Episodes

  • Celebrating Diversity, Community Building, and the Power of Inclusion in Technology with Iris Nevins

    Celebrating Diversity, Community Building, and the Power of Inclusion in Technology with Iris Nevins
    Jul 2 2024
    Join us for a discussion with Iris Nevins, a special guest who embraces the non-traditional aspects of tech. We'll talk about how people from different backgrounds can bring innovation to the tech industry. We'll also focus on the importance of understanding tech in today's digital economy and celebrate those who make their mark, whether they are artists, creators, or simply curious about the tech world. We'll share our experiences connecting with genuine tech communities at events like Atlanta Black Tech Week and the Bronze Lens Film Fest. I'll discuss the impact of technology in bridging diverse cultures and supporting entrepreneurial spirit. Initiatives like Black NFT Art support Black artists and create global opportunities, highlighting the power of technology, art, and culture coming together. We'll also talk about the evolution of Tech Misfits and the importance of protecting your digital presence while using the right tools to succeed professionally. The episode ends with a frank conversation on entrepreneurship, patience, and the vital need for self-care, offering advice from our esteemed guests. Prepare to learn strategies for personal growth and the communal support needed to succeed in the tech industry. Join us for an enriching discussion filled with learning, empowerment, and connection.
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    38 mins
  • Navigating the Innovation Wave of Atlanta's Tech Scene with Avoilan Bingham

    Navigating the Innovation Wave of Atlanta's Tech Scene with Avoilan Bingham
    May 31 2024
    In this episode, we talk with Avoilan Bingham, an experienced operator and mentor in the startup world. Growing up in Southwest Atlanta, surrounded by black entrepreneurship and leadership, greatly influenced his ambitions and understanding of success. He shares his knowledge and insights into why Atlanta is the perfect environment for innovative companies. Atlanta offers a unique advantage with its diverse talent pool from renowned universities and its reputation as a cultural and creative hub. During our discussion, we highlight the key factors contributing to a startup's success, including the essential role of a technical founding team and the pursuit of billion-dollar market opportunities. We discuss the art of networking and turning casual contacts into valuable relationships. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of capital and community support, as these are vital for the success of local ventures. Avoilan's experience with Drive Capital provides us with an inside look at a venture capital firm's commitment from pre-seed to pre-IPO stages, and he shares encouraging words for founders to persevere through challenging economic climates. Join us as we celebrate Atlanta's potential and invite fellow advocates to join us in the entrepreneurial journey, reinforcing our shared dedication to propelling the city into the future of technology.
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    18 mins
  • A Tech Entrepreneur's Insights on Balance Innovation and Self-Care with Nashlie Sephus

    A Tech Entrepreneur's Insights on Balance Innovation and Self-Care with Nashlie Sephus
    May 24 2024
    Have you ever considered pausing the relentless grind to discover an untapped well of creativity and productivity? Our latest conversation with a celebrated entrepreneur and self-care advocate takes you through their enlightening experiences of integrating sabbaticals and weekly rest into a bustling business life. They share how these periods of repose not only replenished their energy but also opened unexpected doors to financial prosperity through consulting and keynote speaking engagements. It's a candid exploration of the surprising synergy between downtime and dynamism and how practices such as meditation and journaling can ignite a personal revolution. This episode doesn't just stop at personal anecdotes; it's a treasure trove of actionable insights. We traverse the six-week sabbatical journey, discussing the nuanced art of delegation and the serenity that can be crafted amid urban hustle through gardening and roller skating. Our guest vividly depicts aligning activities with natural energy cycles for heightened creativity and efficiency. As we wrap up, we ponder the profound realization that our health is the bedrock of all wealth, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the vibrant community of creators at KidLabs. Join us for a thought-provoking session that may redefine your approach to work, wellness, and the ever-evolving path of personal growth.
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    21 mins
  • Tech Leadership and Navigating Tech Mobility with Ayodele Duyile

    Tech Leadership and Navigating Tech Mobility with Ayodele Duyile
    May 19 2024
    Discover how Ayodele Duyile is revolutionizing the tech space in our latest episode, where this Google technical product manager and Techsgiving co-founder opens up about the transformative powers of mentorship, networking, and community. Exploring Atlanta's vibrant tech ecosystem, Ayodele highlights how underrepresented talent can leverage tech mobility to carve out meaningful careers. From the significance of connecting at places like the Gathering Spot to the strategic moves behind operating both non-profit and for-profit entities, this episode is brimming with insights for anyone eager to navigate the tech industry's currents with finesse. Unveil the inspiring backstory of Techsgiving, a concept born from Ayodele's Nigerian heritage and a deep sense of community service. As we uncover the striking similarities between grant acquisition and startup funding, we also celebrate the impact of Techsgiving's network-fueled initiatives to drive social change and economic empowerment. Listen to Ayodele share heartfelt stories of giving back to communities in West Africa and his vision to document and enrich his philanthropic journey, offering a masterclass on aligning personal passion with professional purpose. Lastly, we reflect on the importance of clarity and stillness in our fast-paced world. Embracing moments of meditation and appreciating life's simple pleasures becomes a focal point as we consider the balance between ambition and well-being. We celebrate the sense of community our platform provides, a space dedicated to nurturing growth, fostering support, and empowering each other in our professional and personal journeys. So tune in and let this episode be a source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of connection in the tech world and beyond.
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    23 mins
  • AI and Black Tech Industry with Shawn Johnson of Mobile App Hero

    AI and Black Tech Industry with Shawn Johnson of Mobile App Hero
    May 17 2024
    Join us as we unpack the importance of representation and community in the tech industry with the inspiring Shawn Johnson, whose influence echoes throughout the Black tech scene in Atlanta. Listen in as he shares his experiences of rarely seeing another Black technologist for a decade and how that contrasts with Atlanta's vibrant ecosystem of tech spaces, entrepreneurs, and institutions like Georgia Tech. Sean's story is a testament to the power of humility and collaboration, and we discuss how our eventual face-to-face meeting at the Gathering Spot led to a partnership that exemplifies the talent and community spirit thriving in Atlanta's tech scene. As we navigate the narratives of Black technologists carving out their future, hear about the creation of Mobile App Hero and the significance of mentorship and autonomy in the tech industry. Shawn and I explore the value of being builders rather than talkers, emphasizing the importance of consistent engagement and the creation of intellectual property, especially in the underrepresented Black gaming industry. This conversation also celebrates the transformative power of fatherhood and the personal values that guide professional journeys. My relocation to Atlanta is a pivotal moment driven by these values. Wrapping up this enlightening discussion, Shawn and I delve into the evolving world of technology leadership and the burgeoning role of AI in the industry. From fractional CTOs and CIOs to the impact of neural networking and large language models, we discuss how these advancements shape businesses. Moreover, we consider the critical importance of data sovereignty and ownership, especially in the context of Black culture and its potential for monetization. The episode culminates with an invitation to engage with Mobile App Hero for technology needs as we underscore the imperative of preparing for a future where proprietary data is king.
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    50 mins