281: Lessons from SXSW - My Fav Tech Conference

In this episode, Tina Tower takes listeners behind the scenes at South by Southwest (SXSW), her favorite tech conference. Having attended eight times, Tina shares her biggest takeaways, standout sessions, and key emerging tech trends—all with her signature candor and enthusiasm. This episode dives deep into AI trends, the loneliness epidemic, balancing technology and human connection, the environmental impact of AI, cybersecurity, and so much more. If you're keen to stay on the cutting edge of tech but also crave a more connected, fulfilling life, this one's for you.

Key Takeaways:

1. SXSW Overview:

   • SXSW combines tech, music, and film; Tina focused on the tech track.

   • It’s a hub for learning, inspiration, and connecting with like-minded change makers.

2. AI Everywhere:

   • AI dominated the conference, but Tina questions whether mainstream desire matches tech-world hype.

   • Small language models are emerging as more eco-friendly than large ones like GPT-4.

   • AI agents, avatars, and robo-taxis are evolving fast—commercial fast-learning robots may be here by 2030.

3. Human Connection & Loneliness:

   • Keynote by Kasli Kalam emphasized the "loneliness epidemic."

   • Her "5-3-1 Game": Connect with 5 people weekly, maintain 3 close relationships, and have 1 hour of quality interaction daily.

   • Even introverts need meaningful connection, though the ideal amount varies.

4. AI, Tech & Health:

   • The paradox of embracing convenience tools while ensuring they support—not replace—human connection and mental health.

   • Future health may involve mindset coaches as common as personal trainers.

5. Ethics & Future Threats:

   • A growing divide: people embracing vs. avoiding advanced tech (think brain chips and body-embedded sensors).

   • Issues around trust in information and the growing need for credible journalism.

6. Cybersecurity:

   • Meredith Whitaker from Signal warned about privacy risks as AI agents start connecting all your personal information.

   • Tips: Enable end-to-end encryption, especially for sensitive accounts like iCloud.

7. Wonder & Curiosity:

   • Beyond tech, nurture your community, stay curious, and deliberately step out of your echo chamber.

8. The Need for Balance:

   • Leverage AI for productivity, but use the gained time for real connection and human experiences.

   • Draw boundaries with tech—seek more “off time” for happiness and well-being.

 

Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just trying to make sense of the digital world we’re living in, this episode offers a grounded perspective with heart. Tune in to feel inspired, informed, and reminded that the future is human—tech is just the tool.