Chicago Techies Podcast

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   

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're kicking off 2024 with Yoetzin Diaz, a product marketing manager whose career took an exciting and unexpected turn towards the intersection of technology and construction. Yoetzin shares with us her early dreams of becoming an architect, her experiences of cultural adaptation, and the pivotal role of continuous learning and curiosity.We cover  the influence of innovative technologies like drones, AI, and AR in revolutionizing the construction industry, reshaping it from the ground up. Yoetzin's personal narrative of embracing change and her enthusiasm for technological advancements in an old-school industry offer insights into the dynamic nature of construction technology.Yaotzin reflects on the challenges of shifting to a marketing role without a traditional background in the field and how she navigated gender dynamics in a predominantly male industry. Through her story, we share advice for those from underrepresented groups looking to break into the field and emphasize the importance of mentorship, believing in yourself, and giving back to the community.Connect with Yoetzin:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoetzindiaz/ 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 as we welcome Mariana Padilla, the trailblazing CEO and co-founder of Kicker KIKRR, we're given a front-row seat to the resilience and vision it takes to climb to the top of the cybersecurity world. Mariana doesn't just share her story,  she brings us into a world where adversity breeds innovation.In the heart of our conversation, Mariana recounts the pivotal transitions that defined her career—from her formative years working at non-profits to pioneering her own marketing agency, and ultimately venturing into the cybersecurity industry during the tumultuous times of a global pandemic. As she narrates, you'll learn how the art of storytelling can bridge the gap between diverse pursuits, knitting together the fabric of fundraising, business development, and advocacy. Tune in to hear how Mariana leverages her unique perspective as an outsider to demystify cybersecurity, making it more accessible for small and medium-sized businesses that are frequent targets of cybercrime. Mariana's personal stories of networking and mentorship reveal a community eager for industry transformation. Plus, she offers invaluable advice to folks interested in a career in cybersecurity, pointing to alternative education resources and emphasizing the importance of platforms and organizations that foster diversity and nurture talent in this field. Connect with Mariana:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heretoshakeshitup/ KIKrr: https://kikrr.co/ Resources Mentioned: Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS):  https://www.wicys.org/ 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.This week on the Chicago Techies Podcast, we're excited to introduce Elina Kasman, Vice President of Business Development at Great Lakes Crystal Technologies. Join us as we delve into her remarkable journey, from aspiring teacher and software developer to becoming an accomplished electrical engineer who's pushing boundaries in fabrication and surface preparation.Elina's story is a testament to the power of adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning. We reflect on our shared experiences in the Chicago Blend fellowship program, explore her interest in venture capital, and learn about her strategic approach to sourcing startups driven by her energy background and insatiable curiosity for cutting-edge tech.Our conversation takes a deep dive into the revolutionary domain of quantum computing. Together, we explore the potential impact of Quantum technology across various sectors, unravel the complexities of investing in it, and emphasize the importance of continuous learning in navigating this rapidly evolving industry. Tune in to gain insights into the forefront of quantum computing and Elina's inspiring journey.Connect with Elina:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiearamayodelcastillo/   Resources Mentioned:Chicago Blend Fellowship Program: https://www.chicagoblend.org/ Innovation DuPage: https://www.innovationdupage.org/ CRI https://chainreaction.anl.gov/DOE LEEP: https://www.energy.gov/eere/ammto/lab-embedded-entrepreneurship-programEnergy I-Corps:  https://www.energy.gov/technologytransitions/energy-i-corpsIntro to VC by Prof. Meadow: https://polsky.uchicago.edu/course-list/introduction-to-venture-capital-a-toolkit-for-analyzing-and-financing-startups/Simon Sinek "Start with Why" Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuADOE SBIR/STTR Programs: https://www.energy.gov/science/sbir/small-business-innovation-research-and-small-business-technology-transferAdvanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory:  https://www.aps.anl.gov/General explanation of DOE's light sources: https://www.energy.gov/science/doe-explainslight-sourcesScience for a Circular Economy initiative at Argonne:  a...

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 as we engage in an enlightening discussion with Angie Aramayo, a Technical Product Manager who unfolded her dreams in the realm of AI and automation. Angie takes us through the challenges she experienced after moving from Lima, Peru to the U.S, shaping her determination to thrive academically and professionally amidst discrimination and immense pressure.We continue the conversation exploring Angie's transformative college years at the University of Virginia, where she evolved from a Latina student to a leader within the Latino community. Hear her account on advocating for a Latino student center, her unexpected pivot into the tech sector, and the critical decision that led her to Chicago. Angie underscores the importance of representation, diversity, and community in shaping one's career trajectory. From her unplanned path to IBM to her role as a chapter leader for the Latinas in Tech Chicago chapter, her story is an incredible testament to the importance of networking and personal growth. Join us, listen, and be moved by Angie's compelling story of resilience, determination, and success. Connect with Angie:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiearamayodelcastillo/  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 the latest episode of the Chicago Techies Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting the dynamic Lynette Correa-Velez, Founding Director of Tech Launchpad at Kennedy King College. In our conversation with Lynette, we tackle lessons learned in leadership and entrepreneurship, giving us a glimpse into her life as a first-generation high school and college graduate. Lynette talks about the struggles of bootstrapping businesses without access to capital or mentorship and emphasizes her commitment to empowering others.With a strong focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and justice (DEIAJ), Lynette shares insights into intersectionality in advocacy work and the systemic issues that individuals striving for upward socioeconomic mobility face. We discussed Tech Launchpad's initiatives in providing tech resources and opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.This conversation not only underscores the importance of racial and gender equity in the tech industry but also the significance of Lynette's role in supporting underrepresented minorities and underserved communities in the tech field.Connect with Lynette:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lcorreavelez/ Tech Launch Pad: https://techlaunchpad.ccc.edu/ 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 as we explore the inspiring world of entrepreneurship in underserved communities with Philip Fairweather,  President & CEO of Entrepreneurs Academy. Listen in as Philip shares his personal journey from sports to entrepreneurship, detailing how his experiences led him to establish an academy aimed at equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills and resources they need to thrive. We also explore a highly sensitive and significant area—the intersection of entrepreneurship and the criminal justice system. We uncover how entrepreneurship can serve as a beacon of hope for individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. Philip's advice to budding entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of education, preparation, and resilience, is truly invaluable. This episode conveys the transformative power of entrepreneurship and its potential to uplift underserved communities.Connect with Phillip:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-fairweather/ Email: philip@entrepreneursacademy.net Entrepreneurs Academy: https://www.entrepreneursacademy.net/ 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/ Email: ceci@chicagotechiespodcast.com

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.With an inspiring journey from India to the United States, Niharika Hanglem, Program Director at the Kaplan Institute, shares her experiences and contributions to social entrepreneurship and innovation. She discusses the pivotal role of educational initiatives at Kaplan in nurturing entrepreneurial skills among students. In particular, she highlights the Genisys program, which aims to demystify venture capital for students and provide them with experiential real world  learning opportunities. Niharika emphasizes the significance of building systems and processes for success in entrepreneurship, along with the need for collaboration and continuity in the ecosystem.Niharika also talks about her role on the Board of Directors for the Delta Institute and the upcoming Bronzeville Opportunity Engine initiative. Connect with Niharika on LinkedIn for coffee chats and support.Connect with Niharika:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niharikahanglem/ The Delta Institute Emerging Leaders: https://delta-institute.org/delta-emerging-leaders/ 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/

Introducing an exciting new season of the Chicago Techies podcast! 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 episode, we meet Beatriz Kauffman, Program Manager at ThinkChicago. Beatriz discusses her work with students in Chicago and the importance of providing career opportunities to set them up for success. We walked through her career progression, her involvement in the entrepreneurial community in Chicago, and her recent fellowship in venture capital.Connect with Beatriz:Beatriz’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatriz-kauffmann/ Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast

Introducing an exciting new season of the Chicago Techies podcast! 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. To kick off this season, we're launching with an engaging conversation with Cindy DeLira-Rendon. Cyndi holds a significant presence in the Chicago tech community and offers an inspiring account of her transition from dental hygiene and interior design to successfully adapting and transferring her skills to a new industry during a pandemic. Overcoming challenges as a first-generation Latina, Cyndi has shown that she deserved her place at the table, regardless of any misconceptions or stereotypes.Connect with Cyndi:Cyndi's LinkedinConnect with Chicago Techies Podcast:WebsiteInstagram

Resources mentioned:BSO ValpoSHPEConnect with Matthew: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spivey-programmer/ Email:  matthew.spivey@valpo.eduConnect with Ceci F.B:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitezTwitter:  https://twitter.com/cfischerbenitez Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfischerbenitez/Follow the podcast:Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChicagoTechiesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicagotechiesLinkedIn: Chicago Techies PodcastMusic composed by Anna Eichenauer, check out her work here.Thank you so much for listening to this podcast! If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a rating and a review on iTunes. Use the hashtag #ChicagoTechies  for any shoutouts and comments on our episodes.

Resources mentioned:University of ChicagoAlpha Kappa PsiPolsky Center for Entrepreneurship and InnovationBaryl.ioConnect with Yuyang:  Linkedin:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuyang-zhang-/ Email: yuyang@baryl.ioFollow Baryl:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baryltrips/  Connect with Ceci F.B:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitezTwitter: https://twitter.com/CeciBenitez13Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbenitez87Follow the podcast:Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChicagoTechiesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicagotechiesLinkedIn: Chicago Techies PodcastMusic composed by Anna Eichenauer, check out her work here. Thank you so much for listening to this podcast! If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a rating and a review on iTunes. Use the hashtag #ChicagoTechies  for any shoutouts and comments on our episodes.