Black Voices in Tech

In this engaging episode of Quick to Politic as he welcomes Nigel Sharp, a serial entrepreneur, technologist, and the founder of Aquagga. In a thought-provoking conversation, Nigel shares his expertise on the emergence of Deep Tech and its impact on entrepreneurship and innovation. Gain valuable insights into the role of generative AI, discover real-world applications of deep tech, and explore the ethical considerations surrounding these transformative technologies. Tune in to this stimulating episode of Quick to Politic and stay informed on the intersection of technology, politics, and society. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

In this enlightening episode of Quick to Politic, we sit down with Darren Riley, the innovative Detroit entrepreneur who's bridging the gap between technology and environmental justice. As the co-founder of Black Tech Saturdays and visionary behind JustAir, Riley shares his journey of using technology to make clean air accessible for everyone, no matter where they live. Join us as we explore the intersection of tech, environmental justice, and the power of community engagement. Dive into Darren's inspiring journey, his vision for JustAir's future, and glean insights from his advice for budding entrepreneurs. Tune in now for an episode that's sure to spark conversation and inspire action. #CleanAir #JustAir #TechForGood --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

Welcome to our podcast series on Black voices in tech! In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Neil Jones, also known as Aerial_Knight, a Detroit-based Games Developer, Designer, and Artist. Join us as we delve into his inspiring journey, discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by African Americans in the video gaming industry. Did you know that less than 2% of video game developers identify as Black or African American? The gaming industry, valued at over $159.3 billion globally, has immense potential for diverse perspectives. Our conversation with Aerial_Knight sheds light on the systemic issues hindering diversity and explores strategies to advocate for legislative policies that support Black tech entrepreneurs. As one of the few Black voices in the tech industry, Aerial_Knight shares his personal experiences in breaking through barriers and offers valuable insights into the changes needed to foster inclusivity. Discover the specific policies that can create a more supportive environment for Black tech entrepreneurs and the pivotal role public-private partnerships can play in driving this transformation. This interview is a testament to Aerial_Knight's success story and his dedication to empowering the next generation of Black tech entrepreneurs and video game developers. Tune in to gain invaluable advice on navigating the industry and learn how the industry and legislation can better support their journeys. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that explores African American perspectives in tech and advocates for a more diverse and inclusive gaming industry. Subscribe now and join us for this inspiring episode of our podcast series! #BlackVoicesInTech #DiversityInGaming #TechEntrepreneurship #AerialKnight #PodcastInterview View the play back here https://youtu.be/VwYMCxCPRwo --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

In this engaging episode of Quick to Politic, we delve into the world of social activism and tech entrepreneurship with Detroit's own, Johnnie Turnage. Journey with us as we explore his path from a grassroots organizer to creating EvenScore, a unique platform aimed at empowering small-dollar donors. The highlight of our discussion is the inspirational birth of Black Tech Saturdays, a movement co-founded by Turnage at NewLab Detroit. This platform offers Black tech founders an environment to innovate, collaborate, and break down industry barriers. Turnage’s work, shines a light on his relentless pursuit of social justice and support for Black professionals in tech. Tune in for an episode filled with profound insights on tech, entrepreneurship, and social justice. Watch the playback here https://youtu.be/RCxhuO8OUVs --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

Back in July Quick to Politic sat down to interview the candidates for the new 11th House District. Candidates for State Rep are running to represent Harper Woods, East Detroit, and St. Clair Shores. First in this series is my friend  Ricardo White for State Representative.  Ricardo is a lifelong Detroit resident, he attended public schools in Detroit and Central Michigan University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in International Relations and Public Administration. Following his graduation, he worked on several prominent Detroit-based campaigns. In 2015 he began his career working in the Michigan State House of Representatives as a Legislative Assistant. In 2019 he joined the Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer as a Public Affairs Specialist where he worked with stakeholder and constituency groups to implement the administration's priorities. He currently works as Senior Account Manager for Moment Strategies.  Now Ricardo is running for State Representative to represent the communities of Detroit, Harper Woods, and St. Clair Shores and deliver results to help families and individuals. He is Endorsed by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and by Macomb County Executive Mark Hackle. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

In October, I sat down with Harper Woods Artist Amadeus Roy to talk about his latest artistic project a newly commissioned mural in Salter Park. Please enjoy the interview and a time-lapse of the artist creating the Mural. Check out his website here: https://www.amadeusroyart.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

State Rep, Candidate for Michigan Supreme Court (now Justice-Elect) Kyra Harris Bolden for Justice joins Quick to Politic for a discussion on the importance of the Michigan Supreme Court. This episode is sponsored by 1000 Women Strong, A national constituency that provides resources, recruits, trains, mobilizes, and organizes at the intersection of issues that impact Black Women and our extended communities.  https://www.1kwomenstrong.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

Authentically Detroit is the leading podcast in the city for candid conversations, exchanging progressive ideas, and centering resident perspectives. Hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Orlando Bailey, Authentically Detroit is a podcast that takes a comprehensive look at contemporary issues -- such as housing, spatial racism, economic development, neighborhood planning, self-care, and community trauma -- and how they impact Detroit.  I love the conversations had by Donna and Orlando on Authentically Detroit and the voice of the people on the east side of Detroit. So I would like to interview you as guests on my show to talk about not only podcasting and giving a voice to intergenerational discussions and the work of ECN. This episode is sponsored by 1000 Women Strong, A national constituency that provides resources, recruits, trains, mobilizes, and organizes at the intersection of issues that impact Black Women and our extended communities. https://www.1kwomenstrong.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires.   At 2 years old Chief Janes Harris’s Grandfather bought him a shiny red Fire Chief car, planting a seed that created a dream. Growing up on the west side of Detroit he never met a Firefighter. That didn’t stop him from being a dream chaser.  His love for family, sports, people with a combination of competitiveness and being humble was the perfect mix to become a Detroit Fire Fighter.  While learning to be a professional Firefighter, from some great mentors that showed him the way. The DFD helped him provide for his family, mentor others & save the lives of people in the city that he loves so deeply. After 19 years Harris was promoted to Lieutenant with the Community Relations Division, working tirelessly to increase Fire Safety awareness. Harris was promoted to Chief of Community Relations. Harris’s love for public speaking & love for the Fire Department is unprecedented.  His hobbies are hanging out with his Daughter, working out & enjoying sports with friends and family.  Check out the playback on my youtube channel and remember to be safe this fire safety week!  https://youtu.be/ORwItMmp2ws --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support

Amanda Lewan founder of Bamboo Detroit (and Royal Oak) on Quick to Politic   is a writer and community builder with a mission is to unite and move our region forward. As co-founder and CEO of Bamboo, she leads the development and activation of a portfolio of modern spaces. Bamboo specializes in building community and fostering inclusive innovation.  https://www.bamboodetroit.com • From journalism to being the founder of a company: How did you trade one form of storytelling for another form of storyselling? • Women in Entrepreneurship: building diverse communities, creating more pathways into entrepreneurship, investment gaps we see in women + minority owned companies and ways to tackle those? • The future of Incubators and "think spaces" in the metro Detroit entrepreneurial ecosystem (ie, Bamboo, Build, Tech Town, ProsperUS): How would you push for more policy change around Entrepreneurship, underestimate business owners starting new business and how we in Lansing and other levels of government can do more to create jobs, redefine work a robust workforce. •  Building strong businesses:  Finding people to pitch to, I love Start Up Detroit Pitch Night, often people don't know what goes into really telling the story of your business in a way that does it justice. How important is it for new businesses seeking to scale to get their pitch down pact. And what do venture capitalists/investors look for (besides their unicorns)? Watch the playback of this episode here: https://youtu.be/qBLzDXp8TG0 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ernestine-lyons/support