Podcast
Black-Liberation.Tech
Hosted by Renée Jordan, Ph.D. · EN
Black-Liberation.Tech: Academic & Career Coaching for the Digital Age
Your academic and career journey shouldn't require leaving your culture at the door. Tailored for high-achieving Latinas, Afro-Latinas, Black women, and girls, the Black-Liberation.Tech podcast is your strategic guide to navigating school (Grades 6–PhD), career pivots, and the evolving tech landscape.
Hosted by Dr. Renée Jordan—an ecosystem builder, educator, and instructional technologist—this podcast transforms complex tech concepts and institutional roadblocks into practical, everyday strategies. Whether you are a DIY learner advocating for yourself in elite spaces, an early-stage professional charting your career, or a mother guiding her daughter's future, this is your space.
Tune in as we tackle:
AI Literacy & Prompt Engineering: How to use AI as a personal thinking buddy to reduce cognitive load, rather than a shortcut.
DIY Learning Strategies: How to navigate challenging classes, ask the hard questions, and survive the "messy middle" without burning out.
Academic & Career Strategy: Securing scholarships, building portfolios, and identifying your non-negotiables early on.
Grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu ("I am because we are"), this podcast is a tool for collective liberation. Stop merely consuming technology and start creating your future. Listen in to build your skills, and join an ecosystem committed to your success.
Explore the Black-Liberation.Tech Ecosystem:
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40episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Last Leg of the Race
Dec 24, 202400:29:25Tap to summarizeWelcome back to Black Liberation.Tech! I’m Dr. Renée Jordan, your host, and today we’re diving into the final stretch of my doctoral journey. This episode is a celebration of the perseverance it takes to get to this point—whether you’re working on your own dissertation, a major project, or a personal goal.Key Takeaways:Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Pacing yourself and maintaining momentum over time can be more valuable than sprinting toward the finish line. It's about building habits that allow you to keep going, even when the going gets tough.Perseverance is Key: Whether you’re in academia or pursuing any other goal, resilience is non-negotiable. I’ll talk about how to nurture this quality in yourself and why it’s so important.Tips for the Final Stretch: We’ll dive into strategies to stay focused and productive as you approach the end of a significant journey, whether it’s a dissertation, a creative project, or a professional goal.Embracing Patience and Persistence: Drawing inspiration from Aesop's fable, we'll explore the value of patience in a fast-paced world that often pushes us to hurry up and finish.So, whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or nearing the end of a long-term project, this episode is packed with reflections, advice, and motivation to help you keep pushing forward.Listen Now:This episode is for anyone who feels like they’re on the “last leg of the race.” Whether you’re nearing the completion of your Ph.D., a major life project, or just want to learn more about the mindset needed to finish strong, tune in for valuable insights and encouragement. Remember, it’s not just about how fast you run the race—it’s about crossing the finish line with strength and purpose.
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Research is like my hair...it's a process
Dec 16, 202400:36:45Tap to summarizeWelcome to the latest episode of Black-Liberation.Tech! I’m Dr. Renée Jordan, and today we’re diving into a topic close to my heart: the research process and how it parallels something we all know well — taking care of our hair. Just like the intricate process of managing natural hair, research can be challenging, tedious, but ultimately rewarding. In this episode, I draw a unique analogy between my dissertation journey and the experience of detangling and caring for my hair, sharing insights, motivation, and a healthy dose of real talk for anyone navigating the academic world.Key Takeaways:The Hair Analogy: Detangling hair can be tedious, but the final result is always worth the effort. Similarly, conducting research may seem slow and difficult, but in the end, you’ll have something valuable to show for it.Step-by-Step Process: Just like the phases of caring for natural hair, research has its own phases that must be respected: brainstorming, narrowing down topics, creating clear research questions, reviewing literature, gathering data, and analyzing it all.Enjoy the Journey: The goal isn't just the final product but also appreciating the work that goes into it. Every part of the process is crucial and brings you one step closer to your goal.Stay Motivated: Whether you’re pursuing a degree, working on a project, or just interested in learning more about research, don’t forget to celebrate the small wins and remind yourself why you started in the first place.Patience is Key: Research requires patience, and just like with hair care, skipping steps or rushing through can lead to setbacks. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to go back and revisit areas that need more attention.Why You Should Listen: This episode isn’t just for academics; it’s for anyone who’s ever faced a challenge that felt insurmountable. It’s for those who have had to work through difficult stages of life or school and needed a reminder that the process, though frustrating, is necessary. You’ll hear relatable stories about research, advice on how to stay focused, and learn how to trust the journey — both in life and academia.Tune in Now: If you're ready to hear some real-life insights about research, patience, and persistence, this episode is for you! Hit play, sit back, and let’s walk through this process together. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or someone curious about how research really works, there’s something here for you.And don’t forget! If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with others who might benefit from these conversations. And if you haven’t already, join our community on Patreon for exclusive content, career coaching, and much more!Thank you for being part of the Black-Liberation.Tech journey. Stay curious, stay persistent, and keep growing!#ResearchProcess #BlackLiberationTech #DrReneeJordan #AcademicJourney #PhDLife #DissertationTips #NaturalHairCare #AcademicSuccess #StudentMotivation #MorganState #STEMEducation #BlackWomenInSTEM #FamilySupport #ResearchJourney #HigherEducation #Mentorship #PodcastEpisode #EducationalGrowth
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Make It a Good One: Choosing Your Path After High School
Dec 9, 202400:34:26Tap to summarizeIn this empowering episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renée Jordan tackles one of the most significant decisions young adults face: choosing the right path after high school. Whether you're contemplating a full-ride scholarship, considering paying your way through college, exploring junior college with plans to transfer, opting for vocational training, joining the armed forces, or a combination of these options, Dr. Jordan provides invaluable insights to help you make informed and meaningful decisions about your future.Episode OverviewDr. Jordan begins by acknowledging the myriad of options available to high school graduates and the overwhelming nature of making such a pivotal choice. She emphasizes the importance of selecting a path that not only aligns with your academic and career goals but also resonates with your personal values and current circumstances. Through practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes, she guides listeners on how to navigate this crucial transition with confidence and clarity.Personal Journey and ReflectionsA highlight of the episode is Dr. Jordan’s personal story about reconnecting with influential professors from her undergraduate days. She shares how these relationships played a pivotal role in shaping her academic and professional journey, ultimately leading her to attend Hood College. This narrative underscores the significance of mentorship and personal connections in making informed educational choices.Exploring Your OptionsDr. Jordan delves into various post-high school paths:Full-Ride ScholarshipsPaying Your Way Through CollegeJunior College with Transfer PlansVocational TrainingJoining the Armed ForcesEncouragement and EmpowermentDr. Jordan concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to trust their instincts and make decisions that feel right for them in the moment. She highlights the importance of personal fulfillment and the impact of thoughtful choices on future success. By sharing her own experiences and lessons learned, she inspires young adults to take charge of their educational and career paths with confidence and purpose.Key TakeawaysExplore All Options: Consider scholarships, junior colleges, vocational training, and more.Value Personal Connections: Mentorship and relationships can significantly influence your journey.Make Informed Decisions: Use self-assessment, research, and guidance to choose the best path.Stay Flexible and Resilient: Adapt to changes and view setbacks as growth opportunities.Trust Your Instincts: Choose what feels right for your personal and professional goals.Whether you're a high school senior, a recent graduate, or someone guiding a young adult through this decision-making process, this episode provides the tools and inspiration needed to make your post-high school choices meaningful and aligned with your aspirations.Tune in to Make It a Good One: Choosing Your Path After High School and equip yourself with the knowledge and inspiration to make the best decision for your future success!
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Mastering the To-Do List: A New Perspective on Productivity
Dec 2, 202400:33:28Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renée Jordan explores a fresh approach to tackling the seemingly endless to-do list. We often find ourselves overwhelmed by the constant stream of tasks and obligations, but by shifting our perspective on productivity, we can better manage these responsibilities and achieve more meaningful progress.Dr. Jordan shares practical strategies for balancing major tasks with smaller, routine ones, offering tips on how to plan your week efficiently rather than focusing on daily pressures. Learn how to prioritize and group tasks to maintain momentum while avoiding burnout. This episode emphasizes the importance of flexibility, realistic goal-setting, and managing your time with intention. It’s all about understanding that productivity is more than just checking off boxes—it’s about ensuring that what we do aligns with our broader life and career goals.Key takeaways from this episode include:Weekly Task Planning: Learn how to break down your week into manageable sections, allowing for a mix of high-priority and low-priority tasks.Prioritizing with Purpose: Understand how to balance urgent vs. important tasks without becoming overwhelmed by immediate deadlines.Maintaining Flexibility: Tips on building flexibility into your to-do list to better handle unexpected tasks or shifts in priorities.Avoiding Burnout: Dr. Jordan discusses strategies for sustaining long-term productivity without sacrificing well-being.The Power of Small Wins: Discover the impact of completing smaller tasks as a way to build momentum and motivation for tackling larger goals.Additionally, Dr. Jordan dives into the importance of task scheduling, effective communication, and how to integrate professional development into your daily or weekly routines. She also shares insights on using digital tools to optimize task management, offering listeners advice on how to streamline their workflow using apps, calendars, and reminders.Whether you're a student juggling coursework and internships, a professional balancing deadlines and meetings, or simply someone looking to make the most of your time, this episode offers valuable insights to help you master your to-do list. It’s not just about doing more but about doing what matters most in a sustainable and effective way.Tune in to gain new perspectives on productivity, and walk away with actionable techniques to improve your daily routines, find balance, and maximize your impact!
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Beyond Textbooks: The Joy and Benefits of Leisure Reading
Nov 25, 202400:18:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Jordan steps outside the classroom to explore the enriching world of leisure reading. As students, professionals, or lifelong learners, we often focus on academic texts and required readings, but what happens when we read for pleasure? Join Dr. Jordan as she dives into how leisure reading can profoundly impact our academic performance, personal growth, and understanding of the world around us.Dr. Jordan starts by discussing the significance of reading beyond textbooks—how leisure reading fosters creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Whether it's fiction, biographies, or articles, reading for enjoyment helps develop skills that benefit both academic pursuits and everyday life. From sharpening analytical skills to enhancing writing abilities, Dr. Jordan uncovers why making time for leisure reading should be part of your learning journey.Moreover, this episode introduces practical tools like text-to-speech functions for PDFs and e-books. These tools help you engage with reading material even during busy moments, making it easier to incorporate more reading into your day. Dr. Jordan also highlights the benefits of marking up digital books and articles, a strategy that helps with retention and comprehension, while also making your study sessions more efficient.A crucial point Dr. Jordan explores is the value of choosing culturally relevant and diverse reading materials. Books by authors like Zora Neale Hurston can open your eyes to new perspectives and deepen your understanding of different cultures and histories. Dr. Jordan delves into how these books can inspire you to think more critically and empathetically in both personal and academic contexts.In addition, Dr. Jordan provides tips on how to build a reading habit that fits into your busy schedule. Whether you're a student looking to improve your academic skills or a professional seeking personal growth, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you become a more engaged and thoughtful reader.Finally, Dr. Jordan takes a look at some recommended readings, including Becoming by Michelle Obama, a powerful memoir that bridges personal experience with universal lessons on resilience and leadership. This is just one example of the kind of impactful books that can motivate you to take control of your own narrative and inspire your journey.Tune in to Beyond Textbooks: The Joy and Benefits of Leisure Reading for a discussion on why reading for fun is just as important as academic reading, and how it can benefit your life in unexpected ways. From cultivating empathy to improving decision-making and sharpening your writing skills, this episode provides a roadmap for making leisure reading a fulfilling part of your educational and personal growth.Key Takeaways:Discover the benefits of leisure reading for academic and personal development.Learn how text-to-speech tools and digital note-taking can enhance your reading experience.Understand the importance of culturally relevant reading materials and how they can build empathy and social awareness.Gain insights into how leisure reading improves writing, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.Get inspired by recommended reads like Becoming by Michelle Obama and more.Whether you’re looking for ways to boost your academic performance or simply want to reconnect with the joy of reading, this episode has something for everyone.
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Exploring College Options: A Guide to Campus Tours and Decision-Making
Nov 18, 202400:31:41Tap to summarize*Correction: My niece, who is interested in art, technology and hospitality/tourism, was in the 10th grade at the time of her campus tour.In this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Jordan embarks on a comprehensive guide to navigating the college admission process through the lens of campus tours and decision-making. Whether you’re just beginning your journey to higher education or deep in the search for the right school, Dr. Jordan has got you covered with insights and tips to help you make the most of your college visits.Campus tours are more than just walking around a school—it's your chance to get a feel for the environment, interact with students and faculty, and see if a school is truly the right fit for you. Dr. Jordan breaks down the importance of these visits, sharing personal anecdotes and professional advice, while also touching on practical aspects such as campus life, local food spots, and how to organize your tour schedule.Episode Highlights:Part 1: Exploring College Options: A Journey Through Temple, Penn State, and UMCP Part 2: College Tours and Culinary Adventures Part 3: My Journey to College: From GWU Dreams to Choosing the Right FitPart 4: Choosing the Right College: The Hood College ExperiencePart 5: Is College Worth It? Part 6: Practical Tips for Campus Visits This episode is all about helping you feel empowered to make the best decision for your future. Whether you're considering a large state school or a smaller liberal arts college, Dr. Jordan has gathered valuable advice to ensure that your campus tours give you the insights you need.Key Takeaways:Campus Visits are Key: Understand the campus culture, meet potential peers, and experience the environment that could be your home for the next four years.Culinary Adventures: Don’t forget to enjoy the local food scene! It’s an essential part of getting a feel for the community.Personal Journeys: Hear real stories of students making pivotal decisions based on their tours.Practical Tips: Learn how to make the most of your visits by asking the right questions, talking to current students, and assessing the true cost and value of each school.#BlackLiberationTech #CollegeTours #CampusVisit #CollegeBound #HigherEducation #StudentLife #EducationJourney #CollegeAdvice #CollegeSelection #CollegeAdmissions #ExploreColleges #TempleUniversity #PennState #UMCP #HowardUniversity #GWU #HoodCollege #CollegeDecisions #CollegeExperience #StudentTipsThis episode is perfect for high school seniors, parents, and anyone supporting students through the college selection process. Tune in for expert advice, personal stories, and everything you need to know about making the most of your college visits!Black-Liberation.Tech is your go-to podcast for navigating educational paths, sharing empowering stories, and fostering a community of students and professionals committed to growth and success. Follow us for more content on making informed academic and career decisions.
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Finding Harmony: The Art of Balancing College Courses
Nov 11, 202400:21:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Renee Jordan revisits a blog post from August 2018 titled "Balance." She shares a personal story about a particularly challenging semester during her junior year of college, where she took an overly demanding course load. Dr. Jordan discusses how this experience taught her the importance of balancing course selections to manage stress and optimize learning. Key Points:Challenging Semester: Dr. Jordan recounts taking 17 credits in one semester, including demanding courses such as Biochemistry, Quantitative Analysis, Physics, and Statistics, which led to significant stress and weight loss.Health Impact: The stress from the semester caused Dr. Jordan to become ill, leading to her withdrawing from classes and taking a medical leave.Recovery and Success: After taking a break, she returned to school and had her best academic semester, changing her minor from Chemistry to Art and finding a better balance in her course load.Adapting and Learning: Dr. Jordan emphasizes the importance of knowing how you learn best and arranging classes to create a balanced schedule. She encourages students to mix challenging courses with those that engage different parts of the brain.Long-term Lessons: She highlights how this experience has influenced her approach to managing stress and making mindful decisions about balancing work and personal life.Practical Advice: Dr. Jordan provides practical advice for students on selecting courses, managing stress, and seeking help when needed. She encourages inserting "counterweights" into academic schedules to maintain balance and well-being.Takeaways:Understanding your learning style and capacity is crucial for creating a balanced academic schedule.It’s important to mix challenging courses with those that engage different cognitive skills to avoid burnout.Pay attention to your health and well-being; stress can manifest physically and mentally.Seek support from friends, advisors, and medical professionals if needed.Be adaptable and willing to make changes to ensure long-term success and well-being.Quotes:"Slow and steady wins the race." - Aesop"Know how you learn, and arrange your classes to create balance.""Stress affects people in different ways; pay attention to what's going on with you."Recommendations:Consider taking a mix of courses that challenge different parts of your brain.Seek medical help if stress impacts your health.Utilize campus resources like student services and counseling.Communicate with professors and advisors about your situation.Listener Engagement:Reflect on your own academic experiences and consider how you can create a balanced schedule.Share your stories of managing challenging semesters and finding balance in your academic or professional life.Like, subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help it become more discoverable.Closing: Thank you for listening to another episode of the Black-Liberation.Tech podcast. I am your host Dr. Renee Jordan. Until next time, bye-bye.
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Navigating Literary Trails: Exploring Connections Across Texts
Nov 4, 202400:13:55Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renee Jordan dives into a blog post from June 2018 titled "Following Trails of Literature." Dr. Jordan shares her experiences with influential books and authors that have shaped her academic and professional journey. She reflects on the profound impact of Maya Angelou’s "Letter to My Daughter" and the connections made through various literary works. This episode emphasizes the importance of literature in personal growth and professional development, and how following these literary trails can lead to significant revelations and impacts in life.Introduction to the Blog Post: Dr. Jordan introduces the blog post "Following Trails of Literature" and its inspiration from a variety of influential books and authors.Books That Influence: Discussion of Alice Walker's entry in "Flat-Footed Truths: Telling Black Women's Lives" and the discovery of Zora Neale Hurston’s manuscript "Barracoon: The Story of the Last Black Cargo." Connection to Maya Angelou’s "Letter to My Daughter" and the revelation about Dr. Jordan’s own identity as a teacher who writes.Personal and Professional Growth: Reflection on the impact of literature on Dr. Jordan’s life, especially during challenging times such as the death of her mother. Encouragement to read works by influential authors like Zora Neale Hurston, Maya Angelou, and Ida B. Wells to gain wisdom and inspiration.Impact Beyond the Classroom: Dr. Jordan’s transition from classroom teaching to roles that impact education on a larger scale, such as instructional technologist and grant administrator. Discussion on the significance of supporting faculty, enhancing learning spaces, and managing educational programs and grants.Career Path Insights: The importance of roles that were not traditionally highlighted during career days but have a significant impact on education and professional development. Encouragement for listeners to consider various career paths in education, grant administration, and instructional technology.Literature as a Life Guide: Exploration of how literature guides personal and professional journeys. Encouragement to share knowledge and support others through conversations and written words.Final Thoughts and Encouragement: Dr. Jordan’s message to remain curious, open-minded, and to share insights with others to help them along their journeys. Encouragement to engage with literature and use it as a tool for personal and professional growth. Recommended Reads:"Flat-Footed Truths: Telling Black Women's Lives""Barracoon: The Story of the Last Black Cargo" by Zora Neale Hurston"Letter to My Daughter" by Maya AngelouWorks by Ida B. WellsCall to Action: Like, subscribe, and share the podcast. Rate and review the podcast to help it become more discoverable.Closing: Thank you for listening to this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech with Dr. Renee Jordan. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions in future episodes.#BlackLiberationTech #Literature #MayaAngelou #ZoraNealeHurston #IdaBWells #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Education #GrantAdministration #InstructionalTechnology #Podcast
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References: Exploring the Layers of Scholarly Influence & Uncovering Funds of Knowledge
Oct 28, 202400:14:12Tap to summarizeIntroduction:Welcome back to Black-Liberation.Tech, hosted by Dr. Renee Jordan.Discussing a blog post titled "References have References" from June 2018.Main Story:Dr. Jordan's first conference presentation at the American Educational Research Association's Annual Meeting in April 2017.Recounting an encounter with a Mexican-American doctoral student during a poster session.The student’s research on volunteer work choices of high-achieving, Mexican-American students attending local colleges despite having full scholarships to more selective schools.Key Points:Importance of discussing your work with others to gain new insights.Faculty advisors may not always have expertise in your specific area of research.Engaging in academic conferences and discussions can help identify gaps and provide new directions.The concept of "Funds of Knowledge" and its role in understanding research phenomena.Reflection:Encouragement to share your work in formal and informal settings to get valuable feedback.The significance of making your dissertation work understandable to a broad audience.The value of talking to people outside your field for fresh perspectives.Conclusion:Encouragement to maintain curiosity and open-mindedness in research.Importance of revisiting literature and seeking new references.Final thoughts on the benefits of engaging with others about your work.Call to Action: Like, subscribe, share, rate, and review the podcast to help it become more discoverable. Thank you for listening, and tune in for the next episode.
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Be All Parts of You by Embracing Your Full Self: The Power of Taking Breaks
Oct 21, 202400:24:03Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Renee Jordan explores a blog post from July 2018 titled "Be All Parts of You." Through a heartfelt conversation with her niece, Dr. Jordan shares insights about the importance of embracing all aspects of oneself, taking breaks, and engaging in creative activities to rejuvenate the mind and soul.Key Takeaways:Embrace Your Full Self: It's important to utilize all your talents, skills, and interests. Being multifaceted helps in personal growth and prevents burnout.Taking Breaks: Regular breaks are essential. Even God rested, and so should we. Breaks can involve doing different activities that stimulate other parts of the brain.Creative Outlets: Engaging in creative activities like painting, decorating, singing, or dancing can be therapeutic and refreshing.Balance and Prioritization: Balance work with personal interests and ensure that your environment is conducive to productivity and peace of mind.Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to maintain mental, emotional, and physical well-being.Conversation with Niece: Dr. Jordan discusses her recent home improvement projects and shares advice with her niece on the importance of taking breaks and exploring creative talents. Encourages her niece to use breaks to engage in different activities and hobbies.Personal Anecdotes: Dr. Jordan talks about her own creative projects, including painting murals and decorating her home. Shares her experiences with singing in the choir and how it helped develop her presentation skills.Tips for Listeners:Explore various creative activities, even if you think you're not naturally artistic.Incorporate regular breaks into your schedule, using the time to do something enjoyable and different from your usual tasks.Find ways to express yourself creatively, whether through art, music, dance, or other hobbies.Prioritize self-care and ensure that your living environment supports your overall well-being.Encouragement: Dr. Jordan encourages listeners to embrace all parts of themselves, find joy in different activities, and balance work with personal interests.Closing Remarks: Dr. Jordan reminds listeners of the importance of self-care and taking breaks. Encourages everyone to like, subscribe, share, rate, and review the podcast to help it become more discoverable.Notes: This episode focuses on personal growth, self-care, and the importance of embracing all facets of one’s identity. Dr. Jordan uses personal stories and practical advice to connect with her audience and provide actionable insights.
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