' Rights vs Federal Control
• 15:13 DC's Rising Role as a Tech Power Center
• 23:54 Meta's Quest 3S Xbox Edition: A Game-Changing Partnership
• 28:40 Nintendo Switch 2's Success and Hardware Challenges
• 36:50 Meta vs OpenAI: The $100M Talent War
• 43:12 Meta's Smart Glasses Evolution: Oakley & Prada Partnership
• 48:00 Coming Next Week: Dating Robots & AI Love Stories

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Adam Davis-McGee on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
• 02:48 Dating AI: Inside the Experiment with Four Virtual Boyfriends
• 08:24 The Limitations of Perfect: When AI Gets Too Performative
• 17:22 Digital Dopamine: The Psychology of AI Relationships
• 23:48 Tech Meets Military: The Rise of AI Defense Contracts
• 31:10 AI Content Saturation and the Return to Human Connection
• 39:22 Doubling Down on Human Skills in an AI World
• 45:13 Meta's Smart Glasses and VRChat's Brand Evolution
• 52:04 Nostalgia Goes Virtual: Classic 3D Experiences in VR
• 56:45 Final Thoughts: Finding Balance Between Tech and Human Connection

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.