TechVibe Pittsburgh

What does it take to revolutionize victim-centered policing and tackle online human trafficking globally? Let's find out!

In this episode of TechVibe Radio, we're thrilled to welcome Cara Jones, co-founder of Marinus Analytics, for an in-depth conversation about how their cutting-edge technologies are saving lives and supporting public safety agencies across the world!

Here's why you can't miss this episode:

1. Expert Insights: Hear how Cara recently delivered testimony at a House subcommittee, solidifying Marinus as a leader in leveraging advanced tech to fight human trafficking. 2. Impactful Innovation: Learn how a thesis project turned into Traffic Jam—a groundbreaking tool helping agencies on three continents combat trafficking. 3. Pittsburgh Pride: Discover how this game-changing company, spun out of Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute, is proving that Pittsburgh is a powerhouse of technology and innovation.

Hit PLAY to join us for a conversation that inspires, informs, and showcases the power of tech to change the world!

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

Do you want to understand where AI is really heading and how to stay ahead of it? Not the hype, not the headlines. We're talking real world legal business and operational shifts already reshaping companies right now.

In this episode of the TechVibe Emerging Tech Law Series with Babst Calland, we are joined by Justine Kasznica and Chris Farmakis of Babst Calland, two experts living at the intersection of emerging technology law and business strategy.

Today's conversation goes deep. AI has officially crossed the line from interesting experiment to core business infrastructure. But with that shift comes risk regulation, workforce disruption, and major winners and losers. Justine and Chris break down what they're seeing on the front lines from the boardrooms and C-suites to even law firms racing to reinvent themselves.

So whether you're a tech founder, executive investor, or operator trying to make sense of AI in 2026 and beyond, you have to keep on listening. Three key takeaways are AI is no longer optional, but reckless adoption is very dangerous. The real AI divide is not technology. It is execution. In entire industries, including the law are facing structural change.

We are going to explore all of that and more, so let's just jump into it right now.

On this episode of TechVibe, we're thrilled to welcome back Jay Noschese of T-Mobile to our Huntington Bank Studios. Jay dives into the cutting-edge advancements of T-Mobile's 5G network, which now covers an incredible 99% of the population. From network slicing to 5G standalone capabilities, you'll learn how T-Mobile is leading the charge in reshaping connectivity and enabling innovation like never before.

Hit PLAY to hear stories of how customers like the PGA and Formula 1 are leveraging T-Mobile's 5G to push boundaries, innovate, and create tangible value.

T-Mobile's 5G tech isn't just faster; it's smarter, more dynamic, and built for the future. Tune in to see why this is the most exciting time in connectivity—and why Jay couldn't imagine a more thrilling moment in his career.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe explores Pittsburgh's technology, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

What if you could turn off the tap of single-use plastic while simultaneously building a thriving business that supports local communities?

Today we're diving into the extraordinary journey of Terravive with founder and CEO Julianna Keeling and COO Joe Swider. In this episode, you'll discover three game-changing insights:

1. How to Build a Business-First Approach - Learn why Juliana, who started with zero business knowledge while in college, emphasizes building a strong business foundation before falling in love with your product idea, and how accelerator programs can be your secret weapon.

2. The Power of the Triple Threat - Discover how being a woman, minority, and veteran-owned company isn't just about checking boxes—it's about bringing unique perspectives that drive innovation in sustainable manufacturing.

3. Scaling With Purpose - Find out how Terravive grew from a college startup to operating across 16 contract manufacturing facilities and three warehouses while staying true to their environmental mission.

Terravive's story is compelling because it proves that you don't need a business background to build something transformative. Julianna started as a chemistry student from a family of doctors, armed with knowledge of biomaterials but no business experience. Today, she's leading a company that's revolutionizing how we think about packaging and sustainability. This conversation, recorded in the Huntington Bank Studios, reveals the scars, the wins, and the wisdom gained from 11 years of building a business that matters.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh technology, innovation and entrepreneurial community.

What if a simple game could reshape how you lead, think, and navigate your life? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, Ashley Lynn Priore—founder, president, and CEO of Queens Gambit and Queenside Ventures—reveals how chess has become a transformative tool for thousands of young people, professional athletes, and top executives.

Ashley shares the remarkable story of launching Queens Gambit at just 14 years old and building a national nonprofit that now empowers more than 2,000 youth each year with confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills. She opens up about the barriers for girls entering the chess world, the power of observation-based learning, and how she built a model where students grow into teachers.

Then the conversation shifts to her second venture, Queenside—where she brings chess-based strategic clarity to adults, from CEOs to NFL players. You'll hear how she uses the "personal chessboard" exercise to help leaders understand their strengths, avoid snap decisions, see three moves ahead, and untangle the noise of a fast-moving, AI-driven world.

Why listen? You'll discover:

• How chess teaches life and leadership skills far beyond the board

• The surprising way Ashley broke into the NFL to coach players on strategy and mindset

• Why thinking like a chess player helps leaders slow down, see options, and make smarter decisions

• How intergenerational leadership and inclusive empowerment shape her mission

• Practical insights you can apply today to improve your decision-making

If you want a fresh perspective on leadership, problem-solving, and personal growth—from someone redefining what strategy looks like in the modern world—this interview is a must-listen.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology, innovation and entrepreneurial landscape.

AI is transforming every industry, but what does it look like when nonprofit leaders take the driver's seat? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, Emily Francis, Director of the Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership, joins us to preview the 2025 GPNP Summit and to break down why now is the moment for nonprofits to embrace AI, not fear it.

Emily reveals how AI is already reducing burnout, saving time, improving service delivery, and even strengthening collaboration among the 8,500 nonprofits across Southwestern Pennsylvania. And with 20 years of the GPNP Summit behind them, this year's theme of AI, Advocacy & Action couldn't be more timely.

• Hear how nonprofits are using AI to save 8–12 hours per week and reclaim mission-focused work instead of drowning in administrative tasks.

• Learn how AI "agents" are connecting nonprofits in real time so organizations can make instant, zero-second referrals to get people the help they need—without waiting on emails or phone calls.

• Discover why nonprofits are uniquely positioned to shape the future of ethical, community-centered AI, and why they can't afford to be "the last considered" when new technologies are built.

From powerful keynote speakers to hands-on workshops to a rapidly growing AI-for-social-impact movement, this conversation previews a summit—and a moment—that could redefine what's possible for nonprofit leaders.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

This first episode of TechVibe's Workforce Advantage features an insightful conversation between Lelia Broughton of the Pittsburgh Technology Council and Brett Phillips of Hellbender as they delve into critical topics shaping today's workforce and discuss strategies for fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in the tech sector and beyond. The episode sheds light on unique approaches to building successful teams and leveraging community partnerships to drive workforce development.

The Importance of Networking & Collaboration:

Broughton highlights how cross-industry partnerships contribute to workforce success, emphasizing the power of networking within the Pittsburgh technology ecosystem.

Entrepreneurship & Workforce Innovation:

Phillips shares insights into Hellbender's approach to fostering team creativity, pushing boundaries in entrepreneurship, and adapting to market challenges.

Building Diverse, Inclusive Talent Pipelines:

The discussion includes practical strategies for attracting and retaining diverse talent, focusing on inclusion as a critical factor in workforce advantage.

Leveraging Regional Resources:

They explore how local organizations like the Pittsburgh Technology Council play a vital role in connecting talent, businesses, and opportunities to fuel regional growth.

This episode offers valuable insights for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and workforce development professionals looking to stay ahead. Don't miss it!

Everyone's talking about AI—but how many companies are actually engineering it to deliver real business results? In this week's episode of TechVibe Radio, Jonathan Kersting and Audrey Russo sit down with Bill Elm, President of Resilient Cognitive Solutions, to explore what it really takes to make human-AI collaboration work in the real world.

Bill cuts through the hype surrounding AI to explain why 92% of corporate AI projects fail to meet business objectives, and how AI engineering—not experimentation—can prevent costly failures. With nearly two decades at the forefront of decision-support systems, RCS has become a global leader in human-machine teaming, developing mission-critical AI systems for the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community right from its base in Pittsburgh.

Listeners will learn:

• Why most AI initiatives fail before they start—and how to fix that.

• The difference between AI research and AI engineering.

• How RCS's "Brittle-lytics" process exposes hidden flaws that can cause costly or dangerous system breakdowns.

• A real-world case study showing how RCS turned a rejected AI system into a high-performance solution embraced by users.

• Why understanding human decision-making is key to making AI work in "a messy world."

Bill also reminds us that true innovation isn't about "automating the stupid part"—it's about rethinking your workflow and making smarter, more informed decisions with imperfect data and evolving tools.

If your business is serious about AI—and can't afford to fail—this is one conversation you can't miss.

Hit PLAY to hear how RCS is building the future of AI right here in Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

How does a small Carnegie-based tech firm go from building data dashboards to designing AI-powered drones for the U.S. Army?

In this episode of TechVibe Radio, Jonathan Kersting sits down with James Julius, founder and CEO of Visimo, to uncover how his 10-year-old company landed a $3 million contract with the Army's Artificial Intelligence Integration Center. What started as a scrappy, bootstrapped startup is now helping define the future of defense technology, AI integration, and rapid prototyping—all from right here in Pittsburgh.

James shares Visimo's incredible evolution—from ramen-fueled early days to working with agencies like NASA, the EPA, and the Department of Energy—and how a team of engineers and physicists built a fully 3D-printed, AI-driven drone designed for real battlefield use. Their mission? Create a mid-range reconnaissance aircraft that's cheaper, faster, and smarter than anything on the market, while meeting the strict standards of the National Defense Authorization Act.

Key Takeaways:

• How Visimo's AI expertise opened the door to defense innovation

• Why 3D printing and AI are changing the economics of drone manufacturing

• The importance of staying lean, agile, and customer-focused—even in high-stakes federal work

• How Pittsburgh is fast becoming a hub for defense robotics and advanced manufacturing

It's a story of grit, innovation, and local tech making a national impact.

Tune in now to hear how Visimo is proving that world-changing innovation can happen anywhere—even in the heart of Carnegie, PA.

What if your AI could help you live well — not just work better? In this episode of TechVibe Radio, host Jonathan Kersting talks with Mike Hruska, founder of Baryons, about how his new AI platform is redefining what it means to flourish in life and work.

After two decades leading Problem Solutions, Hruska's latest venture uses voice-based, human-first technology to help people reflect, reframe, and rediscover purpose. Drawing from science in positive psychology, Baryons engages users in short, mentor-like conversations designed to boost mental wealth, creativity, and clarity — all while maintaining privacy and emotional safety.

Hruska's mission? To democratize human flourishing at scale. He believes that when people feel centered, purposeful, and connected, they don't just improve their own wellbeing — they elevate entire organizations.

Key Takeaways:

• Only one-third of today's workforce is truly thriving — Baryons aims to change that.

• AI can be used to build mental wealth and emotional resilience, not just productivity.

• "Flourishing" isn't about success or status — it's about living well, every day.

• Voice-driven interactions are the future of human-centered technology.

Why Listen: If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or leader curious about how AI can empower people — not replace them — this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of technology designed for human potential.

Free Trial: Up to three calls per month; $20/month for full access Website: www.baryons.com — use code PITT to skip the waitlist

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.