My Journey in Companion Robotics: Designing Machines People Engage With.
Joy Laughter and Love - my journey in companion robotics and designing machines people engage with.
Mike Rizkalla – CEO & Co-Founder, Snorble®
Entrepreneur, Creative Technologist, and Expert in Embodied AI Robotics
Mike Rizkalla is a visionary entrepreneur and creative technologist recognized for pioneering work in embodied AI and human-centered robotics. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Snorble, he leads a mission to democratize early childhood development through emotionally intelligent technology—bridging the worlds of AI, animation, and education to empower families and inspire children’s growth.
A veteran of the robotics and creative industries, Mike’s career spans over two decades of innovation at the intersection of storytelling and technology. He previously founded Brave New World, an award-winning product house, with its own AI, IoT and robotics lab that designed interactive products and experiences for global brands such as Ford, Google, MTV, Scholastic, Target, UFC, Discovery Channel, and Blackberry. Their work in the lab incubated Snorble and helped shape a new generation of character driven AI companions.
Widely regarded as an expert in embodied AI systems, Mike advises multiple startups and funds in the robotics ecosystem, collaborating with leading engineers, investors, and visionaries advancing humanoid robotics and AI ethics worldwide. His passion lies in developing technologies that foster empathy, imagination, and connection—bringing “technology with heart” to life.
Based in Skillman, New Jersey, surrounded by a lovely and supportive family, Mike continues to champion a philosophy of servant leadership, blending deep technical insight with storytelling and purpose. Whether mentoring young founders, serving on philanthropic boards, or shaping the next wave of intelligent family companions, his work embodies a simple belief: technology should make us more human, not less.
80+ awards (product, gaming, UX, interactive design, learning), including recent Mom's Choice, Parenting Product, and International STEAM awards
Recognized as one of the top 150 AI experts globally by NYC
Creator and founder of Snorble — a child's intelligent companion for learning, play, and peaceful sleep
250 hours of broadcast animation
(Teletoon, Nickelodeon, Disney, Hanna Barbera, ABC, etc.)
Over 45 patents and trademarks (toys, AI, gamification)
Clients: Google, Ford, Target, Disney, Scholastic, HarperCollins, Nickelodeon, Pearson, McGraw Hill, UFC.