Overview:In this episode of Blockchain Disruptors, we welcome an extraordinary expert in AI and blockchain. The conversation begins with an exploration of their journey into technology, tracing back to their childhood curiosity. Our guest shares a memorable story from second grade, where a competitive spirit sparked their interest in computers, despite initial barriers faced as a girl in a male-dominated field. The episode dives into themes of perseverance, the importance of access to education in technology, and how early experiences can shape one's career path. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on breaking barriers and pursuing passions in the ever-evolving tech landscape. What you'll learn: 1 - Shawna's story of resilience and determination, overcoming biases in the educational system to become a leader in AI and blockchain. She discusses her transition from law to becoming a legal technologist and eventually an expert in AI, working on projects like Watson Legal at IBM. Her passion for AI and how it led her to join Guardrail Technologies, where she focuses on addressing the risks associated with AI, such as misinformation and disinformation, by developing systems that ensure responsible AI use. 2 - Shawna's insights on the critical balance between leveraging AI's potential and mitigating its risks. About Shawnna Hoffman: Ms. Hoffman serves as the ServiceNow IT Transformation Solution Sales Manager for the United States Federal Government focusing on empowering IT workflows across ITOM, ITAM, ITBM, DevOps, Security and Risk. Prior to ServiceNow, she spent a decade at IBM in Digital Transformation & Strategy in positions including Co-Leader of the Global Watson AI Legal Practice. She is a sought-after Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Subject Matter Expert and has spoken at the United Nations at Blockchain for Impact (2018) and the UN Data Forum (2021 & 2020). Show notes: In this episode of Blockchain Disruptors, we dive into the fascinating journey of our guest, an expert in AI and blockchain technology. The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at their early curiosity for computers, sparked by a competition with a classmate in second grade. Our guest shares how their determination led them to pursue knowledge in a field that was largely dominated by boys at the time. With anecdotes from their childhood and insights into the evolution of technology, this episode highlights the importance of curiosity and perseverance in shaping a successful career in emerging tech. Join us as we explore the intersection of AI and blockchain through the lens of personal experience and professional expertise. Links and Resources: Shawnna Hoffman's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnnahoffman/www.guardrail.tech Ginnette Harvey LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnetteharvey/⁠   Web3 and Blockchain recruitment: ⁠https://www.bloc-haus.com/⁠   Are you being paid fairly? Take the survey: ⁠https://www.bloc-haus.com/salary-survey/⁠  Key words: Web3, AI, blockchain, curiosity, computers,computers, legal technologist, ethical hacking, AI, Watson Legal,AI, blockchain, quantum computing, misinformation, Guardrail,AI, industrial revolution, Gen AI, responsible programs, data collection,GenAI, black box, Fact Checker, misinformation, intellectual property,AI, data, Industrial Revolution, boards, risks,AI systems, data masking, misinformation, proprietary information, security risks,AI, gateway, proprietary, process, innovation,Gen AI, healthcare, mental health, talent readiness, anomalies,reskilling, AI, quantum computing, job satisfaction, DEI,reskilling, homelessness, technology, women, AI,AI, education, children, blockchain, efficiency,AI, automation, creativity, medical professionals, exploration