Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast, special Wisconsin Tech Month edition! In this episode, we sit down with Julia, founder of Techaria and solution designer at Molson Coors, to talk about her journey into Milwaukee’s tech ecosystem and her passion for bridging business and technology through a techno-functional approach.

Julia shares how her family’s deep-rooted connection to technology and her diverse career experiences have shaped her unique perspective on the evolving tech landscape. We discuss her work in DEI and ESG initiatives, and the importance of addressing knowledge gaps in legacy industries. Julia also introduces us to Techaria, a Latinx tech talent initiative she co-founded to connect Milwaukee’s diverse talent with global opportunities, and her exciting role in launching Midwest Tech Week as part of Wisconsin Tech Month.

Tune in as Julia dives into the importance of blending business and technology, her thoughts on using AI in the business realm, and why Midwest Tech Week is a critical step in expanding Milwaukee’s tech influence across the Midwest.

Call to Action:
Join us for Midwest Tech Week, taking place during the final week of Wisconsin Tech Month! Whether you're based in Milwaukee, Chicago, Detroit, or beyond, this event is a chance to connect with industry experts, explore the latest in AI and business tech, and engage with diverse tech talent across the Midwest. Follow us on social media for updates on Midwest Tech Week and other Wisconsin Tech Month events!

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we sit down with Kenji Adams, a project manager turned entrepreneur and founder of innovative community programs like STEAM & Dream. Kenji shares her inspiring journey from corporate tech at Northwestern Mutual to launching her own business, all while diving deeper into the tech world and embracing her role as a woman in tech.

In this episode, Kenji takes us through her latest project—a unique blend of African art and artificial intelligence. As part of Wisconsin Tech Month, Kenji is hosting an incredible event that bridges the past and future by using AI to generate new artwork from historical African artifacts. We dive into how AI can help fill historical gaps, address cultural erasure, and spark thought-provoking conversations about identity and heritage. Kenji also shares how collaboration and self-awareness have been key to her success in navigating the tech space.

Tune in for this enriching conversation about creativity, tech, and community building, and learn more about how Kenji's event will challenge perceptions of both art and AI.

Call to Action:
Join us on October 17th at the Uplifting Mansion for Kenji Adams’ AI and African Art exhibit during Wisconsin Tech Month! Explore the intersections of history and technology, engage in generative conversations using AI prompts, and witness real-time digital renderings of historical artifacts. Follow us on social media for event updates and more Wisconsin Tech Month highlights.

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we’re excited to have Benjamin Juarez, founder of Latinos in Tech and a self-described "serial creative," join us. Benjamin shares insights into how his boundless creativity fuels his entrepreneurial journey, his innovative use of generative AI in video game design, and the balance between human artistry and AI-driven productivity.

In this episode, Benjamin and I explore the impact of AI on the creative economy, discussing both the opportunities and ethical challenges it presents for artists and developers. We touch on the future of work, universal basic income, and the role of AI in bringing people together rather than dividing us. Additionally, we dive into intellectual property concerns in the US versus Europe and how AI regulations are evolving to protect creators.

Plus, Benjamin gives us a sneak peek at the upcoming Somos Tech Summit hackathon, a key event during Wisconsin Tech Month that brings tech enthusiasts and newcomers together to brainstorm and engineer innovative solutions.

Call to Action:
Follow us on social media for more behind-the-scenes content and highlights from Wisconsin Tech Month! Let us know your thoughts on AI’s role in creativity, and don’t forget to join the Somos Tech Summit hackathon on October 26th for a chance to innovate and collaborate with the Milwaukee tech community.

Welcome back to season four of the MKE Tech Podcast! In this special Wisconsin Tech Month edition, we’re excited to introduce Briana Wilder, a tech professional at Northwestern Mutual and alumna of i.c.stars. Briana’s non-traditional journey from fashion merchandising to UX design and content strategy offers valuable insights for anyone wondering how to break into tech without a four-year degree.

In this episode, Briana shares how her love for creativity and entrepreneurship evolved into a career in tech, with milestones like running a successful eBay store and developing websites for brands. She also discusses her work at Northwestern Mutual in content strategy and her passion for ensuring inclusive, user-friendly digital experiences through AI and chatbot integration.

Tune in to hear more about Briana's experience transitioning from fashion to fintech, how Wisconsin Tech Month played a key role in her tech journey, and the importance of diverse backgrounds in shaping the future of work in AI and technology.

Plus, don’t miss details on Wisconsin Tech Month events, including Briana’s panel discussion on breaking into tech through non-traditional paths!

Call to Action:
Engage with us on social media! Share your thoughts on non-traditional career paths in tech, and let us know what inspires you about Briana's journey. And don’t forget to join Wisconsin Tech Month events to explore more opportunities in AI, education, and the future of work.

In this episode of the MKE Tech Podcast, we sit down with Bianca Shaw, a policy advocate with over 15 years of experience in both government and nonprofit sectors. Bianca shares her journey, from her time at the Wisconsin Women’s Network Policy Institute to her current work with the Milky Way Tech Hub, where she supports policy advocacy during Wisconsin Tech Month.

We dive deep into the importance of policy advocacy, why it matters, and how everyday citizens can influence legislation that directly affects their lives. Bianca discusses key initiatives such as broadband expansion, internet privacy, and equitable allocation of federal funds across Wisconsin, especially for underserved communities.

Tune in to learn more about the upcoming Wisconsin Tech Month Advocacy Day, happening on October 3, 2024, at the State Capitol. Whether you're a seasoned policy expert or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how you can make your voice heard in tech policy. Don't miss this conversation that bridges tech, policy, and community impact!

Listen now and get ready to advocate for change!

Join us on a riveting episode of the MKE Tech Podcast where we dive deep with Yeshi, the founder of Data for Black Lives, who shares her profound insights on how data serves as a tool for social change. Yeshi recounts her personal journey from activism to founding her organization, reflecting on pivotal moments that shaped her mission. She also discusses the "Decompress" program, an initiative that reclaims electronic music as a significant Black innovation and a medium for societal transformation.

In this episode, Yeshi explores the broader implications of data in addressing systemic issues within the Black community, from educational reforms to public health disparities. She passionately details the "Algorithm as Apartheid" campaign and its goals to dismantle data-driven discrimination. Additionally, she sheds light on the "No More Data Weapons" campaign, aimed at curtailing intrusive social media surveillance practices that disproportionately target Black communities.

As we approach the return of the Data for Black Lives conference, Yeshi invites us to look forward to a space of unity and constructive dialogue, where activists, scholars, and community members converge to drive meaningful change. This episode is a powerful testament to the role of data in amplifying voices and catalyzing community action. Join the conversation and be part of the movement towards equitable and inclusive data practices.

In this enlightening episode of MKE Tech, host Nadiyah Johnson welcomes Johanna Duckworth and Arlando Monk, two visionaries who are reshaping the tech landscape through their unique perspectives and initiatives. Johanna, the owner of Life and Tech, shares her journey back to the tech industry through her coaching and advocacy for digital literacy and AI training in faith-based communities. Arlando, the Chief Visionary Officer of the Visionary League, discusses the importance of diversity and inclusion in tech and how recent changes in policy are impacting these efforts.

The conversation dives deep into the lessons learned in 2024, with both guests reflecting on the power of humility and gratitude in their personal and professional lives. They explore the balance between showcasing achievements and maintaining humility, touching on the societal pressures amplified by social media and the corporate world. The dialogue also covers the challenges and strategies of navigating the tech industry's evolving landscape, particularly in light of the affirmative action rulings affecting diversity initiatives.

This episode not only highlights personal stories of overcoming adversity and embracing authenticity but also fosters a broader discussion on the role of humility in leadership and innovation. Join us for a profound discussion that connects life lessons with professional insights, making a compelling case for a more inclusive and self-aware tech community.

Tune in to hear how Johanna and Arlando are making significant strides in their fields while advocating for a tech industry that values both diversity and personal integrity. Don't forget to check out our upcoming event, Women Wine + Tech 5.0, focusing on mental health and self-care in the tech sector. Details are available on Eventbrite and at www.visionarylead.org.

In the latest episode of the Milky Way Tech Hub Podcast, "Founder's Roundtable," we delve deep into the heart of Milwaukee's startup ecosystem, exploring the challenges and triumphs of local entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders. This episode shines a light on the crucial need for supportive resources that cater not only to the early stages of business development but also to the complex journey of scaling and securing funding for growth. Our guests share their personal stories of resilience, navigating the world of non-profits, and the struggle to secure the funding necessary for expansion and sustainability.

We take a closer look at innovative solutions to societal problems, such as using technology to better prepare individuals re-entering society from incarceration. However, without adequate funding and resources, these noble initiatives risk being stretched too thin. The episode reveals a candid discussion on the realities of running non-profit organizations, the importance of securing philanthropic funding, and the challenges faced by leaders from underrepresented backgrounds in maintaining their operations and impact.

Moreover, the roundtable addresses the broader systemic issues within the funding landscape, emphasizing the need for equity, understanding, and support from the funding community. Our guests challenge the traditional norms and barriers that have historically hindered access to necessary resources, advocating for a shift towards more inclusive and supportive practices that recognize the multifaceted talents and needs of entrepreneurs and non-profit leaders alike.

This thought-provoking conversation not only highlights the critical areas for development within Milwaukee's tech and non-profit sectors but also serves as a rallying call for collective action, innovative thinking, and the creation of a more equitable and supportive ecosystem for all.

Tune in to this insightful episode to hear from a diverse panel of leaders who are at the forefront of creating change and driving forward the mission of the Milky Way Tech Hub to foster a more inclusive and thriving tech landscape in Milwaukee. Don't forget to engage with us on social media and share your thoughts on how we can together build a stronger, more inclusive future for our community.