Original Pancake House DFW to Host AI Author Brett A. Hurt for Book Signing and Conversation

Mark Davis Bailey, CEO of The Original Pancake House DFW, will host technology entrepreneur, investor, author, and AI thought leader Brett A. Hurt for a special book signing and conversation on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at The Original Pancake House Addison location, 5220 Belt Line Road, Dallas, Texas 75254. The event, presented in partnership with Principled Business, will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and community members to discuss artificial intelligence, technology, leadership, and the choices humanity faces as rapidly advancing technologies reshape business and society. Registered attendees will receive a complimentary breakfast, and the first 100 guests who register will receive a complimentary 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 personally autographed by the author.

This event matters because it highlights the intersection of technological innovation and ethical leadership, a conversation increasingly relevant to Texas businesses navigating the AI revolution. Hurt's career exemplifies the kind of entrepreneurial impact that drives economic growth in Texas. He began programming at age seven and became one of Austin's best-known technology entrepreneurs. He co-founded and led Bazaarvoice through its IPO and previously founded Coremetrics, which was later acquired by IBM. Along with his wife, Debra, Hurt is an investor in more than 150 startups and more than 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, recognition by Goldman Sachs as one of its Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs in 2022, and the Best CEO Legacy Award from the Austin Business Journal in 2017. He is also an Aspen Institute Henry Crown Fellow and former Braddock Scholar, and he earned his undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin and his MBA from The Wharton School.

Hurt's newest book explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, technology, consciousness, ethics, and humanity. It asks readers to consider not simply how rapidly technology will advance, but what values should guide the future being created alongside it. "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," said Bailey. "We are excited to welcome him to The Original Pancake House DFW and give our guests an opportunity to meet Brett, hear his perspective and take part in this important conversation."

For Texas businesses, the event offers a timely opportunity to engage with pressing questions about AI adoption, workforce transformation, and ethical decision-making. As companies across industries grapple with the implications of AI, conversations like this can help leaders align technological advancement with human values. The Original Pancake House DFW, which has been serving made-from-scratch breakfast favorites to North Texas guests since 1987, is hosting the event as part of its commitment to exceptional food, hospitality, its associates, and the communities it serves. Space and complimentary books are limited, and advance registration is strongly encouraged at https://luma.com/tbcgnvs0. Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the October 1 event.