Olivia Johann blends her passion for artificial intelligence with a heartfelt mission to guide families through our tech-driven world. Inspired by the rapid evolution of AI and its profound impact on children and families, she wrote Pixel and Chip: The Family Circuit to spark meaningful conversations about new technologies. Her goal is to help kids learn to trust their instincts, understand AI’s limits, and harness AI’s power to strengthen human connections rather than overshadow them.
Olivia lives in Texas with her husband and their beloved dog, Halle, who inspired the furry sidekick in this story. Olivia’s background includes a degree in computer information systems and over ten years in risk management. This is her debut children’s book. For other family resources, including learning activities and articles, check out her website, www.genhicollective.com
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: My curiosity about technology and AI has led me down many rabbit holes—podcasts, articles, conversations—but it was Mo Gawdat’s book Scary Smart that really sparked something for me. There’s so much being written and said about AI right now, and while a lot of it is important, it can also feel very heavy.
I found myself wanting to contribute something different to that conversation, something that meets families, and especially kids, where they are. Rather than focusing on what AI might mean for us, I wanted to explore what it could look like to grow alongside it, to understand it, and to use it in ways that bring out the best in us. Pixel is really the embodiment of that idea. He’s a character who is learning to be more human, while helping the humans around him
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: Start before you’re ready. I’ve often found that, whether it’s writing or starting a new project, the biggest barrier is often waiting for the perfect idea or perfect time, neither of which exists. Start with an idea and run from there. You may be redirected and evolve the concept over time, but that’s what the writing process is all about—growth.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: Currently, my favorite book is Scary Smart by Mo Gawdat.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: Pixel is very much a reflection of how I imagine AI will show up in our homes and lives — brilliant in so many ways and also genuinely puzzled by the beautiful yet emotional nature of being human. There’s a little bit of all of us in Pixel. We all have that desire to understand, to grow, and to do the right thing, even when the “right” answer isn’t a formula you can calculate.
Chip’s very much inspired by my own dog, Halle. She’s been my sidekick for over six years, and she is genuinely everything you could want in a pet companion—she’s loyal, loving, and endlessly understanding. That kind of unconditional love is truly special, and I wanted Chip to carry that same spirit as Pixel’s sidekick.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: My favorite part of the writing process is bringing my idea to life. From editing to the illustrations and final copy, the process is nothing short of amazing.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: I believe that being a “good writer” is not only a natural talent but can also be a developed skill. Writing was something I had not even considered until I had the idea for Pixel and Chip. I believe that if you’re called to do something in life, you can be capable of anything and make it happen.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “Believe you can and you’re halfway there." —Theodore Roosevelt
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: The short answer is yes—and then some. You can usually find me in front of my computer writing something, whether that’s a new article for my website (genhicollective.com), the next Pixel and Chip book, or the early pages of something else entirely. I love having multiple projects going at once; it keeps the creativity flowing. I’m especially excited to share what’s coming next in the Pixel and Chip world, along with some of my other writing. There’s a lot in the works, and I can’t wait for you all to see it.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: After going through the book creation process myself, I really look up to writers in general. To sit with an idea, shape it into something real, and then share it with the world takes a certain kind of courage, and I have enormous respect for anyone who does it. Pixel and Chip is deeply personal to me. In many ways, readers are getting a glimpse into how I see the world and the universe I’ve built for these characters to live in. That vulnerability is something I didn’t fully appreciate until I experienced it firsthand.
With that said, Freida McFadden is an author I look up to. She continues to be so creative in her writing and ideas; every book feels fresh. She also built her writing career alongside her full-time career.
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A:
- The 5 AM Club by, Robin Sharma
- Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
- Scary Smart by Mo Gawdat
- The Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling
- Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden
Learn more about Olivia Johann and her debut children's book, Pixel and Chip: The Family Circuit, here. Coming soon May 12, 2026!