Women of IU

In this episode, Jinji Tserennadmid of the Sustainability and Tech Team sits down with Stephanie Hayes Richards, founder of Gnarly Tree Sustainability Institute. Stephanie shares how a report from the IPCC in the ’90s sparked her journey into environmental policy, and how she later combined her passions for sustainability and business to launch her consulting firm. They explore the value of integrating academic and real-world experience, the role of inclusivity and communication in leadership, and how students can best prepare for global careers in sustainability. Tune in to hear Stephanie’s insights on the future of the field—and how professionalism, not just technical skill, can shape tomorrow’s climate leaders.

What does it mean to design technology that supports independence, dignity, and connection as we age? In this episode, host Anshu Roja Selvamani sits down with Dr. Aqueasha Martin Hammond—associate professor of Human-Computer Interaction at IU Indianapolis—to explore how AI and voice technologies can empower older adults while navigating critical concerns around privacy, trust, and accessibility. Dr. Hammond shares how her grandmothers inspired her career, why mentorship matters, and the ethical frontiers she's exploring next.

How do our brains learn? Can artificial intelligence help us unlock the mysteries of the human mind? In this episode of the Women of IU Podcast, Dr. Samantha Wood, assistant professor at Indiana University’s Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, joins host Anshu Roja Selvamani to discuss her groundbreaking research at the intersection of AI, cognitive science, and neuroscience. Dr. Wood shares how she uses digital twins, neural networks, and psychology models to understand how newborn brains build knowledge. She also explores the advantages and risks of AI in cognitive science, the future of women in tech, and overcoming imposter syndrome in male-dominated fields. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a student, or just curious about the origins of intelligence, this conversation is sure to inspire! 🎧 Tune in now to learn how AI is helping us "build a mind"! 💡 Follow IU Women & Tech: @iuwomenandtech 🌐 Learn more about Dr. Wood’s research: www.buildingamind.com

In this episode of the Women of IU Podcast, Mahasin Ameen interviews Donell Probst, Deputy Director for the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE). Donell shares her expertise on media literacy, the challenges of navigating today’s media landscape, and how to empower individuals through media education. Key topics discussed: Donell's role at NAMLE and the importance of media literacy education in a digital-first world. Defining media literacy and its key components, including access, analysis, and evaluation of media. The differences between misinformation and disinformation, and the growing need for fact-checking in today's media. The role of algorithms in shaping what we see online and how individuals can be more critical of their digital consumption. Practical tips on engaging students in media literacy and addressing cultural differences in media understanding. How NAMLE celebrates Media Literacy Week and its efforts to promote awareness on a national level.

In this episode of the Women of IU Podcast, Anshu Roja Selvamani interviews Tara Aggarwal, an AI lead at Microsoft for Outlook and an IU alumna. Tara shares her insights on the world of AI, her experiences as a woman in tech, and her advice for aspiring professionals. Key topics discussed: Tara's role as an AI lead at Microsoft, including her focus on responsible AI and ethical considerations. Her journey at IU, including her involvement in CEWIT and other student organizations. The challenges and opportunities of studying abroad in London. Her experiences as a woman in tech, including the importance of representation and breaking down barriers. The future of AI and the role of women in shaping it. Advice for students and women early in their careers. Tara's inspiring story offers valuable insights into the world of AI and the importance of pursuing your passions, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone.

This episode of the Women of IU Podcast features Tiana Iruoje, the Director of Student Engagement and Success at the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering. Tiana discusses her rewarding career journey in higher education and her passion for creating opportunities for students. She offers valuable advice for underrepresented students in tech and shares her thoughts on the future role of women in the industry. Here are some key points from the conversation: Tiana's role involves overseeing student success from enrollment to graduation, while also creating high-impact engagement activities.    The most rewarding part of her work is witnessing the growth of students throughout their academic careers. Tiana emphasizes the importance of breaking down the imposter syndrome and encourages underrepresented students to find their voice and advocate for themselves. She highlights the need for women to be visible in leadership positions within the tech industry. Tiana's mother is her biggest inspiration, and she credits her with fostering a strong work ethic and a dedication to helping others. This episode is an inspiring listen for anyone interested in student success, diversity in tech, and the power of mentorship.

This episode of the Women of IU Podcast features the IU student-run Ethical AI Team interviewing Dr. Alexis Pierce Caudell, a lecturer at the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. Dr. Caudell dives into her work teaching about ethics in technology and generative AI, preparing students for the rapidly evolving world of AI. She also offers insights on being a woman in this dynamic field and shares advice for aspiring women in tech. You'll hear Dr. Caudell discuss: The challenges and opportunities of AI in areas like climate change. How she approaches teaching about generative AI in the classroom. The importance of "socio-technical thinking" in the context of AI. Her experiences as a woman in the technology industry. Her advice for students and women navigating their careers in tech. The future role of women in the field of AI. This episode is brought to you by the Center of Excellence for Women & Technology (CEW&T). Don't forget to: Rate and review the Women of IU Podcast on Apple Podcasts. Follow the Center on Instagram @iuwomenandtech. Learn more about Dr. Caudell and the Ethical AI Team in the show notes and at womenandtech.indiana.edu.

Graphic Designer Avrie Allen joins the show to discuss her experience studying design at IU, how tech influences her design process, and some of her personal design inspirations.

Lisa D. Lenoir is a critical/cultural media sociologist who studies race, gender, and class. She holds a Ph.D. in media sociology from the University of Missouri-Columbia; an M.S. in International Public Service from DePaul University; and a B.A. in Journalism, with a minor in Graphic Design from Indiana University Bloomington. For 17 years she worked as a professional journalist covering and editing everything from fire to fashion at the Marietta Times (Marietta, Ohio); The Peoria Journal Star; The Indianapolis Star; and the Chicago Sun-Times. She was an instructor at Columbia College Chicago for 14 years and an assistant professor at Stephens College in Missouri teaching fashion communication for seven years. She was a Lillian Kopenhaver Center Fellow in 2017 and won numerous awards as a journalist. Her research uses a critical and cultural paradigm to examine contemporary cultural phenomena in media discourses. Areas of interest include journalism studies; activism; and identity and consumer culture. Her dissertation explored “woke culture” discourses in Essence; O, The Oprah Magazine; and Teen Vogue. At IU she teaches courses in the Media School’s new Fashion Media program.  The Center of Excellence for Women & Tech is a welcoming community on Indiana University’s campus that strives to empower women students, faculty, and alumni to expand their leadership skills, build confidence about technology, and foster community and collaboration between all fields of study and industry.  **Correction: the Center’s NEW Instagram handle is @IUwomenandtech. Please follow us there!   Big thanks to Rebecca Ramsey at IU's Center for Language Technology whose work makes this podcast possible! Since 1959, CeLT has overseen the language and computer labs in Ballantine Hall, with the mission of providing the highest quality services to support language teaching, learning, and research at Indiana University. Find out more about their services and resources here.  

Zolboo Dashmyagmar is pursuing an MPA degree concentrating on Sustainability as a Fulbright scholar. She has worked in multicultural teams in the technology, international development, and hospitality sectors. Zolboo is also the lead intern on the Center’s Sustainability & Tech Alliance Team! She is passionate about contributing to global climate action, technology for good, and women's empowerment.   The Center of Excellence for Women & Tech is a welcoming community on Indiana University’s campus that strives to empower women students, faculty, and alumni to expand their leadership skills, build confidence about technology, and foster community and collaboration between all fields of study and industry.    Check out Sustain IU to explore degree and career paths in sustainability, and to find out ways to get involved on campus.   Big thanks to Rebecca Ramsey at IU's Center for Language Technology whose work makes this podcast possible! Since 1959, CeLT has overseen the language and computer labs in Ballantine Hall, with the mission of providing the highest quality services to support language teaching, learning, and research at Indiana University. Find out more about their services and resources here.   IU recently presented a Climate Action Plan that establishes a pathway for IU to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. Learn more about IU’s Climate Action Plan and the Climate Action Planning Committee here.