The Debugged Podcast

Congressional App Challenge
  • 4.5 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Debugged: A Congressional App Challenge Podcast connects the country’s youth and technology by *debugging* the intricate world of technology. By highlighting trends in the industry, simplifying complex concepts, and introducing high profile guests, Debugged offers an opportunity for its listeners to delve into tech in an analytical but relatable manner. Hosted by Medha Gupta, a CS graduate from NYU and CAC board member, an annual national programming competition for high school students that transforms how Congress views computer science and STEM. Our website: rhttps://www.cacdebugged.org/

  1. JAN 29

    Demystifying Technology Careers with Gina Pol

    In this episode, host Suhaani Sodhi meets with Gina Pol from Girls Who Code to break down common misconceptions about the tech industry. From exploring non-traditional career paths and the importance of failing forward to the ethical integration of AI, Gina shares how students can find their place in a collaborative, creative, and ever-evolving field.

    18 min

  2. JAN 15

    Decoding the Future: Dr. James Newswanger on AI Research, Applied Statistics, and Data-Driven Careers

    In a world racing to learn all the next coding tools, Dr. James Newswagner highlights the importance of statistics as well! On Episode 5 of Season 5, Suhaani interviews Dr. James Newswanger, a former Market Intelligence Researcher at IBM and an instructor at Columbia University. His journey ranges from obtaining a PhD in applied statistics to leading cutting-edge AI research at IBM, and he sees AI evolving from a tool into a coworker with the rise of agents. Tune in to hear his insight for students and advice on why statistics (not just programming) is the true foundation for a career in data science, and how to stand out in a competitive market.

    15 min

  3. 12/18/2025

    Leading with Purpose: Jeremy Sirota on Music, Mentorship, and Successful Innovation

    In this episode, Teddy interviews Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin, whose journey intersects topics of music, law, and technology. Tune in to hear how he champions independent artists worldwide and creates meaningful solutions in the digital world.

    17 min

  4. 12/04/2025

    Why CS? Coding to Problem Solve with Karim Meghji

    On this episode of Debugged, Suhaani and Tushar speak with Karim Meghji, the Chief Product Officer at Code.org. Tune in to hear about his journey from engineering to AI, with human interaction at the root of it all. Although Karim’s work falls firmly in the realm of tech, he still focuses on how computer science can impact both students and teachers. Learn more about Karim’s work at Code.org, his beliefs about the power of CS in education, and his thoughts on the future of AI!

    18 min

  5. 11/21/2025

    Leading the Congressional App Challenge with Joe Alessi

    On Episode 2 of Season 5, Suhaani and Teddy interview Joe Alessi, director of the Congressional App Challenge. Tune in to hear more about Alessi’s interests in politics, STEM, and education! Plus, Alessi offers some advice to App Challenge participants.

    17 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    Building Beyond Debugged with Medha Gupta

    Season 5 kicks off with a special guest: Debugged founder Medha Gupta! Hear how she turned her Congressional App Challenge win into positions in tech and government, inspired others to break out of the current norms in software engineering, and used her passions for further opportunities.

    14 min

  7. 04/24/2025

    Behind the Mic with the Debugged Podcast Team

    In the Season 4 finale of Debugged, host Medha Gupta flips the script and interviews the team behind the podcast itself. Meet William Chen, Tushar Mehta, Suri Le, Teddy Lampert, and Aadithyaa Vishegu—high school and college students (and CAC Alumni!) who’ve shaped the show across social media, design, content, and production. From lessons in outreach and storytelling to building impactful apps and websites, this episode highlights how each team member has brought their unique voice to Debugged—and where they’re headed next. Whether you're an aspiring technologist, passionate creator, or an App Challenge alum, tune in for a celebration of community, creativity, leadership, and the power of tech beyond the code. Discover how teamwork, curiosity, and bold ideas helped shape the show—and how you can start building your own impact.

    21 min

  8. 04/12/2025

    Tech Meets Policy with CAC Alumni

    In this episode of Debugged, guest host Suhaani Sodhi sits down with Angie Orejuela and Jeremy Bernick to explore the critical intersection of technology and public policy. From biometric data in airport security to the ethics of training AI on artists’ work, they unpack real-world challenges that demand cross-disciplinary thinking. Both guests stress the need for technologists to consider the societal impact of their creations—and for policymakers to better understand the tools shaping our future. Angie and Jeremy also share their unexpected paths into the field, showing how curiosity and passion can guide meaningful careers. Their advice? Don’t wait for a perfect blueprint—just start where you are and stay open to learning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to bridge code and conscience.

    25 min
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About

Debugged: A Congressional App Challenge Podcast connects the country’s youth and technology by *debugging* the intricate world of technology. By highlighting trends in the industry, simplifying complex concepts, and introducing high profile guests, Debugged offers an opportunity for its listeners to delve into tech in an analytical but relatable manner. Hosted by Medha Gupta, a CS graduate from NYU and CAC board member, an annual national programming competition for high school students that transforms how Congress views computer science and STEM. Our website: rhttps://www.cacdebugged.org/

Information

  • Creator
    Congressional App Challenge
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Congressional App Challenge
  • Show Website
    The Debugged Podcast