Underrepresented in Tech

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way we work, learn, and innovate, but is everyone benefiting equally? In this episode of the Underrepresented in Tech Podcast, Michelle and Samah explore the growing AI divide and what it means for individuals, businesses, and communities worldwide. They discuss how access to AI, digital literacy, education, geography, and socioeconomic factors are shaping who can take advantage of this technology and who risks being left behind. From personal experiences using AI in everyday work to conversations about global accessibility, responsible adoption, and the future of work, this episode highlights why AI should empower everyone, not just a privileged few.

In this episode, host Michelle sits down with James Laws and Jeremy Moore to share the story behind Bone Life Coffee and how they're building more than a specialty coffee brand; they're creating meaningful connections. From sourcing award-winning coffee directly from farmers to fostering community through their café and subscription service, they discuss the values that drive their business. They also explore the intersection of coffee, WordPress, entrepreneurship, and AI, offering insights into community building, quality, and innovation.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, communicate, and create, but is it truly accessible to everyone? In this episode of Underrepresented in Tech, Michelle and Samah explore why accessibility is still missing from many AI tools and the impact this has on people with disabilities and other underrepresented communities. Together, they discuss how biased training data can lead to exclusion, why voice recognition, facial recognition, and touch interfaces often fail to meet the needs of diverse users, and what developers and organizations can do to build more inclusive technology. They also reflect on why accessibility should be considered from the very beginning of the design process, not added as an afterthought. Join us for an honest conversation about AI, accessibility, and why creating technology that works for everyone isn't just good design, it's essential.

In this Pride Month episode of the Underrepresented in Tech Podcast, Michelle and Samah discuss the importance of moving beyond tolerance toward true acceptance and inclusion. They explore the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals around the world, the impact of discrimination on mental health, and the role allies play in creating safer, more welcoming communities. The conversation highlights the difference between simply "putting up with" people and genuinely embracing them for who they are. From workplace inclusion and pronouns to family acceptance and the dangers of performative support, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, respected, and celebrated. Join us as we reflect on Pride, allyship, diversity in tech, and how each of us can help build a world where everyone belongs.

What happens when something is built to be accessible, and then quietly becomes inaccessible again?In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into real-life stories of how accessibility isn’t just about design, it’s about maintenance, awareness, and intention. From a curb cut blocked by a concrete barrier to delivery packages placed in the worst possible spot to event spaces that almost get it right, these everyday situations reveal a bigger issue. Accessibility isn’t a one-time checklist. It’s an ongoing responsibility.

In this Black History Month episode of Underrepresented in Tech, Michelle and Samah highlight 22 Black leaders and innovators whose work shaped modern technology from early telecommunications and spaceflight calculations to computer science breakthroughs and responsible AI. Then, they unpack key takeaways from a Forbes article on the challenges underrepresented groups still face in tech, including biased hiring, limited access, gaps in mentorship and networks, accessibility barriers, and non-inclusive workplace cultures, along with practical ways companies and communities can help close those gaps.

In this special episode of the Underrepresented in Tech Podcast, Michelle and Samah introduce an exciting global initiative for International Women’s Day 2026. Instead of looking back at history, this year is all about celebrating women in tech right now. On March 8, 2026, Underrepresented in Tech will host a live, six-hour global event, featuring interviews with women in technology from around the world. Streaming live on YouTube, the event will spotlight diverse voices, personal journeys, challenges, successes, and leadership stories across time zones and regions. Women at all stages of their careers, from those just starting out to seasoned leaders, are invited to join, share their stories, and be part of a global conversation about equity, representation, innovation, and community in tech. Registration is open for attendees and for those interested in being interviewed. This event is about visibility, connection, and celebrating women exactly as they are, where they are.

In our first episode of 2026, Michelle and Samah are joined by Dragana Babić and Sanja Hunyadi to explore a bold regional initiative: a digital platform designed to support children with learning disabilities and learning difficulties, along with the parents and educators who support them. We talk about what sparked the project, why access to modern learning tools remains unequal across smaller communities, and how a volunteer-led team is building a “one place” hub for resources, communication, and collaboration, grounded in one core belief: we all belong together. The conversation also expands into digital citizenship, media literacy, cybersecurity, and critical thinking, especially in an era of AI and misinformation. Dragana and Sanja share lessons from their work (including workshops for children with developmental disabilities and youth-led teaching moments) and how listeners can support inclusion locally and globally.

Promotions aren’t just about performance; they’re about power, bias, and access.In this timely and deeply honest conversation, Michelle and Samah unpack what promotion really looks like for women, women of color, and experienced professionals in today’s workplace. Drawing on recent research and real-life experiences, we examine why minority women are the least likely to be promoted, why Gen X talent is often overlooked, and how structural bias, rather than a lack of ambition or skill, continues to influence career outcomes.The discussion includes gatekeeping, age bias, self-advocacy, unequal pay, and why diversity efforts often overlook age and lived experiences. Most importantly, we discuss what needs to change in organizations, leadership, and ourselves if we truly want equitable career progression.This episode isn’t just a conversation. It’s a call to do better.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah celebrate the incredible contributions of women in tech while addressing a persistent challenge: being invited to speak only about gender rather than expertise. From tech panels to conferences, women continue to face subtle biases, from discussions about lipstick to exclusion from technical sessions. We explore why women should be recognized for their knowledge, leadership, and technical skills, and how the tech community can create truly inclusive stages. Join us as we discuss representation, inclusion, and the power of letting women, and all underrepresented voices share what they know best.

In this heartfelt and candid episode, Michelle and Samah open up about the realities of burnout, the challenges of constant travel, and the emotional toll of balancing community work, career, and personal life. From globe-trotting across major WordPress events to learning when to pause and recharge, they share their experiences of exhaustion, recovery, and the importance of self-care.They also dive into deeper reflections on cultural expectations, the pressure women face in both professional and personal spaces, and how vulnerability can foster resilience. Amidst laughter, friendship, and a few rubber ducky moments, this conversation serves as a reminder that it’s okay to slow down, ask for help, and find joy in the little things.

In this inspiring episode, Michelle and Samah sit down with Amy Sample Ward, CEO of NTEN and one of the keynote speakers at WordCamp US 2025. Amy shares the incredible story of how NTEN was formed by a global community of changemakers, and how it has grown into a powerful movement that helps nonprofits and missions thrive through strategic and equitable use of technology. From the importance of digital inclusion and equity to the confidence-building work of empowering nonprofits to see themselves as technologists, Amy dives deep into how technology can and should serve as a tool for social impact. She also reflects on her co-authored books, Social Change Anytime Everywhere and The Tech That Comes Next, and teases her upcoming WordCamp US keynote. Whether you’re passionate about open source, nonprofit technology, or building a more inclusive digital future, this episode is filled with practical insights, thought-provoking ideas, and plenty of inspiration.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah talk about how speaking at events in the WordPress world is an incredible honor, but it often comes with real costs. Most speakers receive no pay, no travel or lodging covered, and sometimes face financial barriers that make it hard to share their voices. Thankfully, passionate community members, organizations, and companies have stepped up with creative, heartfelt initiatives to make WordPress more inclusive. They share a lot of amazing initiatives. From the grassroots Michelle & Me Selfie Challenge to the Yoast Diversity Fund, the Open Horizons Scholarship, mentorship programs, and beyond, these efforts are helping underrepresented people take the stage, connect, and shine. This is a celebration of those programs, the lives they’ve touched, and an open invitation. If you know of other initiatives, share them so we can spotlight even more of the good happening in our community. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into Black Tech Week, an inspiring and fast-growing event in Cincinnati that blends community, culture, and innovation. We explore how over 6,200 attendees, from tech professionals to students, came together to network, learn, and celebrate Black and Brown excellence in tech, despite corporate cutbacks on DEI initiatives.We discuss the event’s headliner, Keke Palmer, and the role of local sponsors and grassroots organizers in creating space for underrepresented voices. We also touch on broader conversations around access and inclusion at WordCamps and how to support diverse participation in tech events.

In this compelling episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the intersection of artificial intelligence and gender equality. We unpack a powerful article from UN Women, exploring how AI systems shaped largely by male-dominated industries can reinforce existing gender biases. From hiring algorithms that prefer men to voice assistants defaulting to submissive female personas, we examine why representation in AI development matters and how the data we feed these systems influences their fairness. We also explore tools and initiatives working to create more equitable AI. Whether you’re in tech or just curious about how AI is shaping our world, this episode offers a critical, thoughtful, and, at times, humorous perspective on how we can build smarter and fairer AI systems for everyone.

In this deeply personal and impassioned episode, Michelle and Samah reflect on a powerful talk given at WordCamp Montclair 2025 by Michelle, "Underrepresented in Tech: The Journey to Amplify Others." We explore why our advocacy work continues, from laryngitis to lifting voices, even when the impact isn't always visible.Michelle and Samah explore hard truths about allyship, burnout, and the quiet resilience behind grassroots efforts. They share personal stories of how this podcast has changed their lives and listeners' lives, not through viral moments but through steady, intentional progress.Together, we ask the tricky question, "Does it even matter?" and answer it not with stats or spotlights but with heart, hope, and honest reflection.If you've ever felt unseen in tech or wondered whether small acts of inclusion can make a real difference, this episode is for you.

In this heartfelt episode, Michelle shares her whirlwind experience traveling to and from WordCamp Europe. From radar-key-accessible toilets in Switzerland to flight delays, scooter battery regulations, and missed connections, she shares what it means to travel as a disabled person. Through moments of kindness, absurdity, frustration, and resilience, Michelle brings to light the reality of accessibility, where it works and fails, and the incredible people who make all the difference along the way. This story is about grit, luck (the good and the bad), and a lot of champagne.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Michelle and Samah explore the complexities of cultural appropriation versus cultural appreciation. Sparked by a discussion around wearing a keffiyeh, the conversation broadens to include traditional garments, hairstyles, food, and religious symbols from various cultures. With examples ranging from Sari and dukus to braids and hijabs, Michelle and Samah emphasise the importance of context, historical awareness, and intent. They offer practical advice on how to support underrepresented communities respectfully—through asking questions, doing research, and ensuring purchases directly benefit those cultures. This episode is a powerful reminder that respect, education, and empathy are key to truly honouring the traditions and struggles of marginalised communities.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the topic of burnout, discussing how it affects many professionals, especially in light of recent economic challenges like layoffs and rising living costs. They explore the emotional and physical toll burnout can have on workers, especially women and minority groups who often juggle multiple responsibilities at work and at home. They also touch on the difficulty of setting boundaries, the importance of self-care, and how to recognize the early signs of burnout. The episode highlights the need for both individuals and managers to prioritize mental health, create healthy work-life boundaries, and seek support when needed.  

In this episode, Michelle and Samah catch up after a busy stretch filled with job changes, travels, and community events. They dive into a timely conversation about a Blue Origin spaceflight featuring an all-women crew, including celebrities like Katy Perry and Gayle King. While the mission is framed as a milestone for women, Michelle and Samah reflect critically on what it means for women in STEM and tech spaces. They discuss representation, meaningful progress, and whether space tourism like this truly inspires the next generation of women scientists or makes headlines. The episode closes with a look ahead to upcoming inclusion-focused events (Work Pride) and WordCamp Europe.

In honor of Black History Month, Michelle and Samah highlight the incredible contributions of Black pioneers in technology—past and present. From GPS to gaming consoles, traffic lights to ice cream, Black innovators have shaped our world. Join them as they dive into their stories, recognize their impact, and celebrate their legacies. Plus, a special shout-out to BlackPress and the Black WordPress community for fostering representation in tech. 

In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the unsettling political shifts happening in the U.S. and beyond, discussing how they affect not just Americans but the world. From removing Spanish-language accessibility on government websites to the rollback of reproductive rights and immigration crackdowns, we examine the broader implications of these policies on diversity, equality, and human rights. Tune in as we unpack these urgent issues and reflect on the fight for a more inclusive world.

In this heartfelt episode, Michelle, Allie, and Samah reflect on the evolution of their work advocating for underrepresented voices in the tech industry. From the early struggles of building a sustainable project to the transition of leadership and personal growth, they share emotional moments, hard-won lessons, and the importance of creating space for diverse voices. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on allyship, community-building, and the power of persistence in the face of adversity.

In this week’s episode, Michelle and Samah reflect on their achievements from the past year and revisit impactful episodes covering topics like gender equity, mental health, racial and ethnic representation, and accessibility. Through personal stories, expert insights, and candid discussions, this podcast aims to educate, inspire, and foster meaningful conversations about the challenges and successes of marginalized communities in tech.

In this week’s episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the Harvard Business School article "5 Strategies for Overcoming Unconscious Bias in the Tech Industry". They share personal stories and explore the pervasive impact of hidden biases in hiring, promotions, and workplace culture. They discuss how biases affect diverse communities differently and the importance of awareness, inclusivity, and fostering safe spaces for learning. With a thought-provoking look at potential biases in AI, they emphasize the need for empathy, gentle correction, and a commitment to continuous growth. Can we truly create a more equitable industry? Tune in for practical tips and honest insights.

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Michelle and Samah delve into the rising fear among women in the U.S. in the wake of political shifts and increasing hate speech. With real-life encounters, chilling societal trends, and candid discussions about gender equality, women's rights, and the responsibility of tech platforms like X (formerly Twitter), the conversation explores the intersections of tech, politics, and human rights. Despite the darkness, Michelle and Samah champions the power of community, dialogue, and hope in uncertain times.

In this deeply personal episode, Michelle and Samah set aside the usual tech discussions to share their raw experiences as women navigating challenging times. From the impact of seasonal depression and political anxieties to the struggle for women's rights and equality, they explore the personal and collective burdens they face. They discuss the backlash against expressing opinions, the resurgence of regressive policies, and the broader implications for marginalized communities. This episode shares honest stories and support, showing listeners they're not alone in their challenges and encouraging strength during tough times.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah dive into the world of accessible and inclusive design! They discuss the A11Y project, which aims to make digital spaces more welcoming for everyone. From smart product descriptions for those with low vision to avoiding stereotypical marketing and embracing diverse representations, they highlight practical steps and the importance of accessible online experiences. Whether you're motivated by a passion for inclusivity or the potential for increased sales, there’s something here for every designer, developer, and marketer looking to reach a broader, more inclusive audience.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah chat with accessibility consultant Elena Brescacin, a blind advocate in the WordPress community, who shares her insights on digital accessibility for visually impaired users. She discusses her experiences with screen readers, website design, and WordPress improvements over nearly two decades. Elena also highlights the need for accessibility at events like WordCamps and introduces PlusBrothers.net, her blog tackling HIV stigma through creative storytelling. Her journey underscores the importance of accessible digital spaces that empower all voices.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss the importance of taking mental health days, especially when life's stresses—both personal and professional—become overwhelming. They share personal stories about balancing work, social pressures, and the impact of constant connectivity through social media and work apps. The conversation highlights the necessity of recharging, recognizing the signs of burnout, and removing the guilt often associated with taking breaks. They emphasize that self-care is essential, offering practical advice for listeners on how to unwind and prioritize mental health.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss the ongoing lack of diversity in the tech industry, where only 15% of the workforce is from BAME backgrounds, and 19% are women. It discusses how this underrepresentation leads to biased technologies and overlooked needs, especially for minorities and women. The hosts examine the causes, such as non-diverse leadership and hiring biases, while sharing personal experiences of discrimination. They express hope for improvement but stress that achieving natural diversity and equality in tech requires sustained effort.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah chat with Rachel Zoller and Joe Foster from the Roll Mobility app. They discuss accessibility challenges for wheelchair users, particularly with public spaces like Airbnb and hotels. The conversation highlights how the Roll app helps users find accessible locations and pushes businesses to improve. Rachel and Joe share stories of their experiences, emphasizing the importance of feedback and small changes that can make a big difference in creating truly accessible spaces.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss women's reproductive health, focusing on menstruation, reproductive rights, and societal pressures around motherhood. Michelle and Samah share personal experiences with painful periods while they highlight the stigma and growing trend of women choosing not to have children. The episode advocates for women's right to decide about their bodies and lives without societal judgment.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss self-advocacy with guest Shailvi Wakhlu. We share personal stories and offer practical tips on how advocating for yourself can help break through professional barriers, particularly for those in underrepresented communities and fields like tech. Shailvi, a best-selling author of the book Self-Advocacy, has also spoken at nearly 100 global conferences and Fortune 500 events on this subject and data.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah discuss the upcoming WordPress Accessibility Day, a 24-hour virtual event in October focused on improving web accessibility. Speakers Bet Hannon and Alexander Gonder share their roles in organizing and their motivations for advocating accessibility, emphasizing its benefits for all users. The event will feature sessions on inclusivity, practical tips, and legal aspects with keynote speaker Lainey Feingold.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah emphasize the global importance of educating women and girls, citing an article from The Steve Sinnott Foundation. We discuss and address broader international issues, such as forced marriages, poverty, and gender-based violence, which can be alleviated through education. We talked about the importance of educating women about health issues and the broader impact of empowering women to make informed choices about their lives.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah explore why minorities are disproportionately targeted by cybercrime. They delve into the heightened vulnerability faced by people of color, Indigenous communities, and women, citing research that reveals higher rates of identity theft and financial fraud among these groups. The discussion highlights how social inequalities are reflected in online spaces, where marginalized communities encounter more significant risks and less protection. The conversation underscores the connection between offline and online violence, emphasizing the need for more inclusive cybersecurity measures.

When Simone Biles stepped away from the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 she came under a lot of negative scrutiny, even though she made it clear that it was for her mental and physical health. If one of the most accomplished women in the world struggles with the stigma of self care, how much more difficult might it be for others of us to do the same? In this episode Samah and Michelle talk about mental wellbeing, stepping back from circumstances that may be harmful to us, and what it means in the tech space to care for our own mental health and wellbeing.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle discuss gender issues in sports, mainly focusing on a female Algerian boxer, Iman Khelif, who faced accusations of not being a woman due to her high testosterone levels and muscular physique. We talked about the unfair treatment of women in sports, the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender norms, and the mental and emotional toll such scrutiny takes on female athletes. We emphasize the importance of empathy, believing people when they tell you who they are, and rejecting the politicization of human identities.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle speak with Kiera Howe, a trans woman in the WordPress and tech community about her transition while teaching tech, her acceptance in the community, and how her openness about transitioning has authentic power. We talked about why it's important to honor peoples' pronouns, and how many places are safe spaces, but valuing people and how we address them is important for safety in all spaces.

Michelle and Samah welcome guests Nadia Maya Ardiani and Miriam Schwab to talk about women's head coverings (including hijab, scarves, and more), and why women choosing to honor their own heritage by wearing them should be accepted and allowed personal expression.

In this episode Michelle and Samah discuss a recent cover of The Economist magazine in which they portray a walker mobility device with the seal of the president of the United States affixed to it and the title "No way to run a country." To infer that disability should disqualify someone from leadership is absurd, and the discussion here will dig deeply into the topic.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle talk about a recent open letter to the organizers for WCEU 2025 from Shahjahan Jewel, in which he talks about WCEU 2025 coinciding with Eid al-Adha, a significant holiday for Muslims. He equates it as if WordCamp was to be held over Christmas. We discuss why honoring religious days is important, why faith should be considered when planning events, and how significant inclusion around faith is.

In this episode, Michelle and Samah talk with Kristina Louise Treadwell, owner of Web Pro Geeks. We discuss how she started her business, how she manages a team, and how she's used Underrepresented in Tech for hiring.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle talk about the digital divide - what it is, who it affects, and how it affects people on both sides. They discuss how lack of access is not a reflection on intelligence or ability, in spite of what politicians and those with privilege may think.

In this episode Samah and Michelle welcome david wolfpaw to the podcast where the discussion centers on Pride Month, but also outlines some of the challenges that those in the queer community still encounter in life and in the tech community. Special thanks to david for sharing with us and helping us to learn and grow.

From Harrison Butker's anti-feminist, anti-LGBTQ+, anti-abortion, anti-IVF, anti-surrogacy...well anti-almost-anything-he-doesn't-agree-with speech to the men who don't take no for an answer in DMs (and worse), Samah and Michelle not only understand when women say "they choose the bear," but themselves choose the bear, too.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle welcome Ruth Kalinka for a conversation around how language can support community - whether we learn additional languages for communication or rely on technology for the assist. Communication, however we achieve it, creates connection.

In this episode, Samah and Michelle discuss how underrepresentation isn't always something that can be seen. Neurodivergence, disability, mental health, LGBTQ+ status, and even ethnicity can never be assumed, and, in fact, should never be assumed.