programming

Research as an Act of Resistance – Episode 082

01:27:53 0 Comments

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:27:53 — ) | Embed

Our esteemed hosts, Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome, check in for some mid-season updates in their academic and research endeavors, including mentoring new students and navigating grant funding challenges. Special guest Dr. Amber Johnson pops in to share our involvement in various projects, including a Small Business and Research Grant from the NSF. Don’t miss this episode because we discuss travel grants and opportunities to become a Modern Figures Influencer! BONUS: Stick around for an important update at the end of the episode.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:27:53 — ) | Embed

From Cracking Codes to Cracking Jokes – Episode 081

01:00:19 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:19 — ) | Embed

Comedian and actress Keysha E. discusses her journey from a computer engineer with degrees in information systems and computer engineering to performing comedy in Hollywood.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:19 — ) | Embed

Authentically Here – Episode 080

01:21:20 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:21:20 — ) | Embed

Join Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen as they elevate the influential stories of Black women in computing. This episode features Chioma Aso, a dynamic figure bridging engineering and advocacy. Chioma discusses her journey from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, to becoming an influential engineering manager and founder of STEAMDivas Incorporated. She shares insights on grounding, productivity, and STEM education, while challenging conventional narratives around intelligence and confidence. Discover how Chioma empowers young girls through STEM, inspiring the next generation of tech innovators.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:21:20 — ) | Embed

From Wakanda to Silicon Valley – Episode 079

01:01:00 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:00 — ) | Embed

Stephanie Van Putten, a notable leader in tech and entrepreneurship, shares her journey from PG County, Maryland, to becoming a major force in Silicon Valley. She discusses her experiences at Microsoft and MIT, founding Blendoor, and creating Visible Figures, a platform enhancing visibility for women leaders of the African diaspora. With insights into navigating tech, raising venture capital, and fostering diversity, Van Putten reflects on challenges and the importance of community and networking. Join this enlightening conversation to explore the intersection of human capital, technology, and the push for more inclusive, equitable workplaces.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:00 — ) | Embed

More Degrees than a Thermometer – Episode 078

01:09:00 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:00 — ) | Embed

Join hosts Kyla and Jeremy on the Modern Figures podcast as they welcome Dr. Gloria Katuka, an applied scientist at Microsoft from Zaria, Nigeria. Gloria shares her remarkable journey through academia, achieving four degrees in eight years, including a PhD in computer science. Discover her experience transitioning from Nigeria to the U.S., her passion for computer science education, and her impactful work in developing AI services. Gain insights into her unique career path, the challenges she overcame, and her current role at Microsoft, crafting AI solutions for customers.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:00 — ) | Embed

Get A Big Dog – Episode 077

01:38:02 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:38:02 — ) | Embed

Dive into an insightful conversation with Dr. Valerie Taylor, Director of Argonne National Labs’ Mathematics and Computer Science Division. Exploring her journey from a tech-infused childhood in Chicago to pioneering roles in academia and founding the organization, CMD-IT. Dr. Taylor shares personal stories about mentorship, navigating academia as a minority, and shaping the future of computing through inclusivity and research. Get a glimpse into significant milestones in industry and academia, accentuated by her leadership in the Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:38:02 — ) | Embed

Building Community through Chaos – Episode 076

1:01:58 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:58 — 85.1MB) | Embed

Ready for a journey that will inspire and empower? Join Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome as they take you behind the scenes of their game-changing podcast and nonprofit, Modern Figures Inc., dedicated to advancing diversity in STEM. In this episode, they reveal the powerful story behind the podcast’s creation, emphasizing the crucial role of community, education, and safe spaces for underrepresented minorities in computing.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:58 — 85.1MB) | Embed

Dynamic Duo – Episode 075

1:06:42 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:42 — 91.6MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:42 — 91.6MB) | Embed

The Oprah of Tech – Episode 074

1:17:18 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:17:18 — 106.2MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:17:18 — 106.2MB) | Embed

Ctrl+Alt+Empower – Episode 073

1:09:10 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:10 — 63.3MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:10 — 63.3MB) | Embed

Start Where You Are – Episode 072

1:12:18 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:12:18 — 66.2MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:12:18 — 66.2MB) | Embed

Welcome to the Mushroom Queendom – Episode 071

1:26:31 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:26:31 — 79.2MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:26:31 — 79.2MB) | Embed

From Lagos to UX: Dr. Aishat Aloba’s Journey in Computing – Episode 070

1:12:29 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:12:29 — 66.4MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:12:29 — 66.4MB) | Embed

Hey Shaniqua, what’s the weather? – Episode 069

0:57:59 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:59 — 53.1MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 57:59 — 53.1MB) | Embed

Tech, Law, and Media Magic – Episode 068

1:03:16 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:16 — 57.9MB) | Embed

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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:16 — 57.9MB) | Embed

Dr. Angelique Taylor’s Tech Odyssey – Episode 067

1:10:20 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:20 — 64.4MB) | Embed

In this enlightening episode of the Modern Figures Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen engage in a rich conversation with Dr. Angelique Taylor, a shining example of Black women’s excellence in computing. Dr. Taylor’s inspiring journey, from her early fascination with technologies to spearheading research in AI and healthcare robotics, offers listeners profound insights into the world of cutting-edge technological innovation.
Dr. Taylor shares her path from community college to a thriving career in academia, providing an intimate look at her personal and professional growth. Her narrative is filled with pivotal moments, from the stark transition to predominantly white institutions to the cultural adaptations required while ascending her academic career. The episode encapsulates Dr. Taylor’s tenacity, highlighting her pursuit of impactful research and the significance of building strong communities, particularly amongst Black women in computing.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:20 — 64.4MB) | Embed

“Go Tell that Man You want to go to Grad school” – Episode 066

1:34:07 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:34:07 — 86.2MB) | Embed

In this episode, Dr. Jessica N. Jones shares her experience of starting the “CodeIT Day” program at Clemson University, which aimed to introduce middle school students to computer science. She discusses the importance of representation in the field and the impact of culturally relevant pedagogy. The conversation also touches on the transition to the University of Florida and the shift in lab dynamics. Plus, there’s a hilarious discussion about “Wizgate” with a surprise guest from a previous Modern Figures episode. Join in as they reminisce about their time in the lab and the unique culture they created.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:34:07 — 86.2MB) | Embed

Season 5 Opener – Episode 065

Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

Get ready ‘cause we’re kicking off Season 5 with 2 very special guests – hosts of the Modern Figures podcast – Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen! Listen as they spill the beans on their quest to conquer the world of research – and they’re tackling it with a consortium focused on Black women and girls in computing. They even dish about wrestling with AI language models like Chat GPT and the wild world of ethical considerations. They’re tackling the resignation of Harvard’s prez, Dr. Claudine Gay, and the unique hurdles faced by Black academic leaders. Join the conversation on the work we’re doing and what we have next in the pipeline!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

NCWIT Color of Our Future – Bonus Episode 064

00:56:39 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:39 — 77.8MB) | Embed

We were honored to be featured guests of the first Color of Our Future webinar of NCWIT’s Conversation for Change series.
Listen to our discussion, led by Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder, as we share how we met, who our dream podcast guests are and why all roads lead back to Dr. Juan E. Gilbert.
The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) leverages the skills and experiences of professionals with diverse backgrounds to further the mission and make sustainable change. NCWIT is an avid supporter and a sponsor of the Modern Figures Podcast.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:39 — 77.8MB) | Embed

Everything is by Design – Episode 063

01:25:44 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:25:44 — 117.7MB) | Embed

Welcome Dr. Christina Carrington, an Assistant Professor of Human-Computer Interaction in the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University who works at the intersection of interaction design and health and racial equity. Listen as she shares her journey from her mom driving her three hours to participate in NSBE to her focus on the development of products to support older adults, individuals with differing abilities, and historically excluded groups.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:25:44 — 117.7MB) | Embed

Take the Shot: Hacking CS with Sports – Episode 062

01:08:41 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:41 — 94.3MB) | Embed

Let us introduce you to our wonderful guest, Dr. Sanethia Thomas. Dr. Thomas currently serves as Assistant Instructional Professor at University of Florida. However, she will attest to being a lifelong student, multi-talented and multi-passionate. Listen to her inspiring story on why she decided to combine sports and tech to launch her own company and nonprofit organization and why you’re never too old to do something different.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:41 — 94.3MB) | Embed

Changing the Complexion of Tech – Episode 061

01:27:40 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:27:40 — 120.4MB) | Embed

We welcome another special guest Shameeka Emanuel (and bonus guest Dr. Corey Baker) for a fun conversation among friends and colleagues. Shameeka used her personal mission statement to guide her career trajectory. The result? Numerous positions focused on holding space and pushing boundaries.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:27:40 — 120.4MB) | Embed

And God said… Let there be patents! – Episode 060

1:14:13 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:14:13 — 101.9MB) | Embed

This week’s episode features the Black woman believed to have the most issued patents in the entire world. Dr. Ruthie D. Lyle is an “emerging technology junkie” and has made her mark by being the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering to being one of the first African Americans to hold the title of IBM Master Inventor.

Listen as this multi-talented, multi-passionate leader shares what drew her to patent work and how we need to all focus on engaging youth in AI.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:14:13 — 101.9MB) | Embed

Stepping Out and Expecting More – Episode 059

01:21:28 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:21:28 — 111.9MB) | Embed

From growing up seeing the Confederate flag to taking bold steps and making major moves, Dr. Monica F. Cox credits her upbringing and personality to being unapologetically herself. Listen as the Author of “Demystifying the Engineering PhD” shares her journey to not only being a steward in her field but also helping others do the same.

Monica F. Cox, Ph.D., is a disruptor, trailblazer, change agent, and leader who believes in living an authentic life even if it makes people uncomfortable. She grew up an only child in rural southeast Alabama, where she was raised by her educator parents to persist in the face of personal and professional adversity. As a coach, she guides clients in areas of career development; business strategy; and diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Distinguished Professor and entrepreneur, Dr. Cox’s inquisitive nature contributes to her passion for educating others and sharing what she has learned via her experiences.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:21:28 — 111.9MB) | Embed

A Community of our Own – Episode 058

01:00:26 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:26 — 83.0MB) | Embed

From growing up as a “science nerd”, to a career in respiratory therapy to founding Black Women in Technology, an organization dedicated to encouraging Black Women and other women of color to pursue technology as a career. Listen as Lori Mitchell shares why she is not done yet and why we call her the true definition of levels, levels, levels.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:00:26 — 83.0MB) | Embed

All About Crypto – Episode 057

01:08:21 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:21 — 93.9MB) | Embed

On this episode, we welcome back Dr. Pamela Gibbs to the Modern Figures Podcast as a rare repeat guest (check her out on Episode 26). If you have all of the questions about crypto, Dr. Gibbs has all of the answers. Learn how being “nosy for a living” led to a career and the connection between Walmart and crypto.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:21 — 93.9MB) | Embed

BlackTechUnplugged Crossover Episode – Episode 056

00:46:52 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:52 — 64.4MB) | Embed

Welcome to our crossover episode with Deena McKay is a technologist, speaker, and host of the podcast, Black Tech Unplugged. Listen to this Certified Scrum Master as she educates us on her journey to the tech field, how ashy feet made her pivot and her motivation for launching the Black Tech Unplugged podcast.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:52 — 64.4MB) | Embed

Affective and Effective – Episode 055

00:43:33 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:33 — 59.8MB) | Embed

Dr. Shani B. Daily is a Professor of practice in Electrical and Computer Engineering & Computer Science at Duke University and Levitan Faculty Fellow, Special Assistant to the Vice Provosts. Her research focuses on the design, implementation, and evaluation of technologies, programs, and curricula to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM fields. Dr. Daily’s work has been featured in USA Today, Forbes, National Public Radio, and the Chicago Tribune. Listen as she shares what sparked her interest in academia and what led to her ground-breaking success in removing barriers for the next generation of computer scientists.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:33 — 59.8MB) | Embed

Computer Science Hustle-Woman Part 2 – Episode 054

00:30:29 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:29 — 41.9MB) | Embed

We continue our conversation with Deidra Morrison Wells, Ph.D. In part 2, we learn more about her experiences in academia and find out why she decided to leave.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:29 — 41.9MB) | Embed

Computer Science Hustle-Woman – Episode 053

00:58:57 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:57 — 81.0MB) | Embed

Today, we are speaking with Deidra Morrison Wells, Ph.D. , a self-professed Lego-head, who went from having animals as classmates in high school to becoming a certified joy-pusher. Listen to Part 1 of our conversation as she shares her journey to becoming a Ph.D., to how the pandemic changed her career trajectory.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:57 — 81.0MB) | Embed

Young, Gifted, and Black-ademic Series #4: Mentorship Matters – Episode 052

01:13:34 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:13:34 — 101.0MB) | Embed

In Part 4, we take a closer look at the importance of mentoring. What is a mentor? How do you get one? And then, once you have a mentor, how do you determine that they’re a good fit for you? Listen as our hosts share some of their experiences with mentoring.

Here are the links mentioned in this episode:
Link to this report: Mentoring-Report.pdf
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ebd290VNde97EcS4Y6vdH5Uf2w0yJz-I/view?usp=sharing
Podcast: https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/the-science-of-effective-mentoring-in-stemm
Mentor Map: https://www.facultydiversity.org/ncfddmentormap
Rackham Graduate Student Mentoring Guide [for students]: https://rackham.umich.edu/downloads/student-mentoring-handbook.pdf
How to Mentor Graduate Students [for faculty]: https://rackham.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Fmentor.pdf

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:13:34 — 101.0MB) | Embed

Tenured and Tenure Track – Episode 051

00:55:07 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:07 — ) | Embed

Welcome to Season 4 of the Modern Figures Podcast! We open this season with an unscripted conversation between our esteemed co-hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. Listen as they share what’s been going on in the world and their professional lives. Also, stay tuned to hear what’s in store this season.

As always you can find us on our website at www.modernfigurespodcast.com

You can ask us questions via email at: askus@modernfigurespodcast.com

And you can find Kyla and Jeremy on Twitter
@Dr_Kyla and @JeremyWaisome

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:07 — ) | Embed

Miss Me with the Ms. Part 2 – Episode 050

00:38:38 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 38:38 — 88.4MB) | Embed

The conversation continues with Tiffanie R. Smith, Ph.D. as we celebrate reaching 50 episodes! Listen as Dr. Smith shares how she was successful in combining her love of dance with STEM along with why how her students address her is important.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 38:38 — 88.4MB) | Embed

Miss Me with the Ms. Part 1 – Episode 049

00:51:01 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:01 — 116.8MB) | Embed

We are joined by Dr. Tiffanie R. Smith, a self-professed over-achiever, who recounts her journey to PhD from making the “best decision ever made” in her entire life to being shunned by her lab mates.Her path to current success included many twists and turns. Dr. Smith excels at following her gut instincts while remaining focused on her goals.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:01 — 116.8MB) | Embed

The Intersection of Psychology and Technology – Episode 048

01:20:41 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:20:41 — 184.7MB) | Embed

Unlike most people, Dr. Courtney D. Cogburn knew early on that she was interested in a career in Psychology and later, Social Work. Listen as she shares how these two disciplines contribute to her current work in studying racial inequities. Learn how she is utilizing technology to reveal how racial bias impacts all aspects of our lives.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:20:41 — 184.7MB) | Embed

A Pivot For the Culture – Episode 047

01:08:04 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:04 — 155.8MB) | Embed

Meet friend of the podcast, Bethlehem Mesfin, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science. Learn about her shift into tech and how a need for community led to co-founding Code 4 the Culture.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:08:04 — 155.8MB) | Embed

Young, Gifted, and Black-ademic III – Episode 046

01:10:16 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:16 — 160.8MB) | Embed

In Part 3, we are breaking down an important aspect of academic life: the dissertation. Listen as our esteemed hosts share what it is and its importance on the path to PhD. Get ready to learn firsthand knowledge on the steps to successfully create your dissertation.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:16 — 160.8MB) | Embed

A Data Scientist For Humanity – Episode 045

01:18:13 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:18:13 — 179.0MB) | Embed

Dr. Brandeis Marshall was able to combine her two loves: math and dance. What began as rolling coins for her mom led to a career in computing which placed her on the front end of “this internet thing”. Get ready for a multitude of funny and surprising stories outlining her journey to leadership. You can continue learning from Dr. Marshall by subscribing to her Rebel Tech newsletter or following her on Medium.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:18:13 — 179.0MB) | Embed

Mechanical Engineers Compute Too – Episode 044

01:19:40 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:19:40 — 182.3MB) | Embed

At the suggestion of her middle school teacher, Dr. Makita R. Phillips began her journey of pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. She prides herself on living on faith and has had a multitude of experiences leading her around the country. Listen to this heart-warming conversation about showing up, living with intention and putting yourself first.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:19:40 — 182.3MB) | Embed

From Peace Corps To PhD – Episode 043

01:10:49 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:49 — 162.1MB) | Embed

At the age of 14, Ihudiya Finda Williams knew 2 things: she loved to code and she wanted to be in the Peace Corps. On this episode, listen in as she shares lessons learned that led from corporate internships to Africa to Harvard.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:10:49 — 162.1MB) | Embed

Young, Gifted, and Black-ademic II – Episode 042

00:55:08 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:08 — 126.2MB) | Embed

This episode is part of a series dedicated to giving the Modern Figures Podcast listeners the inside scoop of a career in academia directly from our hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. From mapping out a career path and investing in yourself to navigating tenure politics, this series will cover it all.
Part two covers from making the decision and picking the right graduate school (for you) to identifying funding support to pay for it all. Additionally, listen as our hosts share pivotal lessons learned along their respective journeys that can help make your path smoother.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:08 — 126.2MB) | Embed

The Chic Geek – Episode 041

01:15:38 Comments Off

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:15:38 — 173.1MB) | Embed

Dr. France Jackson shares her journey from being the “smart girl” in elementary school to a PhD student working within the intersection of fashion and design-centered culture. She shares why authenticity can be a competitive advantage and how curating experiences has become a lucrative career.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:15:38 — 173.1MB) | Embed

NoireSTEMinist – Episode 040

1:14:42 1 Comment

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:14:42 — 171.0MB) | Embed

Dr. Carlotta Berry joins us to talk about the importance of community, utilizing available resources and reaching back as we climb the proverbial ladder. Passionate about recruitment and retention in the electrical and computer engineering fields, Dr. Berry has committed herself to being an advisor and advocate. Pull up a seat for a lesson in determination and faith.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:14:42 — 171.0MB) | Embed