Tacos and Tech Podcast
Neal Bloom
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The Top Tech Awards at Snapdragon Stadium!
In this special edition of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we recorded live from Snapdragon Stadium during the 2025 Top Tech Awards San Diego. We set up shop right on the concourse and captured conversations with the builders, technologists, students, and community leaders shaping the region’s innovation economy. From cybersecurity to community impact, from AI in education to employee scheduling powered by LLMs—this episode captures the real pulse of San Diego tech, one voice at a time. Oh, and plenty of taco recommendations. Episode Highlights: * Julie Oliveira, Director of Tech at South Bay Union School District, shares how COVID reshaped education and why student creation over consumption is key. * RingCentral’s Erica and Natalie talk AI, seamless work-life blending, and mobile-first sales workflows. * John Stern (Ringpin) shares how location-based QR tech is transforming retail hiring. * Bill Smith (Chrome Roads) explains how a smart ID badge is changing how workers log in, stay secure, and get help fast. * Cal State San Marcos and SDSU students reflect on entering the workforce during the AI boom - and how they’re already using AI to job hunt. * Citroen Cooperman leaders dive into fractional CFO services, ERP upgrades, and what happens when AI + accounting get serious. * Jeff Blanton (Conscious Curiosity SD) breaks down how B Corps and values -driven leadership are shaping a new tech economy. * Marco Thompson (Arcus Nexus) recaps a decade of cross-border startup support and nearshoring before it was cool. * Cheryl Goodman (Mind the Machine podcast) explores AI’s human implications and why the next big thing isn’t the tool - but the culture shift it forces. * European founders visiting via the YTILI program reflect on their first impressions of San Diego’s startup scene. * Ron Nielakes and Shirin Alipana highlight how the YMCA of Escondido is evolving to serve its community with purpose, tech, and tacos. Taco Intel You Didn’t Know You Needed: * Anaheim’s Tacos Los Cholos and Escondido’s TJ Tacos made the list * Learn about the loaded fries that may or may not have been invented in North County * Where to find the best post-party tacos near Snapdragon Stadium (hint: Tacos El Gordo and Puesto) 🔗 Connect & Explore: * Top Tech Awards San Diego * Mind the Machine podcast * Arcus Nexus * Citroen Cooperman * YMCA Escondido This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe
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