Breaking the Mold: A Tech Exec's Bold Plan to Fix Leadership & Social Impact

This episode features Mai Moore, a dynamic force in leadership and social impact, as she sits down with host Jason Rigby to explore her transition from a 26-year tech career—helping companies like TravelZoo and United Online go public—to founding EYEJ (Empowering Youth, Exploring Justice) and BossMe In. Mai’s story is one of courage, authenticity, and a relentless drive to bridge generational and cultural gaps, creating lasting change for underserved communities and corporate environments alike. She dives into the systemic challenges facing youth, the inefficiencies of traditional nonprofit boards, and the urgent need for intergenerational leadership as Millennials and Gen Z prepare to dominate the workforce by 2030.

Mai offers a masterclass in bold leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, humility, and action over endless theorizing. She challenges tech leaders to “open the door” for diverse voices—particularly women and underrepresented groups—by taking immediate, practical steps like inviting new perspectives into decision-making rooms. Her insights on bridging the digital divide, addressing toxic stress in youth, and fostering equity in corporate settings resonate with anyone looking to lead with purpose and impact. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders eager to evolve, connect, and empower in a rapidly changing world.

Timestamps with Key Points:

• 00:01 – Introduction to Mai Moore
  Jason introduces Mai, highlighting her bold leadership and social impact journey.

• 01:19 – From Tech to Social Impact
  Mai reflects on her 26-year tech career and the pivotal moment that sparked her shift to founding EYEJ.

• 05:06 – Systemic Issues and Nonprofits
  Discussion on why 27,000 nonprofits in Cleveland fail to address youth mental health and social inequities.

• 10:38 – Bridging Tech and Youth Leadership
  Mai explains how to connect underserved youth with tech opportunities and break the “white male Stanford” mold.

• 14:23 – BossMe In and Corporate Reform
  Introduction to BossMe In, focusing on intergenerational leadership and corporate change.

• 22:31 – Advice for Tech Leaders
  Mai urges leaders to act now—bring diversity into meetings and hire beyond silos.

• 30:57 – Inspiring the Next Generation
  Mai shares what excites her about young leaders and their demand for authenticity and harmony.

• 33:23 – Conversations with Tech Leaders
  Practical tips for tech executives: act fast, talk money openly, and understand who you serve.

Notable Quotes:

• Mai Moore: “We need to embrace change, be authentic, and say, ‘I have no effing clue’ when we don’t know something—it’s about being human.”

• Mai Moore: “Just do it today. Bring someone to a meeting, hire someone for that role—stop overanalyzing and act.”

• Jason Rigby: “It’s so awesome to see somebody with courage and boldness also be positive—this is a tough task.”

Key Resources and Links:

• Mai Moore’s Website: maimoore.com – Learn more about Mai’s