PODCAST · technology
The Debugged Podcast
by Congressional App Challenge
Debugged: A Congressional App Challenge Podcast connects the country’s youth and technology by *debugging* the intricate world of technology. By highlighting trends in the industry, simplifying complex concepts, and introducing high profile guests, Debugged offers an opportunity for its listeners to delve into tech in an analytical but relatable manner. Hosted by Medha Gupta, a Computer Science student at New York University, and the Congressional App Challenge, an annual national programming competition for high school students that transforms how Congress views computer science and STEM.
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Building the Future of AR and AI with Arjun Karanam
In this episode, hosts Suhaani Sodhi and Teddy Lampert sit down with Arjun Karanam, an AI researcher and entrepreneur whose work spans from Apple’s Vision Pro to NASA’s Artemis missions. Arjun shares his journey from entering the Congressional App Challenge in high school to studying at Stanford, exploring how the intersection of technology and liberal arts drives innovation. From vibe coding with AI to the philosophical implications of tech policy, listen in for a deep dive into how students can bridge the gap between imagination and reality!
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Digital Readiness and Leadership in Educational Technology with Lisa O’Masta
In this episode, Teddy Lampert and Tushar Mehta sit down with Lisa O’Masta, CEO of Learning.com. With a career spanning leadership roles at Learning A-Z and Illustrative Mathematics, Lisa shares her vision for a future where technology is a safe and responsible tool for growth. Tune in to hear about her journey from financial services to EdTech, her anti-silver bullet philosophy, and how she fosters a culture of driving innovation in and out of the classroom.
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Launching into Hard Tech with Seyka Mejeur
In this episode, we sit down with Seyka Mejeur, co-founder of Ad Astra, to explore the high-stakes world of hard tech recruiting. From her early days discovering the aerospace industry to building the teams behind breakthrough space and clean energy startups, Seyka shares invaluable advice on finding mentors, assessing startup viability, and why making mistakes is a vital part of early career growth.
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Care and AI: Dr. Owais Durrani on Tech in Medicine
In this episode, Suhaani and Tushar talk with Dr. Owais Durrani, an emergency medicine physician based in Houston, TX. After reflecting on his own path in medicine, Dr. Durrani shares how he uses technology, specifically AI, in his practice. Listen to this week’s episode to hear about his thoughts on the future of AI in healthcare!
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Demystifying Technology Careers with Gina Pol
In this episode, host Suhaani Sodhi meets with Gina Pol from Girls Who Code to break down common misconceptions about the tech industry. From exploring non-traditional career paths and the importance of failing forward to the ethical integration of AI, Gina shares how students can find their place in a collaborative, creative, and ever-evolving field.
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Decoding the Future: Dr. James Newswanger on AI Research, Applied Statistics, and Data-Driven Careers
In a world racing to learn all the next coding tools, Dr. James Newswagner highlights the importance of statistics as well! On Episode 5 of Season 5, Suhaani interviews Dr. James Newswanger, a former Market Intelligence Researcher at IBM and an instructor at Columbia University. His journey ranges from obtaining a PhD in applied statistics to leading cutting-edge AI research at IBM, and he sees AI evolving from a tool into a coworker with the rise of agents. Tune in to hear his insight for students and advice on why statistics (not just programming) is the true foundation for a career in data science, and how to stand out in a competitive market.
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Leading with Purpose: Jeremy Sirota on Music, Mentorship, and Successful Innovation
In this episode, Teddy interviews Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin, whose journey intersects topics of music, law, and technology. Tune in to hear how he champions independent artists worldwide and creates meaningful solutions in the digital world.
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Why CS? Coding to Problem Solve with Karim Meghji
On this episode of Debugged, Suhaani and Tushar speak with Karim Meghji, the Chief Product Officer at Code.org. Tune in to hear about his journey from engineering to AI, with human interaction at the root of it all. Although Karim’s work falls firmly in the realm of tech, he still focuses on how computer science can impact both students and teachers. Learn more about Karim’s work at Code.org, his beliefs about the power of CS in education, and his thoughts on the future of AI!
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Leading the Congressional App Challenge with Joe Alessi
On Episode 2 of Season 5, Suhaani and Teddy interview Joe Alessi, director of the Congressional App Challenge. Tune in to hear more about Alessi’s interests in politics, STEM, and education! Plus, Alessi offers some advice to App Challenge participants.
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Building Beyond Debugged with Medha Gupta
Season 5 kicks off with a special guest: Debugged founder Medha Gupta! Hear how she turned her Congressional App Challenge win into positions in tech and government, inspired others to break out of the current norms in software engineering, and used her passions for further opportunities.
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Behind the Mic with the Debugged Podcast Team
In the Season 4 finale of Debugged, host Medha Gupta flips the script and interviews the team behind the podcast itself. Meet William Chen, Tushar Mehta, Suri Le, Teddy Lampert, and Aadithyaa Vishegu—high school and college students (and CAC Alumni!) who’ve shaped the show across social media, design, content, and production. From lessons in outreach and storytelling to building impactful apps and websites, this episode highlights how each team member has brought their unique voice to Debugged—and where they’re headed next. Whether you're an aspiring technologist, passionate creator, or an App Challenge alum, tune in for a celebration of community, creativity, leadership, and the power of tech beyond the code. Discover how teamwork, curiosity, and bold ideas helped shape the show—and how you can start building your own impact.
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Tech Meets Policy with CAC Alumni
In this episode of Debugged, guest host Suhaani Sodhi sits down with Angie Orejuela and Jeremy Bernick to explore the critical intersection of technology and public policy. From biometric data in airport security to the ethics of training AI on artists’ work, they unpack real-world challenges that demand cross-disciplinary thinking. Both guests stress the need for technologists to consider the societal impact of their creations—and for policymakers to better understand the tools shaping our future. Angie and Jeremy also share their unexpected paths into the field, showing how curiosity and passion can guide meaningful careers. Their advice? Don’t wait for a perfect blueprint—just start where you are and stay open to learning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to bridge code and conscience.
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Making Tech Global with Roger Einstoss
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta speaks with Roger Einstoss, CEO and co-founder of Braintly, a company connecting U.S. tech companies with top-tier software engineers from Latin America. Roger shares his journey from freelance developer to startup founder, reflecting on the challenges and skills needed for success in the tech world. He discusses how Braintly addresses obstacles like cultural alignment, communication skills, and the cost-effectiveness of outsourcing to Latin America. Roger also emphasizes the importance of understanding the problems you're passionate about solving, using tools like AI and no-code platforms to quickly prototype ideas. Tune in for insightful advice on entrepreneurship, the future of tech talent, and the importance of founder wellness in maintaining productivity and passion.
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Empowering the Next Generation with Michaela De Guzman
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, we sit down with Michaela De Guzman, a Senior Curriculum Developer at Girls Who Code and a CSTA Equity Fellow Alumni (2023-24). Michaela shares her journey from teaching coding in Title I schools to designing Cybersecurity and Data Science courses with a focus on social justice. Passionate about empowering students—especially those from historically underrepresented groups—she discusses how coding can be a tool for self-expression, problem-solving, and building a more inclusive tech industry. Tune in to hear how we can inspire the next generation of change makers through computer science!
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Revolutionizing Learning Through Storytelling with Jenny Buccos
What if education weren’t confined to a classroom but spanned the entire world? Jenny Buccos, award-winning producer and founder of EXPLR, has spent decades using digital storytelling to connect students with global cultures, STEM, and innovation. From working with legends like Desmond Tutu and Anthony Bourdain to pioneering multimedia learning before YouTube, she shares with guest host, Tushar Mehta, how technology can transform education. We explore the impact of initiatives like the Congressional App Challenge and the National STEM Festival in shaping the next generation of problem solvers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on curiosity, creativity, and the future of learning.
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Navigating Data Privacy and Law with Juliana Spofford
In this episode ofDebugged, host Medha Gupta sits down with Juliana Spofford, Chief Privacy Officer and General Counsel at Aidentified, to explore the evolving landscape of data privacy. With over 30 years of legal experience in data services, Juliana shares how she stumbled into the world of privacy law, the growing importance of data security across industries, and the global impact of regulations like the EU's GDPR. She also discusses why the U.S. still lacks a federal privacy law and how students—whether aspiring lawyers or engineers—can build careers in data privacy. Tune in for expert insights on one of tech’s most pressing issues!
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Shaping the Future of AI Ethics with Emily Reid
In this episode, Emily Reid, CEO of AI 4 ALL and former Director of Education at Girls Who Code, discusses her journey and mission to democratize AI education. She dives into the importance of integrating ethics in AI development, ensuring that diverse, responsible voices are at the forefront. Emily shares insights on how AI 4 ALL is shaping the future of AI careers for historically excluded communities and highlights how policymakers can influence AI education. Listen to discover what’s next for AI 4 ALL, the impact of AI in education, and how the next generation of changemakers can help steer AI in the right direction.
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Rewriting Computer Science Experiences with Anaïs Lawson
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta and guest host Tushar Mehta sit down with Anais Lawson, a software engineer at Microsoft on the Xbox team. Anais reflects on her journey, from feeling out of place in AP Computer Science to discovering her passion for tech through programs like JADE and Rewriting The Code. She talks about the importance of mentorship, community, and networking, which helped her shape her career and ultimately led her to frontend development. Anais also shares her experiences in tech classes, how she made her career decisions, and practical advice for students looking to land internships at top tech companies. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation about navigating the tech industry, overcoming challenges, and building a successful career in computer science.
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Building Bots and Shaping the Future
In this special episode of Debugged, a member of our Debugged team, Suhaani Sodhi dives into the world of robotics with three extraordinary Congressional App Challenge alumni and fellow Debugged team members—Suri Le, Aarav Kansupada, and Tushar Mehta. Together, they explore how they got started in robotics, the creativity and collaboration involved in programs like FIRST Robotics, and the essential business skills behind running a successful team. From LEGO inspirations to lessons in gracious professionalism, hear how these young innovators are shaping the future of technology and what advice they have for anyone looking to join the robotics community. Tune in to uncover the limitless possibilities of robotics and discover how you, too, can get involved! Stream the episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Anchor.fm, and follow @cacdebugged for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
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Redefining STEM Internships with Jay Ahn
In this episode of Debugged, our first ever REPEAT guest, Jay Ahn, VP of Operations at Akima, LLC, joins us to discuss her groundbreaking approach to creating impactful STEM internships. Drawing from her own experiences, she designed a program where students take full ownership of real-world projects, like building “Kakau,” an E911 health monitoring system for the U.S. Air Force. By immersing students in agile learning, cloud computing, and high-stakes problem-solving, Jay empowers them to embrace challenges, fail fast, and innovate boldly. Her internship program goes beyond observation, pushing students to realize their potential by working on meaningful, life-saving missions. Tune in to hear how Jay is shaping the next generation of STEM leaders and setting a new standard for internships.
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Engineering Solutions in Science with CAC Alumni
In this special episode of Debugged, guest host Suhaani Sodhi chats with Congressional App Challenge alumni Antonia Kolb and Hamza Wadiwala about their journeys in the hard sciences and technology. Antonia, a Harvard freshman, shares her passion for environmental science and her experience creating the app Detickt It for the Congressional App Challenge. Hamza, now at MIT, discusses his decision to major in electrical engineering and his work on a NASA Hunch project. Both guests stress the importance of hands-on experience and leveraging resources like university networks to enhance your learning. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories and advice for young tech enthusiasts.
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Product by Day, Cosplay by Night with Aya Philemon
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta speaks with Aya Philemon, a product manager at Adobe, about her dynamic career path and how she empowers others to unlock their creative potential. Aya shares her journey from industrial design to tech, discussing how she overcame imposter syndrome and transitioned from product design to product management. She also reflects on her experience as a public speaker at Adobe MAX and the lessons she's learned about effective communication. Outside of work, Aya is passionate about cosplaying and traveling, and she encourages listeners to pursue their passions no matter what. She even shares how she managed to become an extra on a Marvel movie set! Aya wraps up the episode with three key pieces of career advice for students: stay flexible, follow your passions, and embrace opportunities for growth. Learn what’s “behind the mask” in the newest Debugged!
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Fusing Finance & Tech with CAC Alumni
This week’s episode is hosted by one of our Debugged Podcast team members, Suhaani, who leads a thought-provoking discussion with Austin and Sudharshan, two passionate CAC Alumni who are merging finance and technology in unique ways. They share personal experiences and projects that sparked their journey into this interdisciplinary space, highlighting the challenges and rewards along the way. The conversation dives into future opportunities where tech could transform finance—and how finance principles can shape ethical tech solutions. Listeners will hear about key courses and extracurriculars that helped Austin and Sudharshan hone their skills. Whether you’re a student or an industry professional, this episode offers practical advice and fresh perspectives on making a positive societal impact at the finance-tech crossroads.
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Innovating Products at Adobe with Shalini Ahuja
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta interviews Shalini Ahuja, a seasoned product manager at Adobe with 16 years of experience. Shalini discusses her career evolution from software engineer to product leader, where she now focuses on AI-based innovation in Adobe’s flagship products. She shares insights into the role of a product manager, the turning points in her career, and how pursuing an MBA fueled her passion for business strategy. Shalini also offers advice to students on exploring their interests in computer science and product management. Tune in for a deep dive into her inspiring journey and valuable tips for aspiring tech professionals.
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Empowering Creators at Twitch with Karin Zhang
In our season opener, host Medha Gupta sits down with Karin Zhang, Vice President of Engineering for Twitch’s Money team. With over twenty years of experience in a field often lacking diversity, Karin leads the charge in developing payment, onboarding, and payout solutions that empower creators to thrive. In this episode, she reflects on her career challenges and shares insights on Twitch’s philosophy of prioritizing creator needs. Discover how she transformed a lengthy manual process into a streamlined self-service system with affiliate and learn about her leadership style, rooted in trust and collaboration. Karin also discusses her role in the Woman Plus Guild, offering invaluable advice to young girls aspiring to enter STEM. Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, mentorship, and creating inclusive tech spaces!
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Tech Meets Healthcare: CAC Alumni on HealthTech
In this special episode of Debugged, host Suhaani Sodhi welcomes Medha Gupta and Maddison Chau, two inspiring Congressional App Challenge alumni who are reshaping the intersection of technology and healthcare. Medha, a Digital Strategy Analyst at Adobe, shares her experience with projects like an automated pill dispensation system and her job in healthcare, while Maddison, a UCLA biology major, discusses her innovative face mask that translates speech to American Sign Language for better communication in healthcare settings. Together, they reflect on their unique journeys, the inspirations behind their projects, and the transformative potential of technology in healthcare. As they delve into topics like generative AI and personalized health solutions, Medha and Maddison also tackle common misconceptions about tech’s role in healthcare, especially regarding data privacy. Their insights and advice will resonate with students and aspiring professionals looking to carve out a niche in digital health startups. Tune in to discover how these trailblazers envision the future of innovation in the healthcare space!
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Redefining Creative Experiences: Emily Kellman’s on Product Management
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta sits down with Emily Kellman, a Senior Product Manager at Adobe, to discuss her unique career journey. Emily reveals how she transitioned from an IT background to leading digital media personalization on Adobe.com, driven by a passion for blending creativity with technology. She reflects on the importance of early career experiences and how Adobe’s welcoming culture set it apart from other tech giants. Emily also shares valuable advice for aspiring product managers, emphasizing the importance of soft skills, leadership, and learning from diverse roles. Tune in to gain insights from Emily’s inspiring path and learn how she navigates the intersection of creativity and tech at Adobe!
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Cyber Crossroads: Navigating Policy and Threats with Daniel Kroese
Join us as we delve into the intersection of cybersecurity policy and real-world threats with Daniel Kroese, a seasoned cyber policy expert and the Senior Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs at Palo Alto Networks. In this episode, Daniel shares insights from his extensive experience in both the Legislative and Executive branches, discussing the evolving challenges facing the cybersecurity landscape. From balancing national security with individual privacy to international cooperation, Daniel offers a comprehensive view of the strategies needed to bolster cyber resilience. Plus, get a glimpse into his personal life as a father and outdoor enthusiast, and how these roles influence his approach to securing the digital future.
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Empowering Education with Anjali Bhatia
Welcome back to Debugged, the Congressional App Challenge’s alumni-led podcast connecting youth with technology. In this episode, host Medha Gupta sits down with Anjali Bhatia, the visionary CEO of CollegeWise, to discuss her inspiring journey from high school nonprofit founder to leading the nation’s top college counseling organization. Bhatia shares her experiences with early ventures like Discover Worlds and Change Educate, her insights gained from an MBA at Wharton, and her strategies for balancing relationships while making tough decisions. Tune in to hear Bhatia’s valuable advice for high school students and aspiring entrepreneurs, and learn how her leadership at CollegeWise is transforming the college admissions landscape.
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Revolutionizing Civic Tech with Cori Zarek
In this episode of Debugged, host Medha Gupta interviews Cori Zarek, Deputy Administrator for the U.S. Digital Service. Zarek shares her transition from a lawyer specializing in first amendment and freedom of information issues to becoming a leader in civic technology. She discusses her impactful work at the National Archives and her role in shaping government policies on open data and information access. Highlighting the importance of technological innovation and collaboration, Zarek reflects on her time at the White House and the founding of the U.S. Digital Service. She also talks about co-founding the nonprofit U.S. Digital Response and Technologists for the Public Good. Tune in for insights into the evolving field of civic tech and advice for young professionals looking to make a difference.
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Cosmic Conversations Unveiled with Sirisha Bandla
Join us on a celestial voyage as we unravel the extraordinary career of Sirisha Bandla, Vice President of Government Affairs and Research Operations at Virgin Galactic. From aerospace engineering at L-3 Communications to shaping legislative priorities for Virgin Galactic, Sirisha's journey is a testament to human ingenuity. Discover her pivotal role in promoting the commercial space industry through policy advocacy and groundbreaking research initiatives. With a background in aeronautical engineering and business administration, Sirisha's expertise illuminates the path to the stars. Tune in to explore the cosmos and the future of space exploration with Sirisha Bandla as our guide.
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Tech-Business Insights from Congressional App Challenge Alumni
In this special episode of Debugged, guest host Suhaani Sodhi sits down with Medha Gupta, a 2017 winner of the Congressional App Challenge and current Adobe employee, and Jinghao Li, a 2023 third-place winner. The discussion delves into their journeys at the intersection of business and technology, sharing how their early interests evolved into successful careers. They offer valuable insights on viewing apps as potential businesses, the impact of technological breakthroughs, and the importance of making your projects visible. Tune in to hear practical advice for young innovators, the significance of networking, and real-world examples of solving problems through computer science.
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The 3D Revolution: Thinking Outside the Box with Alon Grinshpoon
Welcome to the 3D Unleashed edition of the Debugged Podcast, where we decode the world of 3D technology with CEO Alon Grinshpoon, founder of echo3D. In this episode, host Medha Gupta delves into Grinshpoon's journey from computer science scholar to industry disruptor, exploring his pivotal role in reshaping 3D asset management. With $1.9 million in funding and a wealth of experience from Techstars, Grinshpoon shares invaluable advice on networking, team dynamics, and crafting compelling pitches. Join us as we step into the future of 3D, AR, and VR technologies, uncovering the transformative potential that awaits in this exhilarating episode about 3D, AR, VR, XR, and beyond!
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From Code to Canvas: Samah El Hage on AI, Art, and Sustainability
Join us as we sit down with Samah El Hage, a leading influencer in technology and AI, known for her innovative and forward-thinking ideas. Author of "Redefine the Lead" and "Next Generation Motherhood," Samah explores the role of technology in leadership and motherhood. With a strong foundation in computer science engineering, she has led groundbreaking technological solutions in the automotive and telecom industries. Samah is also a key voice in sustainability discussions, adept at simplifying complex tech concepts and highlighting their broader implications. Beyond tech, she expresses her creativity through photography and painting, with her work showcased at renowned galleries and festivals like Art Basel. All this and more on Debugged!
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Becoming You with Suzy Welch
In the fourth episode of Season Three of Debugged, host Medha Gupta sits down with business journalist and NYT best-selling author Suzy Welch to discuss her unique approach to creating an authentic and fulfilling life. Suzy introduces her method of identifying your purpose through the intersection of your values, aptitudes, and opportunities. Reflecting on her unconventional career path—from crime reporting to business journalism—Suzy shares invaluable advice on becoming the author of your own life and not the editor. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence alongside technical skills, particularly for young listeners. Tune in to hear insights from Suzy's popular NYU courses on curating your most intentional self, and gain practical tips for navigating your personal and professional journey.
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From PM to CEO: Jason Toff Goes 3D
Join us for an enlightening conversation on the latest Debugged Podcast episode, where our host, Medha Gupta, sits down with Jason Toff, the Founder & CEO of Things, Inc. With a rich background in Product Management roles at tech giants like Google, Vine, and Meta, Jason brings a wealth of insight into tech products of the future. In this interview, Jason shares what inspired him to take the leap to starting his own company, outlines many of the key differences between the big tech and startup cultures, and his insights on the AR/VR innovations of today. Find out more about his journey in founding his own venture-backed startup focused on creating revolutionary interactive 3D technology and how the Apple Vision Pro is a window into the future—but not the end-all be-all. All this and more in today’s Debugged Podcast!
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The Inside Scoop of Tech Reporting with Kelcee Griffis
Welcome back to Debugged, the Congressional App Challenge’s alumni-led podcast that delves into the world of computer science! In this episode, host Medha Gupta sits down with Kelcee Griffis, a journalist at The Morning Brew, to uncover her fascinating career path from covering intellectual property and the judiciary to becoming a tech reporter. Join us as Griffis discusses emerging trends in consumer technology, including AI/VR, generative AI, and new Wi-Fi technologies, and how she navigates the rapidly changing tech landscape. Discover her research process, which keeps her informed about the latest innovations and industry developments. Whether you're an aspiring journalist or technologist, don't miss Griffis' invaluable advice for young listeners and the lessons she wishes she had known earlier in her career. Tune in to the second episode of Debugged Season 3 for an insightful conversation about journalism and technology!
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Creating Empowering Tech Communities with Dr. Natalie Lao
Kicking off Season 3 of the Debugged Podcast, host Medha Gupta interviews Dr. Natalie Lao, Executive Director of the App Inventor Foundation. Dr. Lao shares her journey from MIT undergrad to her current role, emphasizing her passion for education and mentorship. She discusses her involvement in the MIT App Inventor project and her work with UNESCO to promote computational thinking worldwide, playing a pivotal role in crafting AI frameworks. She expanded computer science education internationally, with notable efforts in Mumbai, India, and Hong Kong. Tune in to hear Dr. Lao's inspiring story and her mission to empower individuals, creating an inclusive environment in technology!
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Re-IMAGIning STEM education with Dora Palfi | Debugged S2 Episode #14
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha sits down with Dora Palfi, the co-founder and CEO of imagi, an edtech company helping build the tech workforce of the future through an inclusive and creative approach to learning to code. As one of three girls in her class and one of very few female developers during her internship, Palfi developed a passion for solving the lack of diversity in tech. After conducting a research project that invited girls to co-create ideas on ways to make coding fun, she initially conceptualized imagi and kickstarted the company with co-founder of imagi, Beatrice Ionascu. The duo discuss Palfi’s journey from her initial conceptualization to a functional gender-inclusive product catering to young children who want to get into coding. Imagi edu serves as the main education service in which children can code in Python to customize a special charm accessory. Palfi discusses how she turned her fear of failure into passion, joy, and ambition. Be sure to tune into this episode to learn more about Palfi’s AMAZING journey!
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Manufacturing and Managing A New Digital Experience: The Journey of Kellene Parra | Debugged S2 Episode #13
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha chats with Kellene Parra, Vice President of Digital Experience at OpenText. OpenText provides the most complete and integrated Information Management platform, allowing companies to organize, integrate and protect data and content as it flows through business processes inside and outside the organization. Parra shares her amazing journey from starting her career in manufacturing in a rotational training program at General Electric to diving into the technology side, in which she currently manages a global team that supports customer-facing applications such as the company’s website, customer support ticketing systems, and other applications. Parra discusses her job as a leader in digital experience and the importance of setting up her team for success as well as developing personal connections.
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From Air Guitar to Algorithms: How Hansel Lynn is Rock ‘n Rolling the World of CS Education! | Debugged S2 Episode #12
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha sits down with Hansel Lynn, a multifaceted entrepreneur who has dabbled in various career ventures, from running a rock music school for kids to founding theCoderSchool in 2014 and authoring two children’s coding books. On top of all of that, Lynn is an endurance athlete and recently opened Cudos Frozen Custard and Mini Donuts with his wife. Lynn shares how he overcame the initial fear of getting out of his comfort zone to fulfill his passions, including creating his first venture, Fantasy TV and then a rock music school for kids. The duo also discuss Lynn’s vision for theCoderSchool and the insight Lynn gained from running the impactful organization. Tune into Lynn’s super rock n’ roll journey!
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Connecting the Dots Between Data Science and Social Impact | Debugged S2 Episode #11
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta sits down with Jay Ahn, the Vice President of Operations in the Emerging Markets Group (EMG) at Akima. She specializes in consultancy and "dot connecting” support to clients' complex requirements with effective data collection, analysis, and semantic matchmaking techniques to create orchestrated solutions unique to each. Ahn shares her journey of how she came to Akima and resonated with Akima’s mission to create long-lived asset for inupiat people in the NANA region in Alaska. In addition, Ahn expands further on her journey from changing a career path in recruiting to operations. The duo discusses the importance of preparation and authenticity when networking with people. Listen to Ahn’s amazing journey!
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Re-Engineer the World of Medicine with Hadley Sis | Debugged S2 Episode #10
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta chats with Hadley Sis, a Project Manager working at the medical device company, Stryker. Sis shares her incredible journey from earning her Master of Science focused in Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering to taking on a critical role as a leader in medical technology. Sis expands on her division, in which she works to make surgery more efficient through the creation of medical devices. The process from the conceptualization of medical devices to their commercial release is truly interesting and worth a listen! Tune into Sis’s amazing journey and stay curious!
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Demystifying the World of Science, Biosafety, and Tech with Dr. Marian L. McKee | Debugged S2 Episode #9
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta chats with Dr. Marian L. McKee, the Vice President Biosafety at Eurofins Biopharma Product Testing labs. McKee goes in depth about her role, which is working to ensure the safety of pharmaceutical products by testing for viral contaminants. McKee shares her journey from her interest in zoology to a career in microbiology. The duo discuss the importance of understanding science, the integration of technology in science, and following your passion. Tune into McKee’s amazing journey as a leader in biosafety and inspiration to many!
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Meet Engineer and Natural Hair Advocate, Kamryn Cutler! | Debugged S2 Episode #8
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta chats with Kamryn Cutler, computer science graduate of Howard University and participant in Hartman’s Leadership Development Program. Cutler certainly wears many hats in this program. She not only is an engineer in data analytics, but she also works as a consultant to communicate with businesses directly to help them understand these technological solutions. Cutler also shares her amazing journey from bringing all the knowledge she gained through the KPMG Cyber internship to her work at Hartman. On top of all of this, Cutler is a natural hair ambassador who encourages all people to embrace their natural hair, and she continues to inspire girls to fearlessly pursue careers in tech. Tune in to learn more about Cutler’s amazing journey as a leader in technology and juggler of many hats!
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Ready to be inspired? Meet Techsetter, Sam Wiener! | Debugged S2 Episode #7
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta sits down with Sam Wiener, the Head of Product Engineering at Saturn where she is a critical leader for driving strategy and execution for their mobile product. Wiener shares her incredible journey from starting out in computer science to managing the engineering team behind Instagram’s Reels product to working on developing a useful scheduling social calendar called Saturn, with a purpose to connect students with the people and information that matters the most. The duo also discuss Techsetters, a podcast Wiener co-hosts that empowers young women to pursue their dreams in technology by uncovering the secrets of Techsetters everywhere. Wiener talks about the importance of getting out of your comfort zone, learning from great mentors, and staying curious! Tune into Wiener’s amazing journey as a leader and techsetter!
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Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders with Nita Singh Kaushal | Debugged S2 Episode #6
In this episode of the Debugged Podcast, Medha Gupta chats with Nita Singh Kaushal, founder of Miss CEO, a Lecturer in the School of Engineering at Stanford University, and an Instructor at Stanford Continuing Studies where she teaches undergraduates, graduate students and professional women how to develop leadership skills so they can make meaningful contributions in their careers. Kaushal shares her journey from realizing the importance of empowering women through leadership resources to creating Miss CEO, an international organization working to empower the next generation of women leaders. The duo discuss the importance of leadership and impacting others by sharing knowledge and resources. Tune into Kaushal's inspiring journey as a leader empowering women all over the world to become leaders!
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Building Impactful Apps with Natalia Luzuriaga | Debugged S2 Episode #5
In this episode of Debugged, Medha Gupta chats with Natalia Luzuriaga, a senior undergraduate studying computer science at UCLA and co-founder of the app, Hussle. Luzuriaga shares her amazing journey from learning how to code on Codecademy to winning her district’s Congressional App Challenge, in which she coded an app called Speech, which aims to help people improve their English pronunciation. In continuing efforts to solve real problems and inspire change through apps, Luzuriaga used React Native to create a marketplace mobile app for students to monetize their skills by offering freelance services and selling homemade products to peers in college communities. Be sure to tune in to learn all about Luzuriaga’s inspiring journey as an entrepreneur using technology to create positive impact!
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Going Digital with Tory Smithe | Debugged S2 Episode #4
In this episode of Debugged, Medha Gupta sits down with Tory Smithe, Senior Manager, Healthcare & Life Sciences and leader of digital marketing strategy at Adobe. Smithe shares her inspiring journey from having a passion in healthcare to being at the forefront of translating digital technology for healthcare leaders. Smithe shares what the intersection of digital technology and healthcare means to her, the importance of creating your “personal brand,” and advice for young entrepreneurs excited to start their own initiatives! Tune in to learn more about this fascinating intersection and Smithe’s amazing insight!
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Meet Alefiya Master, An Entrepreneur Changing EdTech For Good | Debugged S2 Episode #3
In this episode of Debugged, Medha Gupta chats with Alefiya Master, founder & CEO of award-winning app development program, MAD-learn. Master shares her incredible journey from being an educator with a vision to an entrepreneur with a mission to enable students to have passion driven career choices. MAD-learn emphasizes the importance of design thinking and has now impacted over 30,000 students in 30 states and 5 countries. The pair also discuss the process of creating an ed-tech startup and the importance of building a strong team to make an idea turn into a reality. Tune into learn how Master is transforming edtech for good and inspiring many as a millennial, woman, minority, and educator turned entrepreneur!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Debugged: A Congressional App Challenge Podcast connects the country’s youth and technology by *debugging* the intricate world of technology. By highlighting trends in the industry, simplifying complex concepts, and introducing high profile guests, Debugged offers an opportunity for its listeners to delve into tech in an analytical but relatable manner. Hosted by Medha Gupta, a Computer Science student at New York University, and the Congressional App Challenge, an annual national programming competition for high school students that transforms how Congress views computer science and STEM.
HOSTED BY
Congressional App Challenge
CATEGORIES
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