Episodes

  • Dynamic Duo – Episode 075

    Dynamic Duo – Episode 075
    Jun 24 2024
    In this insightful episode, listeners are introduced to the fascinating journeys of Jennifer Otiano and Kowe Kadoma, two emerging scholars in the field of Information Science. Their stories unravel against the backdrop of their shared passion for human-centered technology and their individual quests for understanding its socio-cultural implications. Diving deep into the heart of computing research, Jennifer and Kowe discuss their academic pursuits and personal growth, painting a vivid picture of resilience and innovation in a field that constantly evolves.
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • The Oprah of Tech – Episode 074

    The Oprah of Tech – Episode 074
    Jun 10 2024
    In this episode, Linda Calvin, the Chief Impact Officer for Reboot Representation, shares her experiences growing up as the only Black woman in her family, church, and school. She discusses the challenges she faced and how she used her love for writing and creativity to navigate those situations. Linda also talks about her journey in the IT sector, her decision to go back to school as a non-traditional student, and her transition to law school. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the value of understanding coding as a foundation for leadership in the tech industry.
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • Ctrl+Alt+Empower – Episode 073

    Ctrl+Alt+Empower – Episode 073
    May 27 2024
    Dr. Robin Brewer, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan, shares her journey in computer science and human-computer interaction. She discusses her research experiences, including internships at Facebook and Microsoft Research, where she focused on designing technologies for older adults. Dr. Brewer inspires the next generation of researchers and challenges preconceptions about Black women in computing. Her current work centers around designing technologies for older adults and people with disabilities, including voice and AI technologies. She also emphasizes the importance of getting research outside of academia and into the real world.
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Start Where You Are – Episode 072

    Start Where You Are – Episode 072
    May 13 2024
    Dr. Valamere Mikler, an advocate for equitable spaces in DEI, shares her journey from criminal justice to industrial organizational psychology. She discusses her work with Girls Who Code and her initiative, SheRanTech, which educates and empowers girls and women on internet safety and securing STEM careers. Dr. Mikler also explores the motivations of millennials and Gen Z in the workforce and the importance of technology in advocating for women in tech. Join Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen as they elevate the voices of black women in computing.
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Welcome to the Mushroom Queendom – Episode 071

    Welcome to the Mushroom Queendom – Episode 071
    Apr 29 2024
    In this episode of Modern Figure’s podcast, Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen interview Shana T. Bryant, an executive producer at Oculus Game Publishing. Shana shares her journey in the gaming industry, from her early passion for video games to her diverse roles in companies like EA and Microsoft. She discusses the importance of communication and teamwork in game development and challenges the notion of the “gamer” identity. Shana also delves into the lack of diversity in the industry and the slow progress being made. Join the conversation and be inspired by Shana’s insights and experiences in the world of gaming.
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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • From Lagos to UX: Dr. Aishat Aloba’s Journey in Computing – Episode 070

    From Lagos to UX: Dr. Aishat Aloba’s Journey in Computing – Episode 070
    Apr 15 2024
    In this episode, Dr. Aishat Aloba joins hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen to discuss her journey as a Black woman in computing. Dr. Aloba shares her experiences growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, and the misconceptions about Africa. She talks about her initial interest in computer engineering and how she discovered her passion for computer science. Dr. Aloba also highlights the importance of community and the role it played in her transition to studying in the United States. She shares her experiences at the University of Mississippi and the opportunities she had to get involved in research. The episode concludes with Dr. Aloba discussing her decision to pursue a PhD and her current work in user experience research.
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Hey Shaniqua, what’s the weather? – Episode 069

    Hey Shaniqua, what’s the weather? – Episode 069
    Apr 1 2024
    In this episode of Modern Figures, Dr. Gloria Washington shares her inspiring journey in computing, from the struggles she overcame to her passion for uplifting Black women in the field. The podcast delves into Dr. Washington’s experiences in academia, industry, and now as a professor, where she passionately works to elevate the voices and opportunities for those following in her footsteps. Dr. Washington recounts the profound influence of her mother’s encouragement and how the unexpected challenges she faced, including financial decisions and personal losses, honed her determination to succeed.
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    58 mins
  • Tech, Law, and Media Magic – Episode 068

    Tech, Law, and Media Magic – Episode 068
    Mar 18 2024
    In this engaging episode of the Modern Figures podcast, hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen welcome the multifaceted Dr. Jasmine McNealy. The conversation takes an inspiring dive into the world of journalism, law, and public interest technology. As a proponent for critical thinking and policy influence, Dr. McNealy shares her unique trajectory and the importance of her work concerning current and emerging tech issues.
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    1 hr and 3 mins