Podcast
TechMagic with Cathy Hackl
Hosted by Adweek · EN
TechMagic with Cathy Hackl helps you navigate the future and make sense of today’s rapid technological change. Hear unique perspectives, explore new trends, and journey into the heart of technology. TechMagic is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of tech because Arthur C. Clarke said it best: “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Future of Dating and AI, Voice Technology, and Gaming Trends with Cathy Hackl, Lee Kebler, and Adam Cohen-Aslatei
Jan 2800:56:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest developments in AI, gaming IP, and practical technology trends shaping the industry today. They explore why the current AI skepticism signals maturity, how AI solutions are moving beyond flashy features, and the rise of gaming as a prime entertainment and commercial frontier. In the second segment, Cathy interviews Adam Cohen-Aslatei, CEO of Three Day Rule, about how human-centered AI is transforming matchmaking. They discuss voice-first technology, data-driven compatibility, IRL dating resurgence, coaching as a skill, and why AI amplifies intuition rather than replacing human connection.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 LinkedInAdam Cohen-Aslatei BioAdam Cohen Aslatei is the CEO of Three Day Rule, one of the longest-standing matchmaking companies in the United States, with over 15 years of industry experience. With a background spanning dating app development, including roles at Bumble and the Meet Group, he brings a unique perspective on the evolution of digital dating and human connection. Adam is recognized for pioneering the integration of AI-driven matchmaking with traditional human-centered approaches, leveraging over 80,000 successful match data points to create outcomes-focused dating solutions.Adam Cohen Aslatei on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics: 00:00 Intro03:15 AI's "So What?" Question: Moving Beyond Hype to Real Utility06:22 Apple Intelligence and Gmail Show the Power of Unobtrusive AI Integration10:18 The Trough of Disillusionment: Why We're Excited About AI's Reality Check12:22 Robotic Snow Removal and Vocational Work: AI Supporting Human Infrastructure17:33 Tech Magic Transitions to New Home with Big Plans Ahead18:45 Three-Day Rule: Building AI Matchmaking on 15 Years of Real Data20:24 How AI Sentiment Analysis Detects Truth in Dating Compatibility25:28 Voice-First Technology Creates More Authentic Human Connection29:13 Why In-Real-Life Dating Experiences Beat Endless Digital Swiping31:18 Dating as a Learnable Skill: How Coaching Increases Match Success by 40%34:45 Three Day Rule's 70-80% Success Rate vs. Dating Apps' 9% Failure40:09 Gaming IP Movies and the End of Marvel Fatigue43:41 Super Mario Galaxy, Iron Lung, and the Rise of Game Adaptations46:48 Fallout Series Success: How Gaming IP Drives Video Game Sales49:51 Gaming's Hidden Economy: Slot Machines, Free-to-Play, and Esports Silos51:17 Walmart and Unity SDK: Selling Physical Products in Virtual Worlds52:04 1.1 Million Unity Developers Get New Revenue Channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →AI Ads, Data Center Labor, Skilled Trades, XR Training, and Spatial Web with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
Jan 2100:29:37Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler, unpack the realities behind today’s AI headlines. They explore OpenAI’s shift toward advertising, the growing human bottleneck in data center expansion, and why the AI conversation is moving beyond productivity toward physical and human-centred systems. The discussion dives into the surprising earning power of skilled trades, how XR is transforming workforce training, and why the metaverse was never just about VR headsets. From VRChat to The Sims, Cathy and Lee reveal where the spatial web is quietly taking shape, and what it all means for the future of work and technology.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 Topics: 00:00 Intro00:33 The Shift in AI Conversation: From Productivity to Humanity05:15 OpenAI's Financial Crisis and the Ad-Supported ChatGPT Problem11:31 Can AI Intentionally Give Wrong Answers to Keep You Engaged?13:46 The Unexpected HVAC and Trades Shortage Fueling AI Infrastructure16:34 How XR Technology Transfers Expert Knowledge to New Tradespeople20:21 Meta's Metaverse Layoffs: Why Spatial Computing Is Still the Future25:33 VRChat Breaks Records While Gaming Embraces Living Worlds26:28 Luxury Brands Return to Gaming with Coach and The Sims28:08 Bethesda Revamps Fallout 76 After TV Show Success32:31 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →CES 2026 Trends, World Models, Privacy-First AI, Robotics Demos, Future Devices with Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler
Jan 1400:30:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler return from a holiday break to unpack the most important ideas and innovations from CES 2026. Cathy breaks down how the AI conversation has evolved beyond large language models into embodied AI, agentic systems, world models, and on-device intelligence. The discussion spans standout demos, from attention-aware robots and immersive VR experiences to smart wearables and biodegradable batteries. Cathy and Lee also question whether AI is solving real problems or becoming an innovation theatre. We end with a forward look at 2027 as a critical inflection point for AI devices from Apple, OpenAI, and Meta.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 Back to Tech Magic in 202603:27 AI's Evolution: From Language Models to Embodied Intelligence05:30 Glasses Galore: Meta Ray-Ban Displays and Wearable Utility09:26 Robots Everywhere: From Laundry Folders to AI-Powered Lawnmowers12:00 CES 2027 Inflection Point: Q3-Q4 2026 Device Announcements to Watch16:11 Innovation Theater vs. Problem-Solving: Evaluating Real Tech Impact18:21 Trinity Vehicle and Cool Concepts: NVIDIA and Will.i.am's AI-Powered EV20:51 Biodegradable Paper Batteries: Flint's Sustainable Solution23:04 XR Display Glasses and Next-Gen Wearables: X Real and Gaming Integration24:01 Attention Labs: On-Device AI and Data Sovereignty in Robotics27:53 Why On-Device AI Matters: Global Markets and Data Regulations29:30 IXR Podcast Meetup: Felix and Paul's Interstellar Arc VR Experience33:32 LEGO Smart Bricks: The Future of Educational Robotics35:44 Final Thoughts: CES as Geekapalooza and Plans for 2027 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Greatest Hits - Meta, Apple, XR Trends, the Future of Spatial Computing, and Creator Evolution with Cathy Hackl, Lee Kebler and Jeff Barrett
Dec 3101:09:18Tap to summarizeIn 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!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 LinkedInJeff 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Greatest Hits: Love in the Age of AI: Cathy Hackl with Samantha G Wolfe on Dating, Ethics, and Cathy’s Tech Intimacy Scale
Dec 2400:54:48Tap to summarizeIn this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl is joined by Samantha G Wolfe, founder of PitchFWD and NYU adjunct professor, to explore how AI and emerging tech are redefining relationships. From AI-generated love letters to dating in virtual environments, they examine the evolving boundaries between authentic connection and digital convenience. The duo discusses the ethics of emotional AI, the importance of human messiness, and the need for “non-AI pledges” in romance. Packed with Cathy’s real-world experiments and insightful commentary, this episode is essential for anyone navigating love, intimacy, and connection in a world increasingly shaped by technology.What you will learn:How AI companions are being used beyond loneliness reliefWhy the "messiness" of human relationships remains valuable How to navigate the balance between technology-enhanced and authentic human connections in modern dating using Cathy’s Tech Intimacy ScaleThe emerging challenges of AI-generated messages in relationshipsWhy creating "non-AI relationship pledges" might become important How spatial computing and 3D interactions could transform the future of digital dating and what Cathy’s building to disrupt this space Why human presence and in-person connections remain crucial Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Samantha G Wolfe BioSamantha G Wolfe is the founder of Pitch Forward and an adjunct professor at NYU, where she teaches pioneering courses on avatars, AI agents, and virtual beings. With a background in psychology, television, and emerging tech, Sam specializes in brand strategy for bleeding-edge technologies, helping visionary companies clearly articulate their value and future impact. Her expertise spans AI, spatial computing, XR, haptics, and metaverse innovation across 20+ industries. Known for her clarity, depth, and contagious enthusiasm, she bridges the gap between innovation and understanding through thought leadership, marketing strategy, and education, empowering the world to grasp the true potential of tomorrow’s tech.Samantha G Wolfe on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Special Episode on Tech, Love & Life02:47 Dating in the Age of AI: Government Restrictions and Digital Romance12:20 Beyond Loneliness: The Many Reasons People Use AI Companions16:05 The Value of Human "Messiness" in Relationships21:00 Reimagining Digital Dating Through 3D Presence38:15 The Non-AI Relationship Pledge: Setting Digital Boundaries44:53 The Tech Intimacy Scale: Finding Balance in Modern Love50:20 Dating AI Chatbots: A Week-Long Experiment Preview58:54 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Human Connection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Greatest Hits - Meta XR, Snap Glasses, AI Dating, Apple AR, and Story Living with Cathy Hackl and Adam Davis McGee
Dec 1700:29:53Tap to summarizeIn this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Adam Davis McGee dive into the cutting edge of spatial computing, AI, and extended reality. 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, they 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 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 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →AI Hardware Shifts, RAM Price Spikes, Google–Warby Parker Wearables, Meta’s MR Delays, and the Battle for AI Music Rights with Lee Kebler, Adam Davis McGee, and Ryan McMahan
Dec 1001:01:42Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Lee Kebler and Adam Davis McGee unpack the rapid shifts transforming AI, hardware, and creative industries. Cathy is away this week and will be back in the new year. Lee and Adam explore how RAM manufacturers are pivoting away from consumer electronics toward AI, and how this will spike gaming and device prices in 2026, why Meta’s mixed-reality delays open the door for Google’s surprising partnership with Warby Parker, and how Google may be quietly edging ahead in the AI race. In the second half, Lee speaks with Ryan McMahan, who breaks down the legal and ethical storm surrounding AI-generated music. Together, they examine copyright grey zones, artist rights, and why AI is becoming more of an accelerant for creativity than a replacement for human artistry.Come for the tech and stay for the magic!Key Discussion Topics:01:40: RAM Shortage Will Devastate Consumer Electronics Pricing in 202606:12: Meta's Mixed Reality Delay & the Battle Between Google and Meta11:29: Why Google Will Win the AI Race Over OpenAI23:52: AI Music Generation and the Copyright Crisis on Spotify33:28: Meet Ryan McMahan: Artist Manager Fighting for Creator Rights35:34: Blanco Brown's Story: From Platinum to Fighting AI38:50: The First Major Artist Covers an AI-Generated Song40:45: Understanding Covers vs. Derivatives in Copyright Law45:51: AI as a Creative Tool, Not a Job Replacement50:32: The Fast Fashion Problem in Modern Music Production57:31: Independent Artists Need Representation at Policy Tables01:01:45: Creative Industry Workers Share AI Concerns and Opportunities01:04:17: Meta's Consent Prompt: Is Algorithmic Boost Tied to AI Training Permission?01:05:59: Key Takeaways: AI, Copyright, and the Future of Creative Work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →F1 Tech and Cadillac Enters the Track in 2026, Humanoid Robots at MWC Doha and Vision Action Models.
Dec 300:46:38Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore how the future of AI is being shaped through hardware innovation happening around the world. They break down breakthroughs in autonomous vehicles, humanoid robots, and spatial computing, highlighting why hardware ownership now determines who controls data, training models, and long-term AI power. Cathy shares insights from her travels across Saudi Arabia and Qatar, while the hosts examine China’s accelerating hardware ecosystem, Gen Alpha’s rejection of “AI slop,” and the shift toward vision-action models. It’s a fast, global look at where AI is really advancing, and why it matters.Come for the tech and stay for the magic!Key Discussion Topics: [00:00] Intro[00:23] Saudi Arabia and Qatar are booming in tech and entertainment.[00:04:00] Formula One tech highlights the Abu Dhabi Championship showdown.[00:07:13] Autonomous racing vs. human drivers shows motorsports’ future.[00:10:23] NVIDIA's AlphaMoor offers open-source vision-language models.[00:14:23] Women often prefer autonomous vehicles to human drivers.[00:20:44] Owning hardware means owning data: the AI supremacy principle.[00:22:19] Global hardware innovations from Alibaba, Huawei, and ByteDance are under the radar.[00:26:51] "Human-authored" labels reveal widespread AI fatigue.[00:30:05] Gen Alpha rejects AI content, demanding authentic creations.[00:33:55] Copyright issues arise when sampling AI-generated music.[00:37:03] Cathy’s Middle East speaking tour and CES 2025 lineup updates.[00:39:33] Holiday spending is shifting to experiences over products.[00:42:14] Book picks: the future of storytelling and understanding people.[00:44:49] Gaming culture highlights: Dungeon Crawler Carl, FNAF 2, and Stranger Things.[00:46:34] Key takeaways: physical AI, hardware ownership, and authentic human connection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Digital Presence, AI-Driven Noise, Content Repurposing, Real-World Experiences, and Brand Differentiation with Cathy Hackl, Lee Kebler, and David Cash
Nov 2601:04:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler break down the biggest shifts shaping tech, entertainment, and personal branding. They explore emerging trends, from real-world experiences like Beastland, to the growing influence of spatial computing, and why authentic human content is becoming a premium as AI saturation rises. In the second half, Cathy sits down with David Cash, Founder and CSO of Cash Labs, Founder and Executive Producer of Catalyst Content Haus and Head of Marketing and acting CMO of DeLorean Labs, to discuss building a future-proof personal brand, repurposing content at scale, and why founders must take ownership of their digital presence now. Together, they reveal practical strategies for standing out and earning trust in an AI-driven media landscape.Come for the tech and stay for the magic!David Cash Bio:David Cash is the Founder of Cash Labs and Catalyst, recognized as a leading force in bringing Web3 and emerging technologies to market. After a 12-year acting career and seven years running a production company, working on campaigns for brands like Brisk, Gaviscon, and Netflix, David became an early leader in Web3, authoring the first Master’s thesis on NFTs and producing Metaverse Fashion Week. Through Cash Labs, his work has driven billions of impressions and major revenue for global brands. His newest venture, Catalyst, helps executives create high-impact, future-ready content.David Cash on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics: 00:00 Intro: Tech Magic Returns from the Middle East00:03 Beastland: MrBeast's Pop-Up Amusement Park Phenomenon in Riyadh00:08 Apple Vision Pro & Real Madrid: The Future of Immersive Sports Content00:12 Tim Cook's Potential Departure and Apple's Need for Disruption00:16 Meta Quest 3S at Costco for $200: The VR Hardware Game Heats Up00:20 Meet David Cash: From Child Actor to Web3 Pioneer and Content Strategist00:24 Why Business Leaders Must Own Their Content Strategy Now00:27 Catalyst: Productizing Executive Content Creation Into a Luxury Service00:30 How to Build a Personal Brand Session in One Day00:33 The Dead Internet Theory: Why Authentic Voices Are Your Competitive Moat00:36 Syndication Strategy: Turn One Piece of Content Into 1,000 Assets00:37 Legacy Media Still Matters: Why Adweek and Vogue Amplify Personal Brands00:40 The Evolution of Entertainment: From Broadway to Authentic Vlogging00:43 Human-Crafted Content as Luxury: The OnlyFans to OnlyWalks Future00:44 The Metaverse Isn't Web3: Redefining Virtual Spaces and Digital Identity00:48 How Your Content Choices Today Shape Your XR Future Tomorrow00:52 AI as a Tool: When to Use Generative Tech and When to Create Authentically00:53 The "Human Authored" Label: Why AI Slop Is Making Credibility Scarce00:57 Silicon Valley's Billion-Dollar Paradox: Oracle, SoftBank, and Unsustainable Bets01:00 Hardware Matters: Why Lam Research Is the Invisible Infrastructure Winner01:03 Key Takeaways: Personal Branding, Content Strategy, and the Human Edge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →AI Hype Cycles, Coca-Cola’s 70K-Prompt Misstep, Spotify’s AI Slop Battle, VR’s Killer-App Problem, Pokémon GO’s Execution Edge & Digital Passports with Lee Kebler and Andrew Schwartz
Nov 1900:49:45Tap to summarizeAI is booming, VR is evolving, and AR is exploding into the real world—but most of it still feels underwhelming.On this week’s episode of TechMagic, host Lee Kebler welcomes Andrew Schwartz while host Cathy Hackl is away. Andrew is the Director of Metaverse Engineering at Nike, and together, they unpack the realities behind today’s AI hype cycle, revealing why generative AI can feel both astonishing and underwhelming. They explore brand risks in AI-driven content, the fight against AI slop in music distribution, and the long road to mainstream VR and AR adoption. Andrew and Lee also break down Pokémon GO’s execution-first success and the rise of identity-based tech, from digital product passports to personalized, location-aware experiences, offering a clear-eyed look at what truly comes next in immersive technology.Come for the tech and stay for the magic!Andrew Schwartz BioAndrew Schwartz is a technology strategist and the Director of Metaverse Engineering at Nike, where he pioneered emerging technology integration within the Technology Innovation Office. Having coined the title "godmother of the metaverse" for industry luminary Cathy Hackl, Andrew brings deep expertise in blockchain identity, XR/AR/VR technologies, and spatial computing. Andrew Schwartz on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics: [00:00] Intro[00:00] Welcome to Tech Magic with Andrew Schwartz[00:01] How "Godmother of the Metaverse" Became Cathy Hackl's Defining Title[00:03] Nike's Metaverse Engineering and Emerging Technologies[00:06] Technology First vs. Outcome First: The Real AI Hype Cycle Challenge[00:13] Why Coca-Cola's 70,000-Prompt AI Christmas Ad Reveals a Deeper Problem[00:16] Imperfection as Strategy: When Flaws Build Brand Trust[00:21] The AI Music Crisis: How Spotify and CD Baby Protect Indie Artists[00:27] Copyright, Authenticity, and the Future of AI-Generated Content[00:31] VR Headsets Are Impressive—But Where's the Killer App?[00:34] Apple Vision Pro: Great Technology, Missing Experience[00:36] Why Beat Saber Succeeded Where Other VR Games Failed[00:38] Content Over Hardware: Lessons from iPhone, iPod, and Atari[00:40] Pokemon Go Wasn't About AR—It Was About the Brand[00:42] Super Nintendo World Shows How to Make Technology Invisible[00:44] The Future of Identity: Digital Product Passports and NFC Activation[00:47] Music Recommendation: SAULT, Neo-Soul, and the Mystery of AI[00:49] Key Takeaways: Where Tech Magic Actually Happens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →