Episodios

  • She Did It First – Episode 086

    She Did It First – Episode 086
    Jul 14 2025
    Dr. Sandra K. Johnson made history as the first Black woman to earn a PhD in computer engineering — and she’s just getting started. In this inspiring conversation, she joins hosts Kyla and Jeremy to share her journey from Louisiana to IBM, her leap into fintech and venture capital, and how she's empowering the next generation of African diaspora entrepreneurs. Tune in for insights on resilience, innovation, and thriving in spaces where few have gone before.
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    1 h y 41 m
  • Retweets and Receipts – Episode 085

    Retweets and Receipts – Episode 085
    Jun 30 2025
    This week, Kyla and Jeremy are joined by the brilliant and hilarious Dr. André Brock, Associate Professor at Georgia Tech and certified expert in all things digital culture. They dive into how Black communities—especially Black women—have shaped the online world, from memes to movements. Dr. Brock breaks down the magic of “distributed Blackness,” why African American rhetoric matters in tech, and how the internet just wouldn't be the same without a little (okay, a lot of) Black excellence. It’s smart, it’s funny, and it might just change the way you see your timeline. Tune in for hot takes, real talk, and maybe a few tweets worth quoting.
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    1 h y 18 m
  • Drawn To Greatness – Episode 084

    Drawn To Greatness – Episode 084
    Jun 16 2025
    In this episode, the multitalented, multifaceted Deborah A. Anderson, dives into the nuances of balancing roles as an academic, animator, and influencer, emphasizing the importance of representation and access to animation careers for Black and brown communities. The discussion unfolds around her creation of Black Women Animator, aiming to demystify the animation industry for aspiring creatives. Deborah’s insights on the impact of technology and AI on animation underline the critical intersection of art, culture, and innovation.
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    1 h y 18 m
  • Buck Bottom to Top of the Academic Ladder – Episode 083

    Buck Bottom to Top of the Academic Ladder – Episode 083
    Jun 2 2025
    In this inspiring episode of Modern Figures Podcast, hosts Kyla McMullen and Jeremy Waisome sit down with Dr. Cheryl D. Seals, the Charles E. Barkley Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Auburn University. From her early days in Louisiana to becoming a powerhouse in user experience, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, Dr. Seals shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path in tech.
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    1 h y 18 m
  • Research as an Act of Resistance – Episode 082

    Research as an Act of Resistance – Episode 082
    May 19 2025
    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.
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    1 h y 28 m
  • From Cracking Codes to Cracking Jokes – Episode 081

    From Cracking Codes to Cracking Jokes – Episode 081
    May 5 2025
    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.
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    1 h
  • Authentically Here – Episode 080

    Authentically Here – Episode 080
    Apr 21 2025
    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.
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    1 h y 21 m
  • From Wakanda to Silicon Valley – Episode 079

    From Wakanda to Silicon Valley – Episode 079
    Apr 7 2025
    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.
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    1 h y 1 m