This podcast episode was published on 8/18/23. You can listen to it here.
In this episode of the Inflection Podcast, Anebi has the pleasure of speaking with the CTO of Global Media Outreach, Yvonne Carlson. She shares her fascinating journey from disassembling VCRs in grade school to leading technology at a global organization. The conversation is a deep dive into the pivotal moments and inflection points that have shaped her career and the tech industry at large.
Curiosity in Tech
Anebi and Yvonne kick off the episode by discussing Yvonne's early curiosity in technology and how it blossomed with the support of her father's engineering background. She recounts stories of fixing household appliances and her evolution from software engineering to working with hardware in the medical device industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding technology beyond the software.
Mentorship
The discussion then shifts to Yvonne's unique experiences as a woman in tech and the invaluable role of mentorship in her career. She highlights the significance of having mentors who challenge you and serve as role models, sharing how her boss at the University of Denver spent hours guiding her through the nuances of leadership.
The Rise of AI
They also explore the broader tech ecosystem, focusing on the fourth industrial revolution and the age of AI. Yvonne provides insights into the opportunities and challenges presented by the rapid evolution of technology, including the AI arms race and the ethical considerations that come with it.
As they wrap up the episode, Yvonne imparts some sage advice for those standing at the precipice of a major career leap. She encourages listeners to embrace discomfort, lean into growth opportunities, and surround themselves with a supportive community that can provide diverse perspectives and rigorous debate.
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