MidwestCon

In this episode, Benjamin Ko CEO of Kaleidoscope Innovation shares why empathy isn’t a soft skill but a design superpower. From developing surgical tools shaped by the human hand to wearables that restore dignity to spinal cord patients, his team proves that true innovation doesn’t come from code alone it comes from exposure. Exposure to different perspectives, people, and lived realities. That’s how leaders, builders, and creators can resist the algorithm’s trap and design a future that actually feels human. If AI can optimize everything, empathy is what makes us matter. Listen in, and see how you can build with both precision. and presence. Link to full episode episode #DisruptionNow #Podcast in the link on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. 1819 Innovation Hub

Every conversation, every laugh, every connection — that’s what MidwestCon is built on. Our attendees are the reason we do this. They represent the curiosity, collaboration, and creativity that make emerging technology accessible, inclusive, and deeply human. Each year, this community reminds us that innovation isn’t only about the tools we build — it’s about the people who use them to imagine something better. 🫶 To everyone who joined us at #MWC2025, thank you for bringing your energy, your questions, and your vision for the future. You are the movement. 📰 Stay connected to stories at the intersection of people and innovation — subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MWC2025 #MidwestCon #DisruptionNow #TechCommunity #HumanCenteredInnovation #EmergingTech #InnovationForAll #InclusiveTech #AIandHumanity #FutureOfWork #MidwestTech

Bharath Prabhakaran, Professor and AI Research Leader at the University of Cincinnati, shared how his team is transforming fragmented data into a trusted foundation for innovation. 🎙️ “Data is the new digital currency. With generative AI, everything depends on the quality of the data behind it.” Bharath discussed how UC built a data lakehouse infrastructure — a unified “source of truth” designed to ensure data quality, security, and governance. By integrating academic, research, and health data into a single ecosystem, the goal is to turn information chaos into clarity. He also unveiled Bearcat GPT, UC’s private, secure language model designed to safely explore generative AI in real academic and research settings — already tested by over 1,000 pilot users. 💬 “We have to get past the mental block and see this for what it is — the future. Those who embrace it will be ready for what’s next.” This episode is a must-listen for anyone shaping data strategy, education, or AI innovation. 🎧 Listen now on the Disruption Now Podcast → disruptionnow.com 📰 Stay ahead on the future of data and AI — subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #DisruptionNow #MidwestCon #BharathPrabhakaran #DataStrategy #AIInnovation #BearcatGPT #DataLakehouse #UniversityOfCincinnati #AILeadership #GenerativeAI #TechForImpact #AIFuture

At #MWC2025, a group of leaders shared how AI is becoming an essential part of business, creativity, and even ministry — helping teams solve problems and reach people in new, meaningful ways. Their conversation explored how organizations are learning to embed AI into daily work, how diverse teams approach innovation differently, and how purpose-driven leadership shapes the technology we build. 💬 “AI is going to be embedded into everyday life — like Outlook or email. It’s becoming part of how we work.” 💬 “When people from different backgrounds come together, creativity expands. You start solving problems you couldn’t even see before.” 💬 “For many of us in ministry, technology is a mission field — it’s how we reach the next generation and share messages that matter.” This session highlighted that AI isn’t just technical — it’s transformational, when used to empower communities, amplify purpose, and extend impact across every industry and calling. 📰 Stay connected to stories at the intersection of innovation, purpose, and people — subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MWC2025 #MidwestCon #AIandPurpose #FaithAndTech #AIinBusiness #InnovationLeadership #InclusiveTech #AIforGood #DigitalMinistry #TechForImpact #FutureOfWork #MidwestTech

At #MWC2025, Noelle Russell opened her hands-on workshop with a quote that reframed how we think about success — not in terms of profit or productivity, but in laughter, respect, and positive impact. She shared a reflection from Jeff Bezos’ own fridge: “To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children… to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived — this is to have succeeded.” That message set the tone for a workshop focused on confidence, collaboration, and curiosity. Participants explored AI tools, discussed their potential, and discovered how accessible innovation can be when guided by human values. As the session closed, attendees reflected on their experiences — one spoke about gaining new confidence and skills, another about being the first woman in her family to attend, and one shared she couldn’t wait to send the chatbot to her niece so the next generation can learn, too. 💡 The workshop captured what MidwestCon is all about: learning together, growing together, and creating technology that uplifts people. 📰 For more stories of purpose-driven innovation, subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MWC2025 #MidwestCon #NoelleRussell #AIWorkshop #AIandLearning #HumanCenteredAI #EmpowermentThroughTech #WomenInTech #TechEducation #AILeadership #InnovationCulture #MidwestTech

During her session at #MWC2025, Noelle Russell challenged the audience to think deeply about the systems we’re building — and who they serve. She spoke about the ethical responsibilities that come with AI’s rapid evolution: from how we manage models and data privacy to how we handle what happens when an AI system outgrows its purpose. “We are at a point where some AI models have lived long enough to die — and to be sold on the open internet. That means your data, and your customer’s data, can be part of that lifecycle if we don’t think ahead.” — Noelle Russell Her analogy of “baby tigers” — AI systems that grow as they’re fed with data — reminded everyone that innovation requires foresight, governance, and shared accountability. 💡 This session opened an essential dialogue on responsible data stewardship, AI ethics, and the long-term impact of how we train and sustain intelligent systems. 📰 Stay informed about conversations shaping the future of AI and responsibility — subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MWC2025 #MidwestCon #NoelleRussell #AIethics #ResponsibleAI #DataGovernance #AIandSociety #EthicalInnovation #TechForImpact #FutureOfAI #AIleadership #MidwestTech

Financial innovation took center stage at #MWC2025 during Harnessing AI for Smarter Real Estate and Mortgage Strategies, led by Don Daniel, Founder & CEO of PILL Method. This session explored how AI-driven financial systems can create new pathways for wealth, helping homebuyers and investors leverage data for more strategic and efficient outcomes. 💡 Key Insights: -AI tools can help significantly reduce interest payments and optimize amortization schedules. -Advanced algorithms open opportunities for faster debt resolution and improved cash flow. -Financial intelligence grows stronger when technology, education, and strategy align. The session highlighted how integrating AI with financial systems empowers people to build equity, increase profitability, and make informed, sustainable decisions about their financial futures. 📰 For the latest on AI innovation and financial transformation, subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MWC2025 #MidwestCon #PILLMethod #DonDaniel #AIinFinance #FintechInnovation #RealEstateAI #MortgageTech #FinancialEmpowerment #TechForImpact #AIandWealth #MidwestTech

Innovation moves fast — regulation can’t afford to fall behind. Join Rob Richardson, Founder of Disruption Now and MidwestCon, as he moderates a Fireside Chat with Paul S. Atkins, former SEC Chairman, exploring how leaders can balance AI, fintech, and regulatory innovation in a rapidly changing digital economy. 🗓 Monday, October 20, 2025 🕞 3:30 PM 📍 Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Center, Washington, DC 🎟️ Register here: dcstw.com 💥 Presented as part of DC Startup & Tech Week (Formerly DC Startup Week) Startup Week 2025 (hashtag #DCSTW25) Expect bold insights on the intersection of innovation, trust, and responsible growth — and what it means for the next generation of tech and policy leaders. 📰 Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter → https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #DCStartupWeek #MidwestCon #DisruptionNow #InnovationPolicy #AIandRegulation #ResponsibleInnovation #FintechReform #TechLeadership #AIFuture #DCSTW25 #BloombergCenter

“Talk tech. Speak human.” That was the closing message Abdie Mohamed , Lead Cloud Governance Engineer at Lockheed Martin, during his session MidwestCon 2025 — and it’s one every professional in tech should hear. Abdie reminded us that communication is a skill you practice, not just a trait you have. Just like coding, engineering, or design — great leadership and effective speaking take reps, feedback, and commitment. “If you want to be an effective communicator, leader, or public speaker — you’ve got to work on your game like a professional.” That’s the MidWestCon mindset: technical mastery meets personal growth. Whether you’re building in AI, cloud, or leadership — investing in your ability to connect and communicate is how innovation truly scales. ✨ Keep learning, keep leveling up — and remember: talk tech, speak human. 👉 For more insights from MidWestCon speakers and innovators shaping the future of tech, subscribe to the Disruption Now Newsletter: https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MidWestCon #DisruptionNow #LockheedMartin #AIMindset #TechLeadership #CloudEngineering #CommunicationSkills #TechEvents #ProfessionalGrowth #InnovationCulture #PublicSpeaking #EmergingTech #AIInnovation #FutureOfWork #TalkTechSpeakHuman

Meet Erica Harper, a nurse from Texas who came to MidWestCon expecting to learn about tools — and left inspired by transformation. What started as a trip to support her mother’s nonprofit turned into a powerful experience exploring how AI is reshaping healthcare, community impact, and everyday life. “I thought I’d just be learning how to use AI engines — but the panelists showed me how AI is affecting the world, people’s businesses, and our future. It exceeded my expectations exponentially.” That’s what MidWestCon is all about — bringing together curious minds, innovators, and everyday professionals to discover how AI can unlock new potential in every industry. 💡 Whether you’re a founder, creative, or professional shaping change in your community — MidWestCon is where new ideas find momentum. 👉 Stay ahead of the curve. Get the latest insights and updates by subscribing to the Disruption Now Newsletter: https://lnkd.in/e_-bdVGN #MidWestCon #DisruptionNow #AIInnovation #TechEvents #CommunityImpact #AIinHealthcare #Automation #EmergingTech #FutureOfWork #AIForGood #InnovationLeaders #StartupEcosystem #TechConference2025 #ArtificialIntelligence