We’re heading to SXSW 2025, and if you’re passionate about product development, the future of tech, and how AI comes in the mix, we’d love to connect!
We’ve long had a presence in Austin, Texas, as part of the community of tech leaders and startup founders at Capital Factory and WeWork - hosting events like Keep Ruby Weird and RailsBridge, as well as participating in Austin’s thriving designer community.
This year, our resident Austinites Dawn and Lindsey (that’s us!) will be heading back to SXSW to dive into ethical and impactful AI. We’re also revealing some of our favorite local gems to enjoy Austin off the SXSW beaten track (so you can impress your new networking pals).
Top SXSW 2025 sessions for the thoughtful product leader
Our focus at the conference this year will be on ethical AI practices, the evolving role of AI in shaping customer experiences, and real world AI implementation. AI is transforming the way businesses operate and products solve customer problems, and we want to deepen our understanding of its potential, challenges, and best practices.
As we gain insights that help us build more effective solutions with our clients, we hope to answer some important questions. What are some ethical considerations of AI adoption that we can ensure align with innovation and responsible practices? How are product teams ensuring that AI drives customer value? How does AI help engineers and designers solve problems?
Must-see AI sessions at SXSW 2025
SXSW is packed with AI discussions, and these are the ones we’re especially excited about:
Beyond Proof-of-Concept: Making AI Useful for Business – AI prototypes are everywhere, but how do businesses turn them into scalable, valuable solutions? This session digs into real-world AI implementation.
Beyond the Hype: Building Reliable and Trustworthy AI – As AI adoption grows, ensuring its reliability, fairness, and security is critical. What does it take to move beyond hype to real, trustworthy AI?
The Auto-Evolving Business: AI’s Agentic Near Future – AI agents are changing how businesses adapt and evolve. What happens when AI actively reshapes decision-making and operations?
AI Essentials: Practical Skills to Get Started – Whether you’re new to AI or looking to sharpen your skills, this session offers a hands-on approach to working with AI.
AI-Powered Organizations: Redefining the Future of Work – How are companies integrating AI into their daily workflows, and what does the AI-driven workplace really look like?
How AI and Tech Are Shaping Pandemic Preparedness – AI is playing a growing role in public health and crisis management. This session explores its role in pandemic prediction and response.
When AI Saves Lives: Real Applications in Mental Health – AI is being used to improve mental health care. We’re excited to learn how it’s making a real-world impact in healthcare and well-being.
Top SXSW 2025 session picks for design and technology
We’re also excited about sessions that explore design, accessibility, and the future of technology. Here’s what’s on our radar:
How “Good” Management Creates Bad Technology - Why well-intended management sometimes leads to poor technology outcomes and how to fix it.
Digital Accessibility As Strategy, Not Compliance – Accessibility should be integral to product strategy, not an afterthought.
The Future of Fintech: Rethink, Update, Capitalize - A discussion on how fintech is evolving and what’s next in the industry.
Enterprise Digital Products: The Death of Design Innovation? - Are large-scale enterprise products losing their innovative edge, and how can design teams push forward?
Super Charging Service: The High-Tech, Human Touch Solution - The balance between automation and the human experience in customer service and beyond.
Local guide to hidden Austin hangouts at SXSW 2025
Dawn’s picks:
Outdoorsy: It’s hard to tear yourself away from all the exciting events and happenings downtown, but Austin is home to some very beautiful landscapes and trails, and if you can manage, it’s worth a detour. In particular the 360 greenbelt entrance, Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, and sunset views over Lake Travis at the Oasis.
Indoorsy: Need to let off some steam or move your body after the conference grind? A couple of local favorites that are fairly easy to get to from downtown are Austin Bouldering Project, Black Swan Yoga, or Equinox on South Congress (bonus: you can treat yourself to some famous Joe’s coffee afterwards)
Lindsey’s picks:
BBQ: If you hit it at the right time, you’ll have less of a line at Micklethwait food truck on the east side and it is in the top tier of Austin BBQ. They got a Michelin nod this year.
Tacos: Again, going a bit outside the downtown hub, either to the east or west - can get a great taco with less of a rush at Taco Flats. The west side location is a chill spot for a meetup and the east side truck is at La Holly which is a very cool mezcal bar and patio.
Drinks: Revive yourself from the conference chaos with a Juiceland smoothie and maybe spring for the Dr Doctor wellness shot. Also highly recommend getting an agua fresca whenever you possibly can, the ultimate refreshment. I especially like the ones at Fresas.