New Arc Podcast

In this fourth episode of the New Arc Podcast, we welcome Dr. Luis Sentis — renowned roboticist, founder of the Human Centered Robotics Laboratory, former DARPA and NASA collaborator, and a pioneer in humanoid robots with over 200 peer-reviewed publications.Luis shares his journey from growing up in post-dictatorship Spain to building humanoids in the U.S., and why he believes robotics must be deeply human-centered. The conversation explores the explosive potential of humanoids in entertainment and branding — from Build-A-Bear style interactive characters to bringing beloved IPs into physical form, democratizing storytelling, and creating immersive, community-driven experiences.We dive into the convergence of robotics, AI, and narrative: emotional connection beyond screens, extending human creativity, community-centered design, empathy training through embodied interaction, and how affordable, expressive humanoids could transform everything from malls and theaters to personal storytelling. Luis also reflects on societal readiness, the importance of clear robotic intent, and building technology that augments rather than replaces human connection.This episode makes a powerful case for robotics as a tool for creativity, empathy, and community — not just capability.CreditsTheme Music: Composed and produced by Aaron Wagnerhttps://aaronpwagner.comIntro Narration Clip: Criswell from Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959)Directed by Edward D. Wood Jr. (Public Domain)Recorded at: Audion — Austin, TXhttps://audionllc.com/Produced by: New Arc Ventures

In this episode of the New Arc Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Javad Gatabi — entrepreneur, electrical engineer, PhD in materials science & commercialization, and inventor with 13 patents and 50+ technical publications.Javad shares his incredible journey growing up in Iran, stories of hidden gold and cheetahs, and how his passion for measurement led him into the world of advanced sensors. We explore how sensors are the unsung foundation of modern robotics, AI, autonomous systems, electric vehicles, and manufacturing — from basic detection to cutting-edge precision at the nanometer level.He dives into real-world innovation, including developing GPS collars for cheetahs with a custom non-invasive drop-off mechanism, working with Apple, oil & gas, and military applications, and the convergence of hardware, software, and AI that’s powering the next generation of robotics. The conversation also touches on creativity, human advantages, and building technology that serves meaningful, emotionally resonant experiences.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in robotics, sensor technology, AI, and the future of embodied intelligence.CreditsTheme Music: Composed and produced by Aaron Wagnerhttps://aaronpwagner.comIntro Narration Clip: Criswell from Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959)Directed by Edward D. Wood Jr. (Public Domain)Produced by: New Arc Ventures

In this second full episode of the New Arc Podcast, we shift from the hardware of robotics to the heart of storytelling.We explore the current state of the entertainment industry—its cyclical ebbs and flows, the pessimism around AI disruption and offshoring, and the underlying optimism fueled by technological democratization. We discuss why emotionally resonant, long-form narratives that touch the soul and spark family conversations matter more than short dopamine hits, the power of embodied experiences, and how robotics and AI can revive inspirational, character-driven storytelling. This episode makes the case for technology that serves deeper human connection and calls creators, builders, and investors to help shape the next generation of interactive entertainment—where story comes first.CreditsTheme Music: Composed and produced by Aaron Wagner https://aaronpwagner.comIntro Narration Clip: Criswell from Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959) Directed by Edward D. Wood Jr. (Public Domain)Produced by: New Arc Ventures

In this first full episode of the New Arc Podcast, we dive into the most overlooked piece of robotics and AI — not the brain, but the body.We explore why nonverbal communication, timing, gestures, and movie magic matter more than raw LLM responses, the challenges of the uncanny valley, and how Hollywood storytelling instincts can make robots feel truly alive. We discuss character embodiment, practical categories for robotic characters, and the future of meaningful human-robot connection.This episode lays the groundwork for how New Arc thinks about building the next generation of interactive storytelling — where technology serves narrative, not the other way around.CreditsTheme Music: Composed and produced by Aaron Wagner https://aaronpwagner.comIntro Narration Clip: Criswell from Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959) Directed by Edward D. Wood Jr. (Public Domain)Produced by: New Arc Ventures

In this prologue episode, we pull back the curtain on the vision behind New Arc — exploring the collision of robotics, artificial intelligence, and storytelling.We sit down for an honest conversation about where entertainment, technology, and humanity are heading. We discuss the shift from passive media to interactive, embodied experiences, why storytelling must lead technology rather than the other way around, and how we can build the next generation of immersive worlds without losing what makes us human.This episode sets the foundation for what New Arc is really about: using advanced tools like robotics and AI to create more meaningful, emotionally resonant stories — not just bigger spectacles.CreditsProduced by: New Arc Ventures