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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Everett Swain II.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Highlight alternative pathways to high-paying careers without a traditional four-year degree.
• Showcase how UXD Academy, founded by Everett Swain II, empowers individuals—especially from underserved communities—to leverage AI and design skills for financial and academic freedom.
• Inspire entrepreneurs and small business owners to embrace AI-driven opportunities.

Key Takeaways

1. AI as an Opportunity, Not a Threat

   • AI can amplify human capabilities rather than replace them.
   • Small businesses see 80% positive ROI from AI adoption, making it a major growth lever.

2. Career Without a Degree

   • Over 40% of tech companies no longer require degrees, focusing instead on certifications and portfolios.
   • UXD Academy teaches AI experience design and automation for learners as young as 13.

3. Everett’s Journey

   • Started as a graphic designer, pivoted to UX after self-learning via “YouTube University.”
   • Built UXD Academy to democratize access to tech careers and fight industry gatekeeping.

4. Business Model

   • UXD Academy offers free resources and paid guidance.
   • Created Our Table, an AI experience agency employing top students for real-world projects.

5. Impact on Underserved Communities

   • Programs can transform lives, moving individuals from low-income jobs to salaries of $75K–$140K within 3 years.
   • Focus on youth (starting at age 13) to break cycles of poverty and limited exposure.

6. Future AI Trends for Small Businesses

   • AI agents, automated workflows, and AI-powered customer experiences will dominate in the next 12–18 months.

7. Legacy

   • Everett aims to help 100,000 youth create their own reality through tech education.

Notable Quotes

• On AI’s role:
  “Think of AI as the smartest intern you know—you can train it to work specifically for you.”

• On education:
  “You don’t need a degree for what I do. Over 40% of tech companies don’t care about degrees anymore—they care about your portfolio.”

• On opportunity:
  “If you follow what I’m telling you, you can change your life in under a year and a half.”

• On underserved communities:
  “For the first time in history, people of color can bridge the gap to academic and financial freedom without a four-year degree.”

• On legacy:
  “If I can help 100,000 kids create their own reality, that will be my legacy.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST