About me
Richardson founded Disruption Now, a tech and media company specializing in AI, data blockchain development, and event production/curation. Disruption Now's mission is to make emerging technology accessible to all, and its events attract diverse participants, including students, executives, decision-makers, founders, and policymakers in the emerging technology space. Richardson also organizes MidwestCon, an annual conference dedicated to emerging technology and social innovation in the Midwest.
Richardson has been at the forefront of promoting innovation, collaboration, and social impact in technology and education. As the chairman of the University of Cincinnati's Board of Trustees, Richardson became the youngest person ever to serve in this position in the University's history and was the youngest serving board chair among the nation's research-intensive public universities. During his tenure, he established the 1819 Innovation Hub, which serves as a collaborative space for industry and talent to generate groundbreaking ideas. He also initiated a leadership development and academic preparedness program for high school students.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Richardson hosts the Disruption Now Podcast. The Disruption Now Podcast tells the stories of founders and leaders disrupting common narratives through entrepreneurship and social innovation. Past guests have included NY Times bestselling author Robert Greene, Monique Woodward, Jewel Burks Soloman of Google Startups and Collab Capital, Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital, and many others.
Richardson ran for public office as the Democratic nominee for Ohio treasurer in 2018. He received over 2 million votes running on the platform of inclusive innovation for Ohio. Richardson has appeared on MSNBC, America This Week, and Roland Martin.
Richardson has served as a speaker for many events, including BlackTech 614 Keynote, Keynote for the University of Cincinnati Commencement, the UC Law Hooding Ceremony, the Ohio MBE Awards, Chocolate Con, FutureLand, and many other events.
Richardson's education includes a Juris Doctor and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. In his early leadership roles, he founded the University's initial student chapter of the NAACP and served as student body president. He holds an honorary degree from the University of Cincinnati, The Young Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award, the University of Cincinnati College of Law Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Nicholas J. Longworth, III Alumni Achievement Award.
