Welcome to talktechto.me, hosted by the dynamic Cassie Betts on KBLA Talk 1580. In Episode 118, titled “Building a Green Kingdom: 5G, Connectivity, and Bridging the Digital Divide,” Cassie dives deep into the revolutionary world of 5G technology and its potential to transform underserved communities. The special guest for this episode is Kingdom Gould, the founder of Gaia 5G, who shares his expertise on how technology can bring social equity, foster sustainable infrastructure, and bridge the digital divide.

Introduction to TalkTechTo.Me

TalkTechTo.Me is where technology meets social progress, and Black tech enthusiasts emerge as the new superheroes. Cassie Betts, a leader in merging tech with social causes, uses her platform to highlight the movers and shakers in the industry who are working to make tech more inclusive. This episode focuses on the green technology movement, the role of 5G, and how cutting-edge solutions can help bridge connectivity gaps for underserved communities globally.

Cassie opens the show by welcoming listeners, affectionately calling them her “Tech Bettsties,” and sets the stage for a discussion that encompasses innovation, connectivity, and sustainability. Her unapologetically progressive stance drives the conversation, with special focus on making technology accessible to those who need it most.

The Tea in Tech: Industry Buzz

Cassie begins with "The Tea in Tech," giving listeners a quick roundup of the most significant tech news stories. She covers three key topics that highlight challenges and innovations within the industry.

Elon Musk Criticizes OpenAI CEO Sam Altman

In a recent interview, Elon Musk threw shade at Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, accusing him of straying from OpenAI’s original mission of transparency and public good. Musk called the company “ClosedAI,” hinting that Altman’s leadership has turned the organization into a profit-driven entity, much different from the non-profit ideals it was founded on. This raises concerns about ethical leadership in AI, an area Musk believes should be handled with greater care.

Michelle Wilson’s Smart Germ Shield for Public Touchscreens

Black inventor Michelle Wilson is highlighted for her innovative Shellicone Finger Protector, designed to make using public touchscreens safer. With germs remaining a constant concern, especially post-pandemic, her USB-rechargeable silicone shield with a built-in LED light protects users while maintaining touchscreen functionality. Cassie praises Wilson for blending safety with functionality in her compact design, which is also easy to attach to keychains for everyday use.

Climate Crisis Reaches Unprecedented Levels

Cassie shifts to a more urgent topic, noting the increasing global climate extremes. Rising temperatures, escalating carbon emissions, and severe loss of forests are becoming alarmingly more frequent. Scientists are calling for immediate, concerted action to mitigate climate damage. This brings the conversation full circle to how technology—especially green tech—can play a role in combating climate change.

Upcoming LA Tech Week Female Founders Showcase

Lastly, Cassie invites listeners to the Female Founders Showcase as part of LA Tech Week 2024, an exciting event where innovative startups founded by women are highlighted. Hosted by WeAreLATech in collaboration with Live Bash, the showcase will kick off with a live podcast featuring top female tech leaders. Cassie encourages listeners to sign up and network with some of the best minds in the industry.

Meet Kingdom Gould: The Vision Behind Gaia 5G

Cassie welcomes Kingdom Gould, the founder of Gaia 5G, a leader in tech infrastructure and green connectivity solutions. With over two decades of experience in advising leaders across tech, entertainment, politics, and engineering, Gould brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and social advocacy to the conversation.

Kingdom’s App Obsession

To break the ice, Cassie asks Kingdom about an app he can’t live without. Gould quickly mentions an environmental tracking app, reflecting his passion for sustainability and technology that works toward the greater good.

The Inspiration Behind Gaia 5G

Kingdom shares his origin story, describing how his Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape heritage inspired him to found Gaia 5G. His goal was simple yet ambitious—provide high-speed, reliable internet to underserved communities, particularly in areas where connectivity is scarce or nonexistent. Kingdom explains that Gaia 5G’s mission is to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every community has access to the opportunities that high-speed connectivity offers.

Gaia 5G’s Cutting-Edge Solutions

Gaia 5G isn’t just about fast internet; it’s about sustainable, scalable solutions that serve as a foundation for smart city development and environmental protection. Gould’s company is working on projects like utility-scale solar installations and AI-driven smart buildings that integrate green technology into everyday life. Cassie highlights how Kingdom’s vision is not only reshaping infrastructure but also empowering communities by making technology more accessible.

Infinite Green Coin & Metaverse Game

Cassie and Kingdom explore Gaia 5G’s Infinite Green Coin—a cryptocurrency that incentivizes environmental actions. Through their Metaverse Game, users can earn rewards for real-life actions that benefit the environment, like planting trees or reducing waste. Kingdom emphasizes how these technologies make sustainability fun and engaging, while driving real-world impact.

Key Issues in Tech, Infrastructure, and Connectivity

The conversation shifts to the larger implications of Gaia 5G’s work. Cassie and Kingdom discuss how Gaia 5G’s wireless broadband solutions are transforming connectivity in rural and underserved urban areas. They also delve into how private equity plays a crucial role in funding these large-scale infrastructure projects. Gould shares the challenges of raising capital in tech, especially when prioritizing social impact over profits.

2024 Election and Tech Policy

Kingdom and Cassie talk about the 2024 election and its potential impact on tech and infrastructure projects. Specifically, they discuss Proposition 4, which proposes borrowing $10 billion to respond to climate change. Of that amount, $1.9 billion would be allocated for drinking water improvements, particularly in lower-income communities. The two also touch on how technology could play a role in addressing voter education and registration, highlighting the need for community-driven tech solutions in future elections.

LA Tech Week: Roots of Resilience

Cassie transitions to an exciting event happening during LA Tech Week 2024—the Roots of Resilience: South Central Sustainability Stories event. Kingdom will be hosting this event to spotlight how South Central LA is leading the way in green technology and sustainability. Attendees can expect to hear powerful stories of resilience from local leaders and learn more about the sustainable initiatives transforming the community.

Kingdom Gould’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Before wrapping up, Kingdom shares some powerful advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in tech. He encourages innovators to stay rooted in their communities and always look for ways to merge profitability with social good. He emphasizes that, while the tech world can often feel like it’s moving at lightning speed, there’s immense value in taking the time to understand the needs of the people you’re serving.

Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Projects

As the show draws to a close, Cassie asks Kingdom about what’s next for Gaia 5G. Gould teases upcoming projects that will further integrate green technology with community-driven connectivity solutions. He also urges listeners to stay engaged in the fight to bridge the digital divide, whether by supporting local tech initiatives or simply staying informed about the latest advancements.

Cassie wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to follow Kingdom Gould on social media and stay connected with talktechto.me for more updates on the intersection of technology, equity, and innovation. Next week, voice actress and creative executive Joy Ofodu will join the show to share her journey in tech and entertainment.