Modern Figures Podcast

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.