Underrepresented in Tech

In this week’s episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the Harvard Business School article "5 Strategies for Overcoming Unconscious Bias in the Tech Industry". They share personal stories and explore the pervasive impact of hidden biases in hiring, promotions, and workplace culture. They discuss how biases affect diverse communities differently and the importance of awareness, inclusivity, and fostering safe spaces for learning. With a thought-provoking look at potential biases in AI, they emphasize the need for empathy, gentle correction, and a commitment to continuous growth. Can we truly create a more equitable industry? Tune in for practical tips and honest insights.

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Michelle and Samah delve into the rising fear among women in the U.S. in the wake of political shifts and increasing hate speech. With real-life encounters, chilling societal trends, and candid discussions about gender equality, women's rights, and the responsibility of tech platforms like X (formerly Twitter), the conversation explores the intersections of tech, politics, and human rights. Despite the darkness, Michelle and Samah champions the power of community, dialogue, and hope in uncertain times.

In this deeply personal episode, Michelle and Samah set aside the usual tech discussions to share their raw experiences as women navigating challenging times. From the impact of seasonal depression and political anxieties to the struggle for women's rights and equality, they explore the personal and collective burdens they face. They discuss the backlash against expressing opinions, the resurgence of regressive policies, and the broader implications for marginalized communities. This episode shares honest stories and support, showing listeners they're not alone in their challenges and encouraging strength during tough times.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the world of accessible and inclusive design! They discuss the A11Y project, which aims to make digital spaces more welcoming for everyone. From smart product descriptions for those with low vision to avoiding stereotypical marketing and embracing diverse representations, they highlight practical steps and the importance of accessible online experiences. Whether you're motivated by a passion for inclusivity or the potential for increased sales, there’s something here for every designer, developer, and marketer looking to reach a broader, more inclusive audience.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah chat with accessibility consultant Elena Brescacin, a blind advocate in the WordPress community, who shares her insights on digital accessibility for visually impaired users. She discusses her experiences with screen readers, website design, and WordPress improvements over nearly two decades. Elena also highlights the need for accessibility at events like WordCamps and introduces PlusBrothers.net, her blog tackling HIV stigma through creative storytelling. Her journey underscores the importance of accessible digital spaces that empower all voices.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss the importance of taking mental health days, especially when life's stresses—both personal and professional—become overwhelming. They share personal stories about balancing work, social pressures, and the impact of constant connectivity through social media and work apps. The conversation highlights the necessity of recharging, recognizing the signs of burnout, and removing the guilt often associated with taking breaks. They emphasize that self-care is essential, offering practical advice for listeners on how to unwind and prioritize mental health.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss the ongoing lack of diversity in the tech industry, where only 15% of the workforce is from BAME backgrounds, and 19% are women. It discusses how this underrepresentation leads to biased technologies and overlooked needs, especially for minorities and women. The hosts examine the causes, such as non-diverse leadership and hiring biases, while sharing personal experiences of discrimination. They express hope for improvement but stress that achieving natural diversity and equality in tech requires sustained effort.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah chat with Rachel Zoller and Joe Foster from the Roll Mobility app. They discuss accessibility challenges for wheelchair users, particularly with public spaces like Airbnb and hotels. The conversation highlights how the Roll app helps users find accessible locations and pushes businesses to improve. Rachel and Joe share stories of their experiences, emphasizing the importance of feedback and small changes that can make a big difference in creating truly accessible spaces.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss women's reproductive health, focusing on menstruation, reproductive rights, and societal pressures around motherhood. Michelle and Samah share personal experiences with painful periods while they highlight the stigma and growing trend of women choosing not to have children. The episode advocates for women's right to decide about their bodies and lives without societal judgment.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss self-advocacy with guest Shailvi Wakhlu. We share personal stories and offer practical tips on how advocating for yourself can help break through professional barriers, particularly for those in underrepresented communities and fields like tech. Shailvi, a best-selling author of the book Self-Advocacy, has also spoken at nearly 100 global conferences and Fortune 500 events on this subject and data.