Episode 68 - How Lian Passmore Taught Herself AI and Built Real Products in Just 2 Years

What happens when a learning designer with no coding background decides to build AI-powered solutions that put people first?In this episode of Tech Beyond Gender, Meena Satishkumar sits down with Lian Passmore — founder, ethical AI builder, researcher, self-taught developer, and mother of five — to explore her remarkable journey into technology.In just two years, Lian transitioned from organisational learning and facilitation into building AI products designed around care, inclusion, accessibility, and human connection. She shares how curiosity led her to teach herself coding, build conversational AI tools, and develop innovative projects focused on feedback systems, coaching, wellbeing, and family relationships.In this conversation, we explore:🔹 How Lian went from non-technical to building AI products herself🔹 The story behind her first conversational AI project🔹 Building AI coaches and relationship support tools🔹 Why ethics and safety must be designed into AI from the beginning🔹 Māori values and tikanga-led approaches to AI development🔹 AI literacy challenges in regional New Zealand🔹 The opportunities and risks AI creates for women in the workforce🔹 Why now is one of the best times to transition into technology🔹 Advice for women and gender-diverse professionals considering careers in techLian also shares powerful insights on creating technology that serves people, preserving cultural values in AI systems, and ensuring emerging technologies are accessible to communities often left out of the conversation.Whether you're curious about AI, considering a career transition, or interested in building technology that creates positive social impact, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.🎙️ Tech Beyond Gender explores the experiences, challenges, and achievements of women, gender-diverse professionals, and allies in technology, while creating pathways for a more inclusive future.#TechBeyondGender #ArtificialIntelligence #EthicalAI #WomenInTech #DiversityInTech #MāoriInnovation #Leadership #CareerChange #Technology #DigitalTransformation #AI #Inclusion #TechCareers #WomenInLeadership #NewZealandTech #ConversationalAI #FutureOfWork #Innovation #LianPassmore #TechPodcast