Let us know what you thought of this episode. The Intersection of Data Science and Humanities, join us as we dive into the innovative research of Dr. Abraham Liddell, a historian and data scientist whose work merges GIS, machine learning, and historical records to reconstruct powerful stories from the past. We unpack how Dr. Liddell tracks social networks and mobility of free and enslaved Africans in the Spanish Caribbean and West Africa. Learn about the ethical considerations in handling histor...
Aug 12, 2025•30 min
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join us for an insightful episode where we discuss the pivotal role of GIS in conservation with wildlife geographer Christian May. Christian shares his remarkable journey from a self-taught ranger to an influential researcher creating protected area maps in the Congo. We dive into his PhD work on decolonizing conservation practices, the importance of integrating GIS from a young age, and the ethical implications of GIS in community impact. Don't miss...
Jul 29, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 14
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode of The North Star Gaze, we welcome Stella Mutai, Co-Founder of Women in Space Kenya, a trailblazer shaping how we see and respond to the world through satellite imagery and GIS. As a champion for geospatial equity and justice, Stella shares her journey in space technology, the role of Black women in mapping the future, and the intersections of Afrofuturism, feminist utopias, and geography. From reimagining Earth's landscapes to advoca...
Jul 15, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 12
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join us at the NorthStar of GIS Homecoming 2024 event as we sit down with Frank Romo to discuss his inspiring work in the geospatial field. Frank shares his passion for mentorship and community organizing, detailing how geospatial technology can empower underrepresented communities. Learn about their impactful projects from post-Hurricane Katrina efforts to initiatives in the Bronx. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation filled with insights on...
Jul 01, 2025•26 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this conversation, Jason Sowell discusses the importance of GIS in education, sharing his journey and experiences in promoting GIS for young learners. He emphasizes the need for accessibility and understanding in teaching GIS, the challenges faced in schools, and the potential of GIS to empower students globally. The discussion also touches on emerging technologies, the role of allies in promoting diversity, and the vision for a future where GIS i...
Jun 17, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this engaging conversation, Labdi, a talented musician and Orutu player, shares her journey in the music industry, discussing her new EP 'Parkwalk' and the cultural significance of her music. The discussion delves into the challenges of being a female musician in a traditionally male-dominated space, the role of music in addressing societal issues, and the impact of technology on traditional music forms. Labdi emphasizes the importance of creating...
Jun 03, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join us as we sit down with Toussaint Kirk as he shares his journey into the world of GIS, his inspirational experiences at NorthStar and ConocoPhillips, and his insights on how GIS can revolutionize the world. He also highlights the importance of connecting with the wider GIS community through platforms like Reddit and reflects on the historical moments at Howard University. Tune in to hear about his vision for the future of Geo STEM and how we can ...
May 20, 2025•12 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode of NorthStar GAZE, George Arterberry, Director of Global Supply Chain Operations at Bridgeport Group, shares his journey from military officer to geospatial logistics leader. We explore how mapping pharmacy deserts improves healthcare access and how Bridgeport’s partnership with NorthStar GIS is advancing racial equity and innovation in supply chain operations. George also offers insights into the future of logistics, including drone ...
May 06, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 7
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this electrifying episode we sit down with the multifaceted Dr. Paulette Brown Hines, the founder of Voice Media Ventures and second-generation publisher of the Black Voice News. Dive into Paulette's journey from an English literature professor to a GIS enthusiast mapping Black California. Learn how her work extends to impactful historical tours following the Underground Railroad and promoting Afrofuturism. Discover the pivotal moments that reshap...
Apr 22, 2025•47 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Let us know what you thought of this episode. This episode features a compelling conversation with closing keynote speaker Vernice Miller-Travis, a pioneer in the environmental justice movement. She shares her journey from early activism to conducting groundbreaking research that exposed the link between race and the placement of hazardous waste sites. Throughout the discussion, Vernice highlights the transformative power of data, mapping, and GIS in advocacy efforts, emphasizing how these tools...
Apr 08, 2025•33 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with keynote speaker Linda Harris, who, along with David, gave us an unforgettable experience at the NorthStar of GIS Homecoming 2024. We delve into the profound importance of understanding and experiencing freedom, drawing connections to historical figures like Harriet Tubman. Our guest shares insights on the role of technology and GIS in advancing community empowerment and education. Plus, hear about her trans...
Mar 25, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode captivating Homecoming keynote, Tara Roberts, shares insights from her profound underwater journey to uncover the untold stories of Black history through scuba diving, storytelling, and geospatial exploration. She shares transformative nature of her work in illuminating shipwrecks tied to the transatlantic slave trade, revealing how these narratives connects us all to the past, present, and future. Tara also reflects on the meditative...
Mar 11, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this opening keynote episode of NorthStar GAZE, Clinton Johnson sets the tone for the season by exploring the transformative power of GIS and storytelling in building equitable futures. Reflecting on the theme of Art, Afro-futurism, and Geo, Clinton highlights the intersection of innovation, cultural identity, and geospatial technology as tools to amplify marginalized voices and reimagine justice. Through personal insights and a call to action, th...
Mar 11, 2025•19 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join us in this special episode of The NorthStar Gaze where we celebrate the vibrant and innovative voices from the African diaspora, season 2 will debut our new hosts Yairwo from Kenya and Erica from the US. Listen to their intimate stories and aspirations for the future of geospatial equity and justice. They'll share exciting insights from the NorthStar of GIS 2024 Homecoming event as we delve deeper into conversations about Afrofuturism, mapping, ...
Feb 18, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this, the final episode of season 1 of the NorthStar GAZE, Aisha, along with co-founder Clinton and graphic designer Skye, take listeners on an inspiring journey recounting the creation of the NorthStar logo. They delve into the historical significance of the North Star motif, the story of the Underground Railroad quilting codes, and the deep cultural heritage that influenced its design. Clinton and Sky share their creative process and the rich hi...
Nov 19, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join Aisha Jenkins and Clinton Johnson as they delve into the deeply personal and inspiring origins of NorthStar of GIS, a community-driven effort to create a racially just geography. From the emotional impact of Philando Castile's death to the birth of a vibrant support network, they share the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that shaped NorthStar's journey. Learn about the principles of unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility t...
Nov 18, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Celebrating Black Geographers: Dr. Gladys West's Legacy This special episode of The North Star Gaze podcast celebrates Black Geographers Day by honoring the incredible story of Dr. Gladys B. West, a hidden figure whose pivotal contributions to GPS technology changed the world. Join us as Carolyn Oglesby, Dr. West's daughter, shares intimate details of her mother's journey from a Virginia farm to becoming a key player in global positioning innovation....
Oct 27, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 50
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In the closing keynote speech, Aisha Jenkins highlights the importance of representation and having the right people in the room for conversations that impact marginalized communities. She expresses gratitude to the attendees and sponsors, and acknowledges the significance of standing on hallowed grounds. Aisha emphasizes resilience and resistance in the face of adversity, and calls for the opening of gates and the amplification of marginalized voice...
Oct 15, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode of the North Star Gaze podcast, host Aisha chats with Dr. Dawn Wright, Chief Scientist at ESRI. They talk about Dawn's journey in the GIS field, from her introduction to it as a doctoral student at UC Santa Barbara to her current role at ESRI. They also discuss the importance of racial equity in geospatial worlds, the impact of DEI statements in organizations, and the need for resilience in the face of challenges. Dawn sheds light on ...
Oct 01, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 18
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this podcast episode, join Aisha as she interviews Nick Okafor, the founder of Trubel&Co , a tech justice nonprofit. They discuss the concept of liberatory innovation, the importance of amplifying the voices of those proximate to inequity, and the role of GIS in creating positive change and the role of young people in progressing change starting in their own communities. Support the show...
Sep 17, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this profound conversation between Aisha and Vero, they explore the intersections of geospatial equity, leadership, and personal growth within the African diaspora. Vero, founder of Geospatial Equity Tech and the AfriTech Fellowship, delves into her journey from conservation biology to becoming a geospatial tech consultant, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership and capacity building in the STEM fields. Through stories of resilience and com...
Sep 03, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 16
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode, Kevin Carrington, a hospital executive and founder of the nonprofit, the C3 Initiative, Inc. , discusses his love for GIS and how it all began with his fascination for encyclopedias and maps. He talks about the importance of exposing black kids to the possibilities of STEM and navigating through systemic barriers. Kevin also shares his approach to raising confident black children and the value of community and teamwork. The episode c...
Aug 20, 2024•21 min•Season 1Ep. 15
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Join Aisha as she sits down with Eric Brown of AWS to discuss career advice, the impact of GIS on communities, the importance of being reflective, and workplace diversity. Eric shares his career background in tech, his experience attending the North Star Homecoming event, and the role of AWS in GIS. They delve into the importance of soft skills for introverts and provide insights on navigating perceptions as an introverted Black woman. The conversati...
Aug 06, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 14
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode, Aisha and Jenn Summers discuss the National Academies' Gulf Research Program and its focus on environmental protection and stewardship in the Gulf of Mexico region. Jenn shares her career journey and her passion for using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a communication tool. They also talk about imposter syndrome, the importance of cultural competency in engaging marginalized communities, and the shift towards including diver...
Jul 23, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode, Aisha interviews Gloria Desanker, a GIS consultant and founder of MapNerd Consulting , who shares her journey and experiences as an entrepreneur in the field of environmental and social issues. They discuss the challenges of imposter syndrome and isolation, the importance of representation in the industry, the value of smaller conferences, and navigating the pandemic as a consultant. Gloria also provides career advice for young profe...
Jul 10, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 12
Let us know what you thought of this episode. A conversation between Aisha and Margo Corum, where they discuss Margo's role as a visiting scientist at the National Academies and her current sabbatical, the workshops she is running for the National Science Foundation, the challenges of imposter syndrome, the value of smaller events for networking, and the themes of resilience and resistance. Support the show...
Jun 25, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 11
Let us know what you thought of this episode. Today's podcast features an engaging conversation between Aisha and Michael Feldman. Michael shares his career path, from working on the Census of Marine Life to his current role at the National Academy of Sciences in the Gulf Research Program. The discussion revolves around the importance of addressing environmental challenges in the Gulf region and supporting its communities for a sustainable and resilient future. They also delve into topics like m...
Jun 11, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 10
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode, Aisha sat down with Frank Romo , a community organizer, and activist from Los Angeles, discusses the work of Romo GIS in using technology for social change and social impact. He highlights their K-12 education program in Detroit, where they teach students and community members how to leverage GIS for community impact. Frank also emphasizes the importance of data ownership, freedom of information, and the role of GIS in empowering mar...
May 28, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this conversation, the host interviews Dr. Amy, an Associate Professor of Africana Studies and Data Science at Howard University. They discuss Dr. Amy's career journey, the importance of owning and knowing who owns data, and the significance of ethics and trustworthiness in data science. They also highlight the unique experience of attending an HBCU and the resilience of the Black community. Lastly, they touch on the relevance of GIS and the power...
May 14, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 8
Let us know what you thought of this episode. In this episode Aisha has a conversation with Dr. Tony Graham , a retired professor and GIS pioneer, discussing the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the challenges and significance of teaching GIS, and the future of GIS in promoting environmental justice. See the link to HBCU CEJST Justice 40 Executive Order Bullard Center Bloomberg Article Black History Month 2024 Panel Discussion Support the show...
Apr 30, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 7
