Glowing in Tech

In this episode, Jessie and Shantelle welcome back Roxanne and Joanna to spotlight their groundbreaking new platform ResLink – the first video resume tool that's changing how candidates stand out in today's competitive job market.

Fresh from their successful launch, the founders share how ResLink empowers job seekers to control their narrative beyond traditional resumes, with Joanna revealing that using video resumes increased her interview rate by 40%.

The conversation explores how the platform reintroduces human connection to the hiring process, benefits both candidates and companies, and offers invaluable application insights through real-time analytics. Learn how this innovative approach is helping candidates make memorable first impressions while giving recruiters a clearer view of personality and fit before formal interviews.

Go beyond the traditional job application and discover why even in a world of AI-generated resumes, showing your authentic self through video might be the competitive edge you need.

💼 Discover why traditional resumes are failing in today's AI-saturated job market

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Jessie and Shantelle sit down with Roxanne and Joanna, the dynamic co-founders of Tech Talk, whose community has exploded to over 220,000 members across platforms. Discover how these two friends transformed their experiences in marketing, sales, and go-to-market strategy into a movement helping thousands break into the non-coding side of the tech industry.

The message is clear: tech needs much more than coders. Marketing, sales, operations, customer success, and countless other non-technical roles are essential to company growth—and with the right approach, you can position yourself as the perfect candidate, even in 2025's challenging job market.

The conversation delves into the dramatic shift in the tech job market post-pandemic, where remote work has flooded recruiters with thousands of applications for every position. Learn why simply submitting applications is no longer enough and how developing a multi-faceted strategy—including optimized LinkedIn profiles, strategic networking, and personal branding—has become essential for job seekers.

Roxanne and Joanna share invaluable insights on positioning yourself for success, explaining why making it "easy for recruiters" to see your value is crucial in today's competitive landscape. They break down the significant differences between working at startups, scale-ups, and established tech companies, offering guidance on which environment might best suit different career stages and working styles.

The hosts and guests also explore emerging trends in tech hiring, including the growing importance of online presence for customer-facing roles, the rise of AI-generated content in personal branding, and why culture fit has become the deciding factor in many hiring decisions. Whether you're looking to transition into tech from another industry, seeking to advance your current tech career, or simply curious about the non-technical opportunities in the technology sector, this episode provides actionable strategies from those who've successfully navigated these waters themselves.

Timestamps:

Tech careers, non-coding tech jobs, personal branding, tech job market, startup careers, scale-up companies, tech networking, LinkedIn optimization, tech community, tech influencers, culture fit, job applications, tech recruitment, career transitions

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In this illuminating episode of Glowing in Tech, Shantelle and Jessie welcome back venture capital expert Abi Mohammed for a candid discussion about the ever-evolving tech landscape. Abi shares invaluable insights on post-pandemic market trends, funding challenges for underrepresented founders, and the shifting dynamics of tech valuations.

Discover why certain tech platforms soared during lockdowns only to crash afterward (including a fascinating Clubhouse case study), while others built lasting success. Abi breaks down complex concepts like "down rounds" in accessible terms and offers practical advice for founders navigating today's uncertain economic climate.

Whether you're building a startup, considering a career in venture capital, or interested in tech investment strategies, this episode delivers actionable knowledge from an industry insider. Abi emphasizes the importance of sustainable business models, authentic community building, and diversity in the VC space.

Key topics include:

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction

00:20 Current Tech Industry State

01:20 COVID-19's Impact on Startups

03:32 Challenges for Underrepresented Founders

04:38 Understanding Down Rounds

05:39 Market Conditions & Consumer Behavior

07:19 The Clubhouse Phenomenon

11:20 Community Building in Tech

12:42 Diversity in Venture Capital

16:48 Advice for Founders and Aspiring VCs

18:30 Conclusion

New episodes of Glowing in Tech release every Tuesday, featuring conversations with industry leaders sharing practical insights on technology, business growth, and investment strategies.

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Ever wondered how venture capital really works? In this illuminating episode, we're joined by Abi Mohammed, Community Lead at Diversity VC, who shares her incredible journey from software engineer to angel investor and champion for diversity in tech funding.

Abi reveals how a chance 7AM networking event (and a crush!) led her to discover the world of venture capital, and how she co-founded an angel investment syndicate despite knowing almost nothing about investing at the time. With refreshing honesty and clarity, she breaks down complex investment concepts into terms anyone can understand.

You'll learn the fundamental differences between angel investing and venture capital, what investors really look for when evaluating startups, and the hidden costs of investment that nobody talks about. Abi shares raw insights from reviewing over 300 founders to select just 4 deals, and explains why she left software engineering after facing discrimination to create more equitable pathways in tech.

Whether you're a founder considering funding options, aspiring to work in VC, or simply curious about how investment shapes the technology we use every day, this episode offers valuable perspective from someone who's navigated the journey as an outsider and is now helping to transform the industry from within.

Venture Capital, Angel Investing, Women in Tech, Diversity in VC, Startup Funding, Female Founders, Tech Careers, Entrepreneurship, Black Women in Tech, UK Tech Scene, Inclusive Investing

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Abi Mohamed and Diversity VC

01:17 Abi's unexpected journey into venture capital

03:27 What is angel investing vs venture capital explained

05:38 Due diligence process and evaluating startup potential

08:58 Understanding cap tables and investment terminology for beginners

13:56 The different stages of venture funding explained

16:11 Bootstrapping vs venture scaling - which is right for your business?

18:47 Transitioning from engineering to investing after facing discrimination

21:16 Creating opportunities for underrepresented founders through Tech Nation

24:40 Success stories from the Libra program for diverse founders

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We welcome back award-winning tech professional Yemurai to discuss the current state of the tech industry. In this insightful conversation, we explore:

How the tech job market differs from 2020-2021, particularly for entry-level versus senior roles

The challenges of breaking into tech in today's competitive environment

Why networking has become essential for landing tech jobs in the current market

Practical networking tips for introverts and beginners

The importance of building your LinkedIn presence and personal brand

Balancing online visibility with privacy and safety concerns as a tech professional

Whether you're looking to break into tech, advance your career, or build meaningful industry connections, this episode offers valuable advice from someone who successfully navigated a "squiggly career" from chemistry to cybersecurity.

Don't miss this candid discussion about the realities of today's tech landscape and actionable strategies for success!

Please give us a review wherever you're listening, let us know your thoughts by sending us a message, we want to hear from you!

Timestamps:

0:00 - Welcome and introduction to Yemurai

1:23 - The current state of the tech job market

2:45 - Entry-level challenges vs. senior opportunities

4:18 - Web3 and blockchain: Then vs. now

6:02 - How long does it really take to break into tech?

7:30 - Why networking is non-negotiable for job seekers

9:15 - The secret weapon: Working with recruiters

10:48 - How AI is changing recruitment strategies

12:30 - Networking tips for introverts

15:04 - Setting realistic networking goals

16:42 - "Your network is your net worth"

17:25 - Balancing online visibility with privacy

19:53 - Building a powerful LinkedIn presence

22:17 - Simple ways to start your LinkedIn journey

24:05 - Final thoughts and where to find Yemurai

Notable Quotes

"Your network is your net worth." - Yemurai

"I think from an entry level perspective, it is incredibly challenging... But I know from a senior level and mid-entry level, there's a lot of opportunity once already working within the industry." - Yemurai

"Even if you're not necessarily seeing the immediate benefits... it's those warm introductions. Somebody's seen your post, they recognize your name, they've seen your face. It just makes you stand out above the people that have sent the CVs that have got the exact same trajectory as you thus far." - Jessie

Practical Takeaways

Go beyond the CV: In today's competitive market, networking is non-negotiable for breaking into tech

Start small with networking: Begin with online events if you're nervous, observe before participating

Work with recruiters: Even entry-level candidates can benefit from recruiter relationships

Document your journey: Use LinkedIn to share your experiences attending events and learning

Set realistic networking goals: Aim for quality connections rather than quantity

Maintain privacy boundaries: Be strategic about what personal information you share online

Leverage in-person events: As AI makes perfect CVs easier to create, face-to-face connections become more valuable

About Yemurai

Yemurai has successfully navigated a career transition from chemistry to cybersecurity, winning recognition from We Are Tech Women along the way. She maintains a thoughtful approach to her online presence, balancing professional visibility with personal privacy, and actively shares entry-level tech opportunities through her platforms.

Resources Mentioned

We Are Tech Women awards

Industry events and recruitment networking opportunities

LinkedIn as a career development platform

Renee Louise - BlaqByte

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What does it really take to pivot careers and thrive in tech? 🤔 Meet Yem, aka the STEM Babe, a senior associate in investment banking, content creator, and public speaker with a clear mission—empowering underrepresented groups to break into high-paying tech roles.

🌟 Join us in Part 1 as Yem shares her unconventional path from studying chemistry to excelling in cybersecurity, with inspiring detours through coding bootcamps, health tech startups, and groundbreaking projects tackling COVID-19. We unpack her candid advice on navigating career transitions, overcoming imposter syndrome, and leveraging transferable skills to land your dream job in tech.

💡 Key takeaway? Tech is not just an industry—it’s a skillset you can take anywhere.

Stay tuned as we explore cybersecurity’s rising importance, what’s next for tech careers, and how community representation can transform opportunities.

Don't miss out—listen now and follow Yem on TikTok & Instagram at @STEMBabe for more empowering insights! 🎙️

00:00:00 - Introduction to Yem (STEM Babe) and her background

00:01:30 - Yem's transition from chemistry to cybersecurity during COVID

00:04:00 - Explanation of cybersecurity and its importance in today's world

00:06:00 - Geopolitical aspects and real-world examples of cyber threats

00:08:00 - "Technology as a skillset rather than an industry" philosophy

00:11:00 - Common pitfalls in tech career journeys and the reality of breaking into tech

00:14:00 - Advice on applying for jobs even when you don't meet all requirements

00:18:00 - Discussion about salary transparency and representation in tech

00:20:00 - The importance of pursuing high-paying careers for underrepresented groups

00:22:30 - How representation impacts career aspirations and access to opportunities

00:24:00 - Where to find Yem and teaser for part two

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Welcome to Season 3 of Glowing in Tech! Join Jessie and new co-host Shantelle as they dive into their inspiring tech journeys, from humble beginnings to hackathon wins and career pivots. Discover how Black Valley and various coding bootcamps transformed their careers, leading to roles in product management, blockchain exploration, and entrepreneurship. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of community building in Web3, navigating career shifts, and the impact of AI and cybersecurity in today's tech landscape. Get ready for insightful conversations with women making waves in UK tech and tips on breaking into and thriving in the evolving tech world.

00:00 Welcome to Season 3 of Glowing in Tech

00:17 How We Met: The Black Valley Connection

01:48 Diving into Product Management

04:19 Hackathons and Blockchain Adventures

09:20 Transitioning to Blockchain Full-Time

14:39 Embracing Entrepreneurship and Funding

19:10 New Beginnings: Coding Bootcamp Journey

22:26 Navigating Early Challenges in Tech Roles

22:51 Community Building in Web3

23:42 Breaking Down Complex Topics for Everyone

28:12 The Importance of Representation in Tech

30:40 Innovative Solutions in Blockchain

33:28 Excitement for the Future of Web3

39:20 Spotlighting Women in UK Tech

40:53 Exploring AI and Cybersecurity

44:19 Predicting the Future of Tech

45:00 Welcome to the New Season

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a budding entrepreneur, or just curious about the world of blockchain, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes!

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In today's episode, we continue to talk with Hosanna about TheTechCornr is

having on inspiring Women and the industry at large. Hosanna also tells us about

the most challenging times in her career and the tips she has for women starting

out in the tech industry.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00:00 Introduction

00:00:13 Hosanna’s tips, how to survive a team member that you're

just not clicking with.

00:06:00 Tech Tea

00:10:00 Fear mongering in tech “ it does scare people”

00:11:11 “Give the people some hope!” Clickbait and the media

00:12:27 Learning about tech, the do’s and don'ts

00:13:10 What interests me most about tech

00:18:42 Upskilling, studying never stops!

00:20:37 How do I know I want a tech job? Avoid job descriptions!

Glowing in Tech is a weekly podcast between two black women software

engineers, exploring how to thrive whilst navigating the tech space and

encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to level up in their careers.

Hosted by our award-winning co-founders Jessie Auguste, a backend software

engineer at CybSafe, and Amber Shad, a frontend software engineer, also at

CybSafe. Hosanna Hali, is a Microsoft Azure expert who also launched

theTechCornr platform with a goal of empowering and encouraging women to

enter a career in tech. In today's episode, we continue to talk with Hosanna about

the impact TheTechCornr is having on inspiring women and the industry at large.

Hosanna also tells us about the most challenging times in her career and the tips

she has for women starting out in the tech industry.

Subscribe to The Glowing in Tech Podcast which drops weekly wherever you get

your podcasts.

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In this episode of Glowing in Tech, host Amber and Jessie are joined by Hosanna, an Azure specialist at Microsoft and the founder of TheTechCornr. Hosanna shares her journey into the tech industry and discusses the importance of increasing diversity in the field. She also talks about her platform and how it aims to inspire and educate women about opportunities in tech. Tune in to hear Hosanna's story and her impact on others in the industry.

During the pandemic, Hosanna launched theTechCornr platform with the goal of empowering women to pursue careers in the tech industry. With a strong passion for diversity and inclusion, the speaker had actively participated in panels and discussions on the topic.

Hosanna aims to showcase not only tech-related topics but also other aspects of her life, such as her wedding and their home, in order to build a community of multifaceted women. She's intending to release an ebook in the near future, focusing on starting a successful career. While the ebook will contain tech-focused content, it will also cover broader subjects beyond technical skills, including office politics, appropriate attire, effective communication with managers, and other essential skills for professional women.

[00:01:00] Tech industry offers diverse opportunities.

[00:05:11] Tech career path: programming to client-facing roles.

[00:09:29] Longevity at Microsoft despite challenges.

[00:07:09] Notorious tech company application process.

[00:09:54] Staying at one company.

[00:12:14] New technologies and learning.

[00:13:15] Learning through application is key.

[00:15:56] Changing roles and career growth.

[00:19:52] Building a multifaceted community.

[00:20:45] Transitioning to in-person work.

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In this episode, the Candida discusses her personal journey of recognising and addressing burnout and the importance of mental health. She recalls attending a talk on mental health and burnout given by a speaker who visited their organisation. This talk served as a wake-up call for Candida, as she realised they were exhibiting several signs of burnout, such as withdrawing at work, neglecting their appearance, operating on autopilot, and feeling down and upset.

Following the talk, the Candida had a coaching session with the speaker who gave the talk. The coach noticed a significant change in the speaker's energy after the session, highlighting how burnout was negatively impacting their overall well-being and work performance.

Candida acknowledges that recognising and acknowledging burnout can take time, but they have become better at identifying the signals for themselves. However, it was the mental health and burnout talk that truly helped them realise that their experiences were not normal and that they needed to take time off to address their burnout.

Throughout the episode, the importance of embracing creativity in daily life is highlighted. We discuss how creativity extends beyond traditional artistic pursuits and can be found in problem-solving, innovative thinking, and approaching different situations. We emphasise that tapping into creativity can bring joy and fulfilment, and it doesn't always have to be tied to generating income or pursuing a creative career. Instead, they encourage listeners to explore and embrace creativity through hobbies, personal projects, and allowing space for creative thinking in everyday life.

The episode also addresses the impact of self-doubt and societal expectations on individuals who identify as creatives. The conversation emphasises the courage and strength required to pursue a creative path, especially when it goes against the expectations of family, friends, and society. 

Overall, the episode underscores the significance of recognizing and embracing creativity in daily life. It suggests that by doing so, individuals can experience improved mental health, increased satisfaction, and a greater sense of fulfillment.

Candida also addresses the pressure that can arise from turning creative outlets into a career. They caution against placing the burden of income generation or resource reliance on creative activities, as it can diminish the joy derived from them. Instead, they advocate for tapping into creativity for the sake of enjoyment and personal fulfillment.

Additionally, the Candida delves into the impact of self-doubt on creatives. They acknowledge that societal expectations and judgments can lead many creatives to feel inadequate. They stress the significance of reframing these thoughts and beliefs, and finding the courage and strength to pursue creative endeavors that may defy societal norms. The speaker suggests that self-doubt is an energy that needs to be continually tapped into, and taking breaks from creativity can result in denying a part of oneself. They emphasize the importance of living authentically and aligning with personal values, as denying creativity and not living true to oneself can have emotional consequences.

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction

[00:01:42] Allowing myself to enjoy work. 

[00:05:29] Keeping the curiosity alive. 

[00:09:43] What's the tech tea? 

[00:13:19] Hybrid working and bias. 

[00:17:40] Language and Ambition.

 [00:18:07] Different interpretations of ambition.

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