Blacksky Algorithms: Building Decentralized Social Media with Rudy Fraser
In this episode of Stats On Stats, we’re joined by Rudy Fraser, founder of Blacksky Algorithms and fellow at Harvard's Berkman Klein Center. Rudy unpacks his journey from growing up in Queens to leading one of the most innovative decentralized social projects online. He explains how Blacksky, a Black-led community built on the BlueSky protocol, is reimagining content moderation, data ownership, and online safetyGuest Connect:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudy-fraser/ Blacksky Algorithms: https://www.blackskyweb.xyz/ Stats on Stats ResourcesCode & Culture: https://www.statsonstats.io/flipbooks | https://www.codeculturecollective.io Merch: https://www.statsonstats.io/shop LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/statsonstatspodcast Stats on Stats Partners & AffiliatesHacker HaltedWebsite: https://hackerhalted.com/ Use Discount Code: "𝐬𝐨𝐬𝐡𝐡𝟐𝟓" for 15% offAntisyphon TrainingWebsite: https://www.antisyphontraining.com MAD20 TrainingWebsite: https://mad20.io Discount Code: STATSONSTATS15Ellington Cyber Academy: https://kenneth-ellington.mykajabi.com Discount Code: STATSONSTATSKevtech AcademyWebsite: https://www.kevtechitsupport.com Dream Chaser's Coffee Website: https://dreamchaserscoffee.com Discount code: STATSONSTATSPodcasts We LikeCode & CultureYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CodeCultureCollectivePodcast DEM Tech FolksWebsite: https://linktr.ee/developeverymind IntrusionsInDepthWebsite: https://www.intrusionsindepth.com Chapters00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker06:57 Rudy's Background and Early Influences14:57 Navigating Power and Access in Technology19:50 Career Journey and Early Roles in Tech28:04 Reflections on Technology Waves and Cynicism33:52 Understanding Black Sky: Community and Company39:26 Decentralized Social Media: A New Paradigm50:51 Elevator Pitch: Building for the Community57:29 Preparing for Launch Challenges-----------------------------------------------------Episode was shot and edited at BlueBox Studio Tampahttps://blueboxdigital.com/bluebox-studio/
18 Aug 1h 7min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Veronika
Join us for an insightful conversation at DEF CON 33 as we sit down with Veronika, a passionate cybersecurity enthusiast who has been immersed in the field since middle school. She shares her journey into cybersecurity, her experiences with Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, and more.Veronika discusses the importance of mentorship and she offers valuable advice for anyone feeling out of place in the field and stresses the importance of staying true to oneself.
11 Aug 5min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Leron
Join us for an insightful conversation at DEF CON 33! Tiffiny interviews Leron, live from the Blacks in Cybersecurity Village, as he shares his experience in creating Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges.Discover the mindset behind designing challenges that cater to both beginners and experienced professionals, and get valuable tips for first-time CTF participants. Leron highlights the importance of practice and points to resources like Hack the Box, TryHackMe, and more for newcomers to enhance their skills.Guest ConnectLeron GrayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leron-gray/Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
11 Aug 7min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Dietrich
Join us for a conversation with Dietrich at DEF CON 33, live from the Blacks in Cybersecurity Village. Dietrich shares his journey with Respect the Tech and discusses the vital role community plays in cybersecurity.Learn how the collaboration between Respect the Tech and Blacks in Cybersecurity is creating a supportive space for learning, networking, and mentorship. Dietrich also delves into his experiences in blue team operations, the psychology behind cybersecurity, and the challenges of insider threat investigations.Guest ConnectDietrich BempahLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dietrich-bempah/Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
11 Aug 7min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Mariah
Join us for a conversation with Mariah, recorded live at DEF CON 33 in the Blacks in Cybersecurity Village! Mariah shares her unique journey from wedding planning to the world of tech and cybersecurity.Mariah discusses her transition into tech during the pandemic, her experiences in help desk and project management, and how a mentorship program helped her land her first job in cybersecurity. She emphasizes the importance of networking, asking questions, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the learning process.Whether you're considering a career in tech or just looking for some life advice, Mariah's insights and encouragement will resonate with you. Tune in to hear her valuable tips on resources, networking, and the power of believing in yourself!Guest ConnectMariah HardyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylermariahhardy/Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
10 Aug 3min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Rahiem
Join us for a conversation with Rahiem, a dedicated member of the Blacks in Cybersecurity community. With five years of DEF CON experience and a passion for media coverage, photography, and design, Rahiem reflects on his journey into tech and the critical importance of representation in the industry.Guest ConnectRahiem ThompsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahiemthompson/Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
10 Aug 5min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Yassin & Marc
Join us for a conversation with Marc Lawrence and Yassin Sabir, the co-founders of Respect the Tech. They share their DEF CON 33 experience, including hosting their own Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions and a unique AI bank chatbot challenge designed to educate participants on vulnerabilities in AI systems.In this discussion, they highlight the importance of community, particularly within the Blacks in Cybersecurity network, and how it empowers individuals to thrive in tech. Marc and Yassin also preview their upcoming event, Respect Day, where tech professionals can dive into hands-on workshops and challenges.Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, this conversation is filled with valuable insights and advice on breaking into cybersecurity. Don’t miss their tips for success and resources for aspiring tech professionals!Guest ConnectMarc LawrenceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcanthonylawrence/Yassin SabirLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yassin-sabir-csap-crtp-01b470157/Respect the TechWebsite: https://www.respectthetech.us/Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
9 Aug 11min
Stats on Stats x B.I.C. @ DEF CON 33: Finding Your Village with Samantha
Join us for a conversation with Samantha, a passionate cybersecurity professional and volunteer with Blacks in Cybersecurity (BIC). She shares her inspiring journey from social work to becoming a pen tester, overcoming fears and challenges along the way.Samantha reflects on her transformative experience at DEF CON, where the Blacks in Cybersecurity Village offered a safe and supportive environment. As the leader of the Black Women in Cybersecurity initiative, she is committed to uplifting Black women in the field through mentorship, resources, and community.We dive into the importance of representation in tech, the upcoming Black Women in Cybersecurity cohort, and Samantha’s valuable advice for anyone looking to succeed in the tech industry.Blacks in CybersecurityWebsite: https://www.blacksincyberconf.com/
9 Aug 3min
