Since launching the Akoni Tech Talks podcast, we’ve had the privilege of hosting a diverse lineup of guests, each with unique insights and experiences in the tech industry. From cyber security to AI-powered marketing, our discussions have covered a broad spectrum of topics. Here’s a recap of the guests we’ve featured and the compelling stories they’ve shared.

Episode 1: Daniel Jacobs – Embracing AI and Digital Transformation

We kicked off our podcast with Daniel Jacobs, an accomplished CIO and IT leader with over 20 years in the industry. Daniel’s career journey took him from IT support to leading digital transformation for major brands like Age UK and Jardine Motor Group. In our conversation, we explored the future of AI technology, where Daniel emphasized that while AI can enhance efficiency, creativity remains a distinctly human trait. He stressed the importance of transparency in AI, particularly in social media contexts, and encouraged aspiring tech professionals to consider apprenticeship routes as viable alternatives to traditional education.

Episode 2: Menekse Stewart – AI-Powered Marketing

In our second episode, we welcomed Menekse Stewart, the founder of Marketing Magic and a seasoned SEO enthusiast. Menekse shared her unconventional journey into tech, starting as a 15-year-old SEO copywriter. Her passion for digital marketing led her to create an AI-powered business growth tool designed to help companies overcome challenges related to time and resources. We delved into how emerging technologies can reshape marketing strategies and the importance of education, including her work teaching university students about SEO and digital marketing.

Episode 3: Ronan Takizawa – Cyber Security and Content Creation

Our third guest, Ronan Takizawa, known as RonanTech, is a cyber-security content creator and a Computer Science student at Colorado College. With a significant following on social media, Ronan identified a gap in the availability of cyber-security content online, leading him to share valuable insights on platforms like TikTok. He discussed his projects, including a free cyber-security course and his role in a cyber-security development project. Ronan highlighted how AI can improve coding accuracy and efficiency, showcasing its transformative potential in the tech field.

Episode 4: Steven Kerr – IT in Health and Wellness

In our fourth episode, we were joined by Steven Kerr, Head of IT at ZOE, a health and wellness company. With a decade of experience, Steven has managed a remote workforce and an extensive tech stack. He emphasised the critical balance of technical skills and soft skills, such as communication, in the IT sector. Steven’s personal journey, which included dropping out of an Informatics degree, underscored the importance of exploring various pathways into tech, including apprenticeships, especially as AI continues to evolve.

Episode 5: Aarti Samani – Diversity in Tech and AI Awareness

To round off part one of our podcast series, we spoke with Aarti Samani, CEO of Shreem Growth Partners and an international speaker. With over 20 years in tech, Aarti shared her experiences as a woman in STEM, advocating for greater diversity and representation. She discussed the societal impacts of emerging AI technologies, such as the rise of synthetic media and the associated risks of fraud and misinformation. Aarti’s insights into alternative career paths, such as internships and apprenticeships, provide valuable advice for those looking to enter the tech industry.

Looking Ahead

The Akoni Tech Talks podcast has been an enlightening journey through the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Our guests have brought a wealth of knowledge, sharing personal stories that inspire and educate our audience. As we continue this journey, we look forward to exploring more topics and featuring new voices in the tech industry. Stay tuned for more engaging conversations that push the boundaries of what’s possible in tech!

Tune in to Akoni Tech Talks for the full conversation and more insights from industry leaders – available on Spotify Podcasts,Apple Podcasts and YouTube.