Future Perfect Tense: Bari A. Williams on Robotics, Red Tape, and Real Hope

The Tech Humanist Show

Prepare to uncover the unseen world of tech diversity as Bärí Williams, renowned tech advocate and author, takes us on a journey through her experiences and insights on this captivating episode of The Tech Humanist Show. In a revelation that might surprise you, Bärí shares how she managed to merge the intricacies of law with the dynamic world of tech, proving that understanding technology is essential for legal experts too.

Join host Kate O’Neill as she dives deep into Bärí’s formidable story, exploring her book “Seeing Yet Unseen: A Black Woman Crashes the Tech Fraternity” and the motivation behind sharing powerful narratives of diversity in tech. Gain insights into the challenges and experiences that black women face in the industry and the significance of telling these stories despite potential career risks. Learn about Bärí’s groundbreaking work in creating the supplier diversity program for Meta, a program designed to champion representation and create equitable opportunities within the tech space.

Get ready to explore the importance of authentic allyship beyond performative gestures, and why initiatives like these matter not just for marginalized communities but for the entire tech ecosystem. How can businesses recognize and eliminate biases in their AI processes? Bärí provides invaluable insights and impresses upon the crucial need for diverse voices and perspectives in decision-making processes.

Tune in to hear more from Bärí Williams as she shares her journey, works towards a future where tech truly represents us all, and inspires change that benefits humanity. Visit bariawilliams.com to explore more of Bärí’s work and join the conversation on how tech can be shaped for a more inclusive tomorrow.
Topics Covered:
“Seeing Yet Unseen”
Diversity in the Workplace
Audience and Reactions to the Book
Supplier Diversity at Meta (Facebook)
Bärí’s role in creating the supplier diversity program
AI and Ethical Concerns
Hope for Ethical AI and the Future of Work
Current Work with LegalOn and AI in Legal Services
Outlook on the Future of AI and Inclusivity

Connect with Bari Williams

Website: bariawilliams.com
See Yet Unseen book: On Amazon
Instagram: bari.a.williams
BlueSky: @bariawilliams.bsky.social
LinkedIn: bariawilliams

Episode Chapters

00:00 Sharing Stories: Black Women in Tech
06:02 True Allyship vs. Performative Acts
09:52 Enhancing Diversity through External Consultants
12:57 Layoff Concerns for Hired Team
14:49 Legal Lessons from Business Experience
19:33 Algorithm Bias and Accountability Issues
22:43 AI Misuse and Bully Behavior
26:36 AI Models vs. Human Diversity
27:58 Tech Design Ignoring Diversity Issues
32:52 Public-Private Partnerships Boost Job Access
36:22 Efficient Contract Review Software
38:07 Hope Through Observant Youth