XR Industry Leaders

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with Thi Luu, Vice President and General Manager of VR Training at Axon, to explore how immersive technology is transforming public safety training.Axon, known globally for the TASER energy weapon and body-worn cameras, has made VR a cornerstone of its mission to reduce gun-related deaths between police and the public by 50% over the next decade. Thi shares how Axon scaled from early pilots to one of the largest VR deployments in the world, helping officers train more often, more effectively, and more safely.From building muscle memory for high-stakes scenarios to using AI for verbal de-escalation, Thi offers a rare inside look at how Axon designs scalable, high-impact immersive training for thousands of agencies. She also explains how ArborXR helps Axon manage and scale headsets, enabling deployments across precincts, training academies, and field operations.Whether you’re leading training for a police department or an enterprise team, this episode offers a masterclass in building scalable, data-informed XR programs that drive measurable impact.Key Moments: Axon’s mission to reduce gun-related deaths through VR training (02:48)VR as an essential part of public safety programs (05:20)Evolution of Axon’s VR training with two-pronged curriculum (07:15)Overcoming resistance and building buy-in across generations (15:24)Real-world scenarios: How VR training prepared an officer to deescalate (20:57)Lessons learned from scaling Axon VR training nationwide (24:34)Measuring success beyond just metrics with ArborXR (27:50)The future of immersive skills training: AI-powered learning (35:14)About the Guest:Thi Luu is the Vice President and General Manager of VR Training at Axon, where she leads product, design, and engineering teams developing immersive training solutions for public safety. With over 20 years in technology, Thi has driven Axon’s VR expansion from pilot to global scale, training thousands of officers worldwide. Her team’s work has earned national recognition for innovation in de-escalation and less-lethal training.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Thi on LinkedInConnect with Brad on LinkedInConnect with Will on LinkedIn

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, hosts Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with XREAL’s Ralph Jodice, General Manager of North America, and Amir Khorram, Global Head of Enterprise, to unpack how AR is maturing from novelty to enterprise necessity.Ralph and Amir share how XREAL has become the global leader in AR glasses with over 600,000 units shipped, leveraging a split-compute architecture that keeps devices light and enables longer sessions. They discuss how AR is transforming everyday work, from remote assistance in the field to productivity gains for “desk jockeys” who need multi-screen setups anywhere they go.The conversation dives into the current AR hardware landscape, XREAL’s partnerships with Google and Qualcomm, and their upcoming Project Aura, built on Android XR. The team unpacks why AR adoption is taking off, how comfort and affordability are unlocking one-to-one device ratios for enterprise, and what the next generation of spatial displays means for the future of work.Whether you’re exploring AR for remote support, immersive training, or productivity, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s possible today—and a peek at what’s just around the corner.Key Moments:• XREAL’s journey to 600,000 AR glasses and the shift to enterprise (3:28)• How lightweight wearables enable new spaces for enterprise XR (7:10)• Everyday use cases and remote assistance (10:10) • Ralph’s real-world take on productivity in AR (11:40)• Adoption of XR within enterprise companies (13:50)• State of the AR market and room for growth (15:50)• Split-computing vs all-in-one devices (18:06)• What sets XREAL’s tech apart from other AR glasses (20:00)• The limitations and challenges of AR (23:35)• A look at the future of XREAL: Project Aura (24:55)• What’s missing in the field of AR (31:30)Quotes:“We’ve shipped over 600,000 AR glasses—more than anyone else in the space. That’s proof people want lightweight, plug-and-play devices that just work.” – Ralph Jodice, XREAL“What we’re really trying to do is enable people to wear these glasses for longer than 15, 30, or 45 minutes. If that means having a tether, that’s totally fine. There’s nothing lost, and a lot gained.” – Amir Khorram, XREALAbout the Guests:Ralph JodiceRalph Jodice is the General Manager of North America at XREAL, leading market expansion and partnerships. With a background in PR, Ralph spent over a decade at Xbox developing deep expertise in gaming and consumer tech. Now he drives XREAL’s mission to make AR glasses practical, lightweight, and scalable for enterprise and everyday use. Amir KhorramAmir Khorram is the Global Head of Enterprise at XREAL, guiding strategy and adoption of AR across industries. With 10 years in XR—including leadership roles at HTC Vive and PICO—he focuses on accelerating enterprise AR deployment through practical, scalable solutions that bridge consumer innovation and professional use.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Ralph Jodice on LinkedInAmir Khorram on LinkedInBrad Scoggin on LinkedInWill Stackable on LinkedIn

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with Sophie Thompson, CEO and co-founder of VirtualSpeech, and Gema Molero, Project Manager of XR at IE University, to explore how VR is reshaping higher education.What started as Sophie’s personal struggle with social anxiety has grown into VirtualSpeech—a global VR platform for soft skills training. Partnering with IE University, they’ve scaled immersive public speaking and leadership training across campuses, impacting thousands of students. Gema shares how IE made VR compulsory for over 1,000 master’s students, scaled to 700+ devices, and proved measurable gains in student confidence and skills.The conversation covers the origins of VirtualSpeech, faculty adoption hurdles, the power of AI feedback, and how ArborXR helps IE University manage devices across multiple campuses. Whether you’re running a pilot or scaling XR globally, this episode is full of lessons on building programs that stick.Key Moments01:02 – From Social Anxiety to VR Pioneer05:03 – Why IE University Made VR Compulsory11:07 – Faculty Adoption & Early Challenges15:30 – What Students Actually Do in VR20:39 – The Power of Immersion & Emotional Response20:39 – AI Coaching for Personalized Learning21:46 – Scaling to 700 Devices Across Campuses27:31 – Proving ROI: Confidence Up 24% in Two Sessions27:31 – Advice for Universities Considering VRQuotes“In less than 20 minutes, students using VirtualSpeech increased their public speaking confidence by 24%.” – Brad Scoggin, citing IE University data“At first, we had 300 headsets. Now we’re managing over 700 devices across multiple campuses—and ArborXR makes that possible.” – Gema MoleroAbout the GuestsSophie Thompson is the CEO and co-founder of VirtualSpeech, the first VR app built to help people overcome fear of public speaking, now used globally for soft skills training.Gema Molero is the Project Manager of XR at IE University in Spain, where she leads the integration of VR into curriculum and manages the university’s 700+ headset deployment.Links and ResourcesGema Molero on LinkedinSophie Thompson on LinkedInVirtualSpeech WebsiteIE University WebsiteBrad Scoggin on LinkedInWill Stackable on LinkedIn

Episode Summary:In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with Dave Raasakka of Somero Enterprises and Greg Meyers & Devin Weidinger from ForgeFX to explore how VR is transforming training for the concrete construction industry.What began as a solution to scaling training for niche heavy equipment has evolved into a full-fledged VR program that’s enhancing safety, saving costs, and boosting trainee confidence. The conversation dives deep into how Somero equips operators to handle machines that weigh up to 20,000 pounds—without ever touching real concrete. From loading a screed machine onto a trailer to precision pouring with laser-guided equipment, trainees now fail safely in virtual environments before they ever touch the real thing.Together, the teams unpack the technical side of building a high-fidelity VR experience, how multi-user sessions enable real-time feedback, and why starting small is key to launching a successful XR training program.Key Moments:The Hiring Bottleneck That Sparked Somero’s VR Program (02:26)How Somero Integrated VR into a Real-World Training Pipeline (05:00)Simulating High-Stakes Tasks Safely: The Trailer Loading Use Case (08:31)How ForgeFX Identifies High-Impact Use Cases (10:30)Why VR? Why not video or text? (15:24)Creating Physical and Spatial Memory (18:16)Building High-Fidelity, Accurate Digital Twins (20:16)Using ArborXR to Manage, Deploy, and Iterate at Scale (23:59)Advice for Launching Your XR Training Program (34:45)“VR gives us what I call ‘safety without penalty.’ You can make a mistake and learn from it without damage or danger—and that’s a huge win in our world.” – Dave Raasakka, Somero Enterprises"I’ve got a one-word answer to “Why VR?”—failure. Failure is phenomenal in training. You can't excel at something unless you try and fail and figure out how to overcome it. In the real world, you can’t let someone drive a trailer off the edge to learn spatial awareness. But in VR, you can fail safely, learn from it, and improve.” – Greg Meyers, ForgeFXAbout the Guests:Dave RaasakkaDave is the Senior Vice President of Global Customer Support at Somero Enterprises, where he oversees XR training strategy. With 25+ years in mechanical engineering and support, Dave has led the adoption of VR to help train operators on complex screed equipment across the U.S.Greg MeyersGreg is the CEO of ForgeFX Simulations. With a background in immersive learning and enterprise simulations, he leads ForgeFX’s strategy to help manufacturers reduce risk and cost by creating simulation-based training.Devin WeidingerDevin is the Technical Director at ForgeFX. He brings a decade of VR experience, including projects like Job Simulator and Rick and Morty VR. At ForgeFX, he ensures training simulations are realistic, intuitive, and immersive.Links & Resources:Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-weidinger-3a451467/Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-meyers-4402a514/Connect with Devin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-weidinger/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/Somero Enterprises website: https://www.somero.com/ForgeFX website: https://www.forgefx.com/

Episode Summary:In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with Dr. Christina Potter from Nicklaus Children’s Hospital to unpack how VR is revolutionizing pediatric care and staff training.Christina shares how what began as a one-year pilot to reduce pre-surgery anxiety has scaled into a hospital-wide program supporting 8,000 patients in a year. From immersive patient distraction tools to cutting-edge staff training on behavioral emergencies, the hospital is seeing measurable reductions in pain, stress, and clinical incidents.The episode explores how Christina built a scalable, data-driven VR program from scratch, the importance of co-creating content with hospital staff, and how ArborXR helps them manage headsets across 12 units. Whether it’s reducing parental anxiety or helping neurodiverse patients learn to drive, this is a compelling look at VR for good in healthcare.Key Moments:Problem Solving with VR at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital (00:41)Early Challenges Launching a VR Program (04:01)Current Use Cases Across 12 Units (07:20)Day-to-Day VR at the Hospital (11:51)Improving Pediatric Patient Experiences (14:44)Why VR Works for Pain and Anxiety (17:37)Staff Training with VR for Psychiatric Emergencies (24:29)Co-Creating Content with Hospital Teams (29:22)The Future of XR in Pediatric Healthcare (34:43)“We supported 8,000 patients with VR last year alone, and ArborXR helps us manage it all. Being able to push content, track usage, and show real-time data makes all the difference when pitching for funding and proving impact.” – Dr. Christina Potter“We’ve seen up to a 60% drop in patient anxiety and pain perception—and a 70% reduction in parental anxiety—just by introducing VR into the pre-op experience.” – Dr. Christina PotterAbout Dr. Christina Potter:Dr. Christina Potter is the Director of Digital Innovation at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. With a background in research and a passion for emerging technology, Christina has led the hospital’s expansion into virtual reality, developing use cases for patients, staff, and caregivers. Under her leadership, Nicklaus has seen over 8,000 VR uses annually, with outcomes including a 60% reduction in preoperative anxiety and groundbreaking staff training programs.Links & Resources:Connect with Dr. Christina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinapotterphd/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/Nicklaus Children's Hospital website: https://www.nicklauschildrens.org/home

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable sit down with Tomissa Smittendorf from Kellanova and Scott Stachiw from Roundtable Learning to explore how VR revolutionized retail sales training at Kellanova.Tomissa shares how they replaced an expensive, in-person grocery store training center with an immersive VR experience that enhances onboarding, boosts display execution by 90%, and improves knowledge retention. Scott breaks down the design strategy behind creating a virtual store where new hires learn to upsell, identify safety issues, and build real-world confidence. The episode dives into how VR created scalable, data-driven training, and why strong partnerships are key to successful XR adoption. From overcoming deployment challenges to envisioning future applications across supply chain and retail partners, this is a masterclass in turning XR experimentation into a strategic advantage.Timestamps:Problem Solving with VR at Kellanova (01:19)Roundtable’s collaboration with Kellanova (05:02) What makes a successful VR deployment (06:48)Kellanova’s use-cases today (07:46) How did Kellanova decide to embrace VR training? (12:30)How does Roundtable Learning take on a project like this? (16:43) Scoping a VR project for Roundtable and Kellanova (22:43)How has ArborXR positively affected deployment? (26:35)What’s next for VR at Kellanova and beyond? (31:28)About Tomissa Smittendorf: Tomissa has over 30 years of CPG experience and is a visionary leader at Kellanova, driving growth through strategic learning initiatives. As Sr. Director, Commercial Capabilities, she led the launch of VR training at Kellanova, transforming onboarding and upskilling. Her work builds high-impact teams and a culture of continuous learning that solves real business challenges. About Scott Stachiw: Scott Stachiw is VP of XR Development and Design at Roundtable Learning, where he leads immersive learning strategy and content creation. With deep expertise in instructional design and XR technologies, Scott played a key role in launching Kellanova’s VR training—designing scalable, experiential solutions that drive measurable business impact.About ArborXR: ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:How Kellanova uses VR for Sales Training: https://youtu.be/8J88QdsqoL8?si=jfZExI_HJNnh2_lYConnect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stachiw/Connect with Tomissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomissasmittendorf/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

Boston Children's Hospital is pioneering the use of XR technology to enhance medical training and improve patient care. In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, we meet with Angelina Gu, an XR Simulation Specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital’s Immersive Design Systems. Angelina shares how XR is transforming medical training by providing realistic, scenario-based learning experiences for clinical staff. She discusses how VR helps trainees practice high-risk procedures, familiarize themselves with hospital environments, and improve communication skills in high-stress situations. The conversation highlights the importance of easing new users into VR, the challenges of managing device updates, and the role of data in optimizing training. Angelina also shares insights on the future of XR in healthcare, predicting deeper integration with traditional simulations and increased accessibility. We explore how XR enhances—not replaces—existing training methods, making medical education more immersive and effective.Timestamps:Angelina’s Role at Immersive Design Systems (00:35)What Challenges Inspired the Introduction of XR? (01:17)Skills Taught in Students’ XR Experiences (03:22)Content Development (08:59)Challenges of XR Implementation (11:46)Angelina’s Experience of Device Management (15:30)Medical Training in VR and Public Perception (20:11)VR in Health Care over the Next Decade (23:26)About Angelina Gu: Angelina is an XR Simulation Specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital's Immersive Design Systems. Collaborating with clinical educators at BCH, Angelina develops and facilitates immersive training experiences harnessing the power of immersive media (VR, AR, MR, 360 media, etc). Angelina is passionate about how immersive media transform medical simulation practice, making medical training more accessible and engaging. About ArborXR: ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Learn more about Boston Children’s Hospital Immersive Design Systems Connect with Angelina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelinaguboston/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

Mars Wrigley, one of the world’s largest food manufacturers, faced significant challenges in their gum production operations: increasing output, improving efficiency, and reducing employee training time. The solution? Virtual Reality. In this episode, we explore how Mars Wrigley revolutionized its training program using VR, cutting training time in half and boosting output by 45%. Faced with the challenge of onboarding 200 operators in just six months, Mars Wrigley partnered with Futurus and ArborXR to create an immersive learning experience. The VR solution standardized training, improved retention, and delivered measurable results, including a $19 million business impact and 200,000 additional cases of gum in seven months.Join us as we discuss how this innovative approach is shaping the future of workforce development and scaling across global operations.Timestamps:Mars Wrigley’s start in VR Technology (00:47)Mars Wrigley’s Reduction in Training and What It Looks Like (04:30)Employee’s Response to VR Training (09:52) Why VR over Other Training Options (13:50)The Secret of Mars Wrigley’s $20 Million in Savings (21:42)The Economics of Implementing VR Training (24:48)The Benefit of Experienced ISVs (29:12) The Challenges of XR Deployment and Arbor’s Assistance (32:14)Advice for Future XR Deployers (37:45)About Josh McCrary: As the Training Coordinator at Mars Wrigley, Josh oversees VR training initiatives across multiple facilities, managing modules that streamline onboarding and upskilling for employees. With hands-on experience training operators both traditionally and with VR, Josh focuses on optimizing processes to boost efficiency and reduce downtime. His leadership has been instrumental in scaling Mars Wrigley VR training programs nationwide.About Lauren Rucker: Lauren Rucker is the Training Lead for Mars Wrigley’s stick packaging operations, designing and implementing modules that have successfully onboarded over 200 employees. With a background in education and instructional design, Lauren aligns training strategies with corporate goals, ensuring effective skill development. About ArborXR: ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-rucker/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode, Alex Rühl from PwC shares insights into her role as Head of Emerging Tech and the company’s innovative use of VR internally and externally for clients. From VR training for leadership and healthcare to groundbreaking projects like "In My Shoes," designed to foster empathy and awareness about race, Alex highlights how VR is transforming industries. Alex also discusses PwC’s pivotal VR study showcasing faster learning and cost-effectiveness at scale, as well as VR’s impact on remote work, data visualization, and pre-sales. Tune in to explore how VR is redefining learning, collaboration, and engagement, while driving measurable outcomes for PwC and their clients.Timestamps:What is PwC? (00:44)Alex’s initial work at PwC (02:06)How has PwC’s research influenced VR? (05:32) How has PwC implemented VR in their workflow on Alex’s Team? (10:36) What’s exciting Alex about VR? (15:00)How benefits does Alex see implementing VR at PwC? (22:06) The impact of “In My Shoes” as a training resource in VR (26:14)Managing a fleet of AR & VR devices with ArborXR (35:04)Conclusion (37:08)About the Guest:Alex Rühl is an award-winning VR creator and Head of Emerging Tech at PwC. Renowned for projects like "Keyed Alike" and "Playing God"—which premiered at Cannes Film Festival—she’s a Global XR All-Star and TEDx speaker, driving innovation by helping organizations leverage emerging technologies for the future of work and entertainment.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmakesvr/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, ArborXR is joined by Andrew Seleznov, Head of Production at Snap’s Arcadia Innovation AR Studio. Andrew shares his journey into augmented reality, inspired by a transformative 2016 YouTube video, and discusses his pivotal role at Snap, including leading projects for global brands like Nike, Disney, and Coca-Cola.Highlighting Arcadia’s mission, Andrew explains how the team delivers bespoke AR solutions, such as interactive festival maps, accessible AR vending machines and more. He reflects on the balance between innovation and usability, emphasizing the importance of simplicity in AR experiences. We also explore AR’s evolution, Snap’s Spectacles, and the potential of XR to transform daily life and well-being over the next decade. This episode is a deep dive into XR’s current impact and boundless future. If you’re an XR enthusiast, enterprise leader, or curious to learn more about the technology - tune in.Timestamps:Andrew’s Current Role at Snap, Inc. (00:44)Projects at Snap, Inc. (05:24)User Feedback to Festival AR (09:19)Collaborating with Coca-Cola (12:24)Future Use Cases (12:24)Snap Spectacles (17:00)The Future of XR (25:39)About the Guest:Andrew Seleznov is the Head of AR Production at Snap’s Arcadia Creative Studio, where he leads a team crafting cutting-edge AR experiences for global brands like Nike, Disney, and Coca-Cola. With eight years at Snap, Andrew combines technical expertise and creative leadership to pioneer innovative, accessible AR solutions that redefine industry standards.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewseleznov/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode of the XR Industry Leaders Podcast, we learn how Parker University is using VR to advance their chiropractic program.Mary Lee Carter, Immersive Teaching and Learning Specialist at Parker University, shares how the school embraced XR following a tornado in 2019 that disrupted campus facilities. The staff pivoted to VR to enhance accessibility and learning. The university’s “twin” metaverse, developed with VictoryXR, allows students to virtually explore campus and participate in classes remotely.We discuss ways students leverage VR content for anatomy education, communications training and beyond. Mary Lee highlights challenges like Wi-Fi limitations and creating chiropractic-specific scenarios with partners like SimX.Parker employs a mix of one-to-one and shared headset models, managed with ArborXR, to streamline deployment. Mary Lee explores the possibility of expanding VR across programs to advance immersive learning and human performance studies, underscoring its growing role in education.Timestamps:Overview of XR at Parker University (00:46)Employing the Metaverse at Parker University (02:59)Student Response to the Metaverse (05:38)Feedback on XR’s Role in Education (09:49)Managing XR Resources (11:35)Challenges of Building an XR Lab (20:25)The Benefits of Working with ArborXR (22:23)What’s Next for Parker University with XR (25:23)About the Guest:Mary Lee Carter is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE™) dedicated to immersive teaching and learning. She specializes in VR/AR/MR simulations and standardized patient scenarios in higher education. With extensive experience in hospital-based and academic medical simulation programs, she works with one of the world’s largest Chiropractic cohorts.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Mary Lee Carter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-lee-carter-simulation/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode, ArborXR co-founders Brad Scoggin and Will Stackable explore how Energy Safety Canada is using XR to address an anticipated job shortage in the country’s energy industry.Program Managers Kelly Johnson and Lisa Pollio lead an initiative that uses VR to engage and educate students about the careers in the energy industry. Since 2019, they’ve launched VR experiences that virtually transport users to drilling rigs, oil sands, and other worksites, offering immersive career exploration.You’ll learn how the organization uses “virtual field trips” to give students hands-on insights into the energy industry’s diverse roles, from engineering to environmental sustainability.Using ArborXR’s device management, Energy Safety Canada streamlines content and keeps devices updated, reaching over 3,000 students annually. With gamified VR content and relatable career options, they aim to reshape perceptions of energy careers, showing the sector as tech-driven and full of exciting opportunities.Timestamps:Introduction to Energy Safety Canada (01:05)What careers in energy can look like (05:54)How does Energy Safety Canada source their content (07:45)How did Energy Safety Canada decide on this use case? (10:53)Challenges and lessons learned (14:38)Using ArborXR to manage logistics (19:03)Where is VR headed? (26:03)About the Guests:Lisa Pollio has been at Energy Safety Canada for over 5 years. She is dedicated to engaging students with immersive VR experiences that highlight career opportunities in energy. Passionate about technology and education, she is a Program Manager leading initiatives that gamify industry roles, showing the diversity and dynamism of energy careers to future generations.Kelly Johnson is a Program Manager at Energy Safety Canada, where she leads innovative projects to inspire young talent in the energy industry. With a background in workforce development, she focuses on creating VR experiences that offer students an immersive look into energy careers, helping to bridge the gap between education and industry needs.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-johnson-79594265/Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-pollio-bodnarus-crsp-823872b/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode of XR Industry Leaders, we meet with virtual reality visionary, Dr. Albert “Skip” Rizzo, Director of Medical Virtual Reality at the University of Southern California (USC). Dr. Rizzo shares his groundbreaking work in applying VR technology to clinical psychology and rehabilitation, showcasing the transformative power of immersive technologies in healthcare.This conversation explores Dr. Rizzo’s countless contributions to the field, including the development and widespread adoption of “Bravemind,” a VR-based exposure therapy program for PTSD treatment.We also dive into his research and innovative applications of VR in ADHD assessment, physical rehabilitation, and autism spectrum disorder support.Dr. Rizzo also shares his outlook on how VR will revolutionize clinical practices and improve patient outcomes.Key Highlights:Pioneering researcher in VR applications for clinical assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation across psychological, cognitive, and motor functioning domains.Developer of “Bravemind,” a widely adopted VR exposure therapy tool for PTSD treatment, used in over 170 clinical sites.Recipient of the American Psychological Association’s 2010 Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Treatment of Trauma.Innovator in using VR for diverse applications, from ADHD assessment in children to physical rehabilitation and social skills training for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.Timestamps:Skip’s work with Bravemind (01:06)Pioneering Tech in Medical VR (05:17)The Emotional Engagement of VR (08:23)Mind VR and Working with Dementia (10:44)Translating Therapeutic Experiences into Data (12:29) VR with ADHD (17:18)VR for Physical and Mental Rehabilitation (23:24)Working with AI Patients (26:36)The Future of VR (32:51)About the Guest:Dr. Albert "Skip" Rizzo is a pioneer in the field of medical virtual reality. He is a clinical psychologist by training. As the Director of Medical Virtual Reality at the University of Southern California Institute for Creative Technologies, he leads innovative research and development efforts that bridge the gap between clinical needs and technological solutions. He’s been at USC since 1995. About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Skip on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skiprizzovr/See Skip’s latest videos on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQrbzaW3x9wWoZPl4-l4GSAConnect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

South Dakota State University strived to use XR to bring educational access to rural communities – starting with outreach and gradually expanding to classroom use. In this episode, we meet with Dr. Greg Heiberger to explore how they made that goal a reality.Today, SDSU integrates XR into various subjects across their curriculum, from nursing, to architecture and chemistry. They’ve also conducted research showing VR’s effectiveness in anatomy education when used before cadaver labs.We uncover how the university overcame challenges in scaling an XR program in a rural community, and explored how the technology prepares students for future workforce needs.Looking ahead, Greg sees XR as a catalyst for innovation at SDSU, and as a potential solution to address challenges in rural education and healthcare across the country.Timestamps:Greg on the educational landscape of rural South Dakota (01:06)Scaling up from just one headset (04:34)The use-cases and return on investment (11:28)Using VR on campus with students (19:42)Translating success to leadership (24:08)How ArborXR has helped scale the XR program at SDSU (27:49)XR – The spark for innovation and its future at SDSU (32:04)About the Guest:Dr. Greg Heiberger is a quantitative researcher with 19 years of experience at South Dakota State University (SDSU). His research interests span from STEM education to the impact of social media. Dr. Heiberger was among the first to publish work demonstrating the positive relationship between Facebook use and increased student engagement among college students. He’s currently the Associate Dean for Academics and Student Success, and spearheads the university’s XR initiatives.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregheiberger/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode of XR Industry Leaders, we explore one of the largest XR deployments in the world of education with Louise Paepe, XR Coordinator for RTC Antwerpen.She shares how RTC Antwerpen is leading VR integration across nearly 700 schools in Flanders, Belgium, benefiting 150,000 students.We uncover the importance of strategic planning, from rigorous teacher training to carefully vetting educational content to align with curriculum goals. The initiative involves collaboration with over 100 partners and leverages ArborXR’s platform to streamline content management and headset deployment.RTC Antwerpen envisions VR becoming as essential in classrooms as laptops are today, reflecting their commitment to making VR a sustainable and valuable part of education.Timestamps:Introduction to RTC (00:52)The Cutting Edge of XR for Entering the Labor Market (01:58)Scoping and Deploying XR in Schools (04:25)Content Management (06:45)Guiding Educators in XR (09:56)The Logistics of Scaling Over 1000 Headsets (14:53)Managing Access Across a Whole Organization (17:19)Putting Parameters in Place for Vendors (20:56)Outro and Conclusion (24:07)About the Guest:Louise Paepe is the XR Coordinator at RTC Antwerpen, dedicated to enhancing education at the intersection of learning and the labor market. Louise oversees projects that bring innovative technologies into the classroom, ensuring they become sustainable educational tools. She helped spearhead the XR Action Plan, managing the deployment of VR headsets in schools across Flanders, Belgium.About RTC Antwerpen:RTC Antwerpen is a government organization in Flanders, Belgium, focused on bridging the gap between education and industry. For over 20 years, RTC has introduced innovations from the industrial sector to schools, particularly in technical and vocational education. They offer resources and organize specialized training programs for educators and students. Their projects include the XR action plan, deploying VR headsets across schools to enhance educational experiences. RTC plays a crucial role in ensuring that education aligns with labor market needs, fostering quality education through industry collaboration.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:View the XR Action Plan: https://rtc-antwerpen.be/xr-actieplan/Connect with Louise on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-paepe/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In the episode, we discuss the past, present and future of XR technology in enterprise, and Qualcomm’s role in shaping the industry. Brian Vogelsang joined us from Qualcomm to uncover how the company is driving advancements in the world of XR. Brian highlights initial challenges in understanding and deploying XR at scale but emphasizes the technology's diverse applications and substantial ROI. He elaborated on how XR is revolutionizing learning and development by enhancing speed, retention, and accessibility.We dive into Qualcomm's advancements into machine learning and AI, which enhances XR devices' capabilities and user interfaces. We also touch on their key collaborations with Lenovo on the VRX standalone VR headset, and with Sony on a high-resolution mixed reality headset for enterprise and content creators.Learn about Qualcomm’s perspective on the future of XR over the next ten years, and why the company believes the technology will fundamentally change how enterprises operate.Timestamps:Introduction to Qualcomm (01:37)Qualcomm’s origin in XR (02:33)AR vs VR in the market (04:52)Qualcomm’s contributions to the industry (07:08)What is the impetus of Qualcomm’s tech and what’s next? (12:39)Challenges of scaling to enterprise (16:57)The successes of Snapdragon Spaces (20:23)Where is technology going next? (26:19)Outro and Conclusion (43:30)About the Guest:Brian Vogelsang is the Senior Director of Product Management at Qualcomm. His 30 year career at Qualcomm began in IT before moving into the XR space about 7 years ago. He conceived, built, and launched Snapdragon Spaces, the first commercial, cross-OEM XR platform. With a deep expertise in product strategy and development, Brian led the multi-year roadmap for Snapdragon Spaces, securing C-level approval and scaling the team from 2 to over 300 professionals. He spearheaded the integration of key acquisitions. About Qualcomm:Qualcomm is a leader in the XR space. Their mission is to enable a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. Qualcomm powers products and technologies including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and more. Their Snapdragon® XR solutions include processors, software and perception technologies, reference designs and developer tools.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bvogelsang/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

Discover HTC’s VR Revolution - from mobile devices, to gaming and enterprise innovations. In this episode of XR Industry Leaders, our guest Daniel O'Brien reveals how HTC is pioneering VR and AR technology for a transformative future. Learn about the critical factors in choosing XR headsets for your business, the role of 5G in next-gen connectivity, and the positive impact of VR and AR in fields like mental health and senior care.The VIVE set new industry standards with its superior tracking and durability, featuring innovations like room-scale VR and 90 frames per second gameplay. Initially targeting gamers, HTC's open system design nurtured a thriving developer ecosystem, extending VR technology's reach into sectors like automotive and architecture.We delve into the importance of privacy, security, and ease of deployment while highlighting HTC's monumental partnerships in aerospace, defense, financial services, and healthcare. Tune in to see how HTC's mission of human-centered innovation is shaping the XR landscape.Timestamps:HTC entering the XR industry (00:51)Bringing the HTC VIVE to market (02:25)Transitioning from smartphones to VR (08:21)Keeping open systems for development in 2024 (15:30)What to look for in a headset depending on the use-case (24:18)Pilot programs/going to scale with HTC (28:37)What’s next for HTC (32:27)“I painted with rainbows” (40:37)Outro and conclusion (43:30)About the Guest:Daniel O’Brien is a seasoned technology executive with over 24 years of experience in leading and managing the commercialization of emerging technologies, innovations, and solutions for consumers and professional customers. He is the HTC VIVE President for the Americas, overseeing the sales, marketing, product, and operations for the immersive and wireless divisions of HTC.As a humanity mission driven leader, Daniel is focused on delivering revenue growth, brand building, e-commerce strategies, business development, content creation, and strategic partnerships for HTC VIVE, the pioneer and global leader in virtual reality. He has a proven track record of defining and executing the channel strategy, marketing strategy, product management, supply chain, and public relations for HTC VIVE.About HTC:HTC designed some of the world's first touch and wireless hand-held devices. The company is now also a leader in VR technology, pioneering advancements in tracking, durability, and immersive experiences. At HTC, their mission is to connect the world through design that extends beyond gaming into sectors like automotive, architecture, and healthcare. About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obriend17/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

In this episode, we explore how Delta Air Lines is revolutionizing employee training by using VR. We met with Kevin Marcum, VR/AR Program Manager at Delta Air Lines, to discuss the project’s success, which has increased necessary employee proficiency checks for deicing airplanes from about 5 to 150 per day - almost a 5,000% increase. VR training for this process saves Delta significant time and money in the long term. We uncover Delta’s journey with VR - from Kevin’s first experience with the technology, to building a robust VR training program that continues to grow. We discuss the benefits of VR training in simulating real-world plane operations at Delta, and how XR can revolutionize training practices, enhance safety, and drive efficiency in the aviation industry. Timestamps:Getting started with XR training (01:06)Ramp training with VR (07:11)Delta Air Lines’ initial proof of concept (11:20)Delta Air Lines’ most successful program: De-Icing (13:21)Qualifying/quantifying program success (20:10)Getting started with Futurus (24:38)Advice for starting a VR training initiative (27:40)The future of VR at Delta (28:55)Conclusion (33:38)About the Guest:Kevin joined Delta Air Lines 28 years ago as a ramp agent and began his role as VR/AR Program Manager in 2018. His expertise is in Operations Management with a strong background in customer service and safety. Kevin’s focus is innovation and process improvement amidst the constantly changing industry. About Delta Air Lines:Delta Air Lines, headquartered in Atlanta, employs over 100,000 global employees. They operate over 4,000 daily flights to more than 290 destinations across six continents. Delta served over 190 million customers in 2023, maintaining its reputation as North America's most on-time airline. The company prioritizes safety, sustainability, and inclusivity. About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-marcum-35432ba/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

Designing extended reality (XR) in films like Iron man, The Martian, and Prometheus created the foundation that pulled Territory Studios into the real world practice of developing extended reality for enterprise.Marti Romances (Co-Founder and Creative Director) discusses how Territory Studio has created AR for Marvel and other Hollywood studios by imagining the exciting potential and practicality of XR. Their concepts for visual effects soon became feasible in the real world as the hardware and software capability of VR improved from their early days. Marti and his team are now at the forefront of design across multiple markets within the XR landscape. In this interview, Marti anticipates how as immersive technology improves over the next few years, use-cases will become even more impactful. He highlights with XR you need to “learn by doing” – often there is a practicality of learning through failure. Imagine the future, today, with Territory Studio’s Marti Romances as he dives into the world of extended reality (XR) within cinema, electric vehicles, health care, and more. Tune into the latest episode of XR Industry Leaders to learn how “design by doing” has kept Marti and Territory studio on the forefront of XR design to serve clients by anticipating tomorrow’s technology. Timestamps:Marti’s Beginning in Hollywood (01:36)The Next Few Years of VR Hardware (8:33)Using Augmented Reality for Surgical Training at Medivis (14:03)Technical Considerations Between Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality (17:16)Future Headset Developments and the AR User Experience (18:26)Preparing Clients for XR Technology (20:29)“Learning by Doing” and Practical Application vs. Theoretical (21:15)Advice for Getting A Project Off-The-Ground, Internally (26:34)About the Guest:Creative Director and Co-Founder at Territory Studio in San Francisco, Marti draws from a range of disciplines to design breakout content for memorable gaming experiences. A motion graphic designer and multi-media artist by trade, Marti articulates stories in a most captivating way, blending creativity with technology to realize innovative future-facing interfaces.Marti’s technical virtuosity is on display in fantasy, futuristic, and commercial projects, including visual and experiential narratives that define the future of film. His work on The Martian, Avengers: Endgame, Ex Machina, Blade Runner 2049, and Guardians of the Galaxy has also attracted brands such as GM, Fisker, Land Rover, and Volvo, all seeking his design influence for use in real-world technology.Marti’s continued willingness to experiment with bold ideas in new and exciting ways is proven with his extensive gaming work with partners at Activision, Nintendo, EA, 2K Games, and Microsoft. Beyond impactful visual effects and digital experiences created for his clients, Marti serves as an inspirational speaker, sharing his thoughts on design and creativity at global events such as Siggraph, MWC, Nike Immersion Labs, XDS and OFFF. In 2019 he was named one of the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Marti on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marti-romances-a8a31720/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/

Dive into the dynamic world of extended reality (XR) with Lenovo's Vishal Shah and Jason McGuigan as they unravel Lenovo’s new enterprise XR solution: the Lenovo ThinkReality VRX. Uncover how Lenovo's commitment to an open ecosystem, driven by partnerships with Qualcomm and Snapdragon Spaces, is shaping a new frontier in XR technology.Vishal Shah (GM AR/VR) and Jason McGuigan (Head of Commercial VR) discuss Lenovo’s unique approach to XR, prioritizing the enterprise from the ground up. Learn how the VRX is a product designed solely for enterprise applications and stands apart from products retrofitted for gaming and consumer use cases. Lenovo's strategic focus on not competing with solution providers but rather fostering a thriving partner ecosystem sets a new standard in the XR industry.Jason McGuigan shares insights from the front lines, observing a surge in XR adoption across industries. This rise is not just about flashy trends but practical, long-lasting applications, notably in training and collaboration, that have found a sweet spot in various sectors.Unveiling the transformative power of generative AI, Jason discusses its increasing role in content development, potentially revolutionizing the scale and scope of XR applications. This technological synergy hints at a future where hyper-personalization in education and training becomes a reality, thanks to the convergence of XR and AI technologiesLenovo's vision extends beyond the hardware, focusing on creating intuitive, user-friendly solutions that bridge the gap between current challenges and a future where XR is ubiquitous. This episode offers a unique perspective on Lenovo's strategic roadmap, exploring how they facilitate end-to-end XR solution deployment and scaling, ultimately driving digital transformation across industries.Timestamps:Lenovo's approach and the ThinkReality VRX (05:05)Lenovo's differentiator and how they built the VRX (08:23)How Lenovo embraces an ecosystem of partners (12:43)Market trends and where Lenovo is seeing the biggest uptick (16:53)Generative AI (20:21)You're not buying a device, you're buying a solution (24:13)Bridging the gap (29:31)Easy access to content with Demo Apps (34:01)Lenovo's partnership with Formula One (39:35)Outro (41:47)About the Guests:Vishal Shah is currently the General Manager of XR (AR/VR) and Metaverse at Lenovo. In his role, Vishal has global responsibility of all aspects of Product Management, Sales, Marketing and Operations for the XR/Metaverse group. He is responsible for managing the portfolio of ThinkReality XR solutions, an industry leading end-to-end solution that powers the Enterprise Metaverse. This includes the award-winning ThinkReality A3 smart glasses, Mirage VR S3 for enterprise VR solutions, and that the ThinkReality Platform, which is among the first truly device- and cloud-agnostic XR platforms to enable commercial customers to build, deploy, and manage applications and content on a global scale, with global support.Jason McGuigan is the Head of Commercial Virtual Reality at Lenovo. He is responsible for the organization’s current and future strategy for developing VR solutions across hardware, software, and partnerships. His focus is on driving enterprises to scale their adoption of VR in training, collaboration, and metaverse presence. Jason has over 20 years of experience in immersive and traditional media leadership and technology. Within the software realm, he has led, designed, created, directed, and produced high-quality VR experiences and media products for clients including Lenovo, National Geographic, IBM, The Home Depot, BASF, Disney, and many others. A deep understanding of the hardware and technology behind VR started over 35 years ago when he built his first PC. It has continued to evolve throughout the early days of immersive technology as he consulted on VR hardware solutions for many companies such as Gulfstream and General Motors. He is a regular speaker, thought leader, and advocate in the VR/AR space and has presented at industry conferences as well as unique venues like Skywalker Ranch and NASA.About ArborXR:ArborXR helps organizations confidently manage VR & AR devices at scale, remotely install content, and control what users can see and do in the headset. Our mission is to help people live more meaningful lives through the power of XR. Learn more at https://arborxr.com.Links & Resources:Connect with Vishal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishalshah/Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xr-gai/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-scoggin/Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willstackable/