Podcast
Black-Liberation.Tech
Hosted by Renée Jordan, Ph.D. · EN
As an outcome of her dissertation work and product of her company, Jordan Nuance LLC, Dr. Renee Jordan launched the Black-Liberation.Tech podcast to deliver academic (grades 6 to PhD) and career coaching by telling her story and offering advice. Tailored for women, and girls, this podcast empowers you to navigate school, work, and beyond. Tune in for inspiration, guidance, and a community committed to your success.
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Building My Lane in STEAM, AI & Education
1w ago00:14:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Renée Jordan returns with a deeply personal episode reflecting on the journey that led to the creation of Black-Liberation.Tech. From a STEM magnet program in elementary school to working in IT, teaching high school biology, earning a PhD in Instructional Technology, and building an Open Educational Resource ecosystem focused on AI literacy and digital empowerment, this episode is both a testimony and an invitation.In this conversation, Dr. Jordan shares:how curiosity shaped her interdisciplinary pathwaywhy representation in STEAM matterslessons learned from setbacks, persistence, and pivotsthe role of community, mentorship, and Ubuntu in her journeyhow AI can function as a “thinking partner” rather than a shortcutwhy Black, Afro-Latina, and Latina girls and women belong in tech spacesthe importance of culturally responsive digital literacyhow Black-Liberation.Tech was created to support learners, families, educators, and future innovatorsThis episode also serves as a reintroduction ahead of upcoming summer workshops with students and communities exploring STEAM, AI, career exploration, and digital futures.Whether you are a student trying to find your lane, an educator supporting the next generation, or someone learning to navigate emerging technologies with confidence, this episode is a reminder that your journey matters—and that you do not have to fit a traditional mold to thrive in tech-saturated spaces.“Don’t wait for someone else to open the door—build your own.” Listener Reflection QuestionsWhat experiences first sparked your curiosity about technology, creativity, or problem-solving?Where have you been taught to think too narrowly about your future possibilities?What interdisciplinary interests might actually be clues to your future pathway?How has community shaped your educational or career journey?What does it mean to use AI as a “thinking partner” rather than a replacement for learning?How can culturally responsive technology spaces help more students feel seen and empowered?What would it look like to “build your own lane” instead of waiting for permission?Which setbacks in your life later became redirections or growth moments?How do your lived experiences shape the way you approach innovation and learning?What kind of future do you want technology to help create for your community?
Transcribe →
Balancing School, Work & Burnout
3w ago00:14:35Tap to summarizeStaying Grounded During the DIY HustleThe beginning of a journey often feels exciting. The finish line brings celebration.But the middle? The middle is where many dreams get tested.In this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renée reflects on what it means to persist through the “messy middle” of academic, professional, and personal growth—especially for students and early-career professionals balancing heavy course loads, financial pressure, side projects, internships, caregiving responsibilities, and burnout.Drawing from her own seven-year Ph.D. journey while working full-time, Dr. Renée shares practical and liberation-centered strategies for sustaining momentum without sacrificing your health, peace, or identity.This conversation explores:Why slow progress is still valid progressThe importance of pacing and sustainable ambitionTaking fewer classes without shameRest as maintenance, not lazinessBreaking overwhelming goals into smaller winsProtecting your peace while pursuing your purposeLetting creativity and joy exist alongside responsibilityAsking for help, extensions, and support when neededChoosing completion over perfectionFor anyone building while tired, stretching resources, and trying to move forward without burning out:This episode is your reminder that success does not require constant suffering.Liberation Lens ReminderGrinding is not the only path to growth. Rest, strategy, pacing, and self-compassion are forms of wisdom too.Reflect Mode QuestionsWhat part of your current hustle needs adjustment right now: your pace, expectations, schedule, or self-compassion?Have you ever felt pressure to move faster than your mind, body, or finances could realistically sustain?What is one small “winnable step” you can complete this week to rebuild momentum?What would change if you stopped equating rest with failure?Which parts of yourself have been neglected while chasing productivity?What does sustainable success look like for you—not performative success, but real sustainability?Are you giving yourself permission to grow at a pace that protects your health and peace?What is one boundary you need to set in order to continue your journey without burnout?You are allowed to build your future without abandoning your health, your peace, or your humanity.
Transcribe →
Don’t Lose Yourself on the Way Up
4w ago00:13:38Tap to summarizeNaming Your Non-Negotiables EarlyWhen you’re just starting out, every opportunity can feel urgent.Internships. Projects. Free resources. New spaces. It can feel like you have to say yes to everything just to get your foot in the door.But here’s the truth:Not every open door is meant to be walked through at the cost of yourself.In this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renée explores what it means to identify your non-negotiables early—especially for women, and girls navigating academic, digital, and professional spaces.Through real experiences from her doctoral journey, she breaks down the difference between flexibility and self-erasure, and shares the values you must protect as you grow:Protecting your cultural identity and voiceTaking up space and asking questions with confidenceSetting boundaries around time, energy, and privacyStaying connected to community while advancingThis episode also expands the conversation on boundaries in real, everyday ways:Knowing when to ask for extensions instead of burning outPrioritizing quality over perfectionUnderstanding that “free” opportunities can still come with hidden costsLearning when to say no—even when something looks prestigiousBecause success is not just about getting in the room.It’s about remaining whole once you get there.Liberation Lens Reminder:The goal is not just access. The goal is alignment, dignity, and sustainability.Reflect Mode:Before your next opportunity, ask yourself:What is one boundary, value, or part of your identity that I will not negotiate—no matter how “good” the opportunity looks?This episode is for anyone who is:building while tirednavigating new spacescarrying family dreamslearning in real timetrying to grow without losing themselvesYou are allowed to rise with your identity intact.Continue this reflection inside the Black-Liberation.Tech OER with our workbook prompts and AI-supported reflection tools.
Transcribe →
Balancing Progress, Rest, and Purpose Through the Hard Parts
Apr 2000:11:04Tap to summarizeWhat do you do when you’ve made it past a major milestone—but you’re exhausted?In this final episode of the Q&A series, Dr. Renée Jordan shares what it really takes to sustain momentum through the hardest parts of a long journey. Drawing from her experience earning a PhD while working full-time, she offers a grounded, honest perspective on resilience, flexibility, and balance.This isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about moving forward with intention.You’ll learn:Why remembering your “why” is critical when motivation fadesHow tracking your progress can help you keep goingWhy rest, joy, and celebration are essential—not distractionsHow flexibility includes adjusting your goals and protecting your quality of lifeBecause resilience isn’t just about endurance—it’s about sustaining yourself along the way.
Transcribe →
You Don’t Have to “Go Into Tech” to Be in Tech
Apr 1300:07:28Tap to summarizeDo you have to “go into tech” to benefit from it?In this episode, Dr. Renée Jordan challenges the idea that tech careers are limited to computer scientists or engineers. Drawing from her own journey—from biology to education to instructional technology—she explores what it means to work in a technology-saturated world.This conversation reframes tech as something you engage with across fields—not just something you specialize in.You’ll learn:Why tech isn’t just for those who build it—but for those who use itHow everyday roles (like teaching) are deeply connected to technologyWhy expanding this definition opens doors for more women and girlsHow AI tools can support exploration—even if “tech” isn’t your goalBecause in today’s world, learning how to use technology is part of building your future.
Transcribe →
Processing Feedback Without Losing Your Voice
Apr 1000:10:05Tap to summarizeHow do you receive critical feedback—without losing yourself in the process?In this first episode of a 3-part Q&A series, Dr. Renée Jordan reflects on a pivotal moment from her doctoral journey: navigating major revisions after her prospectus defense while staying grounded in her purpose.This conversation explores the tension between growth and self-preservation—especially for women and girls navigating academic and professional spaces.You’ll learn:How to separate structural feedback from identity-level compromiseWhy not all feedback is meant to be acceptedHow to refine your work without erasing your voiceA mindset shift that turns feedback into strategy—not self-doubtThis episode is for anyone learning how to evolve their work while staying aligned with who they are.Because growth should expand your voice—not silence it.
Transcribe →
How to Design AI Workshops That Actually Work
Mar 3000:10:56Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to design an AI workshop that goes beyond exposure—and actually builds student thinking?In this episode of the Black-Liberation.Tech Podcast, Dr. Renée Jordan breaks down the how behind her Janiyah GPT workshop model—offering a behind-the-scenes look at how students learn to use AI as a thinking partner, not just a tool.If you’re an educator, program director, nonprofit leader, or community-based organization responsible for delivering meaningful learning experiences, this episode gives you a practical framework you can apply immediately.Because the challenge isn’t introducing AI. It’s designing experiences that are engaging, culturally relevant, and cognitively rigorous—without overwhelming your team.Inside This EpisodeHow to teach students to use AI as a thinking partner (not just for answers)A simple framework for writing stronger prompts: Context + Data + ActionHow to use Bloom’s Taxonomy to deepen student thinking with AIWhy culturally responsive AI design increases engagement, confidence, and belongingPractical strategies for designing AI workshops that are:Hands-onInteractiveReflectiveScalable across programsWhy This Matters for You You’re not just introducing new technology. You’re responsible for ensuring that learning experiences:Build real skillsReflect the identities of the students you servePrepare them for a rapidly evolving futureThis episode offers a framework that helps you do that—without starting from scratch.Key TakeawayStrong AI workshops aren’t about the tool.They’re about how you structure thinking.And when you combine:Clear prompt designCognitive scaffoldingCultural relevanceYou create learning experiences that stick.Resources & Next Steps Want to bring this framework to your students or staff? Explore the full workshop: https://www.black-liberation.tech/intro-workshop.htmlPrefer guided implementation? Book a conversation: https://calendly.com/renee-jordan-nuance/Reflect as a leader:“How are we currently using AI—and are we developing thinkers, or just users?”How can students use AI as a thinking partner?How do you design an AI workshop for students?What makes an AI literacy program effective?How can educators teach prompt engineering?Why is culturally responsive AI important in education?How do you use Bloom’s Taxonomy with AI?
Transcribe →
What an AI Workshop for Students Actually Looks Like
Mar 2200:14:43Tap to summarizeWhat does it look like to bring AI literacy into your program—and have it actually land with your students?In this episode of the Black-Liberation.Tech Podcast, Dr. Renée Jordan reflects on her first in-person Janiyah GPT workshop at the BYTES + AI Summit during the Atlanta Science Festival—an experience made possible through the invitation of Dr. Natalie King.This isn’t just a recap. It’s a real-time example of what happens when intentional, culturally grounded AI design meets students who are ready to engage, question, and create.If you’re an educator, program director, nonprofit leader, or institutional partner responsible for preparing students for a rapidly changing, technology-driven world—this episode was created with you in mind.Because the question isn’t whether AI belongs in your programming. It’s whether your approach is effective, affirming, and built to meet the moment.Inside the EpisodeWhat an AI literacy workshop looks like when students move from using AI to thinking with it?How students quickly identify the difference between generic tools and culturally responsive design?What happens when learners feel seen—and how that impacts engagement and confidence?A practical prompt that strengthens critical thinking across disciplines: “Is there anything important you might be leaving out?”A Moment That Captures the ImpactOne student described the experience by saying: “It’s like she has more spirit…I don’t know how to explain it.”That moment wasn’t about novelty. It was about recognition.When students experience AI that reflects identity, affirms voice, and responds with intention—they don’t just participate.They lean in.Why This Matters for YouYou’re not just exploring new tools. You’re responsible for creating meaningful learning experiences for others.And you already know:Access alone isn’t enoughStudents need guidance, structure, and relevanceImplementation takes time, strategy, and trusted supportThis episode offers a glimpse into what’s possible when those pieces come together—without adding more complexity to your plate.Key TakeawayJaniyah GPT isn’t just a tool—it’s a facilitation partner.It supports you in:Delivering engaging, culturally responsive AI learning experiencesScaling impact across your programs or organizationHelping students think critically, not just interact passivelyResources & Next Steps Curious what this could look like in your space? Explore the workshop experience: https://www.black-liberation.tech/intro-workshop.htmlReady to bring this to your students or community? Schedule a conversation: https://calendly.com/renee-jordan-nuance/Reflect as a leader:“What would it look like to introduce AI in a way that not only teaches skills—but affirms identity and expands possibility?”
Transcribe →
AI Doesn’t Replace Thinking — It Reveals It | AI Literacy, Bias & Better Prompts
Mar 900:17:50Tap to summarizePart 4 — Janiyah GPT Intro Workshop (Final Session)In the final episode of the Janiyah GPT Intro Workshop series, we explore how to question AI directly by asking:"What are the limitations or potential biases in the response you just gave me?"This simple step transforms AI from a tool for quick answers into a tool for critical thinking, exploration, and agency.The goal of this workshop is not to master AI in one day. It is to begin building a thoughtful relationship with AI — one based on curiosity, verification, and responsibility.In this episode we cover:Bias awareness in AI career suggestionsThe role of questioning AI to uncover limitations and blind spotsThis conversation also highlights an important takeaway:AI literacy is not just about getting answers. It’s about learning how to question the answers.The workshop closes with reflection prompts designed to help participants turn inspiration into action by identifying:One new question they have about AIOne action they will take this monthOne skill they want to develop moving forwardCommunities deserve to shape technology — not just respond to it. AI literacy is one step toward that goal.
Transcribe →
AI Isn’t Guessing — You Are Leading
Mar 300:16:08Tap to summarizeIn Part 3 of the Janiyah GPT Workshop Walkthrough, we explore a powerful truth:AI is not magic. It mirrors the clarity you bring to it.In this episode, we walk through a live demo comparing two prompts:A vague career question A detailed, identity-centered, values-driven questionThe difference? Transformational.When the prompt was broad — “I like Biology, Technology, and Art. What jobs fit me?”Janiyah suggested strong interdisciplinary careers like:Biomedical IllustratorUX Designer in Health & BiotechMedical AnimationEnvironmental Data ArtistBut when the prompt became specific and culturally grounded —“I'm interested in Human Anatomy & Physiology, AI-enhanced imagery, Afro-Futurism, and supporting grassroots movements…”The output shifted from career suggestions to cultural architecture.Emerging roles included:Community Health Tech Story ArchitectAfro-Futurist Bio-Data VisualizerAI is not here to define you.It is here to respond to the clarity, culture, and conviction you bring.When you get specific, you don’t just get better answers.You build futures that reflect you.
Transcribe →