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:


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.




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.




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.




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.




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.




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.




Wonder & Curiosity:




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




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.


Where to find Tina:


Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/


YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder


Resources mentioned:


Sintra: https://playosinc.pxf.io/NkAdJV
Delphi
AI: https://www.delphi.ai/pricing?via=tina-tower
Synthesia: https://www.synthesia.io/
SXSW Sydney: https://www.sxswsydney.com/
Eight Sleep: https://www.eightsleep.com/
Join HEB: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join
Tech Crunch: https://techcrunch.com/


People mentioned:


Kasley
Killam. https://schedule.sxsw.com/2025/events/PP1148033

Niall Firth https://schedule.sxsw.com/2025/events/PP1146923
Rohit Bhargava https://schedule.sxsw.com/2025/events/PP1146887