In this episode of The Future of Human Experience, host Eric Rodriguez sits down with Dan Gutwein, CEO of N50, to discuss closing the digital poverty gap and the real impact of tech initiatives at the local level. They cut through the noise to talk hard truths about global digital inclusion, aid, and the challenges of running a nonprofit in today’s world.

 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

 

-Why global problems demand local solutions, and the pitfalls of imposing tech from the top down

 

-The truth behind digital poverty: more than connectivity, it’s about literacy, affordability, and relevant community apps

 

-Myths and realities of foreign aid (like USAID) and how funding inefficiencies affect real impact

 

-Lessons from Dan’s transition from corporate tech to running an NGO—what surprised him, and what needs to change

 

I-nspiring stories from the field, including how exposing kids to technology opens new worlds and practical ways to get involved with N50

 

Subscribe for unfiltered conversations on how technology is shaping the future of the human experience.

 

Connect with the N50 Project: https://n50project.org/

Connect with Dan Gutwein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gutwein/

 

 

00:00 Bridging Global Digital Connectivity Gap

05:39 Tech Empowering Farmers and Communities

08:52 "NGO Efficiency and Challenges"

09:51 Examining NGO Financial Practices

15:14 Revival of School Computer Labs

17:39 "Navigating Grant-Driven Business Challenges"

21:32 "Seek Signals Amidst Global Noise"

22:45 "Empowering Voices, Expanding Markets"

27:28 Community Support and Education Needs

32:13 Global Connectivity Enhances Empathy

32:55 Connecting Through Technology

35:57 Join & Support N50N50 Project

 

 

ABOUT ERIC J. RODRIGUEZ

Eric J. Rodriguez is a human-centered futurist, keynote speaker, and host of The Future of Human Experience podcast. With a passion for innovation, leadership, and the intersection of humanity and technology, Eric empowers organizations and individuals to navigate a rapidly evolving world while keeping human values at the core.

 

H.U.M.A.N. INNOVATION FRAMEWORK™

At the heart of Eric's work is the H.U.M.A.N. Innovation Framework™, a transformative model that redefines innovation by focusing on human values, cultural understanding, and sustainable impact. This framework guides leaders and organizations in creating solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also deeply aligned with the needs and values of the people they serve.

 

WORK WITH ERIC:

Looking to inspire your team or audience? Book Eric for keynotes, workshops, or consulting by visiting https://www.ericjrodriguez.com

 

Eric's Speaker Reel: https://youtu.be/5LyD2nfaeMs?si=mkX4tF9gymQs7_Zo

 

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CONNECT WITH ERIC:

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