Episode 68 – Tech, Law, and Media Magic

Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen

Guest: Dr. Jasmine McNealy

https://jasminemcnealy.com

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Episode Description:

In this engaging episode of the Modern Figures podcast, hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen welcome the multifaceted Dr. Jasmine McNealy. The conversation takes an inspiring dive into the world of journalism, law, and public interest technology. As a proponent for critical thinking and policy influence, Dr. McNealy shares her unique trajectory and the importance of her work concerning current and emerging tech issues.

The episode kicks off with Dr. McNealy’s reflections on her educational path and early interests, which evolved from a fascination with architecture and art to a purposeful career in journalism and law. Dr. McNealy shares insightful experiences from her involvement in pre-college programs, emphasizing the influence these early exposures had on her career choices. The conversation navigates through critical topics in AI, privacy, and policy, highlighting Dr. McNealy’s significant work and her perspective on the intersection of media, technology, and social determinants such as geography.

Key Takeaways:

• Jasmine McNealy’s journey reflects a multifaceted career spanning journalism, law, technology, and social sciences with a focus on media and technology’s influence on law and policy.
  
• Recognizing the importance of extracurricular programs, Dr. McNealy encourages engaging with communities outside academia to gain a balanced perspective and reduce stress.
  
• Emphasizing the urgent need for an omnibus federal data protection or privacy law in the U.S., Dr. McNealy spotlights the lack of nationwide uniformity in dealing with artificial intelligence and associated technologies.
  
• The episode calls attention to the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, where geography dramatically impacts access to technology and should be a focal point in AI and policy discussions.
  
• McNealy encourages a broad range of academic and professional backgrounds as pathways into careers focused on emerging media, technology, and policy.
  

Jasmine’s Bio:-::

Jasmine McNealy is an attorney, critical public interest technologist, and social scientist who studies emerging media & technology with a view toward influencing law and policy. Her research emphasizes technological ecosystems, privacy, surveillance, and data governance. She is a Senior Fellow in Tech Policy with the Mozilla Foundation, associate professor at the University of Florida, and a Faculty Associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. Jasmine is also the founder and principal of The Alveary LLC.