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 Senator 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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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

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 Cathy Hackl
• 06:33 Meta's Eagle Eye: Military XR Partnership with Palmer Luckey
• 14:05 Apple's Liquid Glass: Paving the Way for AR Glasses
• 17:25 Haptic Innovation: Apple's F1 Movie Trailer Experience
• 19:18 Human vs AI: Why F1 Racing Needs the Human Element
• 22:27 Browser History Dating: AI's Latest Match-Making Experiment
• 26:27 Snap's Vision: Consumer Smart Glasses Coming in 2026
• 31:27 From Storytelling to Story Living: ILMxLAB's Immersive Future
• 33:54 Closing Thoughts: Summer Break Announcement

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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 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 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 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 and Lee Kebler
• 03:45 The Rise of Vibe Coding: Non-Developers Creating Sophisticated Apps
• 15:30 Business Insider's AI Adoption and the Future of Journalism
• 25:45 The Hidden Cost of Replacing Entry-Level Jobs with AI
• 35:20 Social Media's Evolution in the Age of AI Content
• 45:15 Apple's Gaming Strategy: Studio Acquisition and Platform Development
• 55:30 XR Military Contracts: Meta, Microsoft, and Palmer Luckey's Partnership
• 01:05:00 Next Week at AWE: Live Broadcasting and Upcoming Conversations

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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 Bio

Dina 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 LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl & Lee Kebler
• 03:00 Adventures in Big Sur: When Google Maps Leads You Astray
• 04:30 Exploring Japan: Robotics, Culture and Innovation
• 14:01 The YouTube AI Content Crisis: A New Era of Disinformation
• 20:13 AI in the Workplace: Why Companies Shouldn't Replace Humans
• 32:04 Interview with Dina Fierro: The Future of Retail & Commerce
• 34:21 The Evolution of Distributed Commerce
• 46:11 Future-Proofing Brand Strategy in the AI Era
• 54:12 The Fashion Challenge of Wearable Tech
• 58:59 Texas Social Media Laws & Gaming Platforms
• 01:02:31 The ChatGPT Coffee Ground Divorce Story
• 01:08:36 Book Recommendations & Looking Ahead to AWE

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