Glowing in Tech

Glowing in Tech
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Glowing in Tech

Step into the vibrant world of technology with Glowing in Tech, where passion meets expertise every week. Join co-hosts Jessie and Shantelle—two dynamic women breaking barriers in tech—as they illuminate paths less traveled through candid conversations with industry innovators. From blockchain breakthroughs to AI advancements, cybersecurity challenges to product management pivots, we spark discussions that matter. Our episodes don't just scratch the surface—they dive deep into real-world tech experiences, uncovering the triumphs, failures, and "nobody-tells-you-this" moments that shape remarkable careers. In a tech landscape where representation matters more than ever, "Glowing in Tech" stands as a beacon—creating a space where underrepresented voices aren't just heard but amplified. We're building more than a podcast; we're fostering a community where everyone belongs, regardless of background or experience level. Whether you're coding your first app, scaling your startup, or pivoting into tech from another industry, our conversations offer actionable insights to fuel your journey. Come glow with us at www.glowingintech.com, where we're rewiring tech, one empowering story at a time.

  1. 3D AGO

    Demystifying Venture Capital & Angel Investing with Abi Mohamed (Diversity VC)

    Ever wondered how venture capital really works? In this illuminating episode, we're joined by Abi Mohammed, Community Lead at Diversity VC, who shares her incredible journey from software engineer to angel investor and champion for diversity in tech funding. Abi reveals how a chance 7AM networking event (and a crush!) led her to discover the world of venture capital, and how she co-founded an angel investment syndicate despite knowing almost nothing about investing at the time. With refreshing honesty and clarity, she breaks down complex investment concepts into terms anyone can understand. You'll learn the fundamental differences between angel investing and venture capital, what investors really look for when evaluating startups, and the hidden costs of investment that nobody talks about. Abi shares raw insights from reviewing over 300 founders to select just 4 deals, and explains why she left software engineering after facing discrimination to create more equitable pathways in tech. Whether you're a founder considering funding options, aspiring to work in VC, or simply curious about how investment shapes the technology we use every day, this episode offers valuable perspective from someone who's navigated the journey as an outsider and is now helping to transform the industry from within. Show Notes Abi's unexpected journey into venture capital The difference between angel investing and VC explained simply Understanding cap tables, dilution, and board dynamics Bootstrapping vs raising capital: which is right for your business? How Abi created the Libra program at Tech Nation to support underrepresented founders Success stories of diverse founders securing venture funding Resources Mentioned Venture Deals (book recommended for understanding VC terminology) Future VC program - https://www.diversity.vc/ Libra program for underrepresented founders (now under Founder Forum) Community Growth Ventures (angel investment syndicate) Andy Ayim's Angel School Connect With Us Follow Abi: LinkedIn (Abi Mohammed), Instagram (@TeamAbii) Follow Glowing in Tech: @GlowinginTech on Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn Tags Venture Capital, Angel Investing, Women in Tech, Diversity in VC, Startup Funding, Female Founders, Tech Careers, Entrepreneurship, Black Women in Tech, UK Tech Scene, Inclusive Investing Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Abi Mohamed and Diversity VC 01:17 Abi's unexpected journey into venture capital 03:27 What is angel investing vs venture capital explained 05:38 Due diligence process and evaluating startup potential 08:58 Understanding cap tables and investment terminology for beginners 13:56 The different stages of venture funding explained 16:11 Bootstrapping vs venture scaling - which is right for your business? 18:47 Transitioning from engineering to investing after facing discrimination 21:16 Creating opportunities for underrepresented founders through Tech Nation 24:40 Success stories from the Libra program for diverse founders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min

  2. APR 9

    Navigating 2025's Tech Landscape + Job Market with STEM Babe

    We welcome back award-winning tech professional Yemurai to discuss the current state of the tech industry. In this insightful conversation, we explore: How the tech job market differs from 2020-2021, particularly for entry-level versus senior roles The challenges of breaking into tech in today's competitive environment Why networking has become essential for landing tech jobs in the current market Practical networking tips for introverts and beginners The importance of building your LinkedIn presence and personal brand Balancing online visibility with privacy and safety concerns as a tech professional Whether you're looking to break into tech, advance your career, or build meaningful industry connections, this episode offers valuable advice from someone who successfully navigated a "squiggly career" from chemistry to cybersecurity. Don't miss this candid discussion about the realities of today's tech landscape and actionable strategies for success! Please give us a review wherever you're listening, let us know your thoughts by sending us a message, we want to hear from you! Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome and introduction to Yemurai 1:23 - The current state of the tech job market 2:45 - Entry-level challenges vs. senior opportunities 4:18 - Web3 and blockchain: Then vs. now 6:02 - How long does it really take to break into tech? 7:30 - Why networking is non-negotiable for job seekers 9:15 - The secret weapon: Working with recruiters 10:48 - How AI is changing recruitment strategies 12:30 - Networking tips for introverts 15:04 - Setting realistic networking goals 16:42 - "Your network is your net worth" 17:25 - Balancing online visibility with privacy 19:53 - Building a powerful LinkedIn presence 22:17 - Simple ways to start your LinkedIn journey 24:05 - Final thoughts and where to find Yemurai Notable Quotes "Your network is your net worth." - Yemurai "I think from an entry level perspective, it is incredibly challenging... But I know from a senior level and mid-entry level, there's a lot of opportunity once already working within the industry." - Yemurai "Even if you're not necessarily seeing the immediate benefits... it's those warm introductions. Somebody's seen your post, they recognize your name, they've seen your face. It just makes you stand out above the people that have sent the CVs that have got the exact same trajectory as you thus far." - Jessie Practical Takeaways Go beyond the CV: In today's competitive market, networking is non-negotiable for breaking into tech Start small with networking: Begin with online events if you're nervous, observe before participating Work with recruiters: Even entry-level candidates can benefit from recruiter relationships Document your journey: Use LinkedIn to share your experiences attending events and learning Set realistic networking goals: Aim for quality connections rather than quantity Maintain privacy boundaries: Be strategic about what personal information you share online Leverage in-person events: As AI makes perfect CVs easier to create, face-to-face connections become more valuable About Yemurai Yemurai has successfully navigated a career transition from chemistry to cybersecurity, winning recognition from We Are Tech Women along the way. She maintains a thoughtful approach to her online presence, balancing professional visibility with personal privacy, and actively shares entry-level tech opportunities through her platforms. Resources Mentioned We Are Tech Women awards Industry events and recruitment networking opportunities LinkedIn as a career development platform Renee Louise - BlaqByte Connect With Us and let us know your thoughts! @GlowinginTech across all social platforms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    21 min

  3. APR 1

    Chemistry to Cybersecurity: STEM Babe's Blueprint for Tech Career Pivots

    What does it really take to pivot careers and thrive in tech? 🤔 Meet Yem, aka the STEM Babe, a senior associate in investment banking, content creator, and public speaker with a clear mission—empowering underrepresented groups to break into high-paying tech roles. 🌟 Join us in Part 1 as Yem shares her unconventional path from studying chemistry to excelling in cybersecurity, with inspiring detours through coding bootcamps, health tech startups, and groundbreaking projects tackling COVID-19. We unpack her candid advice on navigating career transitions, overcoming imposter syndrome, and leveraging transferable skills to land your dream job in tech. 💡 Key takeaway? Tech is not just an industry—it’s a skillset you can take anywhere. Stay tuned as we explore cybersecurity’s rising importance, what’s next for tech careers, and how community representation can transform opportunities. Don't miss out—listen now and follow Yem on TikTok & Instagram at @STEMBabe for more empowering insights! 🎙️ 00:00:00 - Introduction to Yem (STEM Babe) and her background 00:01:30 - Yem's transition from chemistry to cybersecurity during COVID 00:04:00 - Explanation of cybersecurity and its importance in today's world 00:06:00 - Geopolitical aspects and real-world examples of cyber threats 00:08:00 - "Technology as a skillset rather than an industry" philosophy 00:11:00 - Common pitfalls in tech career journeys and the reality of breaking into tech 00:14:00 - Advice on applying for jobs even when you don't meet all requirements 00:18:00 - Discussion about salary transparency and representation in tech 00:20:00 - The importance of pursuing high-paying careers for underrepresented groups 00:22:30 - How representation impacts career aspirations and access to opportunities 00:24:00 - Where to find Yem and teaser for part two Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    26 min

  4. MAR 25

    We're back! From Nuclear Engineering to Blockchain + Web3 Shantelle's Tech Journey

    Welcome to Season 3 of Glowing in Tech! Join Jessie and new co-host Shantelle as they dive into their inspiring tech journeys, from humble beginnings to hackathon wins and career pivots. Discover how Black Valley and various coding bootcamps transformed their careers, leading to roles in product management, blockchain exploration, and entrepreneurship. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of community building in Web3, navigating career shifts, and the impact of AI and cybersecurity in today's tech landscape. Get ready for insightful conversations with women making waves in UK tech and tips on breaking into and thriving in the evolving tech world. 00:00 Welcome to Season 3 of Glowing in Tech 00:17 How We Met: The Black Valley Connection 01:48 Diving into Product Management 04:19 Hackathons and Blockchain Adventures 09:20 Transitioning to Blockchain Full-Time 14:39 Embracing Entrepreneurship and Funding 19:10 New Beginnings: Coding Bootcamp Journey 22:26 Navigating Early Challenges in Tech Roles 22:51 Community Building in Web3 23:42 Breaking Down Complex Topics for Everyone 28:12 The Importance of Representation in Tech 30:40 Innovative Solutions in Blockchain 33:28 Excitement for the Future of Web3 39:20 Spotlighting Women in UK Tech 40:53 Exploring AI and Cybersecurity 44:19 Predicting the Future of Tech 45:00 Welcome to the New Season Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a budding entrepreneur, or just curious about the world of blockchain, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min

  5. 07/25/2023

    Impact of AI in Software and tech jobs, navigating bad work relationships + how to upskill in your role: Hosanna Ali Part 2

    In today's episode, we continue to talk with Hosanna about TheTechCornr is having on inspiring Women and the industry at large. Hosanna also tells us about the most challenging times in her career and the tips she has for women starting out in the tech industry. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:13 Hosanna’s tips, how to survive a team member that you're just not clicking with. 00:06:00 Tech Tea 00:10:00 Fear mongering in tech “ it does scare people” 00:11:11 “Give the people some hope!” Clickbait and the media 00:12:27 Learning about tech, the do’s and don'ts 00:13:10 What interests me most about tech 00:18:42 Upskilling, studying never stops! 00:20:37 How do I know I want a tech job? Avoid job descriptions! Glowing in Tech is a weekly podcast between two black women software engineers, exploring how to thrive whilst navigating the tech space and encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to level up in their careers. Hosted by our award-winning co-founders Jessie Auguste, a backend software engineer at CybSafe, and Amber Shad, a frontend software engineer, also at CybSafe. Hosanna Hali, is a Microsoft Azure expert who also launched theTechCornr platform with a goal of empowering and encouraging women to enter a career in tech. In today's episode, we continue to talk with Hosanna about the impact TheTechCornr is having on inspiring women and the industry at large. Hosanna also tells us about the most challenging times in her career and the tips she has for women starting out in the tech industry. Subscribe to The Glowing in Tech Podcast which drops weekly wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    24 min

  6. 07/18/2023

    The Tech Cornr: Building a Multifaceted career beyond coding. Microsoft Azure application process, navigating your career from tech's big sister: Hosanna part 1

    In this episode of Glowing in Tech, host Amber and Jessie are joined by Hosanna, an Azure specialist at Microsoft and the founder of TheTechCornr. Hosanna shares her journey into the tech industry and discusses the importance of increasing diversity in the field. She also talks about her platform and how it aims to inspire and educate women about opportunities in tech. Tune in to hear Hosanna's story and her impact on others in the industry. During the pandemic, Hosanna launched theTechCornr platform with the goal of empowering women to pursue careers in the tech industry. With a strong passion for diversity and inclusion, the speaker had actively participated in panels and discussions on the topic. Hosanna aims to showcase not only tech-related topics but also other aspects of her life, such as her wedding and their home, in order to build a community of multifaceted women. She's intending to release an ebook in the near future, focusing on starting a successful career. While the ebook will contain tech-focused content, it will also cover broader subjects beyond technical skills, including office politics, appropriate attire, effective communication with managers, and other essential skills for professional women. [00:01:00] Tech industry offers diverse opportunities. [00:05:11] Tech career path: programming to client-facing roles. [00:09:29] Longevity at Microsoft despite challenges. [00:07:09] Notorious tech company application process. [00:09:54] Staying at one company. [00:12:14] New technologies and learning. [00:13:15] Learning through application is key. [00:15:56] Changing roles and career growth. [00:19:52] Building a multifaceted community. [00:20:45] Transitioning to in-person work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    22 min

  7. 07/11/2023

    Recognising + addressing burnout, mental health + how to maintain creativity: Candida Part 2

    In this episode, the Candida discusses her personal journey of recognising and addressing burnout and the importance of mental health. She recalls attending a talk on mental health and burnout given by a speaker who visited their organisation. This talk served as a wake-up call for Candida, as she realised they were exhibiting several signs of burnout, such as withdrawing at work, neglecting their appearance, operating on autopilot, and feeling down and upset. Following the talk, the Candida had a coaching session with the speaker who gave the talk. The coach noticed a significant change in the speaker's energy after the session, highlighting how burnout was negatively impacting their overall well-being and work performance. Candida acknowledges that recognising and acknowledging burnout can take time, but they have become better at identifying the signals for themselves. However, it was the mental health and burnout talk that truly helped them realise that their experiences were not normal and that they needed to take time off to address their burnout. Throughout the episode, the importance of embracing creativity in daily life is highlighted. We discuss how creativity extends beyond traditional artistic pursuits and can be found in problem-solving, innovative thinking, and approaching different situations. We emphasise that tapping into creativity can bring joy and fulfilment, and it doesn't always have to be tied to generating income or pursuing a creative career. Instead, they encourage listeners to explore and embrace creativity through hobbies, personal projects, and allowing space for creative thinking in everyday life. The episode also addresses the impact of self-doubt and societal expectations on individuals who identify as creatives. The conversation emphasises the courage and strength required to pursue a creative path, especially when it goes against the expectations of family, friends, and society.  Overall, the episode underscores the significance of recognizing and embracing creativity in daily life. It suggests that by doing so, individuals can experience improved mental health, increased satisfaction, and a greater sense of fulfillment. Candida also addresses the pressure that can arise from turning creative outlets into a career. They caution against placing the burden of income generation or resource reliance on creative activities, as it can diminish the joy derived from them. Instead, they advocate for tapping into creativity for the sake of enjoyment and personal fulfillment. Additionally, the Candida delves into the impact of self-doubt on creatives. They acknowledge that societal expectations and judgments can lead many creatives to feel inadequate. They stress the significance of reframing these thoughts and beliefs, and finding the courage and strength to pursue creative endeavors that may defy societal norms. The speaker suggests that self-doubt is an energy that needs to be continually tapped into, and taking breaks from creativity can result in denying a part of oneself. They emphasize the importance of living authentically and aligning with personal values, as denying creativity and not living true to oneself can have emotional consequences. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] Introduction [00:01:42] Allowing myself to enjoy work.  [00:05:29] Keeping the curiosity alive.  [00:09:43] What's the tech tea?  [00:13:19] Hybrid working and bias.  [00:17:40] Language and Ambition.  [00:18:07] Different interpretations of ambition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    21 min

  8. 06/27/2023

    Finding Balance and Boundaries in Intense learning environments, how to prioritize wellbeing, Candida Bradley Part 1

    In this episode of Glowing in Tech, hosts Amber and Jessie interview Candida Bradley, a Career and Well-Being Coach at Makers. Candida shares her journey, starting with a design degree in university and becoming a book artist. She then became a carer for her grandfather and later opened a craft shop in London. However, running a business on her own proved to be tough. The hosts discuss the importance of career and well-being coaching and how it can help individuals navigate their professional and personal lives. [00:00:00] Introduction [00:00:23] Finding your career path.  [00:07:19] Dealing with burnout.  [00:07:50] Mental and physical wellbeing.  [00:11:35] Self-compassion in learning.  [00:14:56] Nurturing curiosity in tech.  [00:19:18] Soft skills in technical roles.  [00:22:26] Standing out in job applications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 min
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5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Step into the vibrant world of technology with Glowing in Tech, where passion meets expertise every week. Join co-hosts Jessie and Shantelle—two dynamic women breaking barriers in tech—as they illuminate paths less traveled through candid conversations with industry innovators. From blockchain breakthroughs to AI advancements, cybersecurity challenges to product management pivots, we spark discussions that matter. Our episodes don't just scratch the surface—they dive deep into real-world tech experiences, uncovering the triumphs, failures, and "nobody-tells-you-this" moments that shape remarkable careers. In a tech landscape where representation matters more than ever, "Glowing in Tech" stands as a beacon—creating a space where underrepresented voices aren't just heard but amplified. We're building more than a podcast; we're fostering a community where everyone belongs, regardless of background or experience level. Whether you're coding your first app, scaling your startup, or pivoting into tech from another industry, our conversations offer actionable insights to fuel your journey. Come glow with us at www.glowingintech.com, where we're rewiring tech, one empowering story at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Glowing in Tech
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Glowing in Tech
  • Show Website
    Glowing in Tech

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