Shows
Tech TogetherWomen in AI: The Inspirational Journey of Let's Get RealIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Alison Barman welcomes co-host Shannon Seaver alongside Jenna Zangs, the Chief Data and AI Officer at the University of St. Thomas. Jenna shares her unique journey into the AI field, emphasizing the importance of female representation in technology. The episode goes deep into the duo's recent success in the 'She Builds' 48-hour Build-On competition by Lovable, where they won with their innovative educational app, Let's Get Real. Designed to tailor lesson plans to individual student needs, the app showcases their commitment to enhancing education with AI.
2026-01-1336 min
TomorrowZone CatalystScaling Personalization Without Losing Human Connection with Shannon SeaverIn this Future Shaping Leaders episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben talks with Shannon Seaver, CEO of The AI Whisperers and Executive Director of createMPLS. Shannon shares how she's using AI to help teachers reclaim time, simplify complexity, and re-center the human connection in learning. Her platform transforms a single lesson into multiple personalized experiences, without adding to teacher workload. You will hear how she built this system during a 48-hour build event, why relationships drive real learning, and how AI can actually protect against AI misuse in the classroom. The real innovation here is not the tec...
2026-01-1323 minTech TogetherThe Intersection of Mentorship and Technology with Himanchu LaikerIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman have in a lively conversation with Himanchu Laiker, a seasoned professional with a background spanning Medtronic and a plethora of mentoring roles. Himanchu shares his journey from India to the U.S., his transformative career at Medtronic, and his ventures in the startup ecosystem. He dives into the essence of the entrepreneurial mindset, the critical role of mentors, and the evolving landscape of technology. Whether it’s about the importance of mentoring, the challenges of startup life, or leveraging AI and te...
2026-01-0731 minTech TogetherEmpowering Education: Dr. Stacie Stanley on Career Pathways and Technological IntegrationIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann welcome Dr. Stacy Stanley, superintendent of St. Paul Public Schools. Dr. Stanley shares her journey from an occupational therapist to a leading educational figure, reflecting on her commitment to career and technical education. She discusses innovative programs such as career pathways, online schools, and collaborations with businesses to provide real-world experiences for students. The conversation also covers the strategic planning process for St. Paul Schools, the importance of student involvement, and the integration of modern technologies like AI and digital cadavers in education.
2025-12-1646 minTech TogetherTransforming Education: A Conversation with Superintendent Sara PaulIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann have a dynamic conversation with Sara Paul, the superintendent of North Branch Area Public Schools. Sara shares her journey from teaching to district leadership, emphasizing her innovative approaches to education and technology. Topics include implementing a registered teacher apprenticeship program, the impact of strict student cell phone policies, and the proactive use of AI in the classroom. The discussion highlights the importance of community partnerships and economic development in enhancing educational outcomes. Tune in to learn how technology and collaboration are at the...
2025-12-0942 minTech TogetherTransforming Youth Futures with Skills Training: A Deep Dive into the YST ProgramIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman discuss the transformative impact of technology on community and youth with leaders from the Youth Skills Training (YST) program at the Department of Labor and Industry. Guests Joanna Daggett, Nimo Samatar, and Faye Blough share insights into how YST initiatives are setting youth up for long-term success by exposing them to various careers, providing training, and facilitating paid work experiences. The conversation touches on the benefits of the YST program for schools, students, and employers across Minnesota, highlighting industries like advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and IT.
2025-12-0446 minTech TogetherConversations on AI, Personal Journeys & Innovations - with Lori RyanShannon Seaver, flying solo today, welcomes Lori Ryan, diving deeply into Lori's diverse career from TV news to tech. They discuss the transformative power of AI, Lori's ventures in change management, AI-driven relocation services, and creating personalized education platforms. Lori shares her experiences with ChatGPT, and how AI has enhanced creativity and productivity in her life and work. They also touch on the potential and challenges of integrating AI into everyday life and education. The episode is a "listen in to two good friends at a fireside chat", talking about the...
2025-10-2850 minTech TogetherEmbracing Authenticity and AI: A Conversation with Erica HannaIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Erica Hanna, founder of Puke Rainbow, to discuss her journey from television to creating her own company. Erica shares how working with Prince helped her overcome imposter syndrome and inspired her to start Puke Rainbow. The conversation also explores her experience with AI in video marketing, her passion for storytelling, and the importance of self-care and neurodiversity. Erica provides insightful advice on how technology can be leveraged for good, the significance of authentic storytelling, and how to boost...
2025-10-0743 minTech TogetherDiverse Pathways to Success: An Insight into Genesys Works and the Power of InternshipsIn this episode of Tech Together, host Shannon Seaver welcomes Allison Barman, Executive Director of Genesys Works Twin Cities, to discuss her journey from mechanical engineer to non-profit executive. Allison shares her experiences working at a tech startup, pursuing business school, and how her role at McKinsey & Company with the Itasca Project helped shape her career towards community and economic development. The conversation highlights the impactful work of Genesys Works in providing internships to high school students, the importance of mentoring and networking, and the challenges facing non-profits in today's economic landscape. Allison...
2025-09-3040 minTech TogetherThe Power of Play: Transforming STEM Education with Alyssa BoswellIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann talk with Alyssa Boswell, the CEO of Upper Story and a former educator turned toy inventor. Alyssa shares her journey from working in education and raising three boys to founding Upper Story and creating educational toys that make STEM learning fun. The conversation explores her challenges, successes, and the thought process behind innovative products like Turing Tumble and Spintronics. The episode dives into the importance of hands-on learning, the impact of STEM tools in classrooms, the value of guidance for new...
2025-09-2340 minTech TogetherBridging Opportunities: Insights from Richard WalkerIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann are joined by Richard Walker, former board member of Genesys Works and CEO of York Solutions. Richard shares his journey from a small farming town in England to leading a major IT consulting firm. The discussion covers the importance of critical thinking, seizing opportunities, and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Richard emphasizes the impact of networking and continuous learning, providing valuable advice for young professionals entering the technology field. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of technology careers and...
2025-09-0959 minTech TogetherEngaging the Next Generation in STEM with Dean Andrew AlleyneIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Dean Andrew Alleyne of the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering. They discuss the importance of engaging young people in STEM fields to ensure future innovation and economic growth. Dean Alene shares his insights on overcoming barriers to STEM education, including making technology more accessible and inclusive. The conversation also goes deeper into how organizations and educational institutions can collaborate to better prepare students for the evolving job market, the potential impacts of AI, and the significance of...
2025-09-0244 minTech TogetherThe Future of AI in Education and Workforce DevelopmentIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barmann sit down with Tony Peleska, CIO at Kraus Anderson, and Dr. Manjeet Rege, Director for the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence at the University of St. Thomas. The conversation focuses on the integration of technology in the classroom and workforce, the importance of mentoring, the evolving roles of AI and data in professional environments, and strategies for adapting to rapid technological advancements. Tony and Manjeet provide insights on the critical need for STEM education, upskilling, and the ethical considerations of AI. They also...
2025-08-2644 minTech TogetherEmpowering STEM Education and Overcoming Challenges with Shannon SeaverIn this episode of Tech Together, host Allison Barman interviews her co-host Shannon Seaver about her impactful work with Create Minneapolis and Full STEM. Shannon discusses the founding and mission of Create Minneapolis, highlighting its dedication to bringing STEM education to underrepresented urban communities. The conversation dives into the various innovative programs such as Lego robotics, drone leagues, and computer science curricula. Additionally, Shannon introduces Full STEM, a for-profit venture aimed at making STEM accessible through personalized, AI-powered learning platforms. The episode explores Shannon's journey from engineering and teaching to her current leadership roles, addressing...
2025-08-1935 minTech TogetherTransforming Futures with Genesys Works: A Summer Internship ExperienceIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and guest host James Nagbe are joined by summer interns Alisa Ebrahim and Liban Shueb Abdi from Genesys Works. The conversation explores their experiences during the summer tech training program, where they learned valuable skills in Microsoft Office and AI integration. They discuss the recruitment process, the significance of their cohort groups, and their preparations for upcoming internships. The interns also share insights on overcoming challenges, the support system in place through program coordinators, and the unique aspects of the Genesys Works program, including...
2025-08-1241 minTech TogetherNavigating the Tech Talent Landscape with Hillary SpreizerIn this episode of Tech Together, Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman delve into a rich conversation with Hillary Spreizer, President of the Latitude Group. Hillary shares her serendipitous journey into the tech industry, starting in IT recruiting during the 2007 recession and rising to leadership at the Latitude Group. She highlights the significant shifts in tech employment, noting the decreased average tenure from 5-7 years to 2-3 years and how this impacts employer strategies. Hillary also discusses the Latitude Group’s focused approach on mid-market IT staffing and the importance of understanding client needs to place th...
2025-08-0541 minTech TogetherFrom Nightlife to Tech Talent: The Journey of Mike JacksonIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman interview Mike Jackson, founder and CEO of Black Tech Talent and Rocket Growth Academy. Mike shares his early passion for technology and entrepreneurship, detailing his journey from creating a nightlife-based tech startup to launching two impactful organizations aimed at enhancing diversity in the tech industry. He explains the goals and impact of Black Tech Talent, discusses the unique approach of Rocket Growth Academy, and offers valuable insights on improving the tech talent pipeline. The discussion also covers the importance of diversity...
2025-07-2940 minTech TogetherBuilding a Legacy in Tech: Insights from US Bank's Dave SwensonIn this episode of Tech Together, Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman chat with Dave Swenson, VP of Technology Services at US Bank. Swenson shares his experiences and insights from over 30 years in the tech industry, focusing on talent development and community engagement. He discusses his career path, starting from a developer role to leading early career initiatives, from the importance of company culture, ethical work practices, to sustainable community support. Swenson offers valuable guidance for both young tech talent and companies on navigating the rapidly evolving tech landscape, emphasizing the impact of AI...
2025-07-2239 minTech TogetherTech and Baseball: Inside the Minnesota Twins' Innovation TeamIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman explore the intersection of technology and baseball with Shelly Andrew, Senior Manager of Business Systems, and John Evenson, Chief Technology Officer at the Minnesota Twins. In this show, we discuss how technology plays a critical role in the operations of the Twins, from business systems to baseball analytics. Shelly and John share their unique career journeys, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, data skills, and hands-on experience for anyone entering the tech field. The conversation also covers the organization's commitment to nurturing...
2025-07-1551 minTech TogetherTech, Talent & Transformation, with Juliet FoxIn this episode of Tech Together, Shannon & Allison chat with Juliet Fox, a seasoned recruiter in the tech space. Juliet shares her unique journey from a reluctant technologist to an executive recruiter at Avid Edge. The discussion goes deep into the changing dynamics of tech leadership, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the evolving role of tech leaders in understanding business concepts. Juliet anchors the significance of a strong foundation in math and science for students aspiring to enter the tech industry. The conversation also explores the need for flexible, critical thinking-focused...
2025-06-2442 minTech TogetherExploring Workforce Development with Hennepin County LeadersIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Nola Slagter-Johnson, Eric Aamoth, and Sarah Loftis Garbus from Hennepin County to discuss their roles and initiatives in workforce and youth development. The conversation spans their career journeys, the importance of technology skills in a variety of fields, the evolving dynamics of workforce development, and the innovative programs aimed at reducing disparities and aligning community needs with job opportunities. The episode offers a deep dive into how Hennepin County is fostering career exploration and creating pathways for youth in technology.
2025-06-1745 minTech TogetherHow to Keep Human Intelligence in an AI-Driven WorldIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome Michelle Ament, co-president of the Human Intelligence Movement and Chief Academic Officer of Prosolve. Michelle shares her extensive background in education and discusses the Human Intelligence Movement's mission to ensure students develop the necessary human skills to thrive in an AI-driven world. She emphasizes the need for education reform to better prepare students for the rapidly evolving workforce. The conversation touches on the challenges of systemic change, the role of employers, and the importance of fostering human potential and adaptability in an...
2025-06-1032 minTech TogetherStartup Stories and Tech Talent: Insights from Cihan Behlivan, ED, BETA MinneapolisIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Cihan Behlivan, the Executive Director of Beta and a tech entrepreneur. Cihan shares his journey from an investment banker in Turkey to a tech entrepreneur in the United States, highlighting the importance of understanding client needs and picking the right investors. He discusses Beta’s role in fostering a community of founders and builders and the lessons learned from his early startups. The conversation digs into the critical importance of technology in solving real-world problems, the evolving landscape of...
2025-05-0144 minTech TogetherBuilding a Robust Tech Community: Tech Recruiting, Networking, and Education with Dave EllistonIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome tech recruiter Dave Elliston to discuss his journey into the tech field and his approach to recruiting. Dave shares insights from nearly 20 years in tech recruiting, including the evolving technologies and methodologies he's witnessed. The conversation expands into the importance of networking, community building, and early engagement in STEM education for future tech talent. Dave emphasizes the significance of soft skills alongside technical expertise and highlights the need for policy support in boosting computer science education. The episode also touches on the...
2025-04-2239 minTech TogetherTransformative Tech Leadership with Jeff Tollefson and Joel CrandallIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome guests Jeff Tollefson and Joel Crandall. Jeff, former venture capital investor and founder of Genesis Works Twin Cities, and Joel, now president and CEO of the Minnesota Tech Association, discuss their journeys in the tech industry. They highlight the importance of cross-sector collaboration, the evolving needs of the tech workforce, and the significant role of AI and leadership development in driving business success. The conversation also touches on advocating for diverse talent and the impact of educational policy on the...
2025-04-1543 minTech TogetherComputer Science to Empower Students: A Conversation with Jen Rosato and Alexandra HolterIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman welcome Jen Rosato and Alexandra Holter to discuss the importance of integrating computer science education into the K-12 curriculum. The conversation goes into their journeys into the field, the challenges, and triumphs they have faced, and the crucial role of policy and collaboration in advancing computer science education. They also discuss the state of computer science education in Minnesota, the need for early exposure, and actionable ways to support this essential subject.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:51 Al...
2025-04-0741 minTech TogetherTech Together with Steve Buchanan: Navigating Careers and Embracing Change in TechnologyIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Allison Barman are joined by Steve Buchanan, a technologist currently working at Microsoft and a recent recipient of the TEKNE award for community leadership. Steve shares his journey into the tech field, starting with a high school job building computers, through his various roles in the industry, and finally his current position at Microsoft. The conversation highlights the importance of persistence, lifelong learning, and the impact of AI on tech careers. It also addresses the significance of increasing diversity in tech and the role of collaboration across...
2025-04-0141 minTech TogetherFrom DNA Labs to Legislation: A Scientist's Journey into PoliticsIn this episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver and Alison Barman interview MN State Representative Amanda Hemmingsen Jaeger, who discusses her unique journey from genetic research to Minnesota state legislature. They explore her educational background in genetic cell biology, her work in DNA technology, and her transition to policy-making. Hemmingsen Jaeger emphasizes the importance of integrating science and policy, the necessity of accessible STEM education, and the potential of technology to solve modern challenges. They also touch on issues like AI and quantum computing and the vital need for collaboration across sectors to strengthen...
2025-03-2528 minTech TogetherPilot EpisodeTech Together: Bridging Gaps in Tech Education and Workforce DevelopmentIn the inaugural episode of Tech Together, hosts Shannon Seaver from Create Minneapolis and Allison Barman from Genesys Works Twin Cities, dive into their backgrounds, discuss the current state of tech education, especially in Minnesota, and highlight the need for collaboration across sectors to address tech education gaps and workforce development. They introduce their respective organizations and share the podcast's mission to connect, inspire, and create a more robust tech talent pipeline. Shannon and Alison emphasize breaking down silos and fostering cross-sector communication...
2025-03-1822 min
TomorrowZone Catalyst41: The Future of Learning: How AI, Apprenticeships & Partnerships Are Revolutionizing STEM with Shannon SeaverMinnesota was once a leader in computing innovation. But today? It ranks near the bottom in STEM education. How did we get here? More importantly, how do we turn it around? In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host @Deb Reuben sits down with @Shannon Seaver, Executive Director of createMPLS, to discuss the urgent need to rethink STEM education. They explore the transformative role of AI in learning, the power of industry partnerships, and why collaboration, not competition, is the key to fixing the tech talent pipeline. Shannon shares her vision for a future where students from all backgrounds h...
2025-02-0436 min
Your Business – Your Next LevelEp27: Paul Hilsen: Building Successful Products with Empathy and IterationIn this episode of "Your Business Your Next Level," I welcome Paul Hilsen, CEO and founder of Compose Labs, a software consulting firm specializing in app development, data, and AI solutions. Paul shares his approach to building successful tech products with a focus on empathy and a product mindset. We explore his "Triple D" process—Discover, Design, and Deliver—which helps ensure that businesses build the right products that drive outcomes, not just output. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs through empathy and how that can lead to more impactful product development. He also discusses the pitfalls of f...
2024-10-2245 min