Chicago Techies Podcast

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.This week on the Chicago Techies Podcast, we pause our regular programming to focus on a critical issue: digital equity. We welcomed Director of Digital Equity, Kyla Williams-Tate and Digital Equity Coordinator, Mauricio Jimenez from the Cook County Government to share their professional journeys, and how their work is integrating technology into the fabric of Chicago's economy and everyday life, impacting countless lives and opening doors for all.We discussed how digital equity is not just about technology it's about unlocking opportunities and enabling full participation in today's digital society, above all its about opportunity, dignity and justice. We focussed on the deep connection between digital equity and workforce development, showing how improved tech access strengthens job readiness and economic growth. We also spotlight upcoming efforts like Digital Inclusion Week and the Access Amplified Learning Symposium and invite listeners to engage with the movement through events and the new digital equity website.Connect with Kyla & MauricioKyla’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylawilliamstate/ Mauricio’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciojjimenez/ CODE’s website:https://digitalequity.cookcountyil.gov/ Cook County Digital Equity Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/cookcountydigitalequity/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.On this week’s episode of the Chicago Techies Podcast, we sit down with Gavin Buckland, Founder of Voke Studio. Gavin shares how his passion for storytelling began with his grandfather’s camera, how years at a creative agency sharpened his skills but also tested his resilience, and how rediscovering his purpose helped him embrace film as a way to unite people.Gavin also takes us inside the creation of ClipSense, an AI-powered tool designed to transform video editing. Born out of the challenge of sifting through hours of footage, Clip Sense uses computer vision to automatically identify the best moments—freeing editors to focus on storytelling. With early funding and strong beta feedback, the tool is already pointing to a future where AI supports creativity across post-production, from sound design to color grading.We round out our conversation with reflections on the evolving relationship between creativity and technology in filmmaking, the importance of authenticity in an AI-driven world, and Chicago’s role as a hub for collaboration. Connect with Gavin: Gavin Linkedin: https://whttps://www.vokestudios.com/ Voke Studios website: https://www.vokestudios.com/ Clipsense website: https://www.clipsense.ai/ Voke Studios’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/voke-studios/  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.On this week’s episode of the Chicago Techies Podcast, we meet Haydée Marino, Co-founder and CEO of ezbot AI. ezbot AI helps businesses deliver personalized digital experiences that boost conversions automatically and at scale. Haydée shares how the company came to life, the team’s decision to bootstrap with support from family and friends, and the strategic role of local resources in Chicago and their hopes for the future.Throughout the episode, Haydée’s journey shines as a testament to resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of forging one’s own path. We explore the challenges and strategies of launching a startup as a first-time founder, including navigating gender biases in male-dominated environments and creating an inclusive space through her leadership. Haydée also discusses the value of education, like her MBA, in building confidence and credibility as a business leader.Connect with Haydée:Haydée Linkedin:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/haydeemarino/ ezbot ai’s  Website: https://www.ezbot.ai/ ezbot ai’s LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/ezbot-ai/ Haydée’s email: haydee@ezbot.ai  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Tune in to the Chicago Techies Podcast as we sit down with Al Lagunas, founder and CEO of Levee. Al shares his journey from working at Amazon to launching a startup that’s transforming the hospitality industry with innovative tech. Along with his co-founder Guillermo, Al brings a personal connection to the work—both are first-generation Mexican-Americans who grew up in Chicago’s Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods. Their mission is clear: empower hotel housekeepers and maintenance teams with AI-powered vision and voice tools that make managing tasks easier, faster, and less tied to a desk.In this episode, we dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, the pressure to show quick results, the grind of building from the ground up, and the importance of hard work, networking, and mentorship. We talk about finding the right balance between building a strong business foundation and connecting with investors, as well as the challenges of raising capital without traditional credentials. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of Levee, exploring plans to expand from their room inspection tool into HR and procurement solutions, all driven by a mission to uplift frontline and underserved workers with technology that makes a lasting impact. Connect with Al:Als Linkedin:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/allagunas/ Levee’s Website:  https://www.levee.biz/ Levee’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/levee-labs-inc/  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nisha Kishore, the visionary founder and CEO of FitKind, a holistic fitness app reshaping the future of fitness through a marketplace of trauma-aware coaches, a growing library of inclusive workouts, and a supportive community.Nisha reflects on her personal journey as a queer woman of color in the fitness industry and how these experiences fueled her passion for creating a more inclusive, identity-affirming, and trauma-aware approach to wellness. She speaks candidly about the challenges underestimated founders often face, the persistent biases within the startup ecosystem, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.From community-driven problem-solving to creative team-building under financial constraints, this episode also shines a light on what it means to build in Chicago and how the city’s community has played a vital role in FitKind’s evolution.Connect with Nisha:Nisha’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nishakishore/ Nisha’s Website: https://www.nishakishore.com/Nisha’s Substack: https://nishakishore.substack.comNisha’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nishakishore_creator/Connect with FitKind:FitKind’s Website: https://www.joinfitkind.com/ FitKind’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/joinfitkind/  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Manuela Zonenstein, Founder and CEO of Kadeya, the world’s first closed-loop beverage system and the only packaged solution that eliminates waste at a cost equal to or lower than single-use alternatives.We dive into how Manuela’s multilingual, bicultural background helped shape Kadeya’s distinct identity, and why embracing ecological constraints can spark innovative, market-defining business models. By combining reusability with cost, quality, and convenience, Kadeya challenges industry norms and creates a category of its own.Manuela also opens up about her founder journey from securing funding to navigating Chicago’s cautious yet supportive startup ecosystem. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about sustainable innovation, this episode offers actionable insights on spotting everyday problems and transforming them into thriving ventures.Connect with Manuela:Manuela’s Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuelasweb/  Kadeya’s Website:  https://www.kadeya.com/ Kadeya’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kdy Kadeya’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kadeya.club/  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

Episode Title:  Episode 48 - Morgan Abraham - Co-Founder of SmoodiIn this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.This week’s guest is Morgan Abraham, co-founder of Smoodi, an innovative, self-serve smoothie store in a box that's transforming the healthy beverage industry. Morgan shares insights into the startup journey, including navigating complex funding rounds and making key strategic decisions that shape a unique business model. He also discusses Smoodi's ambitious approach to building everything in-house, from software and hardware to supply chain operations, highlighting both the challenges and rewards of this integrated strategy.As Smoodi expands its product line and footprint across new markets, Morgan recently relocated to Chicago to spearhead growth in the region. He shares why Chicago felt like the right place to grow next not just for its business potential, but because of the community of builders, doers, and big thinkers who make this city feel like home. With several units already operating in the suburbs, launching Smoodi’s first machine in the city marks a meaningful milestone in their urban expansion journey.Connect with Morgan:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-abraham-a8a8b71b/ Smoothie Website: https://www.getsmoodi.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smoodi/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/getsmoodi/  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Visionary entrepreneur Omar Hernandez takes us through his journey from McAllen, Texas to Chicago, where he launched ONEBIT, an AI-powered financial management app designed to uplift small business owners and help manage their cash flow by providing data-driven insights from their sales and expenses in one mobile-friendly platform. Omar shares his personal inspiration drawn from the struggles of local businesses in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, leading to the creation of a tool that empowers entrepreneurs to manage cash flow efficiently, optimize sales, and reduce operational costs. In this episode, Omar shares invaluable insights on startup success, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and diversity. Get insights into the challenges of pivoting from ambitious ideas to focused solutions that address real customer needs and their ambitious plans to expand into the Latin American market.Connect with Omar:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarhernandez27/ ONEBIT Website:  https://www.onebitapp.com/ ONEBIT Insta:  https://www.instagram.com/onebit_inc/ ONEBIT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnebitInc  Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Megan Doyle, the founder of Partum Health, whose personal journey with how her brother's health challenges and her own experiences as a mother illuminated the complexities and gaps in the healthcare system, particularly in maternal support. Our conversation highlights how Partum Health bridges the traditional gaps in maternal care. From birth and postpartum doula care to lactation and behavioral health support, Partum Health is tackling the alarming statistics of maternal mortality and racial disparities. As Partum Health sets its sights on the future, Meghan candidly discusses the challenges of business growth and the delicate balance between personalizing customer experiences and building a sustainable model. She highlights the importance of staying mission-driven and the role of feedback in shaping the company's trajectory.Connect with Meghan:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghanod/  Partum Health Website: https://www.partumhealth.com/ Partum Health Email: hello@partumhealth.com Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87 

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Join us for an insightful conversation with Craig Silver, CEO and co-founder of Sous, the platform connecting people with personal chefs for in-home cooking experiences.Craig shares his entrepreneurial journey, from early ambitions to launching Sous, offering honest insights into startup growth strategies. We explore the importance of engaging directly with customers, building and iterating quickly (even when things aren’t perfect), and navigating the challenges of securing funding. Craig also opens up about the emotional highs and lows that come with founding and growing a company.Connect with Craig: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigasilver/ Sous Website:   https://www.sous.so/Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87

In this season, we're focusing on Chicago founders who are building right here in the city. I'm your host, Cecilia Benitez, and together we'll hear the stories behind the startups, explore the real challenges of building in Chicago, and uncover what drives these founders to keep going.Season 4 kicks off with a powerful conversation featuring Jill Miller, Founder and CEO of Lunum, a platform helping companies make smarter, people-centered decisions to boost performance.After witnessing firsthand the lack of diversity in America's industrial sectors, Jill made it her mission to build something different. From automating factory floors to launching a purpose-driven startup, her journey is one of grit, clarity, and vision.In this candid and inspiring episode, Jill opens up about:Navigating bias as a female founder in the Chicago startup ecosystemThe real value of authentic networkingThe disconnect between coaching and venture capitalThe emotional weight of entrepreneurshipWhy mental health and well-being should be part of every founder’s strategyConnect with Jill:Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejillsmiller/ Lunum Website:  https://lunum.io/Jill's Podcast: https://spondylitis.org/podcasts/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Connect with Ceci:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbenitez87/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez_87

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. We are excited to bring you the season finale of the Chicago Techies Podcast with our special guest, Sarah Blythe, CEO & Co-Founder of Mercurial of AI. Sarah shares her unique journey from nurse to CEO, highlighting the transferable skills that bridge surgery and startup leadership. She emphasizes the critical importance of prioritization, teamwork, situational awareness, and anticipation.Tune in as we challenge common misconceptions about technology in healthcare, explore the realities of tech adoption among physicians, and address the challenges and impact of being a founder in a mission-driven startup.Connect with SarahLinkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-blythe/ Mercurial AI Website: https://www.mercurial-ai.com/ CarePilot App: https://home.mycarepilot.com/ Survivor Stories: The Uncensored Truth on Cancer Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivorStories_Cancer/videos Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcastConnect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfischerbenitez 

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. Join us in this episode of the Chicago Techies Podcast as we welcome Zimri Rodriguez, Chief of Staff at Capitalize VC. Zimri walks us through her journey into tech and shares the pivotal moments that defined her path. From how her frustrations with inefficiencies in technology within healthcare sparked a passion for innovative solutions, which ultimately led her to pivot from her psychology background to a role in health tech.We shine a spotlight on initiatives like the Colorwave Fellowship and the Chicago Blend Fellowship programs, which advocate for underrepresented talent in the VC and startup space. We emphasize the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the startup and venture capital communities, showcasing the work of organizations like La Familia. This episode provides insights into the challenges and triumphs of building diversity in the Chicago startup community and the potential for future initiatives dedicated to fostering inclusive growth.

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. On today’s episode of the Chicago Techies podcast, we sit down with the inspiring Yovana Rosales, CEO of Latinas with AI & Co-Founder of Latina Brilliance . We discuss her journey transitioning into marketing and eventually embracing the tech and entrepreneurial worlds. Yovana's story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities and being open to change.We also explore the crucial issue of Latinx representation in tech and AI, and how this inspired Yovana to become a pivotal voice in AI advocacy. Additionally, we talk about the transformative potential of events like the Latina Brilliance Summit, a one-day event dedicated to empowering the Latina community through shared stories and addressing underrepresented topics across community, entrepreneurship, finance, and tech.Connect with Yovana: Linkedin:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/yovanarosales/ Yovana’s Website: https://www.yovanarosales.com/ Latina Brillianace: https://www.latinabrilliance.com/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfischerbenitez 

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. This week on the Chicago Techies Podcast, we extend a warm welcome to Alex Gutierrez. Alex shares his unexpected journey into the tech industry, starting with his early career as a marketing manager for chiropractic offices. Despite initially pursuing marketing, Alex's father's influence played a significant role in steering him towards integrating technology into small businesses. We discuss essential skills for success in this field, such as problem-solving, patience, and organization, and their importance in building relationships and managing clients. Additionally, we touch on the vibrant Latino tech community in Chicago and the importance of supporting local businesses.We also dive into the collaborative spirit of Chicago's tech ecosystem, its potential as a tech hub, and our reflections on career progression, mentorship experiences, and insights into the growing tech community in Chicago.Connect with Alex:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexjgm/ Alex's Notion: https://alexjgutierrez.notion.site/Alex-Gutierrez-0a1f188b94d34b31b3ee0ca16dddf6baConnect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. This week on the Chicago Techies Podcast as we extend a warm welcome to Alexandria DeLuca, Talent Solutions Manager at P33. Alex joins us to share her career journey from her early days at Penn State, to  the invaluable experiences that shaped her perspective, and the serendipity that led her to a city ripe with opportunity.  Alex  lays out the roadmap for navigating such transitions, highlighting the strategic importance of networking, self-reflection, and recognizing transferable skills that can catapult you into a fulfilling new chapter. Alex's passion for her work shines through as she reflects on her personal growth and the various experiences that have shaped her career.We also take a magnifying glass to pivotal programs that are reshaping Chicago's tech landscape through inclusivity and opportunity. These efforts are aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth and offering opportunities to underrepresented communities. And with an invitation to Tech Chicago Week, she  emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the tech sector and movement that’s elevating Chicago's status as a hub for diverse tech talent.Connect with Alex:Linkedin:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-krall-deluca-92392899/ P33: https://p33chicago.com/ Tech Week Chicago: https://gotechchicago.com/week/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. On this week's episode of the Chicago Techies podcast as we sit down with Josh Torres, whose journey weaves through the literary world and into the heart of innovation, revealing how his early love for reading and writing became the bedrock for his career path.  As we unpack Josh's career trajectory, we get an insider's view of the bustling tech hubs of San Francisco, where early-stage companies like Square and Asana were crafting the future. Josh  underscores the importance of networking among communities of color, illustrating how such connections become a superpower for professional growth. We also delve into the critical role of support systems for entrepreneurs, the unique obstacles faced by founders of color, and the innovative approaches to funding that sidestep traditional venture capital. At the heartbeat of our episode is the intricate work around  diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in tech, where Josh takes center stage. He reveals the undercurrents of culture within startups and the power of minority representation, unearthing the strategies that bridge the gap between diverse teams and their customer base. As we traverse his experiences, Josh's commitment to empowering communities of color becomes evident – networking isn't just a buzzword; it’s a superpower for professional advancement. We also address the shifting tides of DEI initiatives, the recent challenges, and the relentless pursuit to embed these values in the DNA of the tech industry.

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers.  It's not every day you meet someone whose childhood aspirations was to become a Cheetah Girl. Join us as we sit down with the talented Juana Tatiana Estrada. 🌃💻 With a candid look at the pressures of future planning and finding one's true calling, Juanita's story is a masterclass in adaptability and the pursuit of self-discovery.  From her experiences with career pivots, embracing adaptability, to overcoming the pressures of expectations to find her place. We also uncover the resilience required to transition and grow within the tech space, especially highlighted during the pandemic's shift to virtual events. 🌐✨In this episode, you'll gain insight into:- The transformative power of soft skills- Navigating personal upheavals to achieve growth- Crafting events that foster diversity and connection- The continuous journey of professional developmentGet ready for an intimate exploration of career development, the importance of storytelling, and how personal adversities can refine our professional paths.  Connect with Juana:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/juanatatianaestrada/ Juana's website: https://juanatatiana.com/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. In this week’s episodes of the Chicago Techies Podcast we welcome President and CTO of the Quantum Corridor, Ryan Lafler, who takes us through a gripping journey from an Arizona kid enamored with tech to shaping the quantum communication frontier. Ryan shares his early passion for technology shaped by his father's Air Force background and his own unconventional path to success, focusing on practical engineering certifications. In the heart of our conversation, Ryan paints a vivid picture of the Midwest's potential to become a tech powerhouse. We traverse the transformative impact of the Quantum Corridor Network and the implications for secure communication technologies. Ryan highlights how effective leadership involves combining creative thinking about the future with careful attention to detail. He wraps up with a rallying call for the untapped technological prospects of the Midwest, advocating for digital equity and workforce development. For those intrigued by the tech world's vibrant opportunities, Ryan's story reaffirms that chasing one's passion is more than a cliché—it's a blueprint for success and satisfaction in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.Connect with Ryan:Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanlafler/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez   

In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers. Join us on a heartfelt journey with Loren Velazquez, Senior Software Engineer at Reverb, as they share their story of growing up in a Latinx immigrant household. This conversation sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of being a first-generation student and professional. From early aspirations rooted in biology and literature to pursuing a degree in bioinformatics, Loren’s narrative is a rich tapestry of personal ambition meeting the challenges and opportunities that shape a career in tech.A simple Python class led Loren to pivot into a tech career that not only satisfied personal ambitions but also fueled a passion for community service. From analyzing budgets in Myanmar to tackling data during the Ebola outbreak, Loren's hands-on involvement with nonprofits is a testament to the significant change one can drive with the right skills.Our discussion paints a picture of how support systems, mentorship, and a workplace that values diversity can positively influence career trajectories, especially for those from underrepresented groups in tech. They discuss the difficult decision to leave environments that lack support, emphasizing the need for companies to have established structures that champion diversity. Tune in to hear a story that's not just about making it in tech but also about making tech work for the greater good.Connect with Loren:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenmvelasquez/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast Connect with Ceci:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez