The Jali, host Melyssa Barrett

The Jali Ep 154: Developing Equitable Artificial Intelligence (AI)

As a seasoned technologist, Vincent Broyles brings a wealth of experience in shaping strategic and technical direction across a wide range of industries. With a background in Industrial IoT, energy conservation, and sustainability, Vincent has spent his career developing and monetizing innovative technologies that drive both business and environmental success.
After serving in the U.S. Navy, Vincent transitioned into technical and leadership roles, excelling in areas such as satellite communications, cybersecurity platforms, and augmented reality applications. He has also worked on classified programs and held high-level security clearances. His leadership in global R&D at Websense (Raytheon) and IT engineering at Qualcomm was instrumental in enhancing the reliability and efficiency of advanced chipsets like Snapdragon.
In addition to his technical expertise, Vincent has a strong understanding of the business side of innovation, having held roles in venture capital fundraising, product management, and business development. His work with companies like NEJAVI and DCarbon Solutions has focused on cutting-edge digital solutions that marry sustainability with profitability. Vincent’s work at the intersection of technology, business, and environmental stewardship makes him a key leader at The Data Institute, advancing initiatives in digital infrastructure and carbon data innovation.

The Jali Ep 153: Living Through History

Born and raised in North Carolina during the Jim Crow era, Lester Patrick takes us through America’s history of segregation and restrictions imposed by the government for Black Americans.
Mr. Patrick is a retired federal employee with a combination of over 40 years of experience as a SeniorTelecommunications Specialist, Information Technology Management Specialist, and Technical Security Officerworking for three federal agencies; designing, planning, developing, testing, and implementing nationalcommunications systems. His educational achievements include an undergraduate degree from North CarolinaA&T State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, and advanced degrees from Golden Gate University andPepperdine University. He also holds professional certifications from CISCO Systems, and George WashingtonUniversity, Washington, D.C.He has been actively involved in working in the community developing and implementing programs designed toimprove the success of African American students, and also serving in capacities that support all students for over20 years. Some of those activities have included the development of the Academic Review Committee in LodiUnified School District. It recommended and implemented several major projects aimed at improving academicperformance. Some of the projects included academic progress reporting, reduction in suspension and expulsionrates, improving parent /district relationships, and a mobile Urban Technology Vehicle. He served over 10 years aschairman and member of the Measures K and L School Bond Oversight Committees. Since 2006 he has directed apeer mentoring program for boys in junior high and high school, and serves as the co-chairman of theSuperintendent’s Academic Advisory Committee.He also has served on other committees whose goals support children and families of San Joaquin County andCalifornia. He currently serves as a Board Director of Family Resources Center; a past member of the Delta CollegeMeasure L Bond Oversight Committee; a current Commissioner of The Housing Authority of San Joaquin County;and, member of the San Joaquin Hunger Task Force; and a current board member of the Pacific Southwest RegionalConference (PSWRC), of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO).Mr. Patrick is the recipient of the following community awards; Dr. Steve Jacobson Enough is Enough Award(University of the Pacific); Man of the Town Award (Black Chamber of Commerce); The Super Star Award (LodiUnified School District); Medgar Evers Freedom Fighter Award for Educational Advocacy (Stockton NAACP); theEtta Mae Ford Golden Heart Award; (Dome of Hope Organization); and, certificates of Special CongressionalRecognition from current and former congressional members.He is the author of two published books titled, Weak Start Unapologetic Present: An unlikely journey through JimCrow the Information Age to God; and Inspirational Momemts; Open and Meaningful Conversations with God. Inthis book he shares multiple life experiences, with emphasis on Jim Crow practices and its impact, his life-longinvolvement in community work and advocacy, and his spiritual growth to God.Mr. Patrick has been married to Linda Patrick for 50 years. He has two adult children, Kenitra and Nigel Patrick, andtwo granddaughters, Kayla and Leilani.

The Jali Ep 152: Health Equity and Advocacy for the Underserved

In this episode, we’re joined by Nadeja Steager, a dedicated leader in healthcare advocacy and equity for underserved communities in California’s Central Valley. As Executive Director of the Community Health Leadership Council San Joaquin and former Director of the San Joaquin Pathways Community HUB, Nadeja has spearheaded initiatives to improve Black maternal and infant health, address homelessness, and increase access to quality healthcare. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, strategies for change, and insights into building a healthier, more equitable future for all.

The Jali Ep 151: Securing Our Future: Pathways to Affordable Housing And Stability Part 2

We’re excited to bring you part two of our powerful discussion from the Securing Our Future: Pathways to Affordable Housing and Stability webinar.
In part one, we heard from experts Lester Patrick, Rhodesia Ransom, and Kimberly Nash, who explored housing policy, resources, and economic stability. With Deidre Davey—California Hawaii NAACP Housing Committee Chair and seasoned realtor—moderating, the conversation laid the foundation for addressing housing challenges and opportunities.
Now, in part two, we’re diving into the Q&A session, where audience questions sparked even deeper insights and practical solutions.
Tune in for this impactful conclusion, and let the expertise of our guests inspire meaningful action in your community. If today’s episode leaves you with fresh ideas, share it and leave a review to keep these important conversations going.

Ep 150: “Securing Our Future: Pathways to Affordable Housing And Stability”

This week I want to share Part 1 of an insightful webinar hosted by the Tracy Area Alumnae Chapter (TAAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and the NAACP Stockton Branch. The webinar entitled Securing Our Future - Pathways to Affordable Housing and Stability. The webinar kicks off with brief greetings from TAAC President Liz Baker and NAACP Stockton Branch President Robert “Bobby” Bivens. Moderated by the NAACP Stockton Branch Housing Chair D’Adrea Davie and including the esteemed panel Sereno Realtor Kimberly Nash, Former Tracy City Council Member and Candidate for State Assembly Rhodesia Ransom, and San Joaquin Housing Authority Commissioner Lester Patrick. The group discusses affordable housing strategies and solutions to achieve housing stability. Great information!

The Jali Ep 149: Technology X Diversity and Inclusion

In this episode, I explore the benefits of integrating digital technologies with DEI practices and how this can help reshape workforce operations.

The Jali Ep 148: Women, Work, and Winning: Creating Your Ideal Life

In this episode, we explore Dipti's incredible journey—from her early years growing up in Kenya and Nigeria to her impactful career in technology and financial services. She shares how a significant life event catalyzed her transition from corporate leadership to the coaching industry, where she now guides women to step into their power and achieve the lives and careers they truly deserve.
Join us as we discuss the challenges women face in the workplace, the importance of redefining success on our own terms, and how to break through the barriers that often hold us back. Dipti's insights are not only inspiring but also a call to action for every woman looking to embrace her potential and find fulfillment.
 
The Founder of Impact Forward, Dipti is a Product Leader turned career and leadership coach. She has 2 decades of consulting, data and product experience. She started out her career in data analytics and consulting, and grew into different leadership roles. In her last role she was head of product for her company. Last year she decided to lean into a new chapter of her career, one she has always been passionate about and finds it to be more purposeful, coaching mid-career women in leadership roles that are navigating their way through burnout, stagnation or looking for new ways to grow or uplevel in their careers. She believes in empowering women to find career success, and redefine success on their terms.
 

The Jali Ep 147: AI in Transforming Diversity Equity and Inclusion

In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence is transforming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in organizations. Join us as we discuss the ways AI can enhance recruitment processes, eliminate biases in hiring, promote equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups and share success stories from companies leveraging  it. Tune in to discover how AI can be a powerful ally in the pursuit of a more diverse and inclusive future while we begin to understand the risks..
 
 

The Jali Ep 146: Your Vote, Your Future: Shaping Change in 2024

In this episode, Melyssa dives into the importance of the upcoming election and why every vote counts. More than just a presidential race, this election shapes our communities, schools, courts, and environment. Melyssa highlights the historical struggles for voting rights, the ongoing challenges, and why voting locally is critical. From checking your registration to holding elected officials accountable, she provides a roadmap for making your vote matter. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference and build a better future through collective  action.
 

The Jali EP 145: Pioneering Digital Transformation in Infrastructure

On today’s podcast, I am joined by Jennifer Schmitz, CEO of Lattice Industries Inc., as we dive into her role in transforming digital infrastructure with a focus on enhancing financial organizations globally. We discuss her mission in pioneering reshaping financial technology that builds smarter digital infrastructure to strengthen communities.Jennifer Schmitz is a dynamic leader with a robust background in financial strategy, global management, and data innovation. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Lattice Industries Inc., where she leads the development of the national resilience hub network. Under her guidance, Lattice Industries is reshaping global infrastructure by leveraging data to empower communities and enhance digital opportunity.Jennifer's career is deeply rooted in her expertise in financial markets, particularly from her time as one of a very select few women trading specialists in the Chicago Mercantile and Chicago Board of Options. There, she managed a team of specialist floor traders and played a crucial role in market operations and the digital transformation of financial marketplaces, honing her skills in risk management and analytics. This experience provided her with a solid foundation in financial risk and strategic decision-making, which she has carried into her leadership roles. Those roles included a focus on fraud, risk management operations and operational benchmarking to optimize digital networks for financial institutions.Her academic credentials include an MBA in Global Management from Mills College, and specialized international finance coursework from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, where she also served as President of the National Association of Women MBAs (NAWMBA) Fisher Chapter. Jennifer holds a BA in International Studies from DePaul University and has studied archeology in Greece and Malta.Jennifer's leadership at Lattice Industries aligns with the company's mission to create smarter, more resilient infrastructures based on the needs of constituents. Her unique combination of experience in financial markets, global management, and innovative data-driven network solutions positions her as a trailblazer in the digital infrastructure industry, driving sustainable growth and community empowerment on a global scale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices