Introducing “B The Way Forward” Podcast

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B The Way Forward

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Tech shapes nearly every part of modern life, but its direction is still decided by too few.

In each episode of “B The Way Forward,” AnitaB.org President and CEO Brenda Darden Wilkerson sits down with the trailblazers reimagining what’s possible in tech. Together, they explore what it takes to build a future where technology reflects the full spectrum of ideas, needs, and lived experiences.

This award-winning podcast—GOLD for Activism, Public Service & Social Impact and BRONZE for Most Inspirational Episode at the Signal Awards—goes beyond the headlines to highlight the people driving real change.

Find agency, inspiration, and a future driven by all of us.

Listen in and Redefine Tech

Join us as we pave the Way Forward. Seasons 1 and 2 are now streaming.

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Our guests contribute to this podcast in their personal capacity. The views expressed in this interview are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology or its employees (“AnitaB.org”). AnitaB.org is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of the information provided in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute legal or other professional advice or services.

Catch Each Episode Here

Investing in Representation with Arlan Hamilton

In this episode of B The Way Forward, host Brenda Darden Wilkerson engages in a powerful conversation with Arlan Hamilton, the visionary entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Backstage Capital. Arlan shares her remarkable journey of building a venture capital fund from the ground up, with a focus on supporting underrepresented and underestimated founders, particularly those who are Black, female, or LGBTQ+.

No More Silence in Femtech with Dr. Brittany Barretto

In a powerful episode of B The Way Forward, Brenda Darden Wilkerson, CEO of AnitaB.org, sits down with Dr. Brittany Barreto, host of The FemTech Focus Podcast, to confront the staggering disparities in women’s health research and funding. Despite women comprising half the population, only 4% of pharmaceutical R&D focuses on women’s health—compared to 2% solely for the prostate.

The Kids Are Alright…They’re Just Not Voting: With Paul Jones and Lucille Wenegeime

In this episode, Paul and Lucille dive into the evolving role of young voters, the importance of connecting broader actions like voting to community impact, and how aligning efforts with personal strengths—through policy, grassroots organizing, or civic engagement—can drive meaningful change.

Being the Way Forward in the Face of Change: Brenda’s Advice for All of Us

In this episode of B The Way Forward, Brenda Darden Wilkerson discusses the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in building technology that serves all communities. She emphasizes the role of organizations like AnitaB.org in fostering proactive inclusion and dispelling misconceptions about DEI’s impact on innovation.

The Revolution Will Be Democratized - How the Working Families Party Uses Data and Tech to Fight for Change

The Working Families Party challenges the two-party system by building coalitions across ideological lines to advance various reforms. Jennifer Knox highlights how AI is transforming organizing, enabling WFP to process data, personalize outreach, and strengthen grassroots efforts. Driven by equity and systemic change, Knox envisions technology and inclusion inspiring a new generation of leaders to reshape elections.

AI Replaced No Podcast Producers in the Making of This Episode – How AI Will Impact Workers

Brenda Darden Wilkerson and Dr. Moiya McTier discuss AI’s impact on creative jobs, highlighting risks like automation replacing entry-level roles and lack of creator compensation. McTier stresses the need for regulations to prevent bias and misinformation, while Wilkerson previews a conversation on ethical AI with voice actor Cissy Jones.

The Environmental Impact of Your Chatbot Habit – Why it Might Be Time to Say Bye to the AI

AI’s hidden environmental cost is growing, from energy-hungry queries to resource-draining model training. In this episode, Dr. Sasha Luccioni and Yoca Arditi-Rocha debate whether industry insiders or activists must lead the charge to ensure AI innovation doesn’t come at the planet’s expense.

The Art of the Pitch with PitcHer™ Winner Shelley Gupta, Founder and CEO of BāKIT Box

Host Brenda Darden Wilkerson chats with Shelley Gupta, founder of BāKIT Box and 2024 PitcHER™ Winner. Shelley shares insights on pitching as a female founder, the power of authentic storytelling, and how BāKIT Box blends baking, STEM, and cultural education to inspire kids.

Be Fearlessly Authentic, Not a Jerk – Jeanne Sparrow on How to Communicate for the Good of All.

Jeanne Sparrow discusses the power of fearless authenticity, emphasizing the importance of embracing one’s unique identity and using it to connect with others. She highlights how authenticity drives leadership and innovation and encourages listeners to embrace their true selves for personal and professional growth.

The Secret Origin of AnitaB.org - Telle Whitney on Friendship w/ Anita Borg and Founding AnitaB.org

Brenda Darden Wilkerson and Telle Whitney discuss Anita Borg’s legacy, the founding of AnitaB.org, and the growth of Grace Hopper Celebration. They highlight ongoing challenges for women in tech and the need for inclusive workplaces.

Seeing Things Through (Even When You Think You Failed) – Karen Catlin, Author, Better Allies®

Brenda Darden Wilkerson and Karen Catlin come together for a candid conversation about Grace Hopper Celebration and how these in-person events provide women in tech with a sense of belonging, confidence, and validation.

When Your Dream Job Becomes a Nightmare – What April Christina Curley Learned From Being Let Go

April Christina Curley opens up about the emotional impact of being laid off from her dream job in tech. She and Brenda unpack the grief, identity loss, and growth that can come from career shifts.

Forget Failure, It’s All an Experiment – Vlada Bortnik on How Marco Polo Approaches Big Choices

In this episode, Vlada Bortnik, co-founder and CEO of Marco Polo, shares her journey of stepping into leadership by redefining what it means to be a CEO—moving away from traditional, aggressive archetypes and embracing a more heart-led, relational approach.

Not Everyone Gets a Seat at Your Table – How Dr. Rebecca Andersen Said Goodbye to Imposter Syndrome

Dr. Rebecca Anderson opens up with Brenda about the emotional toll of burnout and vague feedback in tech. She shares how taking a mental health break helped her reconnect with her worth.

You Can Walk Away – How Amanda Bickerstaff Found Her Way Back from Burnout

After burnout and a broken partnership, Amanda Bickerstaff made the brave choice to walk away. Now thriving as a founder, she shares how reclaiming her values helped her lead with joy, and why you can walk away too.

Do We Fold or Do We Fight - A CEO’s Lessons from One of Her Earliest Setbacks

Shellye Archambeau shares candid stories and leadership lessons on navigating failure, crisis management, and self-awareness to inspire resilience and authentic leadership.