What SXSW Taught Me (Again) About Innovation, Culture, and the Power of Place
Nyla Beth Gawel is a seasoned executive business leader with 15+ years of experience driving corporate strategy and innovation. As the founder of NBG Strategy Consulting, she focuses on aligning decisions with strategy, particularly where culture, tech, and leadership intersect. She's also a mom, wife, avid traveler, and a dedicated board member for organizations like the American Red Cross. Through these blog posts, Nyla Beth shares her unique insights on strategy, technology, leadership, travel experiences, and the challenges and triumphs of balancing a dynamic career with personal passions.
This March, I returned to Austin for SXSW — joining a panel at the German House on global innovation, women in leadership, and how culture shapes our approach to tech. But what stood out this year was what happened off stage.
Museum of the Future’s AI installations, driverless Ubers, and Dubai chocolate experiences reminded me: the future is already here. Austin isn’t predicting what’s next — it’s living it.
“No longer are we talking about the future. We’re living it.”
South by Southwest (SXSW) is a multifaceted event that has evolved into a convergence of technology, film, music, education, and culture. While it began with distinct tracks, the lines have increasingly blurred, creating a unique atmosphere where diverse interests intersect. Whether you're drawn to cutting-edge tech innovations, independent films, emerging musicians, or educational panels, SXSW offers a vibrant melting pot of experiences. However, it's crucial to identify your primary interests to maximize your time, as different segments of the event may peak at various times and require strategic scheduling to make the most of the festival's offerings.
Hestia, Michelin Star Restaurant
Line Hotel in Austin, TX
Bat Cave Experience
Where to Stay:
The Line Hotel
A nature-inspired space right downtown with tarot readings, rooftop yoga, and killer tacos.
Where to Eat:
Franklin Barbecue: franklinbbq.com
Hestia (Michelin-star dining): hestiaaustin.com
Veracruz All Natural (breakfast tacos): veracruzallnatural.com
SXSW has evolved — maybe even shifted into something new. But the real insights now live in the city itself: from tech on the streets to pop-ups redefining experience.
Travel Tips List
- Book hotels early — or be flexible
- Join QR code lists for secret events
- Don’t overschedule
- Plan meals and go early
Japan Adventure Awaits! My time at the Women in Tech Global Summit at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka was transformative. I'll be sharing all about it in my next post.
✈️ Planning Something Extraordinary?
Whether you're curating a leadership retreat, hosting a global summit, or simply want to experience culture with deeper intention — I’d love to help you design it. Reach out to me at contact@nylabethgawel.com.