AI, Community, and Comebacks: The Real Tech Journey

AI, Community, and Comebacks: The Real Tech Journey

From NotableBIT (Notable & Black in Tech) by B Donald Harris

April 7, 2026 · 1h 20m · Season 2 · Episode 2

About this episode

In this episode, JC Smiley discusses his journey in tech, emphasizing the importance of community and access.

In this episode, we sit down with JC Smiley , Founder of Tech Scene Media, to talk about building community, navigating tech, and creating access where it doesn’t exist. JC shares his journey—from stepping away from tech for nearly 20 years to teaching himself again and building a platform that connects Memphis’ growing tech ecosystem. We also dive into: How AI is changing how developers work Why community is the real advantage in tech The importance of visibility and access Lessons from building without a roadmap Why it’s never too late to get back into tech This conversation is for builders, creators, and anyone trying to find their place in tech. 🎯 Key Takeaway: Tech isn’t just about skills—it’s about community, access, and showing people they belong. 🔗 Connect with JC Smiley: 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcsmileyjr/ https://memphistechscene.beehiiv.com/ 🚀 Join the movement: BIT Voices is building a new kind of tech community—where builders connect, collaborate, and grow. https://bitvoices.network

People in this episode

Host: B Donald Harris

Guest: JC Smiley

Topics covered

  • AI in tech
  • community building
  • access in technology
  • personal journey
  • visibility in tech
  • comebacks in career

Keywords

  • AI
  • community
  • tech ecosystem
  • visibility
  • access
  • comebacks
  • career
  • Memphis

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tech Scene Media, BIT Voices

Places: Memphis

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