Ep-108 - “Choosing the Right Avenue”- Paul Porter

Empowering Youth in the Tech Era: Insights from “talktechto.me” Episode 108

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, empowering youth to navigate and excel in the tech world is more important than ever. This was the focus of Episode 108 of talktechto.me, hosted by Cassie Betts.

The episode, titled “Choosing the Right Avenue: Empowering Youth in the Tech Era,” aired on August 3, 2024, on KBLA Talk 1580, and featured Paul Porter, a community leader and founder of the nonprofit Avenues of Life. This article recaps the key discussions and takeaways from the podcast episode, which provided valuable guidance for parents, mentors, and educators.

The Latest in Tech: “The Tea in Tech”

Cassie Betts kicked off the episode with her popular segment, “The Tea in Tech,” where she shared the latest news and trends in the tech industry.

The first topic was Atlanta's Tech Boom. Cassie talked about how Atlanta is quickly becoming one of the top tech hubs in the U.S. With over 17,000 tech companies, the city is growing thanks to its low operating costs, a large talent pool, and a strong community of Black entrepreneurs.

Next, Cassie discussed how the tech industry is changing its hiring practices in a segment called No Degree, No Problem. She explained that many tech companies are now focusing more on skills and experience rather than requiring a formal degree. In fact, about 60% of companies have dropped degree requirements for entry-level jobs. This change is helping to open up opportunities for a more diverse range of people, making the tech industry more inclusive.

The segment also covered some controversy in Musk Stirs the Pot. Elon Musk recently shared a deepfake video of Vice President Kamala Harris, sparking a debate about the ethical use of AI in politics and the dangers of spreading misinformation. The incident highlights the growing influence of AI and the need for clear ethical guidelines to prevent misuse.

Finally, Cassie talked about a legal battle between Delta Air Lines and the cybersecurity company CrowdStrike in the Delta vs. CrowdStrike segment. Delta is suing CrowdStrike for losses caused by a faulty software update that disrupted its operations for more than six days. This case shows how important reliable technology is for businesses and the potential risks of tech failures.

Paul Porter’s Journey and the Mission of Avenues of Life

The heart of the episode was an interview with Paul Porter, who shared his inspiring journey from a troubled youth in Los Angeles' Crenshaw District to becoming a respected community leader. Despite facing challenges like gang involvement, Paul turned his life around and found a new path through barbering. His deep connection to his community led him to create Avenues of Life in 2012.

Avenues of Life is a nonprofit that helps empower young people by offering programs in music, media, technology, and business management. Paul talked about the mission behind the organization, which is to give kids the tools and opportunities they need to build successful futures. He emphasized that the goal isn’t just to teach technical skills but also to inspire young people to think big about what they can achieve.

Paul also highlighted some of the organization’s successful partnerships, like those with Snap x 1500 Sound Academy and the ThinkWatts Foundation. These collaborations have helped Avenues of Life offer innovative programs that prepare young people for careers in today’s job market.

Exciting New Programs and Future Plans

Cassie and Paul also discussed some of the new programs and future plans for Avenues of Life. One of the exciting new initiatives is a theatre program, which will introduce kids to the performing arts and teach them both creative and technical skills. Another program at Crenshaw High School will give students hands-on experience in digital media, helping them prepare for careers in content creation and marketing.

Paul is also looking forward to expanding the organization’s reach to other schools, including Audubon Middle School, Hillcrest, and Westchester High School. These expansions show Avenues of Life’s commitment to helping more young people explore new career paths, especially in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence and blockchain.

Wrapping Up

Podcast Episode 108 of talktechto.me was a powerful reminder of the importance of empowering young people in the tech world. Paul Porter’s journey from a troubled teen to a community leader shows the life-changing impact of mentorship and access to opportunities. Through Avenues of Life, Paul is helping to shape the future by giving the next generation the skills and confidence they need to succeed in a tech-driven world.

Listeners are encouraged to stay connected with Cassie Betts and the show on Instagram @instabetts and @talktechto.me. For more information about Made In South LA and its initiatives, visit misla.org. As we continue to embrace technology, it’s crucial to support and uplift the youth who will lead the way in the future.