Miranda Palmisano

Miranda Palmisano

CEO

MadXR

Miranda Palmisano

What has been your business/work highlight of 2024 so far?

Our 2024 highlight has been forging transformative partnerships with XR giants like Motive, Innoactive, Immerse, Strivr, EducationXR, Viroo, HTC, and Meta, enabling us to push technological boundaries in our content creation. This, coupled with our successful expansion into vital sectors such as airline, automotive, construction, and medical, not only diversified our portfolio but also showcased our capability to deliver impactful XR solutions across industries.

Who is your business hero and why?

My business hero is undoubtedly my dad. Starting his company, EMDAT, in the 90s at my current age, he navigated it through the tumultuous waters of the business world to become a multi-million dollar entity, eventually catching the eye of Nuance in 2013. Growing up, I witnessed the hard work and dedication of both my parents, but it was only later in life that I fully grasped the magnitude of their struggles and achievements. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop with EMDAT; it ventured into diverse investments, including the innovative integration of VR technology in escape rooms. His journey inspires me not just because of his successes, but because of the resilience, innovation, and passion he embodies. These qualities resonate deeply with me as I navigate my own path in the XR industry.

What’s the biggest business mistake you’ve made and what did you learn from it?

Embarking on a project with just the client’s written nod, without the safety net of a signed contract, was a misstep that taught us a profound lesson the hard way. It was a moment that deeply reinforced the value of patience and due diligence in the face of excitement and trust. This experience, while painful, has instilled in us a more thoughtful approach to our engagements, ensuring our passion for innovation is always paired with wisdom.

What’s the most inspirational book you’ve ever read and why?

Reading ‘Lean In’ by Sheryl Sandberg early in my career was a pivotal moment that transformed my approach to the workplace. It not only changed my attitude, encouraging me to confidently claim my seat at the table, but also inspired me to embrace risk-taking as a pathway to growth. This book has been instrumental in shaping my journey, teaching me the value of advocating for myself and navigating the challenges of being a woman in the workforce with resilience and ambition.

What’s the biggest challenge you face in your role in 2024?

The biggest challenge I face in 2024 is managing the fluctuating volume of work coming into madxr, characteristic of the project-based nature of the XR industry. This includes balancing our team’s capacity during periods of high demand without overextending resources during slower times. Finding a sustainable approach to scaling our operations—avoiding the constant cycle of ramping up and down—requires strategic planning and a flexible business model that accommodates the fluctuating nature of project-based work, ensuring we remain agile yet stable as we grow.

What technology will have the greatest impact on your business this year and why?

I am sure most people will say this but AI-driven animation tools are set to be the most impactful technology for our business this year. Their ability to automate complex animation processes enables us to create more lifelike and engaging XR experiences faster than ever before. This advancement not only streamlines our production but also opens up new creative possibilities, transforming how we bring immersive worlds to life.

 

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