interface

Curiosity Driven Engineering feat. Reginald Campbell

PROS — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:40:11 -0500

In this episode, the Interface hosts sit down with Reginald Campbell, Engineering Director at Etsy. They discuss Reginald's diverse career path in engineering and technology, his educational background, and experiences leading engineering teams at companies like CNN, SurveyMonkey, and Etsy. Reginald shares insights on his curiosity-driven approach to learning, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of diversity in technology roles. The episode also includes a heat check segment where the team discusses Apple's controversial iPad Pro ad and celebrates a historic milestone for Georgia Tech's first Black graduate.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

02:34 Reginald's Career Journey

03:42 Childhood and Early Tech Exposure

05:42 Developing a Career Plan

07:33 Roles and Responsibilities as a Director

15:06 Advice for Aspiring Tech Leaders

18:37 Diversity in Tech

27:32 Heat Check Segment
38:52 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Heat Check Topics

· Engineering Executive Primer (Book)

· Ronald Yancey Presents Diploma for Master’s Degree to Granddaughter in Electrical and Computer Engineering

· Apple Apologizes For iPad Pro Ad That ‘Missed the Mark’
· Crush! iPad Pro Ad

Contact Reginald

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginaldcampbell

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Navigating Cybersecurity feat. Dante Jackson

PROS — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0500

In this episode, the Interface co-hosts explore cybersecurity with Dante Jackson, the Head of Security Resilience at Truist Bank. Dante shares his career journey from the Department of Justice to his current role, highlighting his experience building cybersecurity programs and dealing with insider threats. He provides advice for those considering a career in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of experience over education, strategic certification, and strong networking skills. Dante also touches on the significance of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and shares details about his upcoming cybersecurity consulting firm, Serket Tech Security, which aims to help small to medium-sized businesses secure their digital assets.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

02:35 Dante Jackson's Career Journey

04:41 Transitioning from Government to Corporate

06:00 Building Cybersecurity Programs

07:14 Day in the Life of a Security Resilience Head

11:28 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals

21:10 Diversity in Cybersecurity

22:42 Heat Check: Hot Topics in Tech

30:42 Dante's New Venture and Closing Remarks

Links

Jennifer Heat Check

Siara Heat Check

Contact Dante

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dante-jackson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serket_tech_security/

Website: www.serkettech.com

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jennifer Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Navigating the Tech World with Curiosity and Courage feat. Dana Morrow Branch

PROS — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:59 -0500

In this podcast episode, hosts Jennifer Plummer and Matthew Negron interview Dana Morrow Branch, Senior Vice President AI Platform Risk Management at Bank of America. Dana shares her journey into the tech world. With over two decades of experience in technology, from software development to AI project management, Dana discusses her career trajectory, including her rapid promotions and the leaps she made from software development to risk management in AI, guided by her curiosity and dedication to excellence.

Moreover, Dana delves into her involvement in fostering diversity and inclusion within the tech industry, her passion for homeschooling, and the personal rewards of volunteering. The discussion also covers the significance of continuous learning, the future of AI and risk management, and the importance of innovative thinking in technology. Furthermore, Dana offers insightful advice for those looking to carve a path in technology today and emphasizes the value of understanding and participating in multidisciplinary projects and hackathons to foster innovation.

Notable Quotes

“If the job doesn't fit, you create the fit”

“…know your job and know everybody else's job around you”

“…be a jack of all trades and an expert at all of them”

“…careers aren't built on chasing titles. Careers are built on demonstrating value and they, and a need for you in a room”

Heat Check Links

The Top 3 Resume Mistakes Costing You the Job

Reddit’s planned IPO share price seems high, unless you look at its AI revenue

Contact Dana Morrow Branch

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-morrow-branch

Contact the Interface Crew

interfacepodcast@pros.com

Jenni Plummer

Siara Barnes

Matthew Negron

(00:00) - Meet Dana Morrow Branch: A Trailblazer in Tech
(02:33) - The Unconventional Path to Tech: From Lawyer Dreams to Tech Reality
(04:53) - First Steps into the Professional World: Challenges and Triumphs
(09:25) - Navigating Career Growth: From Software Engineer to Senior Vice President
(14:47) - The Essence of AI Risk Management: A Deep Dive with Dana
(21:00) - Career Advice for the Next Generation: Embracing Change and Continuous Learning
(27:16) - Reflecting on the Journey: The Value of Being in the Room
(29:13) - The Power of Curiosity and Practical Experience
(29:42) - Maximizing Opportunities: From Observing to Leading
(30:46) - Building a Diverse Tech Workforce: Strategies and Successes
(35:40) - The Heat Check: Hot Topics in Tech and Culture
(35:58) - Resume Mistakes to Avoid for Your Dream Tech Job
(39:32) - Reddit's IPO and the Future of AI
(44:19) - Innovation and Learning: The Impact of Hackathons
(55:12) - Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

Technology Leadership Masterclass feat. Kelsey Ruger

PROS — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0600

In this episode, our hosts Jennifer, Matthew and Siara engage in insightful dialogue with Kelsey Ruger, the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Hello Alice. They dive into topics such as the synergy of being leading both product and technology teams, the value of investing in becoming a good leader, and the importance of learning how to operate in the business world while specializing in technology. The Heat Check segment introduces listeners to several conspiracy theories surrounding this year's Super Bowl game and a special Black History Month tribute to Doug Williams, the first black quarterback to play in and win a Super Bowl game.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

02:28 Kelsey's Journey into Technology

06:10 The Importance of Breaking Things and Learning

07:10 The Evolution of Technology and Its Accessibility

08:35 Transition to Chief Product and Technology Officer

10:18 The Role of a Manager and Leadership Skills

10:58 The Cognitive Load of Managing Multiple Teams

16:50 Advice for Aspiring Designers and Engineers

20:49 Building Diverse Teams and Hiring the Right People

23:14 Increasing Black Talent in Technology

27:14 Understanding Business Motivations

28:31 Personal Experiences in Corporate America

29:14 The Burden of Representation

30:29 The Heat Check Segment Begins

31:26 Super Bowl Conspiracy Theories

34:41 The College Admission Game

44:35 Black History Month Tribute

46:23 Wrapping Up and Guest Contact Info

Notable Quotes

“Yeah. I don't think people appreciate breaking things enough. Like when you break it and you have to fix it, you learn a lot. Even if your life is at risk at the moment, you learn a lot about how to get things working…”

“…start with making sure the vision is clear. So, if, for example, I want to do a new feature around AI, I'm not going to just go and say, we need this feature. I need to plug it into what our vision is. Like, what is our vision as a company, how this fits with what we said are the particular OKRs we're working on in that particular timeframe, and then make sure that the expectations are clear. Sometimes I will sketch out things or I'll give them an idea, especially if it's something really new that we haven't talked about before. What I do try to avoid is giving them the solution because that's why you hire people, right? Like you don't hire people as an executive to dictate to them, go build this thing that I thought of.

Links
Matthew Heat Check

Siara Heat Check

Jennifer Heat Check

Contact Kelsey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyruger/

Instagram: @kelseyruger

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Quality Engineering Insights: An In-depth Talk feat. Bobby Kyle

PROS — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Interface, the co-hosts converse with Bobby Kyle, IT advisor at the Central Louisiana Electric Company (and PROS alum!) about his expansive career in engineering and information technology leadership roles. They discuss his path into technology, the impact and implications of emerging technologies like AI, the importance of mentors, and strategies for increasing diversity in tech. He also shares his 'day in the life' of an IT Advisor as well as the distinction between Quality Engineering and Quality Assurance.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Profile

01:57 Bobby's Journey into Technology

03:59 Quality Engineering vs Quality Assurance

06:23 Day in the Life of a Quality Engineering Director

14:09 Career Advice for Aspiring Leaders in Tech

15:11 Impact of AI on Quality Engineering

22:52 Increasing Black Talent in Technology

25:32 Expanding Partnerships and Sourcing Strategies

27:05 Transitioning to AI and Tech Concerns

27:10 Heat Check Segment: AI and Image Manipulation

28:20 Reminiscing about Apple Macintosh

33:56 Discussion on AI Misuse and Legal Implications

37:37 The Business of Netflix and Outsourcing

45:21 Closing Remarks and Guest Contact Information

Heat Check Links

Taylor Swift Deep Fake

Apple Mac turns 40!

Netflix: What Happens When You Press Play?

Contact Bobby

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-kyle/

Contact the Interface Crew

interfacepodcast@pros.com

Jenni Plummer

Siara Barnes

Matthew Negron

Human Centered Design in UX feat. Ayan Bihi

PROS — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:35:21 -0600

In this episode of Interface, the Crew speaks with PROS own UX Design Manager, Ayan Bihi. Ayan discusses her trajectory from studying sociology in France to becoming a UX Design Manager. She shares insights on her work, including the human-centered design strategy, the power of design, and the importance of user-centered solutions. Additionally, the conversation delves into strategies for retaining black talent in tech industries, the value of diversity, and the importance of mentorship.

Notable Quotes

“At Concordia University and I took sociology just because I've always been fascinated on how things work. And so, I can be in a public space and just observe people and wonder like, why are they doing that? Or just trying to understand everything. So, for me, sociology was kind of like getting to study the user manual of our societies and understanding why we do certain things and what's the structure and what's the kind of the reason behind it all.”

“I'm able to open a pen easier because somebody thought about what would be the best experience for me to open this pen. So I said, you know what, that would be really interesting. Let me explore that. So I decided first before I decided to go full into it, I took a community college course where I was growing up to understand it a bit more, and I decided, okay, yeah, I get this. I like this.”

Links

Matthew Heat Check: https://techcrunch.com/2024/01/10/sec-approves-spot-bitcoin-etf/

Siara Heat Check: https://podcasts.apple.com/si/podcast/michelle-obama-how-to-stay-with-your-partner-when-they/id1450994021?i=1000640876432

Jennifer Heat Check: https://link.hbr.org/view/654aa89aa426663d33230514k6rf8.6ovs/3bd05a5c

Contact Ayan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayanbihi/

Ascend UX Podcast: https://ascendux.simplecast.com/

Menstrual Care Website: https://www.arum.care/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Chapters
01:17 Introduction and Guest Presentation

02:28 Starting the Conversation

03:27 Guest's Origin Story

07:36 Transition into UX Design

09:45 Role as a Design Manager

12:40 Understanding User Experience Design

15:12 Advice for Aspiring UX Designers

21:30 Balancing Naivety and Planning in Career Progression

24:52 Increasing Black Talent in Technology

26:31 The Impact of Diversity in the Workplace

27:03 Personal Experiences and Challenges as a Black Woman in Tech

28:22 The Importance of Diversity in Thought and Innovation

29:08 Exposing Black Talent to Tech Careers through Externships

30:25 The Power of Networking and Mentorship

30:52 The Externship Experience at PROSE

34:06 The Importance of Human Connection in a Virtual World

36:06 Heat Check: Hot Topics in Tech and Black Culture

50:20 The Importance of Walking the Walk in Diversity and Inclusion

Welcome to Season 3!

PROS — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 13:30:32 -0600

Welcome to Season 3 of Interface! Join our incredible co-hosts as they kick off this new chapter with a lively chat filled with reflections on past seasons, invaluable lessons learned, and an exclusive sneak peek into the thrilling content awaiting you in Season 3. Catch up with the hosts and gear up for an exhilarating season of dynamic conversations with the tech world’s finest minds!

(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(01:43) - Catching Up with the Hosts
(02:04) - Reflecting on the Podcast's Growth
(04:40) - The Importance of Teamwork
(05:29) - Celebrating Milestones
(05:50) - Introducing New Team Members
(07:41) - Engaging with Executives
(07:58) - The Empower Executive Networking Challenge
(09:52) - The Impact of the Podcast
(11:15) - The Role of the Executive Sponsor
(13:41) - Hot Jobs Segment Introduction
(16:12) - Social Media Updates
(18:35) - Reflecting on Past Seasons
(22:00) - Looking Forward to Season Three
(34:46) - Closing Remarks

Glass Ceilings and the Power of the Pivot feat. Dr. Cheryl Swanier

PROS — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 15:38:11 -0500

Join the Interface Crew as they sit down with Dr. Cheryl Swanier, Computer Science department chair for University of Massachusetts Amherst and Founder and CEO of Swanier Consulting LLC. to discuss her early tech career experiences facing corporate glass ceilings and how it led her to a career pivot into education where she flourished. Dr. Swanier illustrates how she navigated her own imposter syndrome after being presented with a career changing opportunity and how facing racism in the workplace has shaped her career and inspired her community outreach efforts encouraging Black women in tech and teaching kids from underrepresented groups how to code.

Notable Quotes

"…the reason I transitioned from corporate to K-12 is because I felt like I had reached this glass ceiling. It was always my aspiration to become a CEO of an organization, but I quickly realized that…organizations really weren't for Black people in the early eighties or the mid-nineties."

"I went to my interview, and I was extremely nervous…they did offer me a position but not that of department chair because I really didn't show forth the confidence and enthusiasm to get that (department chair) position."

"I tell my students to follow your dreams and pick and choose your battles. Make sure you don't put all your eggs in one basket."

Links

Jennifer Heat Check: https://newsletter.pragmaticengineer.com/p/twitter-vs-instagram-threads-two?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=458709&post_id=133515172&isFreemail=true&utm_medium=email

Siara Heat Check: https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/12/tech/fbi-public-charging-port-warning/index.html

Contact Cheryl

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylswanier/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Perspectives on Technology, Leadership and Driving Business Forward feat. Kim Martin

PROS — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Interface podcast, the crew celebrates hitting a milestone of 1,000 downloads and chats with Kim Martin, Director of Engineering at Indeed. Kim Martin talks about the emotional aspects of tech and being a software developer, how being a good decision maker is half the battle of a good leader and why she's always hiring.

Notable Quotes

"…When you're invested, everything is emotional…it's demoralizing…feeling like you're just doing busy work and nobody's ever going to see it. "
"Computer scientists are creatives and everybody wants to be expressive."
"Figure out what you're good at and then double down on that because there's always going to be an opportunity for whatever it is that you're doing."

Links

Jennifer Heat Check: https://www.wired.com/story/stack-overflow-gender-problem/

Siara Heat Check: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-strikes-affirmative-action-programs-harvard-unc-rcna66770

Contact Kim

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlynicolemartin/

Instagram: @blackgirlgolfing

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Harmonizing Code and Creativity: Unleashing Music with Generative AI feat. Aaron Walker

PROS — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 12:37:53 -0500

In this episode, the Interface Crew sits down with Aaron Walker, a Computer Science student at the University of Houston, to delve into his captivating undergraduate journey. Join us as we explore how Aaron discovered his passion for technology, the fascinating intersection of music theory and computer science, and his innovative approach to music creation using generative AI.

Notable Quotes

"I just like problem solving. Creative problem solving is fun. It's like puzzles, but you actually do stuff. You finish stuff, you build stuff by solving puzzles."

Links

Jennifer Heat Check: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/05/business/tech-internship-application-grind.html

Matthew Heat Check: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/20/business/media/reddit-moderators-api-protest.html

Siara Heat Check: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juneteenth

Contact Aaron

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-walker-777a09227/

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@aarrowaudio

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Empowering Underrepresented Communities - Journey of Building Bridges to Tech feat. Goldie Powell

PROS — Mon, 22 May 2023 16:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Interface Crew, Goldie Powell joins the show to discuss her journey of empowering women and underrepresented communities in technology. As a woman of color who faced challenges early in her career, Goldie shares how her experience in Corporate America inspired her to make a difference for others.

Listeners will gain valuable insights from Goldie's personal story and her expertise in the tech industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to learn more about how to create a more inclusive and diverse tech industry.

Notable Quotes

"There were silent expectations. When you're hired, you are expected to know how to do this job yet when you ask questions 1 question may turn into 2, 3, or 5 questions…This is where I think there is a lot of disconnect from college into Corporate America."

"I wanted to help Black women; people who look like me. I wanted to help boost their confidence early so when they are sitting in the same seat I was, they don't feel as uncomfortable as I felt."

Links

· Siara Heat Check: https://www.emergingtechbrew.com/stories/2023/04/25/adobe-initiative-ai-images?cid=31280730.462313&mid=dd55ea1dbeaec357e0585e40148dcc20&utm_campaign=etb&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_source=morning_brew

· Jenni Heat Check: https://www.wired.com/story/stack-overflow-will-charge-ai-giants-for-training-data/

· Mattie's Heat Check: https://techcrunch.com/2023/04/24/snapchat-sees-spike-in-1-star-reviews-as-users-pan-the-my-ai-feature-calling-for-its-removal/

Contact Goldie

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goldie-powell-97301a176/

Website: https://www.cybercreationz.com/, https://cybercreationztech.org/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

From Engineer to Entrepreneur: The Journey of SpenDebt feat. Kiley Summers

PROS — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0500

The Interface Crew sits down with Kiley Summers, electrical engineer by trade and founder of SpendDebt, to discuss how he landed in engineering and how the desire to create the life he wanted for his family and becoming debt free led him to launch SpinDebt his consumer debt payment company, SpendDebt.

Notable Quotes

"Exposure expands expectations…"
"…being in the boardroom, being in student council as a young kid or over Girl Scouts…maybe they don't get it right, but that's okay to not get it right. What's important to me is that they have confidence."
"Keep going. Use the tools and fail fast!"
"If you don't step into what you are called to do, you can make a whole generation miss their blessing."

Heat Check Source Links

· Jennifer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGAgxozNWFE&ab_channel=ByteByteGo

· Matthew: https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/02/15/1067904/ai-automation-drug-development/

Contact Kiley

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spendebtSpenDebt

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_spendebt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spendebt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiley-summers-49b11a41/

Website: https://www.spendebt.com/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

CuSTEM Journey feat. Engineer and Podcast Host Andrew Baines

PROS — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:28:27 -0500

Episode Title: CuSTEM Journey feat. Engineer and Podcast Host Andrew Baines

The Interface crew sits down with Engineer and founder of CuSTEM Journeys Podcast, Andrew Baines, to chat about how to deal with nay-sayers and how his career as an engineer helped him start podcasting and become a diversity focused recruiter.

“…we need to encourage and push our students and the kids from our communities to do more than what’s just typically expected. If I would’ve just said, “Yo, I’m gonna go walk on at JUCO and go try to play ball there, nobody would have blinked an eye.”

“if you’re giving advice, you definitely have to know the individual. Where is their head space at? What is their awareness of what they are about to do? I definitely think transparency and helping the person understand what are the next steps needed to be successful on this journey.”

“Let’s create systems or opportunities or opportunities within our organization so that we can train the next batch of talent we need for the problems we have we have currently.”

Links

· Siara Heat Check: https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/09/apple-launches-its-new-classical-music-streaming-app-for-pre-order/?utm_medium=TCnewsletter&tpcc=TCdailynewsletter

· Jenni Heat Check: https://wix-ux.com/when-life-gives-you-lemons-write-better-error-messages-46c5223e1a2f

· Mattie's Heat Check: https://www.pcmag.com/news/accessibility-and-ai-microsoft-details-its-plans-for-a-more-inclusive-future

· Jenni CuSTEM Journeys episode: https://youtu.be/ELFk6btkM5k

Contact Andrew

CuSTEM Journeys Podcast: cuSTEM journeys - https://www.custemjourneys.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-baines-85763848/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Funding Future Founders feat. Foresight Co-Founder and CTO Charlotte Clark

PROS — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Title: “Funding Future Founders feat. Foresight Co-Founder and CTO Charlotte Clark”

Charlotte Clark is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Foresight, a company helping small businesses get educated and raise the capital they need to make their dreams a reality. The Interface Crew chats with Charlotte about her journey into technology, her experience at MIT and how she took the leap to quit her corporate job during the global pandemic and dive into entrepreneurship. She shares lessons she’s learned along the way about herself and what it takes to lead tech start up.

Highlights

“If I hadn’t been in that incubator, it would have taken me a really long time. I think I am a recovering perfectionist, so I probably would have attempted to make things really perfect. At this point, I’ve rebranded myself 3 or 4 times and I’ve changed my website multiple times…it’s just a part of the entrepreneur process…”

“[overcoming roadblocks] I think it’s really about figuring out how do I feel about what I’m doing, who I’m working with. …I’ve worked with clients and things did not go well and I have to reflect on…am I setting up the right boundaries for myself and how I work with clients.”

“I think [Chief Technology Officers and Chief Product Officers] need to be technically in one person because sometimes priorities have to just be, ‘Does it work? Are our customers satisfied?’ and then technology becomes second.”

Links

Contact Charlotte

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tryforesight/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-a-clark/

Website - https://www.tryforesight.io

Medium - https://medium.com/@charlotte.a.clark

Heat Check Links:

Charlotte: https://www.businessinsider.com/venture-debt-vs-venture-capital-startup-advantages-2022-12

Siara: Rihanna Performance; Sheryl Lee Ralph - Lift Every Voice and Sing; Chris Stapleton – USA National Anthem

Jennifer: Big Tech diversity efforts stall as industry endures mass layoffs - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubWFya2V0cGxhY2Uub3JnL2ZlZWQvcG9kY2FzdC9tYXJrZXRwbGFjZS10ZWNo/episode/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubWFya2V0cGxhY2Uub3JnL3Nob3dzL21hcmtldHBsYWNlLXRlY2gvYmlnLXRlY2gtZGl2ZXJzaXR5LWVmZm9ydHMtc3RhbGwtaW5kdXN0cnktbWFzcy1sYXlvZmZz?sa=X&ved=0CAUQkfYCahcKEwigtobfgcr9AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQaA2

Matthew: https://twitter.com/rgiii/status/1624844834333921280?s=46&t=I5r8zBv1XJrNLTbEoblNKA

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

The Power of Community and Advancing Technology feat. the pioneer of Kubernetes, Kelsey Hightower - Part. 2

PROS — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 14:02:16 -0600

The Interface Crew continues their conversation with the King of Kubernetes, Kelsey Hightower. He discusses how Kubernetes was developed, the process of getting published by O'Reilly, and the importance of joining and creating communities around technology.

Highlights

"Kubernetes is a tool, but to understand a tool you gotta know what it's used for."

"Just because technology is hot and in demand doesn't mean you immediately have a problem too or you may not even want to have that problem."

"I went to Wikipedia and found a dolphin because dolphins travel in pods, Kubernetes has pods. And I didn't know, you don't get to pick your animal. O'Reilly already has a collection of hand drawn animals, and when you do your book, they, they tell you, this is your animal."

"A lot of people put some differences aside when there's a huge dominating common interest and when that common interest takes place, that becomes a thing that becomes front and center. I'm not saying in those rooms that no one is racist anymore. I'm not saying that. I'm saying is people focus on a common interest that distracts them stuff."

The Power of Community and Advancing Technology feat. the pioneer of Kubernetes, Kelsey Hightower - Part. 1

PROS — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0600

The Interface Crew interviews the pioneer of Kubernetes, Kelsey Hightower. Kelsey explains what a Distinguished Engineer at Google looks like, shares the spark that lit the fire to explore a career in technology in the 90s, and how important is to take stock of your skills and recognizing your worth.

Highlights

Executive interview process: They are saying, "We've seen this from afar, and we know what we are getting. We just want to make sure you know what you are getting"

"When I make decisions now, I ask myself, am I leaving or am I going toward something?"

"The truth is, good opportunities aren't given, you have to take them"

Positioning Yourself for Success in Technology feat. Tanisha O. Hall

PROS — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0600

The Interface Podcast crew talks with Tanisha Hall, Director of IT Application Development at United Airlines, about how being open to and saying ‘yes’ to opportunities has led her to a dynamic and exciting career and how she believes it’s her calling to mentor others coming up.

Highlights: “I always push for mentors in the field you want to study. It’s important because it can help guide you in your career…get involved with likeminded people.”

“Create your own path. There are free classes everywhere; it’s just a matter of seeking those out if its something you want to do.”

“Data Base Administrators (DBAs) are like superheroes!"

“…once you are at the top levels, it’s important to reach back…mentorship is one of my ministries.”

Links

· Tanisha O. Hall (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanishahall/

· Siara Heat Check: Lensa - https://mashable.com/article/lensa-ai-app-explainer

· Jennifer Heat Check: Google Doodle – Jerry Lawson https://www.google.com/doodles/gerald-jerry-lawsons-82nd-birthday

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Mobile Development and Career Pathing with the App Queen, feat. Bukola Akinfaderin

PROS — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 12:15:04 -0600

The Interface Podcast crew takes a journey through Bukola Akinfaderin’s professional career from being unable to find an engineering job after graduating from college to developing a viral mobile app that brought the African radio community to Blackberry devices all over the world. She discusses her experience of how she navigates her world often being the only or one of few black women in the room. She shares how her fearlessness and curiosity has helped her build a well-rounded career that led her to running the Mobile Application team at Carvana.

Links (Guest LinkedIn, publications, guest website, Heat Check sources)

· Bukola Akinfaderin – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakinfaderin/

· Bukola Akinfaderin – App Coming Soon!: The Glow Up App

· Bukola Akinfaderin - Website: therealappqueen.com

· Bukola Akinfaderin - Instagram: @theappqueen

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Try Everything: The Power of Perspective feat. Maurice Holt

PROS — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 11:48:47 -0600

Try Everything: The Power of Perspective feat. Maurice Holt

Maurice has been a developer for more than 20 years, when he graduated in 1984, computer science was VERY new. He made straight A’s in computer science in high school without trying, and it gave him some direction as far as a career. He got a scholarship to Texas A&M where he was the only athlete with a computer science major. Everyone thought he was crazy for it, but it was his passion, and he had a knack for it. He graduated and got an internship in Dallas and then was hired by IBM to work for NASA where he had a black female manager who mentored him and gave him an opportunity. Specialized for a long time in UI development.

Looks for opportunities to be able to give back – 6:30

Try everything, be well-rounded – 7:00

Links (Guest LinkedIn, publications, guest website, Heat Check sources)

Siara - GM unveils $30,000 electric SUV that will be one of the cheapest EVs available
Matthew - US Senator seeks antitrust review of apartment price-setting software | Ars Technica
Jennifer - https://uhcode.red

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

interfacepodcast@pros.com OR
Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR
Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR
Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Learning about User Experience with Thomas Watkins

PROS — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 16:53:49 -0500

Episode 10 Show Notes - Learning about User Experience with Thomas Watkins

NOTE: This episode was recorded on December 1st, 2021

Learning about User Experience with Thomas Watkins, Principal and Founder of 3 Leaf

Thomas Watkins started out studying psychology, was interested in cognitive psychology, then got accepted to George Mason University’s Human Factors program (the original name for UX).

He continued his studies after that but really didn’t have a career goal. Then he started working at PROS, where he began working with the software. After his time at PROS, Thomas went into consulting and fell in love with working with startups, where he felt he had more strategic influence over what a product could be. This led Thomas to create his own consulting company, 3Leaf, where the focus is to combine technology with design psychology in order to drive business success.

“To start out, get good at something”

“Fall in love with the trade, the craft”

“Go deep before you go wide – so you can join a team and add value”

https://www.3leaf.consulting/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/watkinsthomas/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

interfacepodcast@pros.com OR
Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR
Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR
Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

From the Desk of a CTO with Marcus Manning

PROS — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 14:46:02 -0500

Episode 9 Show Notes – From the Desk of a CTO with Marcus Manning

NOTE: This episode was recorded on November 15, 2021

After visiting his father’s work at NASA, Marcus Manning, CTO at Smart Financial Credit Union, was intrigued by computing. He built his first computer at 16 and went on to get a degree in computer science. Being a people person, once he started working, Marcus realized he would like to marry the technical side with his people skills. He went into network administration which led to an opportunity in a leadership role - that is where his journey started as an African American leader in the IT industry. Marcus, a great story teller, shares his experience on becoming an executive and a technology leader.

"In order for technology to be a value to any organization it needs to be properly articulated”

“... help the business connect the dots”

“... bring your true authentic self with you everywhere that you go, including the workplace”

“... I think others perception of you is important... Not [to] change who you are, but you need to know, especially at the executive level, … what message you’re sending and you need to know how that message is being received and the only way you can know that is through feedback”

“You have to be able to adapt to change”

“... learn the business as much as you can”

“... let’s make DEI a year end goal... You put metrics and goals around everything else you want to accomplish. Why can’t we put metrics and goals around DEI”

“there needs to be a [formal] mentor / mentee program”

“Volunteer for projects and volunteer for things outside of your normal scope”

Links:

· https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-manning-7133b92/

Reach out to The Interface Podcast Crew at

· interfacepodcast@pros.com OR

· Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/ OR

· Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/ OR

· Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Shirelle Francis

PROS — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 16:43:32 -0500

Technology and Culture – Finding success as a Black woman in IT

Shirelle Francis, Manager of Programs at Insight.

What do you need to succeed? Shirelle recounts her uncanny journey to becoming Manager of Programs at Insight. Out of high school and focused on getting her Law degree but her path kept bringing her back to computers. Over time she realized that she enjoyed IT and was good at managing people, time, and resources. This realization led her to leave law school and start working in tech. While working she completed her PMP (Project Management Professional certification) and other certifications which jump started her career. Despite not having a traditional degree (although she is currently pursuing her Bachelors), her certifications, along with her desire to know the business, have allowed her to progress in her career to be a highly successful black woman in the IT industry.

Ifeanyi Ezeh

PROS — Wed, 11 May 2022 15:00:42 -0500

The Interface Podcast Crew chats with Ifeanyi Ezeh, Chief AWS Infrastructure Architect at Deloitte. Originally from Nigeria and never having touched a computer, Ifeanyi Ezeh got his start in the tech industry at Morgan State University. Then through an internship with NASA which led him on his journey to AWS (Amazon Web Services). Passionate about Bitcoin, Ifeanyi challenges us to get educated about the topic. He also talks about opportunities for black people in technology and using financial incentives to get companies to provide opportunities for black talent. You can have the programs, but if you tie it to compensation, you are more likely to see the desired outcome.

Khensani Carter

PROS — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 09:36:31 -0500

The Interface Podcast Crew talks to Khensani Carter, Director Sales Operations at Tenable.

Her journey led her from South Africa to UMBC to hardware and to software. She’s a problem solver – breaking them down into bite-sized chunks. Understand the problem you need to solve and apply the correct tools to solve it. Her Six Sigma Black Belt is one of the tools that she uses. She’s worked on software implementation projects and process improvement projects. She coded in Basic on a PS2 when she was young. She talks about giving kids options and exposure to STEM and coding from birth to help bring more black talent into STEM careers.

Matt Womack

PROS — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 08:25:45 -0500

The Interface Podcast Crew talks to Matthew Womack, Senior Cloud Engineer at IBM. He shares his transition from COBOL to a data analyst role to user experience to cloud engineer. He also shared some of his favorite meals to have around Chicago.

Charles Shelton

PROS — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 13:59:13 -0500

The Interface Podcast Crew talks to Charles Shelton, Lead Research Scientist at Bosch Research and Technology Center. He shares how he knew he wanted to work in tech since he started playing Atari at seven years old and explains working with embedded systems, the Internet of Things, and Artificial Intelligence as a scientist at Bosch. We discuss AI-powered image recognition and the responsibility that needs to be addressed with that technology. We talk about Transformers – the toys and the movies. Finally, he shares some steps forwards and backwards in the artificial intelligence space.

Odean Maye

PROS — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 12:24:46 -0600

The Interface Podcast Crew talks to Odean Maye, Director, Partner Success, Data Exchange Platforms at Capital One.
“Jump in the Pool!”
“You can’t be what you can’t see”
“Everybody needs an opportunity to be given an opportunity”

Odean Maye LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/odeanmaye
Odean Maye talk on Transforming Healthcare: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsgZcPxLQXs
Odean Maye moderating talk during the pandemic on Solving Black Community Problems Through Technology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMjtixXhqb4

Reach out to Interface @
interfacepodcast@pros.com
Jenni Plummer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniplummer/
Siara Barnes - https://www.linkedin.com/in/siara-barnes-b47a923a/
Matthew Negron - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-negron94/

Bobby Allen

PROS — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 09:35:51 -0600

The Interface Podcast Crew talks to Bobby Allen, Cloud Therapist at Google.
“It’s not a pipeline problem”
“OK Captain Obvious!”
“Diversity and Excellence are not mutually exclusive”
“I’m gonna rock that test like I’m Katharine Johnson”
“That’s how you level up in tech and in life”

Bobby Allen LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ballen-clt/
Bobby Allen Twitter: @ballen_clt
bobbyjallen.me

Meet the Crew

PROS — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:30:21 -0600

Welcome to interface! Meet the Interface Podcast Crew, Jennifer, Matthew and Siara, as they discuss the format of the episodes, the origins of doing a technology podcast, and their own personal origin stories. The crew share their thoughts on the importance of representation in technology, the relaxed vibe of the podcast and the definition of success.