Technology entrepreneur, investor, and author Brett A. Hurt will appear at The Original Pancake House Addison location on October 1, 2026, for a book signing and conversation focused on artificial intelligence, leadership, and the ethical choices facing society. The event, hosted by Mark Davis Bailey, CEO of The Original Pancake House DFW, will run from 10 a.m. to noon at 5220 Belt Line Road, Dallas, Texas. Registered attendees will receive a complimentary breakfast, and the first 100 guests to register will receive a free hardcover copy of Hurt's third book, "Love Conquers Fear: Humanity, AI, and the Age of Abundance for All," with the opportunity to have it autographed.
Hurt's career spans decades at the forefront of technology and entrepreneurship. He began programming at age seven and went on to co-found and lead Bazaarvoice through its IPO, as well as found Coremetrics, which was later acquired by IBM. Along with his wife, Debra, he has invested in more than 150 startups and over 50 venture capital funds. His honors include induction into the Austin Technology Council Hall of Fame in 2026, being named Tulane University's 2026 Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year, and recognition by Goldman Sachs as one of its Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs in 2022. He is also an Aspen Institute Henry Crown Fellow and a former Braddock Scholar, holding an undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin and an MBA from The Wharton School.
The significance of this event lies in its timing and focus. As artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics rapidly reshape business and society, Hurt's book explores the intersection of these technologies with consciousness, ethics, and humanity. Rather than merely asking how fast technology will advance, "Love Conquers Fear" challenges readers to consider what values should guide the future being created alongside it. Bailey emphasized the importance of this conversation: "Brett has spent his career at the forefront of technology and entrepreneurship, but what makes this conversation especially important is that he is asking us to look beyond what AI can do and think seriously about how we choose to use it."
The event will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and community members for a timely dialogue. It is presented in partnership with Principled Business. Space and complimentary books are limited, and advance registration is strongly encouraged. Those interested in attending can register at https://luma.com/tbcgnvs0.
Media members are invited to cover the event, and one-on-one interviews with Hurt and Bailey may be scheduled prior to October 1. The discussion promises to offer valuable insights into how society can navigate the age of abundance that advanced technologies may bring, ensuring that human values remain central to innovation.
