Welcome back to Hacks and Hobbies, where we explore extraordinary stories of innovation and purpose. Today, we’re diving deep with Mike Kim, a visionary who’s transforming the way we think about kindness and technology.
Mike isn’t just creating another app – he’s building a movement. Imagine a digital platform that gamifies kindness, rewards compassion, and connects people in meaningful ways. His company, Some Neat Place, is reimagining how technology can bring out the best in humanity.
From his early dreams of being a marine biologist to developing a groundbreaking concept that’s part Pokemon Go, part Boy Scouts for adults, Mike’s journey is anything but ordinary. We’ll explore how augmented reality, intentional design, and a genuine passion for human connection can create real-world impact.
Get ready to be inspired as we uncover how one person’s vision can spark a global movement of kindness. This isn’t just a tech story – it’s a human story about transformation, empathy, and the power of believing we can make a difference.
Stay tuned for an incredible conversation that might just change the way you see technology, community, and your own potential for kindness.Where to reach Our Guest
IG : @someneatplace3 Hacks to take away
- Gamifying Kindness: Mike Kim developed a concept to create a digital platform that measures and rewards kindness, similar to Pokemon Go, but focused on personal growth and community building. The goal is to track and encourage empathy, listening skills, and paying it forward.
- Technology as a Catalyst for Connection: The approach emphasizes using technology (like AR) not as an end in itself, but as a means to connect people in real life. Mike stresses the importance of being intentional about technology use and focusing on the impact rather than the technology itself.
- Intentionality and Purpose: Throughout the conversation, Mike repeatedly emphasizes the importance of having clear intentions behind actions. Whether in business, technology, or personal growth, the key is to be purposeful and driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact, rather than seeking superficial recognition or rewards.

Junaid Ahmed is a multi-passionate creator, storyteller, and home studio architect who believes your voice can change your world. As the host of Hacks and Hobbies, he dives deep into the journeys of people turning passion into purpose — from garage inventors to global entrepreneurs.
The podcast began as a simple idea: record honest conversations about side projects, creativity, and the hustle behind the scenes. Years later, it’s become a movement — showcasing the real, raw, and inspiring stories of everyday innovators.
Whether he’s building pro-level studios or geeking out over podcast gear, Junaid’s mission is clear: help people show up with confidence, clarity, and character.
🎧 New episodes weekdays. New perspectives in every story.
