In this conversation, Joy Anderson and Mara Bolis discuss the intersection of gender lens investing and AI, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping the future of technology. Mara shares her journey from working at Oxfam to exploring AI at the Kennedy School, and her reflections on addressing gender inequality in emerging technologies. They explore the challenges of navigating spaces traditionally dominated by experts and why it’s time to bring new types of knowledge into AI discussions. The conversation underscores the value of interdisciplinary approaches and the power of collective learning to empower underrepresented voices in the tech space.

Episode Highlights

00:00 - Introduction to AI and Power Dynamics

03:11 - Imposter Syndrome and Interdisciplinary Leadership

06:06 - The Importance of Domain Expertise in AI

09:08 - Challenging Traditional Notions of Expertise

11:55 - The Role of Gender in Economic Systems

15:12 - Agency and Participation in AI Development

17:59 - Practical Tips for Engaging in AI

20:49 - Building Community and Learning Together

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn
• Mara's LinkedIn

Dive Deeper

• Disrupting Fields
• Fostering a Feminist Financial Imagination
• Introducing Standards of Practice for Gender Lens Investing

If enjoyed this episode, consider listening to “Knowledge and Power,” which offers language for recognizing and challenging whose expertise carries weight in decision‑making spaces, and “Disrupting Fields,” which looks at how authority, legitimacy, and participation take shape as new fields emerge.

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network https://impactalpha.com/podcasts