The Invisible Men podcast

26:18

How do you know when it’s time to make your next big career move? With International Women’s Day around the corner, we are excited to feature Avni Patel Thompson, Founder and CEO of Milo. Avni is building technology that directly supports the often overlooked emotional and logistical labor that falls on parents—especially women. Milo is an AI assistant designed to help families manage that invisible load more efficiently. In this episode, Avni shares her journey from studying chemistry to holding leadership roles at global brands like Adidas and Starbucks, to launching her own ventures. She discusses how she approaches career transitions, the importance of unpleasant experiences, and why she’s focused on making everyday life easier for parents. [01:26] Avni's University Days and Early Career [04:36] Non-Linear Career Paths [05:16] Pursuing Steep Learning Curves [11:51] Entrepreneurship and Safety Nets [15:22] Lived Experiences and Milo [19:55] Avni’s In Her Ellement Moment [20:03] Reflections Links: Avni Patel Thompson on LinkedIn Suchi Srinivasan on LinkedIn Kamila Rakhimova on LinkedIn Ipsos report on the future of parenting About In Her Ellement: In Her Ellement highlights the women and allies leading the charge in digital, business, and technology innovation. Through engaging conversations, the podcast explores their journeys—celebrating successes and acknowledging the balance between work and family. Most importantly, it asks: when was the moment you realized you hadn’t just arrived—you were truly in your element? About The Hosts: Suchi Srinivasan is an expert in AI and digital transformation. Originally from India, her career includes roles at trailblazing organizations like Bell Labs and Microsoft. In 2011, she co-founded the Cleanweb Hackathon, a global initiative driving IT-powered climate solutions with over 10,000 members across 25+ countries. She also advises Women in Cloud, aiming to create $1B in economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs by 2030. Kamila Rakhimova is a fintech leader whose journey took her from Tajikistan to the U.S., where she built a career on her own terms. Leveraging her English proficiency and international relations expertise, she discovered the power of microfinance and moved to the U.S., eventually leading Amazon's Alexa Fund to support underrepresented founders. Subscribe to In Her Ellement on your podcast app of choice to hear meaningful conversations with women in digital, business, and technology.…

The Invisible Men

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In the aftermath of Rodney King's assault by police officers in the 90s and his attackers' subsequent acquittal, Ian Rowe and Nique Fajors grew weary of a public narrative proclaiming that black men in America were doomed to failure under an oppressive system. A feeling of invisibleness struck both Ian and Nique as the stories of men like them became increasingly ignored in the public eye. So they launched “The Invisible Men,” a documentary telling the stories of amazing black men at Harvard University who had overcome structural barriers and achieved success. Today, Ian and Nique have resurrected “The Invisible Men” as a weekly podcast. Each week, they explore the stories of exceptional men who have built successful lives by leaning on the core principles of family, faith, free enterprise, and entrepreneurship. Integral to the story of “The Invisible Men” is “Darryl,” a 16 year-old black teenager Ian and Nique imagined in the original documentary, who lives in the urban city of “Forgotten, USA” and desires to build a better life for himself but sometimes feels that success is out of his reach. Ian and Nique asked each of the men in their original documentary to advise “Darryl” on how he can forge a path to excellence and empowerment. Join Ian and Nique today for episodes of “The Invisible Men” every week as they hear the stories of incredible men and learn what advice they have for “Darryl” today!

47 episodes

The Invisible Men

updated 5 days ago

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47 episodes

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1
Clifton Duncan’s One Man Show 58:11

5 days ago58:11

58:11

In this episode of the Invisible Men , Ian engages in a deep conversation with Clifton Duncan, a classically trained actor and playwright. They explore Clifton’s unique upbringing across different cultures, his journey of racial awareness, and the complexities of navigating identity within the acting community. Clifton shares his experiences in theater, the impact of racial dynamics, and a pivotal moment that shifted his perspective on race. The discussion culminates in a reflection on liberation from societal constraints and the importance of seeing oneself beyond racial identity. Duncan discusses the profound influence of Thomas Sowell on his life and work, particularly in the context of creating a one-man show about Sowell. They explore Sowell’s journey from a high school dropout to a revered economist and intellectual, emphasizing the importance of culture, personal responsibility, and the need for evidence-based thinking. Duncan shares insights on how Sowell’s ideas can empower the next generation, encouraging young people to think for themselves and not be constrained by societal narratives.…

1
Ian Rowe and Nique Fajors: DEI’s Out. MEI’s In? 31:25

11 days ago31:25

31:25

In this episode, Nique and Ian discuss Harvard economist Roland Fryer’s proposal to transition from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI) in corporate and educational contexts. They explore the implications of this shift, the challenges posed by current educational disparities, and the importance of merit in creating opportunities. The conversation highlights the performative nature of DEI initiatives and the need for a more honest dialogue about the root causes of inequality. Ultimately, they advocate for a focus on merit as a means to achieve true diversity and excellence in society.…

1
Devon Westhill: Equality Doesn’t Equal Equity | THE INVISIBLE MEN 56:18

18 days ago56:18

56:18

In this episode of the Invisible Men , Ian and Nique engage with Devon Westhill, president of the Center for Equal Opportunity, discussing his personal journey growing up as a mixed-race child in the South, the dynamics of race and education, the role of single mothers, and the importance of social safety nets. The conversation also delves into the distinction between equal opportunity and equity in today's society, emphasizing the need for character-based judgment over race-based outcomes. Devon discusses the complexities of racial representation in corporate America, the shifting dynamics of equity and inclusion, and the potential impact of AI on the legal profession. He reflects on cultural changes in sports, the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions on education, and offers advice to the younger generation about authenticity and opportunity.…

1
Darius Jones: Race and Empowerment 49:10

24 days ago49:10

49:10

In this episode of the Invisible Men , Ian Rowe and Nique Fajors engage in a deep conversation with Darius Jones, founder of the National Black Empowerment Council. Darius shares his upbringing in a family of educators involved in the civil rights movement, which shaped his understanding of race and empowerment. He discusses the importance of political engagement and the need for effective black leadership, emphasizing that not all leaders who share racial identity will prioritize the community's needs. The conversation also highlights the mission of the National Black Empowerment Council in fostering leadership and creating positive change at the municipal level, as well as the vital role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in empowering black leaders. Darius Jones discusses the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the complexities surrounding identity and opportunity, and the importance of merit in the black community. He emphasizes the need for innovative strategies to navigate new opportunities and the significance of guarding one's mental space. Darius also shares insights on influential figures in the black community and offers advice for the next generation, highlighting the power of thoughts in shaping reality.…

1
Revitalizing North Tulsa 47:43

5 weeks ago47:43

47:43

Philip Abode, the lead pastor of Crossover Bible Church and executive director of Crossover Preparatory Academy, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his life journey, the role that faith played in his upbringing, and his work to promote North Tulsa’s flourishing. The conversation highlights the comprehensive community development initiatives he and his colleagues have implemented, including youth sports programs, educational institutions, and healthcare services, all aimed at restoring and empowering their community. He also highlights the need for empowerment through education and development, sharing insights on the rituals and culture established at Crossover.…

1
From DEI Chief to DEI Critic 47:51

6 weeks ago47:51

47:51

Erec Smith, a research fellow at the Cato Institute, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his life journey, “wokeism,” and the effects and future of DEI initiatives. Erec shares his experiences as a chief diversity officer and critiques the current state of DEI, arguing that it has strayed from its original purpose. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities facing DEI in the future, as well as the complex relationship between freedom and racism in the black community. He also discusses his resignation from academia due to the challenges posed by the prevailing woke culture. He emphasizes the importance of agency and self-reliance, arguing against the victim narrative often promoted in academic circles. Smith expresses optimism about shifts in corporate America and the need for mentorship programs that truly support diverse individuals. He advocates for a rethinking of diversity and inclusion initiatives, suggesting a focus on racelessness and individual agency instead.…

1
Michael Bowen: Championing Intellectual Diversity Within the Black Community 56:24

7 weeks ago56:24

56:24

Michael Bowen, a founding member of Free Black Thought , joins Ian and Nique to discuss themes ranging from race, identity, and the important intellectual diversity within the black community. The conversation delves into Michael's early awareness of race, the cultural significance of jazz and the Black Arts Movement, his experiences in college and fraternity life, the role of black engineers, educational disparities, and the founding of Free Black Thought , which challenges prevailing narratives about race and achievement.…

1
Sarah and Bruce Bond: Father-Daughter Success Story 1:14:26

8 weeks ago1:14:26

1:14:26

Sarah Bond, the president of Xbox, and Bruce Bond, her father, join Ian and Nique to discuss their relationship, lessons learned from their lives and careers, and their experience of race in America.

1
Bob Woodson: Civil Rights Icon 45:06

9 weeks ago45:06

45:06

Bob Woodson, founder of the Woodson Center, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his career, the future and history of the civil rights movement, and how to promote equal opportunity for all Americans. Subscribe for more episodes of The Invisible Men .

1
Irvin Scott on the importance of faith and fatherhood 41:36

3 years ago41:36

41:36

This week, Ian and Nique are joined by Dr. Irvin Scott – director of the Leadership Institute for Faith and Education at Harvard University and former deputy director for K-12 education at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, with over twenty years of experience working as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and chief academic officer. Dr. Scott describes the core elements of what it means to raise three African-American boys: Bibles, books, and balls – all of which transcend race and help affirm one’s place in the world. Dr. Scott believes fatherhood is critical to human flourishing and explains that policymakers need to address what is causing the absences of fathers, particularly in African-American communities. Watch the full episode to hear the impact that a ninth-grade English assignment had on his academic development and to hear his words of advice to “Darryl.” Note: If you would like to see all episodes of The Invisible Men, please go to: www.invisible.men…

1
Shelby Steele on the powerful influence of white guilt 1:13:34

3 years ago1:13:34

1:13:34

In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Shelby Steele – author, columnist, documentary maker, and Senior Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Shelby shares how growing up in the milieu of the civil rights movement caused him to be intellectually engrossed in debates about race and America from an early age. His father, despite lacking even a high education himself, pushed Shelby to believe that black people could overcome barriers and achieve great things in life with the right opportunities and the proper attitude. Later, Shelby describes how white guilt – the idea that white people today are guilty of all past historical injustices – is the most powerful force in western culture. Watch the full episode to hear Shelby describe the impact this has on black America and to hear his words of advice to “Darryl.”…

1
Ian and Nique on the Olympics and the importance of high expectations 22:57

4 years ago22:57

22:57

In this special episode, Ian and Nique engage in a one-on-one conversation about key takeaways from the Tokyo Olympics. They also share their reaction to a recent bill signed by Oregon Governor Kate Brown that eliminates the need for students to test proficient in reading, writing, and math in order to graduate high school. Their discussion centers around “Darryl’s” likely reaction to both events. Watch the full episode to hear how Ian and Nique would explain these events to “Darryl.”…

1
James Hill on building crypto business and driving community development 34:18

4 years ago34:18

34:18

In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by James Hill — software development architect, entrepreneur, U.S. Army veteran, and inventor of a new crypto technology called BracketChain. James and his wife started a company in 2014 called Alambda systems, a successful venture that currently has partnerships with Boeing, Microsoft, and Peraton. James runs a software-developing academy and focuses his efforts toward helping implement traditional approaches of investing, like short-selling, by using crypto technology. James shares how his upbringing in a majority white neighborhood inspired him to “bulldoze through” any misguided racial stereotypes and fueled his desire to succeed in both technology and business. Watch the full episode to hear James describe the impact that a summer job had on his personal development and to hear his words of advice for “Darryl.”…

1
Scott Hilton-Clarke on finding your inner music and purpose 44:59

4 years ago44:59

44:59

In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Scott Hilton-Clarke — the founder of Inspiration Laboratories, a firm devoted to inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives to step into their greatness and realize their visions for the future. Scott is a Founding Member of the Board of Governors for the University of Trinidad and Tobago and a graduate of Harvard Business School. He has spent over 25 years helping companies raise their levels of impact through cultivating leadership acumen and enhancing workplace synergy one department, one manager, one contributor at a time. Scott's passions go beyond the workplace. He imagines a world where children are encouraged to dream and cultivate their own greatness so they can confidently bring what makes them extraordinary to the world. Watch the full episode to hear Scott describe how a near-death experience shaped his perspective and to hear his words of advice for “Darryl.”…

1
Barry Johnson on what it means to be a “possibilitist” 51:48

4 years ago51:48