POPULARITY
Categories
Women entrepreneurs in finance and technology are being urged to 'back themselves' as applications open for the 2026 She's Next Visa Grant Programme. Empowered by Visa and aimed at closing the entrepreneurship gap in Ireland, She's Next 2026 will provide five women-owned businesses with €90,000 in business funding together with expert coaching, mentorship and additional resources to help their businesses thrive. For the first time, it also brings together some of Ireland's most respected businesswomen – Aimee Connolly (founder and CEO, Sculpted by Aimee), Breege O'Donoghue (former board member, Primark) and Gráinne Mullins (founder, Grá Chocolates) – who will provide mentorship to this year's five winners. Together with a range of Visa business supports, the winners will benefit from the experience and expertise of these exceptional business leaders, who have also been announced as judges for the 2026 She's Next programme. And, despite operating in different sectors and encountering different challenges, all three agreed on three defining factors for success: — Back yourself: Aimee Connolly said that self-belief can be the biggest hurdle to taking the next step in business. "Even the most successful businesspeople can suffer from imposter syndrome, but this is often predicated on feelings, not fact," she said. "Starting a business, dealing with challenges, setting high standards and showing genuine passion for what you are doing is proof of capability. So, recognise your capabilities and back yourself, and you'll have one less negative thing to deal with." — Seek mentorship early, not when you're struggling: Breege O'Donoghue in particular advises female founders to surround themselves with good people to accelerate growth early on, and proactively build networks before major growth periods. "Mentorship is a growth and confidence accelerator, the value of which cannot be underestimated," she said. "Build strong networks – not just within your own industry – and learn from others as you grow. But be generous and empathetic, and be willing to reciprocate by showing support to others too." — Perfection – the enemy of progress: According to Gráinne Mullins, many women wait until they feel 'ready' before pitching or applying for funding. But, says the Galway woman, if you wait until you feel 100% ready, you may never take that next step. "Perfection is the enemy of progress, and rather than wait for everything to be 'perfect', I encourage women entrepreneurs to pursue their goals with vision and focus. Taking the next step, regardless of what stage you are at in your journey, could be the difference between opportunity realised and opportunity missed." Speaking at the launch of the 2026 She's Next Programme, Ines Obtinalla, Ireland Head of Marketing at Visa, said: "While progress has been made, women entrepreneurs in Ireland are still facing barriers to funding and mentorship. Visa backs small businesses with big ambitions, and this programme will deliver the resources and expertise to power our five winners' next steps. "The advice from the mentors is clear: backing yourself isn't just a mindset, it's a catalyst for growth, and that's exactly what the She's Next programme is designed to support. We've already seen the positive impact of previous programmes, where funding and mentorship have empowered women business owners to turn ambition into action. With Visa championing their progress, businesses haven't just grown; many have scaled, innovated and created lasting impact. So, if you're ready to take the next step in your business journey, now is the time to apply." 2026 Visa She's Next – What Winners Receive Four women entrepreneurs will each receive €10,000; one overall winner will receive €50,000 All winners will receive mentoring from three of Ireland's leading businesswomen: Aimee Connolly, Breege O'Donoghue and Gráinne Mullins Individual and group pitch preparation sessions Access to ongoing supports available through Vi...
What does it take to move from technical expert to strategic leader — especially in industries where leadership paths are not always clearly defined? In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, Dr. Lola Adeyemo welcomes Limor Bergman Gross, a former Director of Engineering with over 20 years of experience in the tech industry and host of the podcast From a Woman to a Leader. Limor shares her leadership journey across continents, reflecting on the transition from hands-on engineering work to managing teams and eventually stepping into strategic leadership roles. Along the way, she discusses how identity, culture, and life experiences shaped her decisions — including navigating her career as a woman in tech, relocating internationally, and balancing leadership growth with motherhood. Together, Dr. Lola and Limor explore the identity shifts that often accompany career advancement, why many high performers struggle when transitioning into leadership roles, and how professionals can become more intentional about designing their careers. This conversation offers practical insight for professionals navigating leadership growth while managing the complex intersections of identity, ambition, and workplace culture. In This Episode • The leadership transition from technical expert to people leader • How intersectional identity shapes leadership experiences in tech • Navigating career growth as a woman in a male-dominated industry • The impact of motherhood and personal life on leadership decisions • Why intentional career planning matters earlier than we think • The difference between mentoring, coaching, and sponsorship • Why asking questions and seeking feedback accelerates growth • How managers can better support diverse career paths on their teams About Our Guest Limor Bergman Gross is a former Director of Engineering with over 20 years of experience in the technology industry. She has led engineering organizations across continents, scaled global teams, and guided professionals through the shift from technical execution to strategic leadership. She is also the host of the podcast From a Woman to a Leader, where she shares real leadership journeys and practical frameworks that help women in tech grow into executive impact. Today, Limor coaches ambitious women in technology into leadership roles and speaks globally on leadership development, visibility, influence, and career growth. Connect with Limor Bergman Gross Podcast From a Woman to a Leader https://limorbergman.com/podcast Website https://limorbergman.com LinkedInLimor Bergman Gross About the Host Dr. Lola Adeyemo is a workplace inclusion strategist, speaker, and founder of EQImindset and the nonprofit Immigrants in Corporate Inc. Through her work, she partners with organizations to design inclusive workplace communities and leadership ecosystems that strengthen belonging, engagement, and organizational performance. Her podcast Thriving in Intersectionality explores the real experiences of professionals navigating leadership through layered identities, including immigrants, women, first-generation professionals, and other underrepresented leaders. Resources & Community Immigrants in Corporate https://www.immigrantsincorporate.org EQImindset /Employee Resource Groups (ERG) Resources https://www.eqimindset.com Listen & Share If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps others discover these conversations and continue building workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Listen, this episode might sting a little—and that's exactly the point. If you're a woman in tech who treats feedback like a personal attack instead of career fuel, I'm talking directly to you.I've watched with horror as more women have become timid about giving feedback and defensive about receiving it. This pattern is quietly cutting your career growth at the knees while multiplying your stress.Here's what I know: You wouldn't coddle your code, your product, or your project when it needs iteration. So why are you being so precious about feedback on your own performance?In this episode, I'm drawing a hard line between toxic workplace BS (which is NOT what we're discussing) and the constructive, developmental, growth-oriented feedback that is actual career generosity. The kind you need to actively seek out, receive with curiosity, and use strategically.Here's what I cover:Why feedback is the accelerated growth engine in tech—and why your career needs the same iterative approach as your codeThe brutal truth about how women are held to higher performance standards (backed by research since the 1970s)Why your defensiveness is far more damaging than the original feedback ever wasHow leaders are watching for your response to feedback—not your perfectionWhy you must stop optimizing for likability and start optimizing for clarity and effectivenessThe mindset shift that changes everything: feedback is data, not identityConcrete examples of professional feedback versus unhelpful criticismWhy avoiding giving feedback makes you unclear and untrustworthy (not nice)I also share real feedback my clients recently received and how they made it mean something totally different than what was actually said.The women who enjoy their careers and reach their goals aren't the ones who never get criticism. They're the ones who are seen improving over time—in line with their values, purpose, and boundaries.Bravery isn't just about bold moves. It's about sitting still in a moment of critique and choosing your growth instead of your ego.Your Next Steps:Separate the feedback from what your brain tells you. Make feedback a monthly habit. Seek feedback from your critics. Give yourself 24 hours. Stop optimizing for likability. Related Episodes Importance of Specific Feedback in Career GrowthAggressive or Just Direct? Navigating Feedback as a Woman in TechE85: How to Deal with Unspecific Career Feedback to Build Your Skills, Relationships, Career, and SalaryConnect with Me:You can be a woman in tech and enjoy your career. When you build the skill of bravery, you will stress less, work less, and then earn more. Check out the following resources designed to help you thrive in your career: Check out my websiteJoin my mailing list for more insights, opportunities, and inspirationConnection with me on LinkedIn
In this episode we interview Catherine who is a Content Designer in the Automation Centre at the Home Office. She works within a user-centred design team supporting multiple projects aimed at automating processes to make life easier for Home Office staff.She describes how her brother, a developer, introduced her to content design and how she applied twice for a role, being rejected the first time and then succeeding after learning more and preparing better for interviews. She outlines transferable skills from earlier jobs including extensive customer service and call-centre experience and discusses career changes driven by lockdown.Catherine also describes balancing work with caring responsibilities for her children, later returning to full-time work, and being widowed, which prompted a reassessment of her future. She chose digital work due to long-standing interest in computing and learning.She reflects on being late-diagnosed neurodivergent and how neurodivergence affects her communication needs, and highlights Home Office support including a Workplace Adjustment Passport as a way to formalise needs, and initiatives such as a monthly Women in Tech forum and allyship workshops.Catherine says she enjoys continual learning in digital, organising information and ideas, and feeling appreciated on her current team. Her advice to women who are neurodivergent and considering tech is to persevere through rejection sensitivity and imposter syndrome, seek coaching/mentoring and feedback, and to keep refining applications and interview skills.LinksHome Office Careers: https://careers.homeoffice.gov.uk/ReferencesHome Office DigitalManchester DigitalSubscribe to the podcastIf you'd like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!Notes and LinksThis interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister, Membership Coordinator at Sheffield Digital, on 30th January 2026.Join the conversationWe're really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email info@sheffield.digitalThank you for the musicThanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show's intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Importance of Technology in Big Business | TSI Today | Calgary BusinessOn this episode of TSI Today, Iryna Scott sits down with Cindy Spence for a powerful conversation about curiosity, courage, and carving out space for women in technology leadership.From walking into an interview not knowing what a router did, to navigating the rise of cloud computing, cybersecurity, and generative AI, Cindy shares how lifelong learning became her secret weapon. She opens up about the human side of tech — using storytelling to connect people, sending her mom an iPad to bridge 4,000 kilometers between grandmother and grandkids, and why communication skills matter just as much as technical expertise.If you're a young person (especially a young woman) wondering whether technology is the right path, this conversation might just change your mind.Curiosity isn't optional. It's the career strategy.#YYCBusiness #TSIToday #WomenInTech #TechLeadership #FutureOfWork #GenerativeAI #CyberSecurity #Innovation #STEMCareers #WomenInLeadership #LifelongLearninghttps://yyccalgarybusiness.ca/blog/tsi-today-with-chad-tomaschefski-58/importance-of-technology-in-big-business-tsi-today-1362About our Guest: Cindy Spence is a technology leader known for blending curiosity, storytelling, and innovation to drive meaningful impact across cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI. Passionate about lifelong learning and advancing women in tech, she champions the human side of technology and its power to connect, inspire, and transform lives.About Chad and TSI Today: Chad is the Chief Growth Officer at Tridon Communications. He brings his unique global insights into complex international business models, and expertise at refining customized programs for the ever-evolving technology driven world to the show.You can connect with Chad on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-tomaschefski-b61075a/TSI Today highlights the changes and challenges businesses face when implementing ever-evolving technologies, as experienced by fellow local entrepreneurs and business leaders. The goal of the show; lifting up the industry and companies in the industry by bringing awareness to the technology and best practices.Sponsored by Tridon Communications. https://www.tridon.com/contact-us/TSI Today is also the ideal choice to showcase your expertise. Promote your services and know how on TSI Today and:· Reach a global audience via the YYC Business website and the MegaPixxMedia YouTube channel.· Gain additional viewers of your TSI Today episodes through free publication on YYC Calgary Business social media platforms.· Download your TSI Today episode to your personal and company social media pages.Episodes are also available in podcast format and you can listen to them on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcasts.Filmed and edited by ENTA Solutions.https://www.entasolutions.org
Kristina Shepard, EVP of Streaming and Performance Sales and Partnerships at NBCUniversal, joins the AdTechGod Pod to unpack the evolution of streaming from incremental reach to performance engine. Drawing on her experience at Roku and NBC Universal, she shares how live sports, cultural moments, and scale are reshaping media strategy. Kristina explains why streaming is still early in its performance journey, how automation and personalization will define the next phase, and what it takes to lead in ad tech while building a career and family. Takeaways Streaming has evolved to combine the best of digital and TV. The pandemic accelerated the growth of streaming services. Live content is crucial for audience engagement and brand visibility. Advertisers are increasingly viewing streaming as a primary channel. Diversity in content is key to attracting streaming audiences. The future of streaming will be more interactive and personalized. Women in leadership can bring unique perspectives to the industry. Balancing career and family is a common challenge for women in tech. Cultural moments drive significant engagement for brands. Streaming allows for a more dynamic ad experience than traditional TV. Chapters 00:00 The Rise of Streaming and Performance Advertising 05:07 The Evolution of Streaming Content and Monetization 10:19 The Importance of Live Content in Streaming 17:57 Future Trends in Streaming Television 21:12 Navigating Leadership as a Female in Ad Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode we sit down with April Hicke, co-founder and CEO of Toast, to explore how she's transforming the tech hiring landscape for women with innovative, bias-reducing approaches. We delve into April's unconventional path to entrepreneurship, her strategies for building a purpose-driven company without venture capital, and the systemic challenges women face—and overcome—within the tech industry.The origin story of Toast: how personal and industry experiences with gender inequities inspired a new model for tech hiring.Why Toast avoids venture capital and the pros and cons of bootstrapping a mission-driven business.The dual focus on supporting companies in diverse hiring and empowering women via membership, community, and direct resources.Barriers to expansion, including legal challenges to DEI efforts in the U.S., and how Toast navigates international opportunities.The importance of mentorship, male allyship ("Champions" program), and building social capital—plus creative initiatives like "Men in Tech" panels that flip the script on common professional narratives.TLDR:April Hicke demonstrates the power of challenging the status quo in tech by centering women's needs, community, and bias-free hiring, while resisting external pressures to compromise her company's mission. Her journey reminds us that shifting systems requires bravery, creative problem-solving, and building bridges with allies—especially when advocating for women's equity in male-dominated industries.Thank you for listening!If this episode inspired you, please screenshot and share it on social media—be sure to tag @meganswanwellness so we can cheer you on. Your support means the world!Connect with Megan SwanInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/meganswanwellnessLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-swan-wellnessWebsites: www.meganswanwellness.com + https://altavitahealth.ca/Subscribe to my Substack: https://meganswan.substack.com/Connect with April Hicke + ToastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/try.toastWebsite: https://www.trytoast.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilhicke/Listen to her Tedx Talk: Your past isn't your ceiling | April Hicke | TEDxRRUKeywordswomen in tech, tech hiring, bias-free recruitment, AI-powered matching, Toast consultancy, leadership journey, foster care system, airport management, sobriety in leadership, bootstrapping a business, venture capital, financial sustainability, product market fit, US tech hiring laws, diversity and inclusion, pay gap, women's leadership drop, entrepreneurship, access to capital, social capital, mentorship, sponsorship, men as allies, community building, career coaching, salary negotiation, women supporting women, networking, in-person events, self-care for leaders, salary data
What does it really mean to be "techie"? Sean, Kelly, and guest Amelia Hough-Ross dig into the labels we put on ourselves and others — and why curiosity and persistence matter more than credentials. From imposter syndrome to productive struggle, this episode redefines what it means to be technical in a rapidly changing world. Show Notes Wins of the Week Amelia: Getting both kids to all their activities this week — taekwondo, Chinese language classes, and a piano competition where her oldest did very well Kelly: Running a series of well-attended trainings at school, including a Canva AI session that drew 60 attendees across two campuses, with new audiences (kindergarten and first grade teachers) showing up for the first time Sean: Finally getting fiber internet installed at his house after over a decade of waiting — a major upgrade from cable with latency dropping from 20-30ms to 3ms, at half the cost Links & Resources Mentioned vBrownBag — Tech community show that Amelia is preparing to present at and Sean is scheduled for later in the year PyCon US 2025 — Pittsburgh, May 2025; Education Summit on Thursday, May 14 LEGO Mindstorms — Referenced in Amelia's story about building a vending machine in 4th grade Architects of Intelligence — Book Kelly is currently reading (dense but informative, structured as short stories/interviews) How to Winter by Kari Leibowitz — Book Amelia is reading about mindset and how people approach difficult things Lars von Trier / Bjork / Catherine Deneuve film — Referenced in Amelia's story about visiting a film set in Denmark at age 18 (the film Dancer in the Dark, 2000) Chris Williams / vBrownBag — Mutual connection who introduced Sean and Amelia at AWS re:Invent Announcements PyCon US 2025 — Pittsburgh, PA. Education Summit is Thursday, May 14. Proposals still open at time of recording. Kelly will be attending PyCon with her youngest son, who will spend the weekend with family at Disneyland Sean will be supporting from home this year as his wife has a conflicting travel commitment Key Quotes "It's hard to think outside of the box when you don't know what's inside of the box." — Kelly, quoting a conference in Tampa "The difference between viewing yourself as technical and not technical is getting those successes... even just once, where something really cool happens that you weren't expecting to work." — Sean "It's much harder to believe that someone has that greatness in them and help them achieve it... It's easy to say someone's hopeless. The harder part is figuring out how to support them to get to that next level." — Amelia Special Guest: Amelia Hough-Ross.
The women in tech promotion gap is real—but it's not random. High-performing women in tech are still being overlooked for leadership roles, even as they deliver exceptional results. In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we dive into the gender bias in tech leadership, the shift in workplace culture, and the strategic moves you need to close the gap—without losing yourself. Why are women in tech not getting promoted at the same rate as their male peers? The answer isn't about competence; it's about perception, positioning, and politics. We'll explore: The promotion gap in the tech industry and why it persists, especially at Director-to-VP transitions. How executive presence for women and leadership visibility can shift how you're perceived. The difference between mentorship and sponsorship—and why the latter is critical for advancement. Navigating bro culture in tech without compromising your authenticity. Sustainable executive leadership: How to build influence capital without burning out. This episode is for you if: ✔ You're a Passed-Over High-Performer delivering results but not seeing advancement. ✔ You're a Strategically Focused On Rising, and getting ready to step into executive leadership—but need a roadmap. ✔ You refuse to trade ambition for comfort or shrink in the face of pushback. Key Takeaways: Promotion is a strategic game. Hard work alone won't close the gap—you need positioning, visibility, and sponsorship. Executive presence isn't about personality—it's about framing your work in business impact language. Sponsorship > Mentorship. Advocates in high places are your ticket to the next level. Cultural shifts don't have to derail your ambition. Learn to navigate gender bias in tech leadership with composure and strategy. Resources Mentioned: Promotion Readiness Scorecard – Assess how you're perceived by leadership. Lit Up Leadership Academy – Join the next cohort to build your influence capital. Ready to close the women in tech promotion gap strategically? Book a Strategy Call and let's design your roadmap to leadership.
Fluent Fiction - Catalan: From Dreams to Reality: Navigating Barcelona's Startup Scene Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-03-03-23-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: Barcelona, en ple cor de la ciutat, batega amb energia.En: Barcelona, in the heart of the city, beats with energy.Ca: Al bell mig de l'incubadora de startups, règia i lluminosa, plena de taules i murals vius, es palpava una expectació creixent.En: In the middle of the startup incubator, regal and bright, full of tables and vibrant murals, a growing anticipation could be felt.Ca: Fuera, la primavera ja feia olor de noves oportunitats.En: Outside, the spring already smelled of new opportunities.Ca: Gemma estava dreta, mirant per la finestra gran, veient com els carrers de Barcelona bullien amb vida.En: Gemma was standing, looking out the large window, watching as the streets of Barcelona buzzed with life.Ca: Tenia al cap un milió de pensaments.En: She had a million thoughts in her head.Ca: Era el dia de la competició de pitch anual, i la pressió que sentia feia que el cor li anés a mil.En: It was the day of the annual pitch competition, and the pressure she felt made her heart race.Ca: Al seu costat, Oriol, amb els braços plegats, intentava calmar-la.En: Next to her, Oriol, with his arms folded, was trying to calm her.Ca: Ell sempre era el pragmàtic, el que necessitava veure números i resultats.En: He was always the pragmatic one, the one who needed to see numbers and results.Ca: "Gemma," deia amb una veu serena però ferma, "hem de ser realistes.En: "Gemma," he said with a serene but firm voice, "we have to be realistic.Ca: Necessitem més que somnis.En: We need more than dreams."Ca: ""No són només somnis, Oriol," va respondre amb una barreja de fermesa i dubte.En: "They're not just dreams, Oriol," she replied with a mix of firmness and doubt.Ca: "La plataforma tecnològica que proposem pot canviar les coses.En: "The tech platform we're proposing can make a difference.Ca: És eco-friendly!En: It's eco-friendly!"Ca: "En una altra banda de la sala, Laia, una inversora amb molta experiència, observava els participants.En: On the other side of the room, Laia, an investor with a lot of experience, was observing the participants.Ca: Buscava projectes amb futur, però també amb cap.En: She was looking for projects with a future, but also with sense.Ca: La seva mirada es va creuar amb la de Gemma i va intuir l'ambició darrere els seus ulls.En: Her gaze met Gemma's, and she sensed the ambition behind her eyes.Ca: El moment del pitch havia arribat.En: The moment of the pitch had arrived.Ca: Gemma se sentia aclaparada, però decidida.En: Gemma felt overwhelmed, but determined.Ca: Va començar amb les paraules que havia preparat, seguint el guió.En: She started with the words she had prepared, following the script.Ca: Però a mesura que parlava, la passió va guanyar, i va deixar anar el guió.En: But as she spoke, passion took over, and she let go of the script.Ca: "El nostre projecte pot no semblar el més viable ara, però és necessari!En: "Our project may not seem the most viable now, but it's necessary!"Ca: "Oriol va contenir la respiració.En: Oriol held his breath.Ca: Laia va aixecar una cella, sorpresa però atenta.En: Laia raised an eyebrow, surprised but attentive.Ca: Gemma va continuar, "Sabem que és un risc, però creiem en aquest canvi.En: Gemma continued, "We know it's a risk, but we believe in this change.Ca: Necessitem el vostre suport.En: We need your support."Ca: "Quan va acabar, es va fer un silenci a la sala.En: When she finished, there was silence in the room.Ca: Oriol estava nerviós, temorós de com podria rebre's aquella honestedat.En: Oriol was nervous, fearful of how such honesty might be received.Ca: Però Gemma se sentia alliberada.En: But Gemma felt liberated.Ca: Laia es va posar dempeus i es va acostar.En: Laia stood up and approached.Ca: "Gemma, la passió que mostres és important.En: "Gemma, the passion you show is important.Ca: M'agradaria oferir-te una altra cosa: mentoria.En: I'd like to offer you something else: mentorship.Ca: Un cop ajustem el teu projecte a la realitat del mercat, tindràs el suport que busques.En: Once we align your project with market reality, you'll have the support you're looking for."Ca: "Gemma va somriure, coneixent que aquest era un nou començament i no una derrota.En: Gemma smiled, knowing this was a new beginning and not a defeat.Ca: Va entendre que adaptar-se no era perdre, sinó evolucionar.En: She understood that to adapt was not to lose, but to evolve.Ca: Mentre el sol de primavera entrava pels finestrals, Gemma va captar que, a vegades, les històries no acaben com esperem, però això les fa encara més valuoses.En: As the spring sun streamed through the large windows, Gemma realized that sometimes, stories don't end as we expect, but that makes them even more valuable.Ca: A Barcelona, aquell dia, Gemma va aprendre que els seus somnis podien ser realitat, sempre que caminés amb els peus a terra i el cap al cel.En: In Barcelona, that day, Gemma learned that her dreams could become reality if she walked with her feet on the ground and her head in the sky. Vocabulary Words:heart: el coranticipation: l'expectacióentrepreneur: l'emprenedor/aincubator: la incubadorapragmatic: el pragmàtic/la pragmàticascript: el guiópassion: la passiómentorship: la mentoriainvestor: l'inversor/aambition: l'ambiciórealistic: realistaopportunity: l'oportunitatplatform: la plataformanervous: nerviós/nerviosato evolve: evolucionarfuture: el futurto align: alinearhonesty: l'honestedatdetermined: decidit/aliberated: alliberat/adaopportunities: les oportunitatsproposal: la propostarisks: els riscoschange: el canvisupport: el suportproject: el projecteto observe: observarenvironment: el medi ambientto adjust: ajustarvaluable: valuós/osa
Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Budget Battles: Klara's Triumph in the Tech Jungle Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2026-03-03-08-38-20-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Ljuset i startupinkubatorn var trångt och elektriskt.En: The light in the startupinkubatorn was cramped and electric.Sv: Det var som om väggarna pulserade av kreativitet och framtidsdrömmar.En: It was as if the walls pulsed with creativity and dreams of the future.Sv: Här, bland unga entreprenörer och deras sprakande idéer, befann sig Klara.En: Here, among young entrepreneurs and their sparkling ideas, was Klara.Sv: Hon kände sig hemma i detta livliga kaos.En: She felt at home in this lively chaos.Sv: Men idag hade hon ett viktigt uppdrag: att köpa techutrustning till sitt nya projekt.En: But today, she had an important task: to buy tech equipment for her new project.Sv: "Vi måste hålla oss inom budget, Klara," påminde Erik.En: "We need to stick to the budget, Klara," reminded Erik.Sv: Hans avslappnade utstrålning lugnade alltid Klara.En: His relaxed demeanor always calmed Klara.Sv: Erik hade alltid funnits där för henne, en säker vän i den tekniska djungeln.En: Erik had always been there for her, a dependable friend in the technical jungle.Sv: "Jag vet, jag vet," suckade Klara.En: "I know, I know," sighed Klara.Sv: Hon kände pressen på axlarna men var fast besluten att inte vika sig.En: She felt the pressure on her shoulders but was determined not to give in.Sv: Hon ville ha det bästa för sitt projekt.En: She wanted the best for her project.Sv: Redo att ta sig an dagens utmaningar, drog hon av sig den tunga vinterjackan.En: Ready to tackle the day's challenges, she took off her heavy winter coat.Sv: Vårluften smög sig in i inkubatorn även om vintern ännu inte gett sig helt.En: The spring air crept into the inkubatorn even though winter had not quite let go.Sv: De promenerade mot butikens teknikavdelning.En: They walked towards the store's tech department.Sv: Det var där de mötte Mats, techkonsulten med sitt vanliga, lite överlägsna leende.En: It was there they met Mats, the tech consultant with his usual, slightly superior smile.Sv: "Klara, om du verkligen vill ha något i toppklass måste du töja på budgeten," sa Mats med ett höjt ögonbryn.En: "Klara, if you really want something top-notch, you'll have to stretch the budget," said Mats with a raised eyebrow.Sv: "Det här är framtiden, min vän."En: "This is the future, my friend."Sv: Klara stod fast.En: Klara stood firm.Sv: Hon kunde inte gå över gränserna.En: She couldn't cross the lines.Sv: Hon hade redan sett ut vissa prylar: en kraftfull dator, en tablet och några andra viktiga verktyg för programutveckling.En: She had already picked out certain gadgets: a powerful computer, a tablet, and some other essential tools for program development.Sv: Men Mats' ord fick henne att tveka.En: But Mats' words made her hesitate.Sv: Kanske behövde hon bättre saker?En: Maybe she needed better items?Sv: Erik lade en hand på hennes axel.En: Erik placed a hand on her shoulder.Sv: "Jag tror du kan få en bra deal.En: "I think you can get a good deal.Sv: Kanske trycker du lite på Mats."En: Maybe push a little on Mats."Sv: Med ett beslutsamt leende vände sig Klara till Mats.En: With a determined smile, Klara turned to Mats.Sv: "Jag förstår att du rekommenderar det bästa, men jag har kollat andra alternativ som passar vår budget och faktiskt möter våra behov.En: "I understand that you recommend the best, but I've checked other options that fit our budget and actually meet our needs.Sv: Kan du förklara varför jag borde överväga dina förslag?"En: Can you explain why I should consider your suggestions?"Sv: Mats såg kort förvånad ut men rättade sig snabbt.En: Mats looked briefly surprised but quickly recovered.Sv: Efter lite diskussion och prutande, lyckades Klara säkra precis den utrustning hon behövde, och det till ett pris som höll sig inom ramen.En: After some discussion and bargaining, Klara managed to secure exactly the equipment she needed, and at a price that remained within the limits.Sv: Hon kände sig triumferande.En: She felt triumphant.Sv: När de lämnade butiken i skymningen, drog Klara ett djupt andetag.En: As they left the store at dusk, Klara took a deep breath.Sv: Den kalla vinden påminde henne om hur nära våren var.En: The cold wind reminded her of how close spring was.Sv: Ändå hade hon en slags vår i sitt bröst – en känsla av ny början och självförtroende.En: Still, she had a kind of spring in her chest – a feeling of new beginnings and confidence.Sv: "Det där gjorde du riktigt bra," sa Erik och nickade uppmuntrande.En: "You did that really well," said Erik, nodding encouragingly.Sv: "Jag hade inte klarat det utan dig," log Klara.En: "I couldn't have done it without you," Klara smiled.Sv: Hennes vänskap med Erik kändes styrkt.En: Her friendship with Erik felt strengthened.Sv: Med den nya utrustningen under armen och våren i sikte gick de tillsammans in mot framtiden, ett steg i taget men alltid med blicken framåt.En: With the new equipment under her arm and spring in sight, they walked together into the future, one step at a time but always looking forward. Vocabulary Words:cramped: trångtpulsed: pulseradecreativity: kreativitetdemurer: utstrålningjungle: djungelndetermined: beslutentackle: ta sig ancope: tvekaconsultant: konsultensuperior: överlägsnatop-notch: toppklassstretch: töjaboundaries: gränsernagadgets: prylarsecure: säkrachallenging: utmaningarbargaining: prutandedusk: skymningentriumphant: triumferandebeginnings: börjanconfidence: självförtroendeencouraging: uppmuntrandestrengthened: styrktventure: projektentrepreneurs: entreprenöreressential: viktigaoptions: alternativfit: passarneeds: behovsuggestions: förslag
Fluent Fiction - French: Pitching Hope: Luc and Sophie's Sustainable Tech Revolution Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/fr/episode/2026-03-03-23-34-02-fr Story Transcript:Fr: En plein cœur d'un hiver encore hésitant à partir, le soleil darde enfin ses rayons à travers les grandes fenêtres industrielles de l'incubateur de startups.En: In the heart of a winter still hesitant to leave, the sun finally beams its rays through the large industrial windows of the startup incubator.Fr: L'espace est un tourbillon d'idées et de créativité.En: The space is a whirlwind of ideas and creativity.Fr: Luc marche nerveusement entre les tables remplies de gadgets prototypes et de tableaux blancs couverts de schémas.En: Luc walks nervously between tables filled with prototype gadgets and whiteboards covered in diagrams.Fr: Aujourd'hui, c'est le grand jour.En: Today is the big day.Fr: Luc et Sophie ont travaillé dur pour préparer cette présentation.En: Luc and Sophie have worked hard to prepare this presentation.Fr: Leur startup, Axion Vert, se concentre sur la technologie durable.En: Their startup, Axion Vert, focuses on sustainable technology.Fr: Ensemble, ils ont conçu un système révolutionnaire de panneaux solaires recyclables.En: Together, they have designed a revolutionary system of recyclable solar panels.Fr: Mais il leur manque une chose essentielle : le financement pour leur prochain projet.En: But they are missing one essential thing: funding for their next project.Fr: "Tu es prêt, Luc?"En: "Are you ready, Luc?"Fr: demande Sophie, sa voix calme un contrepoint à la nervosité palpable de la pièce.En: asks Sophie, her calm voice a counterpoint to the palpable nervousness in the room.Fr: Luc hoche la tête, tentant de rassembler ses pensées.En: Luc nods, trying to gather his thoughts.Fr: Sophie est experte en logistique et a préparé plusieurs scénarios pour répondre aux questions potentielles.En: Sophie is an expert in logistics and has prepared several scenarios to answer potential questions.Fr: Cependant, c'est à Luc de convaincre Étienne, l'investisseur sceptique.En: However, it is up to Luc to convince Étienne, the skeptical investor.Fr: Étienne arrive, son pas serein mais son regard critique.En: Étienne arrives, his step serene but his gaze critical.Fr: Il s'assied, les bras croisés, prêt à écouter.En: He sits down, arms crossed, ready to listen.Fr: Pour lui, l'idée est intéressante mais encore non prouvée.En: For him, the idea is interesting but still unproven.Fr: Luc commence son discours, sa voix est tremblante au début.En: Luc begins his speech, his voice trembling at first.Fr: Il parle de la technologie, des chiffres, et des économies potentielles.En: He talks about the technology, the figures, and the potential savings.Fr: Mais, il constate qu'Étienne reste impassible.En: But he notices that Étienne remains impassive.Fr: Luc respire profondément.En: Luc takes a deep breath.Fr: Il se souvient de la décision qu'il a prise.En: He remembers the decision he made.Fr: Changer son approche.En: To change his approach.Fr: Il décide d'insister sur l'impact à long terme plutôt que sur le profit immédiat.En: He decides to emphasize the long-term impact rather than immediate profit.Fr: "Nous avons une occasion unique de faire une différence," déclare Luc avec passion.En: "We have a unique opportunity to make a difference," declares Luc with passion.Fr: "Notre technologie peut réduire les déchets électroniques tout en luttant contre le changement climatique."En: "Our technology can reduce electronic waste while combating climate change."Fr: Sophie acquiesce avec un sourire.En: Sophie nods with a smile.Fr: Luc continue, évoquant l'importance de l'avenir, de prendre soin de notre planète pour les générations futures.En: Luc continues, evoking the importance of the future, of taking care of our planet for future generations.Fr: Étienne est captivé.En: Étienne is captivated.Fr: Il commence à poser des questions, non plus avec scepticisme, mais avec curiosité.En: He begins to ask questions, no longer with skepticism, but with curiosity.Fr: La présentation se termine.En: The presentation ends.Fr: Le silence règne un instant.En: Silence reigns for a moment.Fr: Enfin, Étienne parle.En: Finally, Étienne speaks.Fr: "J'aimerais organiser un deuxième rendez-vous," dit-il.En: "I would like to arrange a second meeting," he says.Fr: "Votre vision est intrigante, Luc."En: "Your vision is intriguing, Luc."Fr: Luc sent un poids énorme se lever de ses épaules.En: Luc feels a huge weight lifted off his shoulders.Fr: À la veille de la Journée Internationale de la Femme, Sophie et Luc font une belle équipe.En: On the eve of International Women's Day, Sophie and Luc make a great team.Fr: Ensemble, ils ont mis en avant des valeurs profondes.En: Together, they highlighted deep values.Fr: Luc a appris à avoir confiance en ses convictions.En: Luc has learned to trust his convictions.Fr: Étienne n'est peut-être pas totalement convaincu, mais c'est un début prometteur.En: Étienne may not be entirely convinced, but it is a promising start.Fr: L'avenir est encore incertain, mais aujourd'hui, ils ont franchi une étape importante.En: The future is still uncertain, but today, they have taken an important step. Vocabulary Words:the heart: le cœurthe whirlwind: le tourbillonthe prototype: le prototypenervously: nerveusementthe diagrams: les schémassustainable: durablethe gadget: le gadgetrevolutionary: révolutionnairethe funding: le financementthe presentation: la présentationthe startup: la startupthe investor: l'investisseurto nod: hocher la têtethe logistics: la logistiquenervousness: la nervositétrembling: tremblantethe savings: les économiesimpassive: impassibleto emphasize: insister surthe opportunity: l'occasionto reduce: réduireelectronic waste: les déchets électroniquesto captivate: captiverthe future generations: les générations futuresto intrigue: intriguerthe conviction: la convictionthe step: le passerene: sereinto arrange: organiserthe figures: les chiffres
Sue Black OBE, a legendary British computer scientist, discusses her inspirational journey into computing, why too little has changed when it comes to sexism in the tech industry and her hopes and fears for the global workforce in the age of AI. Black was the founding chair of the British Computing Society's BCSWomen group, championed the preservation of the WW2 codebreaking HQ Bletchley Park and is a professor of computer science at Durham.
Send a textThis episode features a candid conversation with Tiffany To, Executive Vice President of Atlassian Products and Platforms, about her non-linear career in tech, the evolving landscape for women leaders, and what it really takes to build courageous teams. Shivam and Igor unpack how risk-taking, failure, and experimentation shape meaningful careers, while Tiffany shares specific stories about listening to internal signals, choosing unconventional paths, and leveraging her perspective as a woman in tech to drive change. Together, they explore why psychological safety is the foundation for innovation, how leaders can create “safe-to-fail” environments, and the critical role of mentorship, coaching, and continuous learning in becoming the kind of leader others want to follow.Sound bites "You don't have to conform as much, especially when you've earned the right to bet on yourself.""You learn so much more about yourself from the risks that don't work out than from the ones that do.""You have to read your internal signals; your body often knows before your brain catches up."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tiffany Ko and Her Journey01:16 Tiffany's Non-Linear Career Path07:56 The Evolution of Women in Tech11:48 Redefining Success: The Pyramid Analogy18:53 Lessons from Early Career Experiences22:32 Navigating Systemic Challenges in Technology23:41 Building New Product Categories28:15 The Dynamics of Experimentation and Courage29:41 Creating Psychological Safety for Innovation36:11 Women in Leadership and Risk-Taking38:15 Learning from Failures and Personal Growth40:50 Resources for Personal and Professional DevelopmentFeatured Topics & InsightsThe Career Pyramid: Why starting broad across regions (like Japan and China) and functions builds the best leadership foundation.Systems of Work: Moving beyond "raw technology" to help customers realize a clear ROI through AI-powered workflows.Internal Signals: Why high achievers need to stop focusing solely on "winning" and start listening to what brings them joy.Leadership Resources: Tiffany's top picks include Brené Brown's Dare to Lead and The Knowledge Project podcast.
With the pace of change in the technology sector, women must push for ongoing learning and development opportunities, urges tech leader Gillian Whelan, who believes women can sometimes be less vocal when asking for support that goes beyond the day-to-day or expecting investment in themselves as employees. Whelan, who is Managing Director and Country Manager at international IT and business consultancy emagine's operation in Ireland, says ongoing learning and personal development are essential to progress in the tech sector and that women need to push out of their comfort zones to move up the career ladder. Whelan says: "Every career benefits from structured development programmes, but not all employers offer this without pressure from their employees. The technology sector moves at a faster pace than many others, which means that keeping ahead is crucial for progression. In my experience, women can sometimes be less pushy when it comes to asking for this kind of support, but if we are to address the gender imbalance in this sector, then this needs to change. "Tech is still largely dominated by men, but I have found this is not just because of biased recruitment practises, but often because there is a larger pool of male candidates for tech roles. So, there should be a real opportunity for women to stand out, and a CV full of seized development opportunities will certainly help. "Development is important at all levels and particularly in the early career stages as professionals look to make their mark and find their niche. They're also likely to be up against a higher number of candidates when looking for new roles." Whelan adds that with a looming tech skills gap, it is the young, early years professionals, both male and female, who are the future and should be getting the support they need to prepare themselves. With businesses vying for the limited tech skills available in Ireland, this is an opportunity for supportive employers. Whelan, who was instrumental in developing the training programme at emagine before becoming MD, explains: "An employer who offers structured development plans with a series of micro-credentials and certifications will undoubtedly attract and retain the best employees because they will feel valued, driven and like they are constantly learning and so don't need to move on to find new work experiences. "Women should be looking for this sort of offering from an employer, especially if they feel less confident fighting for investment in their skills. Nonetheless, women must keep constantly working on themselves, their skills, confidence and attitude to risk-taking." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
How do you build enterprise software for the companies that keep the world turning, while also building a leadership culture where people can actually thrive? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I spoke with Kerrie Jordan, Group VP of Product Management at Epicor, about her journey from studying literature to helping shape cloud ERP strategy at a global software company serving more than 20,000 customers worldwide. Kerrie's story is a reminder that there is no single path into technology leadership. Sometimes the foundations are laid in unexpected places, through storytelling, creativity, and a deep curiosity about people. Kerrie shares how her early career in product lifecycle management opened her eyes to the human side of software. Interviewing customers and writing case studies showed her that behind every system implementation is a personal story, a career milestone, or a business trying to survive and grow. That perspective still shapes how she approaches product and marketing today at Epicor, a company recently recognized as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises for the third consecutive year. But this conversation goes far beyond market recognition. We talk openly about burnout, resilience, and the reality of leading through pressure. Kerrie reflects on the importance of protecting time, creating space to reconnect, and building a culture where empathy is practiced, not just discussed. Her view of leadership is grounded in communication, psychological safety, and being tough on problems rather than people. Mentorship is another thread running throughout our discussion. Kerrie explains why powerful mentorship is not passive. It requires vulnerability, preparation, and a willingness to hear difficult advice. A single phrase from a mentor early in her career, "stick-to-itiveness," continues to shape how she approaches hard problems today. We also explore the future of women in manufacturing and technology. Kerrie highlights the need for intentional change across education, early career development, and leadership visibility. She believes technology, particularly AI, can expand access, enable upskilling, and introduce flexibility that supports long-term career growth. At the same time, she makes a simple but powerful point. Women in tech want the same thing as anyone else: the space and autonomy to do their jobs well. From customer co-innovation and community-driven product roadmaps to inclusive leadership under commercial pressure, this episode offers a candid look at what it really takes to lead in enterprise technology today. If you are building products, leading teams, or questioning your own next career step, I think you will find something in Kerrie's story that resonates.
How fractional leaders get hired isn't random — but it does follow a very different logic than most people expect. If you've been having good conversations, receiving positive signals, and still not seeing those conversations turn into paid work, this episode will help you understand what's really happening on the hiring side. In this episode, we step out of the leader's perspective and into the mindset of the organisation making the decision — because fractional leadership hiring doesn't follow a traditional job search or sales process. Instead, hiring happens when recognition, trust, and timing align. In this episode, we explore: Why fractional leadership opportunities don't follow a linear funnel The difference between visibility and recognisability The three conditions that consistently lead to fractional leadership hiring Why timing matters more than effort How trust is built before a hiring decision is ever made Why so many capable leaders get stuck in "almost" conversations This episode is for senior women in tech who: Are fractional-ready but not yet chosen Are getting interest, but not conversion Want to stop guessing — without resorting to hustle or salesy tactics Listen if you want to: Understand how fractional hiring decisions are actually triggered Feel calmer and more in control of the process Make your leadership easier to recognise and hire Next steps: Book a Strategy Session (Positioning + Hiring Clarity)
This is our first episode recorded live in Sweden, here at Fotografiska Stockholm. And I couldn't imagine a better guest to open this chapter.In this episode, I get to interview the brilliant Keika Lee, Director of Global Public Affairs at IKEA.Keika grew up in Sweden with Korean heritage, in a family where discipline and hard work were part of everyday life. She was on her way to becoming a classical pianist, with auditions at Juilliard and the Conservatoire in Paris, and then she made a decision that surprised many: she walked away.What followed wasn't a straight career path, but years of trial and error. Keika tried many different roles: from bartending and working airport security to studying political science, building a fashion brand with her sister and working in consultancy. From the outside, It might look scattered, but it became one of her biggest strengths: learning how people behave and how to read the room.This episode might make you pause and ask yourself whether what you're building is actually aligned with who you are, and remind you that nothing you try is ever wasted.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode, Kat sits down with Emily Gill (founder at Levra and recognised as one of the Top 50 Women in Tech) for a real conversation about modern busyness, perfectionism, and the habits that protect human performance. They unpack why we've become human doings, how tiny “basic” habits (sleep, breathing, movement) create outsized impact, and why human skills like empathy, connection and communication are becoming even more valuable in the age of AI.What you'll hear in this episodeWhy life feels like we're being pulled in “50,000 directions” - and how to decide what deserves your energy todayThe perfectionism trap: “Sometimes good enough is enough”Kat's take: we've shifted from human beings → human doings (and what constant consumption is doing to our brains)The habit most people ignore: the wind-down routine (and why we treat kids better than ourselves at bedtime!)Why we don't do the basics… even when we know they workHow Kat creates change in teams: pattern disruption + questions that help people see it for themselvesThe power of shared experience: real behaviour change happens when people realise they're not aloneEmily's insight: human connection is what “fills up our soul” — and why loneliness is a real performance problemWhy discomfort is part of growth (and why in-person connection is coming back)Phones, attention, and the impact on family connection (the restaurant moment that hit hard)Emily on AI: automation will rise - so human skills (empathy, conflict management, reading the room, asking better questions) become the differentiatorA brilliant reframe: kids wear an Elsa outfit with full confidence… what would change if adults did life with that energy?ABOUT THE GUESTEmily Gill is the Co-Founder of LEVRA, an award-winning EdTech company solving Human Skills gaps for businesses by using psychometrics, and AI to measure and develop Human Skills, such as communication, teamwork and EQ. A former Finance Lawyer at Clifford Chance, she completed her MBA at the University of Oxford and has been recognised as one of the Top 50 UK Women in Tech. Emily is a Certified Coach (CPCC) and serves as Chair of School Governors at Harris Clapham.LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilygilllevra/ABOUT HOST KATKat started her career as a teacher, before moving into Tech where she worked in different executive roles within teaching and consulting working across the globe, both in the public and private sector. Despite appearing 'successful' on the outside, she paid a heavy ‘life' price. In 2016, her whole world collapsed. The reason? The compound effect of years of unhealthy and toxic habits that destroyed her health, relationship, and career. She rebuilt herself by changing just one small habit and built a series of positive habits which has transformed her professional and personal performance, resulting in becoming the healthiest and happiest version of herself. She is a positive habits international keynote speaker and teacher, giving talks and delivering high impact programmes to organisations across the globe.https://www.linkedin.com/in/katthorne https://www.instagram.com/the_morning_gamechanger
In the current discourse on creativity and leadership, Amy Vaughan emerges as a formidable force, redefining paradigms in the digital landscape. This episode elucidates her multifaceted approach to empowering women in technology and marketing, a mission that is both timely and critical in today's evolving corporate environment. As the Chief Executive Officer of Together Digital, she champions a network that facilitates strategic connections among over 500 women, fostering a community built on collaboration and innovation. Furthermore, her role as Managing Director of Marketeer Collaborative demonstrates her commitment to cultivating spaces conducive to creativity and collective growth. Throughout our dialogue, we traverse her personal journey, her visionary insights on team dynamics, and the imperative of intentional networking within professional spheres, emphasizing that meaningful connections serve not only as a foundation for success but also as an essential element of personal well-being.Amy Vaughn joins us to share her remarkable journey of transforming creativity and leadership in the digital age. As a seasoned creative director and the CEO of Together Digital, Amy champions the empowerment of women in tech, pushing boundaries and advocating for innovation that makes a tangible impact. She emphasizes the importance of building meaningful connections and community, which she views as essential to personal and professional growth. During our conversation, we delved into the challenges women face in the tech sector, including the persistent pay gap and the need for greater representation. Tune in as we explore how fostering a culture of collaboration and understanding can pave the way for a more equitable future in the workplace.Takeaways:The importance of running towards aspirations rather than fleeing from fears is a fundamental principle for personal and professional growth.Building an effective team necessitates a focus on cultural addition rather than mere conformity, thereby enhancing diversity of thought and experience.Time management is paramount for fostering creativity; establishing structured periods for deep work facilitates innovation and productivity.Networking is critical; leveraging connections can significantly enhance career opportunities, especially in hidden job markets that are not publicly advertised.Women in tech and marketing face systemic challenges, including the persistent gender pay gap and underrepresentation, necessitating proactive measures from leadership to promote equity.Embracing a hybrid work model is essential for modern organizations, as it accommodates the evolving preferences of a workforce increasingly valuing flexibility and autonomy.Links referenced in this episode:togetherindigital.comthemarketercollab.comhttps://www.becomingbridgebuilders.org/Mentioned in this episode:My friend Dr. Noah St. John calls this 'the invisible brake.' He's giving our listeners a free Revenue Ceiling Audit to help you see what's REALLY holding you back. You'll also get a FREE 30-day membership to Noah Bot, giving you access to Dr. Noah's 30 years of experience to help you reach your next level. But hurry, because there are only 50 available this month. So if you're tired of being stuck at the same revenue level and want to finally break through, get your FREE Revenue Ceiling Audit at https://www.noahvault.com?aff=d28bf6c78150c7f09896297dfe1701c1cd191ac6fc9976779212cec5d38e94d6
What does ambition look like when you're navigating identity, immigration, and leadership — all at once? In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, Dr. Lola Adeyemo sits down with award-winning author, tech leader, and podcast host Sheekha Singh to explore immigrant ambition, women in tech, burnout, and redefining success beyond hustle culture. Born and raised in India, educated in the United States, and now based in Canada, Sheekha brings a global immigrant lens to leadership and high performance. She is the author of: Unburnable Ambition — a practical, reflective guide for overachievers who want to win without burning out. The IT Girl — winner of the 2021 Dan Poynter Global Ebook Award (Gold) in Technology/Engineering. In this conversation, we explore: • The immigrant perspective on burnout • Cultural expectations and pressure to succeed • Women in tech and representation gaps • H1B transitions and cross-border leadership journeys • Why overcompensating leads to exhaustion • How to advocate for yourself without playing the victim • Boundaries as a leadership skill Sheekha's core belief: Ambition doesn't have to cost you your peace. If you are an immigrant professional, a first-generation leader, a woman in tech, or someone navigating layered identities in the workplace, this episode will resonate.
While prospects for women in tech and AI have improved over the years, women still comprise just a fraction of the tech workforce. Ayumi Moore Aoki is the founder of Women in Tech Global, an organization with a presence in over 60 countries around the world, one designed to empower women in the sector. She shares how a leaky talent pipeline makes opportunity harder to seize, what's needed at each stage of women's careers to bridge gaps and what leaders can do to ensure they make the most of their team's talents. She'll also explain what skills will be more important than ever for leaders in an AI-powered workforce, the question she asks herself now more than at any time in her career, and the one topic that will define AI in the months ahead. Lastly, this advocate and founder also details how her background has prepared her to run WTG, from her time in South Africa during apartheid to her lessons learned as an entrepreneur. Related links: Women in Tech Global: https://women-in-tech.org/Ayumi Moore Aoki: https://ayumimooreaoki.com/ Related reports: Global Gender Gap Report: https://www.weforum.org/publications/global-gender-gap-report-2025/ Global Gender Gap Report Global Parity in the Intelligene Age: https://www.weforum.org/publications/gender-parity-in-the-intelligent-age-2025/ Related episodes: Be your own role model - a female rocket scientist, pioneer and science influencer explains Listen here: https://tinyurl.com/y4n9cmec 7 women leaders on the books that shaped their lives Listen: https://tinyurl.com/vuketc78
Listen in as I respond to the generous and conflicting feedback that you sent about my last episode, "Bravery in the Meantime." Your feedback was the full range responses—positive, relieved, dismissive, and angry. I share your feedback and also offer my own thoughts on what comes next for us all. What You'll Hear:Four buckets of listener feedback, from validating to challengingMy vulnerable response to criticism about privilege, systemic change, and individual copingAn invitation: What can Nicole create to support you in building your brave career?Key Takeaway:What you want to reject because it threatens you might be exactly what you need to work on right now.Mentioned in This Episode:Previous episode: "Bravery in the Meantime: How to Use a Tough Career Phase for Long-Term Success"Past episodes: "The Glass Floor" and "Recognizing Toxic Career Surroundings"Connect with Nicole:You can be a woman in tech and enjoy your career. When you build the skill of bravery, you will stress less, work less, and then earn more. Check out the following resources designed to help you thrive in your career: Check out my websiteJoin my mailing list for more insights, opportunities, and inspirationConnection with me on LinkedIn
After stepping off stage from moderating a panel, a Senior Frontend Developer from Capgemini waited to say hello. She asked for a quick photo, and within minutes, we were deep in conversation about hackathons, women in tech, mentoring, and the pride she felt watching Egypt host a platform of this scale. Her name is Alaa Ali Kortoma, and what began as a quick introduction turned into her very first podcast appearance. In today's episode, you will hear directly from someone on the ground in Cairo about what AI Everywhere means to her, to Egypt, and to a generation of more than 750,000 graduates entering the workforce each year. We talk about bridging the gap between academia and industry, shrinking the distance between startups and investors, and why she believes AI represents opportunity rather than replacement. If AI really is everywhere, it should look like a possibility. It should look like inclusion. It should look like young women mentoring at hackathons. It should look like national strategies focused on responsible adoption and skills development. So let me beam your ears to Cairo and introduce you to Alaa Ali Kortoma. And after spending three days at AI Everything MEA, what does AI Everywhere mean to me? It is not hype. It is not a headline. It is policymakers embedding AI into public services. It is engineers building Arabic language models tailored to local needs. It is healthcare systems using AI to detect disease earlier. It is investors listening to founders. It is young professionals investing in themselves. One phrase from this conversation will stay with me long after the microphones were turned off. Proud and full of possibility. Over the last decade, I have seen technology stories unfold across continents, but Cairo reminded me why I started this podcast in the first place. Technology becomes powerful when it connects people. When it builds confidence. When it proves that innovation is not reserved for a select few regions. AI is often framed as a Silicon Valley or East Asia story. What I witnessed in Egypt suggests something broader is taking shape. Capital is flowing differently. Partnerships are forming across Africa and the Middle East. Talent is visible. Voices are confident. So if AI can thrive beside the Nile, if it can empower graduates in Cairo to see opportunity rather than threat, then perhaps AI really is everywhere. The final question is this. What does AI Everywhere look like where you are, and what role are you playing in shaping it? Wherever you are listening from, I would love to hear your story too.
Swati Vauthrin is the Co-Founder and CEO of Recess, the parenting platform redefining how families connect, learn, and shop through community and circular commerce. A seasoned engineering leader turned mission-driven founder, Swati spent over 15 years as an engineer building and scaling products at Instagram, BuzzFeed, ESPN, and Disney—most notably leading global growth for Instagram Reels. Her inspiration for Recess came directly from her own motherhood journey. As a mom of three, Swati experienced firsthand how isolating, overwhelming, and expensive parenting can be so she's building Recess to create the trusted, spam-free, AI-powered space she wished existed when she became a parent—where families can get real advice, find community, and shop high-quality secondhand gear safely and affordably.
In this episode, I sit down with Kate Turner—a powerhouse coach with 15 years of experience in Sales and Technology. We explore her journey through the highs and lows of working in fast-paced tech environments, fundraising rounds, executive roles, and the personal transformation that came from burning out while "doing everything right."Kate shares how she rebuilt her life and career from a place of deeper alignment, integrating nervous system awareness, boundaries, and intentional choices that serve her body and her values. If you've ever found yourself chasing success while losing yourself in the process, this conversation is a must-listen.We dive into the difference between achievement and fulfillment, why the stories we tell ourselves about productivity are often rooted in fear, and how to begin untangling your identity from your career. This episode will help you pause, reflect, and ask: what does success really mean to me?Connect with Kate:www.linkedin.com/in/kateturner9www.instagram.com/@all.in.with.katewww.kateturnercoaching.comWORK WITH ME 1:1:❥Softening into self- 3 month 1:1 with Whats App Support:https://marina-yt.mykajabi.com/offers/PAWQhZHu❥❥1:1 Coaching with me: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWcZM5s9c2OjOLwoGMI5jE6rh_JAzjN2d_vCtuVe7e3pVGxw/viewformDOWNLOAD FOR FREE:Stay or Go: 5 Clarity Questions to Reconnect with Your Inner Knowing: https://marinayt.com/stay-or-go-guideAttachment Practice: Discover the actual blocks beneath the surface so you can actually have the deep intimacy you crave: https://marinayt.com/attachment-practice Connect & Ground: 10 Incredible Somatic Practices for Nervous System Regulation: https://marinayt.com/connect-and-groundAlive & Aligned: 7 Embodiment Practices For Self Connection: https://marinayt.com/alive-and-alignedTrigger to Rooted: A step by step process of working with your triggers: https://marinayt.com/trigger-2-rooted VIEW MY COURSES & RESOURCES:https://marinayt.com/resources#/ CONNECT WITH ME:Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/marina.y.t Subscribe to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@marinatriner Top Episode Quotes:“I thought burnout meant you were weak, not that the system was broken.”“I had to unlearn the idea that my worth was tied to what I produced.”“You can still be successful, but the cost no longer has to be your body.”“Nervous system regulation became the foundation for how I now approach everything—from work to rest.”“Reclaiming your power often means rewriting the story that got you here.”burnout recovery, redefining success, nervous system regulation, women in tech, healing from burnout, somatic healing, leadership coaching, boundary setting, burnout prevention, career transformation, kate turner, poker
Send a textCheck out this replay episode for kids and parents interested in cyber security.Curious about how artificial intelligence shapes our daily lives? Join us as we chat with Tennisha Martin, the visionary founder of Black Girls Hack, who shares her journey from a tech-savvy childhood to leading a nonprofit that empowers underrepresented communities through cybersecurity and technology. Discover the thrill of breaking and testing software for security purposes, and learn how AI, from predictive text to smart home devices, is seamlessly woven into our routines. Tennisha explains AI concepts in ways kids can grasp, emphasizing why it's crucial to understand AI's benefits and potential risks for safety and security.Ever wondered about the ethical implications of AI misuse? We explore these challenges, especially how AI-generated code can be exploited, and discuss Tennisha's motivations behind establishing Black Girls Hack. Learn about the organization's hands-on training and support, and get inspired by the empowering environment of cybersecurity conferences like Hack for Summer Camp and SquadCon. We wrap up with a fun game of Two Truths and a Dream, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice for young tech enthusiasts. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and tips for anyone keen on venturing into the world of technology and cybersecurity.Resources:BlackGirlsHack - Our cornerstone brand advocating to increase diversity of Black girls and women within Cyber https://blackgirlshack.org/We Got Next Cyber - 9th through 12th grade training program wegotnextcyber.comSquadCon/ Girls Hack Village - Girls Hack Village has a cybersecurity conference that provided a gender-diverse platform for women and girls in cybersecurity squadcon.meHacking Events - BlackGirlsHack - Events Support the showHey parents and teachers, if you want to stay on top of the AI news shaping your kids' world, subscribe to our weekly AI for Kids Substack: https://aiforkidsweekly.substack.com/ Help us become the #1 podcast for AI for Kids and best AI podcast for kids, parents, teachers, and families. Buy our debut book “AI… Meets… AI”Social Media & Contact: Website: www.aidigitales.com Email: contact@aidigitales.com Follow Us: Instagram, YouTube Books on Amazon or Free AI Worksheets Listen, rate, and subscribe! Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Spotify YouTube Other Like o...
If women don't experiment with AI now, we risk hard-coding today's leadership gaps into tomorrow's technology. In this episode I'm joined by Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada's Ocean Supercluster, to explore the intersection of women in leadership, AI readiness, representation, and emerging technology. This conversation goes beyond theory. It tackles the real risks and opportunities facing women leaders as AI, climate tech, and other emerging technologies reshape how leadership works — and who gets to shape the future. In this episode, we discuss: ◾ Why representation in leadership matters more than ever in emerging tech ◾ How AI adoption in the workplace can either reduce or reinforce gender bias ◾ Why women's hesitation to experiment with AI is a leadership issue — not a technical one ◾ What it takes to lead confidently in male-dominated industries like tech and ocean innovation ◾ How leadership pipelines for women are shaped early — at work, at home, and through education ◾ The role of experimentation, confidence, and visibility in closing the leadership gap Kendra shares her own journey — from stepping away from STEM early in life to leading large-scale innovation and commercialisation — and offers practical insight into how women leaders can engage with AI and emerging tech without needing to be technical experts. If you care about: ✔ women in tech leadership ✔ AI readiness for leaders ✔ gender diversity in leadership ✔ bias in AI algorithms ✔ emerging and sustainable technology this episode is for you. If you're ready for your next level explore how to strengthen your leadership clarity, visibility, and career trajectory by booking a discovery call via the link in the description. **Useful links** Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Kendra MacDonald: ◾ W: kendramacdonald.com ◾ Substack: https://substack.com/@saltwatersignals This episode was sponsored by our guest, Kendra MacDonald. Thank you Kendra for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
It's your weekly dose of the Scoop from Tapod with all of your TA & Recruitment news from here and abroad. We cover all sorts of headlines, including… Candidates paying recruiters in the US, MAFS is back! Companies scrambling to rehire humans, Good jobs news from the UK, Women in Tech & Finance subject to AI bias. And much more.Thanks to Indeed for partnering with us on The Scoop.
June Angelides MBE is a globally recognized venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and one of the most influential voices in tech, inclusive leadership, and investing in Africa and Europe. In this Founders Connect episode, June Angelides sits down with Peace Itimi to share her journey from growing up in Yaba, Lagos to becoming a leading investor backing startups across Africa and the UK.June opens up about her childhood in Nigeria, moving to the UK at 16, building her career at Thompson Reuters and Silicon Valley Bank, and why she decided to leave a stable corporate career to launch Mums in Tech, the UK's first child-friendly coding school for mothers. She breaks down the realities of building a startup without profit, the emotional toll of shutting down a company, and what founders must understand about fundraising, runway, and paying themselves.This conversation goes deep into venture capital, diaspora investing, building global companies from Africa, and the differences between African and Western startup ecosystems. June also shares powerful insights on women in tech, wealth creation, venture capital diversity, and why founders must think global from day one.If you are a founder, investor, tech professional, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with real lessons on startup funding, venture capital, diaspora capital, and building impactful companies in emerging markets.This episode is sponsored by Obiex. Instantly buy and sell bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies at zero fees here: https://www.obiex.finance/Connect with us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/foundersconnectshow/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foundersconnect_X: https://www.x.com/thefcshow_
If performance were enough, more women in tech would already be promoted. They're not. In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis breaks down executive presence for women in tech — what it actually means, why being good at your job isn't enough at senior levels, and how leaders are really evaluated when promotion, influence, and trust are on the line. This episode is for high-performing women who've been told they need "more executive presence" — without ever being given clarity on what to change. You'll learn why executive presence is not about confidence theatre or personality, why women are often misread at senior levels, and how to build leadership presence without changing who you are. In this episode, you'll learn: ◾ Why performance alone doesn't create executive presence ◾ What executive presence for women in tech really looks like at senior levels ◾ How leaders are evaluated on judgement, framing, and decision-making ◾ Why executive presence is harder for women (and how bias actually shows up) ◾ The difference between confidence and leadership presence ◾ Practical ways to build executive presence without becoming someone else
Key TakeawaysAI's progress: Wiese expresses excitement to return to the event after a year to hear real case studies on how people have embraced AI, especially appreciating the human and change‑management side of this transformational journey. Specifically, she's eager to learn where organizations have tested, scaled, or faced pushback over the past 12 months, noting that adopting AI is an ongoing, iterative process.Curating the agenda: "I think my number one view of all of the submissions was around innovation," notes Wiese, who played a role as a Programming Committee Board member, selecting sessions for the 2026 AI Agent & Copilot Summit agenda. In her process, she looked for examples of where organizations have truly innovated with this technology. "I want honest, too. You know, 'this is what we tried. It didn't work, but we came back at it, here's how'".AI's impact on women in tech: On Thursday, March 19, Wiese will lead a Fireside Chat around her new book, "You're on Mute." The book explores whether AI has actually helped women enter and thrive in the tech industry amid persistent adoption and trust gaps. Through stories from contributors, it examines AI's impact on leveling the playing field and encourages more women to see AI as a path into tech.Event expectations: The real power of conferences and events comes from being together, notes Wiese. With the lineup of speakers, she believes attendees will gain access to candid insights and meaningful peer connections. Visit Cloud Wars for more.
Send us a textSummaryIn this conversation, Jill Wilson shares her unique journey from finance and healthcare to becoming a senior director at Google. She discusses the challenges and learnings from her transition, the importance of values in decision-making, and how she embraces risk in her leadership style. Jill emphasizes the significance of small wins, building confidence, and the role of frameworks in leadership. She also reflects on her experiences as a woman in tech, navigating expectations, and the legacy she aims to leave behind.TakeawaysJill Wilson's journey is marked by unexpected opportunities and transitions.Leadership is about authenticity and finding one's unique style.Embracing risk is essential for growth and innovation.Small wins are crucial for building confidence and momentum.Frameworks can be helpful but should not replace deep thinking.Authentic leadership involves learning from others while being true to oneself.Women in tech face unique challenges but can navigate them with openness.Comparison can hinder personal achievement and joy.Taking time for strategic thinking is vital for effective leadership.Legacy is about defining personal success on one's own terms.Chapters00:00Introduction to Jill Wilson's Journey01:47Transitioning from CEO to Director at Google07:39Core Values and Leadership Philosophy09:53Embracing Risk and Bold Decisions12:49The Importance of Incremental Wins19:31Building Confidence and Autonomy24:03Frameworks vs. Authentic Leadership26:36Frameworks That Stick27:50Defining Authentic Leadership32:23Embracing Uniqueness in Leadership33:43Strategizing Amidst Busyness37:45Navigating Expectations as a Woman in Tech40:18Building a Diverse Network46:22Legacy and Personal Achievement
I'm really happy to welcome Preeti Malkani, Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board and Co-founder of Women for Women International Germany. With Indian and German roots, and a career that spans global advertising, entrepreneurship and humanitarian leadership, Preeti has dedicated her work to empowering women in conflict zones and rethinking how we talk about power and inclusion.In this conversation, we speak about the moments that shaped her path, the stories she's witnessed in places like Rwanda, Iraq and Bosnia. And we'll also talk about what each of us can do, beyond donations, to support women across the globe.If you enjoy this conversation, don't forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Today on the Invest In Her Podcast, host Catherine Gray interviews Nomiki Petrolla, a product leader and tech founder on a mission to close the access gap for women in technology and entrepreneurship. With more than 15 years of experience leading product, design, and strategy across healthcare, fintech, artificial intelligence, and enterprise SaaS, Nomiki has built and scaled products in some of the most male-dominated sectors of tech. She is the founder of PDS Lab, an accelerator launched to help women build and launch tech companies from the ground up, and the creator of Theanna, a data-networking platform designed to bring transparency, insight, and connection to the female founder journey. Based in Ohio and a mother of four, Nomiki is also an active mentor, educator, and speaker, working with organizations such as Techstars and speaking at institutions including Harvard. In this conversation, Catherine and Nomiki explore the structural barriers women face in tech entrepreneurship and why access to product knowledge, data, and networks remains one of the biggest challenges for women founders. Nomiki shares what she observed firsthand while advising startups—how women are often excluded from critical early-stage information—and how that insight led to building platforms that democratize knowledge and connection. The discussion also dives into the importance of community, the role of data in leveling the playing field, and what investors, accelerators, and ecosystems must do differently to support women-led innovation at scale. This episode is a powerful look at how intentional infrastructure and transparency can transform outcomes for women founders—and the future of tech as a whole. Websites mentioned: https://theanna.ai https://www.showherthemoneymovie.com www.sheangelinvestors.com Follow Us On Social Facebook @sheangelinvestors Twitter (X) @sheangelsinvest Instagram @sheangelinvestors & @catherinegray_investinher LinkedIn @catherinelgray & @sheangels #InvestInHer #FinancialWellness #WomenInFinance #FinancialEmpowerment #MoneyMindset #InclusiveFinance #FintechForGood #BehavioralEconomics #WealthBuilding #FinancialHealth #EmpowerWomen #MoneyMatters #SheAngelInvestors #InvestInYourself #FinancialFreedom
It’s a fast but mighty 20 minute bonus episode of Insider Interviews! Took my “she-cam” on another* spontaneous journey through the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2026) to speak with six different women, of six different tech and media areas. They provided first-hand insights on #AI, content, and advertising. These industry leaders span audio, advertising and age tech, sports, streaming, and out of home, so there’s really something for everyone! Quick coverage bites include: Vobble at CES • A snippet about ‘Vobble,’ an interactive audio device that lets kids build stories; MY sound didn’t do it justice, but your kid might love it IRL (and you might love it as a bedtime story aid!) • A walk through the innovations for better health and aging in place via the Age Tech Collaborative from AARP, thanks to their VP of Startup Programming, Amelia Hay. A la this being an episode with all women in tech and media, as Amelia said of the Collaborative: “We have over 200 startups in the collaborative, and probably 40% are women founders… I think we’re really pushing that envelope and putting our stake in the ground in technology.” (PS: did I mention I’d love that sleep-helper AND the hearing-helping eyeglasses from EssilorLuxotica on display there?!) BrightLine Interactive Ads • I got a lesson in the history of ad innovations and how to apply “Changemaker” thinking, from Brightline (and SustainChain) founder, and now author, Jacqueline Corbelli, who I call “the doyenne of interactive advertising!” A simple summary of “changemaker” playbook is what Jacquie has done her entire career: “Think about what you want and go further…” • A chat with the dual founder of Sports Studio, Inc. and Rasenberger Media, Cathy Rasenberger , illuminated how her freshman streaming platform is scoring distribution wins, perhaps because it’s appropriately named “Free Live Sports“?! FreeLive Sports Cheers to them for “aggregating more free sports content than any other platform… We’re democratizing sports for all the fans.” • Stacy Minero, newly named CMO of Outfront Media, and Erin Harris, Head of Fluency Sales for SiriusXM, explain changes in their now UNtraditional mediums and how they each are leveraging AI to power creative and efficient DOOH advertising and audio content, respectively. Erin noted that, “We still see the strongest performance with human voice, but we’re extremely excited about AI in terms of helping us find little levers to pull, to make things more personal.” And as Stacy added: “There’s a huge opportunity for AI to unlock productivity, especially in the area of post-production… to do some of the grunt work so that people can focus on the fun work.” AI meets Outfront Media We say, “YES!” Don't miss out on learning from each of these powerhouse women and their compelling companies. *And don’t miss my last full episode — also captured at CES — with executives in audio, video and brand marketing! Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Substack: Moss Hysteria Please follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal! THANK YOU for listening!
Send us a textIn this energizing and uplifting conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with cybersecurity rising star ChiChi Ubah, whose passion for learning, adventure, and personal growth lights up every moment of the dialogue. ChiChi shares her love for adrenaline-filled activities, her ambitions to learn to fly a small aircraft, and the mindset that fuels her ongoing pursuit of new experiences—including her PhD focused on AI-driven cybersecurity curriculum development.A dedicated advocate for women in cybersecurity, ChiChi discusses the life-changing support she's received from WiCyS, where mentorship, training, and certifications helped guide her path into cloud security. She reflects on the role of representation, allies, and community in creating opportunities for women in a male-dominated industry.The conversation also explores breaking old beliefs, embracing intentionality, and the everyday practice of consistency—whether pursuing certifications, maintaining health, or building a TikTok channel from 0 to 5,000 followers. ChiChi also opens up about motivation, legacy, and redefining success through freedom, impact, and personal evolution.This episode is packed with insight, heart, humor, and the fearless drive of someone committed to becoming better every day.
The hidden cost of silence—and the power of speaking up Kae Kronthaler-Williams is a global software marketing executive, speaker, and unapologetic advocate for women who refuse to shrink at work. With three decades in tech, she's seen the system from the inside—and she's done playing nice with broken cultures. Through bold storytelling, public speaking, executive coaching, and nonprofit leadership, Kae calls out bias, confronts toxic workplaces, and helps women reclaim their power. Her mission is simple and radical: make sure every woman is seen, supported, and equipped to lead. Because when women rise, organizations—and entire industries—rise with them. Visibility. Equity. Leadership. Change. Not Made For You If you've ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or quietly pushed out of the room—this book is for you. Not Made For You pulls back the curtain on the unspoken realities women face in tech and corporate America: sexism, harassment, ageism, racism, microaggressions, and the subtle (and not-so-subtle) systems designed to keep power exactly where it is. But this isn't just a book about what's broken—it's a guide to surviving, navigating, and winning anyway. With unflinching honesty and hard-earned insight, Kae transforms lived experience into a practical, empowering playbook. She gives women the language to speak up, the tools to protect themselves, and the confidence to lead on their own terms. Silence becomes solidarity. Resistance becomes reform. It's time to rewrite who gets to lead, thrive, and succeed in tech. Inside the Book In her powerful debut, Kae chronicles her 30-year rise from telemarketer to tech executive—offering a rare, insider view of the exclusionary systems still shaping women's careers today. This is not theory. This is survival—and strategy. Readers will discover: Real-world scripts to respond to bias, exclusion, and workplace gaslighting Critical legal insights every woman in tech should know (but rarely does) A leadership framework built from lived experience, not corporate buzzwords Tools for self-advocacy, career longevity, burnout prevention, and systemic change Whether you've personally faced discrimination or want to be a more effective ally, Not Made For You equips readers with the clarity, courage, and leadership language needed to drive lasting change. women in tech, workplace bias, gender equity, leadership development, corporate culture, DEI, women's empowerment, career advancement, microaggressions, toxic workplaces, executive leadership #NotMadeForYou #WomenInTech #LeadershipMatters #EquityAtWork #BreakTheBias #CareerAdvocacy #WomenWhoLead #CorporateCulture #DEI #SystemicChange Connect with Kae Website: kaewilliams.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaekronthalerwilliams/ Substack: https://substack.com/@kaekronthalerwilliams Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaekwilliams/
It's about time we really talk about beauty tech, what it already looks like in parts of Asia, and what it could become in our homes in the next few years, in ways we probably can't even imagine yet.That's exactly what I explore in this episode with Wanfen Xia, CMO and Managing Director at Ulike Europe.Wanfen brings a clear and grounded perspective on where the beauty-tech sector is heading. We talk about how advanced Asian markets already are, what Europe can learn from them, and how new self-care routines might soon become a natural part of everyday life at home.What I especially appreciated in this conversation is Wanfen's gentle, thoughtful approach, shaped by literature, aesthetics, and a deep understanding to what beauty can mean beyond performance or perfection. It's a reminder that some things are meant to be felt intuitively.If you enjoy this conversation, don't forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Send us a textIn this inspiring conversation, Joey Pinz speaks with cybersecurity advocate Brianna Steele, who brings a refreshing and deeply human perspective to one of the world's most technical professions. With a background in psychology and a passion for understanding human behavior, Brianna explains why attacker motivations, intentions, and emotional drivers are just as important as the tools they use.Brianna shares her journey from Arizona to the Washington, D.C. area, her involvement with Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), and why representation and mentorship are pivotal for bringing more women into the field. She breaks down how behavioral analysis shapes her interest in SOC work and why understanding “why people hack” matters as much as how they do it.The conversation expands into AI as a study companion, fasting and lifestyle discipline, motivation rooted in love, and the importance of self-awareness when entering a high-pressure industry. Brianna's warmth and clarity make this an energizing episode for anyone exploring cybersecurity, career transition, or personal growth.
In this episode, host Natalie Benamou sits down with Sue Harnett, the Founder and CEO of Rewriting the Code to discuss how a background in sports inspired a global movement for women in technology. Sue shares how she identified a systemic lack of belonging for women in university computer science programs and turned a pilot program with 80 students at universities into a global community of 40,000 women.Hear how why it is so important for peer-to-peer mentorship and discover the specific challenges Gen Z women face in the workforce. Sue shares insights about the launch of the new "Rewrite AI" initiative designed to ensure women have a voice in the future of artificial intelligence.This is a must listen for leaders who need inspiration in not going alone and how having peer supporters will make the difference. You got this!About Our Guest:Sue Harnett is the CEO & Founder of Rewriting the Code (RTC), one of the largest nonprofit peer-to-peer network of students and women in tech that offers support and resources to help women advance in technology industries. Sue is extremely passionate about breaking down barriers for women technologists, with a deep belief in equity. seek to bridge the gaps through corporate partnerships, philanthropy, and programming that connect women with opportunity, mentorship, and industry access. At the heart of it all is community.Sue Harnett on LinkedInRewriting the CodeKeep shining your light bright. The world needs you.HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, and connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
Join us on the AdTechGod Pod as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Julie Van Ullen, President and CRO at iSpot. Discover her journey through leadership roles at IAB, OpenX, Freewheel, Rakuten Advertising, and Rakuten Rewards. Julie shares her insights on maintaining authenticity, the importance of mentorship, and navigating the evolving landscape of digital advertising. Tune in to learn from her experiences and gain valuable advice for aspiring leaders. Takeaways Julie's career has been fueled by authenticity and mentorship. Trust is essential in leadership and team dynamics. Change is a constant in the tech industry, requiring adaptability. Measurement in advertising must evolve to keep pace with consumer behavior. The future of advertising is promising, with a focus on data-driven insights. Women in tech face unique challenges but can overcome them with support. Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional development. Authenticity in leadership fosters a positive work environment. The advertising industry is ripe for innovation and change. Building trust with teams leads to better outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Julie Van Ullen 01:04 Julie's Career Journey and Mentorship 04:01 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership 08:38 Transitioning from Traditional to Connected Television 11:37 The Role of Measurement in Advertising 14:05 Positive Outlook for the Future of Advertising 15:33 Navigating Gender Dynamics in Ad Tech 19:55 The Power of Mentorship and Support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tracy Poizner, founder of Space | Time Alchemy, about the powerful role of presence in how we connect and lead. Tracy helps high-performing women in tech and innovation recalibrate their energy so they can attract the right people, without forcing outcomes or overextending themselves.We explored how subtle energetic shifts can reshape the quality of our relationships, how intuition pairs beautifully with strategy, and why authenticity isn't about saying the perfect thing; it's about how we show up. Tracy's blend of science, consciousness, and practical business insight offers a refreshing reminder that connection thrives in alignment, not effort.Key TakeawaysPresence Precedes Strategy – Before any tactic or outreach, how we show up sets the tone for every relationship.Energetic Alignment Attracts Opportunity – When our values and energy are congruent, the right people naturally find us.Authenticity Is Magnetic – Influence doesn't come from performing; it comes from resonance.Intuition and Planning Co-Exist – Listening inward supports clearer, more strategic business decisions.Connection Requires Clarity – The quality of our relationships mirrors our internal alignment.Connect with Tracy:Website: http://tracypoizner.comPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/limitless-a-space-time-alchemy-podcast/id1762946819In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won't regret it.AND … Don't forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener!Connect with me:http://JanicePorter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janiceporter/https://www.facebook.com/janiceporter1https://www.instagram.com/socjanice/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode andthink that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the socialmedia buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a note inthe comment section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you cansubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us andgreatly appreciated. They
Send us a textSome workplaces weren't built with women in mind — but that doesn't mean you can't lead, be heard, and thrive.In this episode of Starter Girlz, Jennifer Loehding sits down with Kae Kronthaler Williams, global software marketing executive and author of Not Made For You. Kae shares her journey from starting as a telemarketer to becoming a CMO, and what she has learned about leadership, navigating bias, and thriving in male-dominated environments.This conversation explores the realities of workplace bias, the value of diverse teams, and leadership insights Kae has gained throughout her career. You'll hear discussion-based insights on how curiosity, awareness, and collaboration shape inclusive, high-performing teams, and how women and marginalized voices can navigate systems that weren't built for them.⭐ What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow bias shows up in everyday workplace interactions — and why noticing it mattersThe role of leadership in creating inclusive, high-performing teamsWhy diverse perspectives make teams stronger and decisions sharperHow women and marginalized voices can navigate systems that weren't built for themThe importance of connection, awareness, and reflection in leadershipSupporting others and fostering collaboration as part of effective leadershipHow curiosity and open-mindedness can shift workplace cultureKey insights from Kae's career on staying resilient and continuing to grow
This week on AND/BOTH, I'm joined by Nomiki Petrolla, founder of Theanna and a mother of four who is reshaping what early-stage entrepreneurship can look like for women in tech.Nomiki has spent 15 years in the tech world, sitting beside founders, engineers, and venture-backed teams, often as the only woman in the room. That experience eventually led her to build Theanna: a platform designed to support women tech founders from idea to launch.In this episode, we talk about:Why women are turning to entrepreneurship not out of ambition alone, but out of a desire for agencyThe realities of building a startup with four young kidsHow AI is completely changing what's possible for early-stage foundersWhy venture capital isn't the only — or even the most aligned — path for most entrepreneursThe difference between building your first business for money and your later ones for meaningHow motherhood sharpens clarity, decision-making, and boundariesWhat Nomiki is noticing about the next wave of women building techSustainable entrepreneurship vs. the unicorn mythology we've all absorbedIt's a conversation about choosing your own path, understanding your season, and building something that fits your actual life, not a version of life you're supposed to pretend you have.Connect with Nomiki:Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn: @nomikipetrollaTheanna: @theannaioConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/
My guest today is a dear friend and graduated client, Catherine Roy Lund. Catherine is an award-winning, globally experienced IT executive who brings brilliance, heart, and a touch of magic to everything she does. Catherine's story is one of courage, reinvention, and feminine leadership. After being laid off from a corporate position, she transformed uncertainty into opportunity, launching her own consulting firm and redefining what success looks like for women in tech and leadership. In this engaging, soul-filled conversation, Catherine and I talk about what it really means to transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship - the fears, the freedom, and the fierce faith it takes to rise again. We also explore the shifting landscape of business after COVID-19 and the importance of women stepping into leadership roles with strategy, wisdom, and grace. Together, we unpack: - The power of sisterhood, mentorship, and delegating what drains your energy - How Catherine leveraged her disaster-recovery expertise during COVID-19 to grow her business - Why financial literacy is sacred … from 401k plans to truly knowing your numbers - The art of investing in yourself and your business (because magic loves commitment) - How age, experience, and wisdom become your greatest business assets This episode is a powerful reminder that reinvention is always possible, no matter your age or circumstance - and that when women claim their worth, the world changes. So, pour a cup of tea, light your candle, and join us for this empowering, heart-centered conversation that blends strategy, soul, and a sprinkle of magic. Subscribe now so you'll never miss an episode and leave us a review! It really helps us know which content resonates with you the most. Join our Feminine Business Magic Facebook Group (https://tinyurl.com/ygdkw7ce) with your host, Julie Foucht. This is a community of women dedicated to connecting, supporting, and celebrating each other in growing businesses that honor their Divine Feminine while filling their bank accounts abundantly. Resources mentioned: Take the Witchpreneur Quiz and discover which Feminine Magic is your Key to Financial Success. (https://bit.ly/witchpreneur-quiz) Purchase Love-Based Feminine Marketing (https://tinyurl.com/ydmzb6qz) **Contact Catherine Roy Lund via LinkedIn or https://croyconsult.com/** **Connect with Julie Foucht via Facebook (https://tinyurl.com/yeb82uuj) or email at https://juliefoucht.com/**
On this episode of the Scouting For Growth podcast, Sabine VdL talks to Sangha Penesetti, founder and CEO of goZeal, who didn't just break the glass ceiling—she installed a flexible skylight. Today we'll dive into the economics of equity, why flexible work is not a perk but a performance driver, and how insurers can win by rethinking who gets a seat at the table—and how that table is set. KEY TAKEAWAYS In my early career, every client meeting I walked into was a room full of men. I was the only woman of colour. When I became a mother in 2010 I felt first-hang how unforgiving the industry was, there was no real flexibility, no empathy around new mums (though that may have just been the company I worked for then), and certainly no system that was designed for working mums. During Covid I found my own community: Brilliant, highly educated women, especially Indian and Asian mums, step out of the workforce to raise kids and never return. Not because they lacked ambition, but because the system simply wasn't build for them. That's the moment I realised it wasn't an individual struggle but a systemic design flaw, that's when goZeal was born. We talk about empowerment a lot, but what is empowerment? It‘s the financial empowerment, the capacity for women to have the money to spend on whatever they want be that a Gucci bag or feeding their kids. The data is clear: When women (and especially women of colour) advance, companies become more innovative and perform better financially. BEST MOMENTS ‘My experience taught me that being included isn't the same as being empowered.' ‘Radical inclusion flips the dynamic. It's not about representation, it's about access to meaningful work decision-making authority and economic mobility.' ‘Remote work is not “flexibility.” Flexibility means flexibility of time. I wanted to hire women directly to give them the autonomy of time. Direct impact comes when you are the employer.' ‘True flexibility allows for peak productivity not proximity. When people work at their best insurers benefit from higher quality work, lower burnout, less attrition, stronger retention, all of that good stuff.' ABOUT THE GUEST Sangha Penesetti is the powerhouse founder and CEO of goZeal, a company rewriting the rules of work by directly hiring skilled women, especially women of colour, for high-impact, flexible roles in insurance and tech. With 18 years of experience in finance and insurance, she's lived the challenges of being the only woman at the table—and decided to build her own. Under her leadership, goZeal is more than a talent platform—it's a movement. One that's tackling systemic inequity, modernizing legacy operations, and showing insurers that flexible work is not a perk but a strategic edge. She's here to talk about the real economics of inclusion, why hybrid isn't enough, and how insurers can close talent gaps while building a future-ready workforce. ABOUT THE HOST Sabine is a corporate strategist turned entrepreneur. She is the CEO and Managing Partner of Alchemy Crew a venture lab that accelerates the curation, validation, & commercialization of new tech business models. Sabine is renowned within the insurance sector for building some of the most renowned tech startup accelerators around the world working with over 30 corporate insurers, accelerated over 100 startup ventures. Sabine is the co-editor of the bestseller The INSURTECH Book, a top 50 Women in Tech, a FinTech and InsurTech Influencer, an investor & multi-award winner. Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Email Website This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
2B Bolder Podcast : Career Insights for the Next Generation of Women in Business & Tech
In this episode of 2B Bolder, I sit down with Sandy Carter, Chief Business Officer at Unstoppable Domains, former AWS and IBM executive, Forbes contributor, and author of AI First, Human Always.We talk about what it really means to take smart risks, build influence through visibility, and lead in fast-moving spaces like AI and Web3, even when you don't feel 100 percent “ready.”Sandy shares pivotal career moments, including a $5 billion bet that didn't seem obvious at the time, and the lessons she learned about arriving early, staying late, and taking ownership before permission is granted. We reframe visibility, not as self-promotion, but as credibility, narrative control, and leadership when the stakes are high.We also dig deep into what an AI-first, human-always mindset actually looks like in practice. Sandy explains why AI should start with business outcomes, not tools, and how leaders can redesign workflows, decisions, and customer experiences with AI as the lever, while keeping human judgment firmly in control. From pressure-testing arguments to accelerating research, we talk about where AI adds leverage and where humans must always own voice, values, and accountability.This conversation gets refreshingly real. Sandy shares stories about AI agents quietly changing their own limits, robots learning the wrong behaviors by watching humans, and why simple guardrails, human-in-the-loop oversight, logging, and escalation paths matter more than flashy demos. We also explore why building your own agents, not just relying on ChatGPT, is becoming essential for leaders who want real control and resilience.Finally, Sandy walks through the origin of Unstoppable Women of Web3 and AI and the powerful three-part formula behind it: education, tribe, and recognition, a model that has trained tens of thousands of women and dismantled the tired excuse of “we can't find qualified women.”If you're a senior leader navigating responsible innovation, or a rising builder wondering if now is the moment to step forward, this episode offers a clear message: lead while you learn, act before consensus, and put guardrails in place so innovation compounds instead of derails.If this conversation resonated, share it with someone who needs a nudge to be bolder, and leave a review telling me the bold move you're committing to this week.Resources: Sandy's Profile linkedin.com/in/sandyacarterBooksBySandy.comsocialmediasandy.wordpress.com/
On this episode of the Scouting For Growth podcast, Sabine VdL talks to Marinela Profi, Global Market Strategy Lead for AI, GenAI and Agentic AI at SAS, about the rise of agentic AI and how we will move from hype to real, reliable AI. In today's episode, we'll discuss: Why LLMs alone don't solve business problems – and what does, how governance is becoming the new frontier of AI trust, and what leaders should expect by 2026, as enterprises shift from experiments to autonomous, explainable intelligence. KEY TAKEAWAYS A generative AI chatbot is really good and answering questions, generating text, or summarising content. But, it typically stops when it comes to conversation. On the other hand, an AI agent goes beyond that, it can take action, it has goals, memory, reasoning capabilities and can orchestrate multi-set workflows using a combination of not just large-language models but also rules, data and analytics. Generative AI talks, and agentic AI does. The 5-step lifecycle of an agent is a framework I put together to help me and my customers understand what an agent actually does step-by-step in practice. 1. Perception 2. Cognition 3. Decisioning 4. Action, and 5. Learning. Governance boards in 2026 will act more like digital oversight committees, they will ensure that agents aren't just smart, but they are safe, explainable and accountable. BEST MOMENTS ‘Post action the agent learns from feedback from a human operative. It's important to monitor the learning loops, you cannot allow the agent to “self-update” in ways that are uncontrolled.' ‘How autonomous should an agent be? 90% of the time it depends on the risk and impact of the task.' ‘Autonomy without accountability is a risk multiplier.' ‘Governance doesn't stop at deployment, performance must be continuously monitored.' ABOUT THE GUEST Marinela Profi helps organizations move from AI hype to trusted impact. As Global Market Strategy Lead for AI, GenAI and Agentic AI at SAS, she works with enterprises in financial services, healthcare, and government to build AI systems that don't just act fast—but act responsibly. With an MBA and a Master's in Statistics and AI, Marinela bridges two worlds: translating complex data science into clear business strategy. Her work focuses on how agentic AI—intelligent systems that perceive, reason, and act autonomously—can deliver governed, explainable decisions instead of black-box predictions. A frequent keynote speaker at international AI and analytics events, she shares insights on the evolution from generative to agentic AI and the new frontier of AI governance, trust, and human-AI collaboration. Marinela is also an Advisory Board Member for Wake Technical Community College's Data Science Program, helping shape future-ready curricula that connect classroom learning with real-world AI innovation. ABOUT THE HOST Sabine is a corporate strategist turned entrepreneur. She is the CEO and Managing Partner of Alchemy Crew a venture lab that accelerates the curation, validation, & commercialization of new tech business models. Sabine is renowned within the insurance sector for building some of the most renowned tech startup accelerators around the world working with over 30 corporate insurers, accelerated over 100 startup ventures. Sabine is the co-editor of the bestseller The INSURTECH Book, a top 50 Women in Tech, a FinTech and InsurTech Influencer, an investor & multi-award winner. Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Facebook TikTok Email Website This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
Elena Verna is the head of growth at Lovable, the leading AI-powered app builder that hit $200 million in annual recurring revenue in under a year with just 100 employees. In this record fourth appearance on the podcast, Elena shares how the traditional growth playbook has been completely rewritten for AI companies. She explains why Lovable focuses on innovation over optimization, how they've shifted from activation to building new features, and why giving away their product for free has become their most powerful growth strategy.We discuss:1. Why 60% to 70% of traditional growth tactics no longer apply in AI2. Why you have to re-find product-market fit every 3 months3. The specific growth tactics driving Lovable's unprecedented growth4. Why giving away product is a growth strategy that beats paid ads5. “Minimum lovable product” as the new standard (not minimum viable product)6. Why activation now belongs to product teams, not growth teams7. Whether you should join an AI startup (honest tradeoffs)—Brought to you by:WorkOS—Modern identity platform for B2B SaaS, free up to 1 million MAUsVercel—Your collaborative AI assistant to design, iterate, and scale full-stack applications for the webPersona—A global leader in digital identity verification—Transcript: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-new-ai-growth-playbook-for-2026-elena-verna—My biggest takeaways (for paid newsletter subscribers): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/i/181207556/my-biggest-takeaways-from-this-conversation—Where to find Elena Verna:• X: https://x.com/elenaverna• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaverna• Newsletter: https://www.elenaverna.com—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introduction to Elena Verna(05:19) The scale and growth of Lovable(08:55) Confidence in Lovable as a business(12:17) Retention at Lovable(15:02) Lovable's unique growth levers(28:13) The role of marketing in Lovable's success(38:09) Launching new features(40:59) Hiring and team dynamics(43:17) The value of vibe coding(49:46) The importance of community(51:47) Giving away your product for free(56:26) Tripling their company size(01:00:23) Product-market-fit challenges(01:08:50) Advice for joining AI companies(01:12:00) Work-life balance(01:15:20) What it's like to work at Lovable(01:19:45) Women in tech(01:25:29) Final thoughts and lightning round—Referenced:• Elena Verna on how B2B growth is changing, product-led growth, product-led sales, why you should go freemium not trial, what features to make free, and much more: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/elena-verna-on-why-every-company• The ultimate guide to product-led sales | Elena Verna: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-ultimate-guide-to-product-led• 10 growth tactics that never work | Elena Verna (Amplitude, Miro, Dropbox, SurveyMonkey): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/10-growth-tactics-that-never-work-elena-verna• Lovable: https://lovable.dev• Building Lovable: $10M ARR in 60 days with 15 people | Anton Osika (co-founder and CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/building-lovable-anton-osika• Stripe: https://stripe.com• What differentiates the highest-performing product teams | John Cutler (Amplitude, The Beautiful Mess): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/what-differentiates-the-highest-performing• How to win in the AI era: Ship a feature every week, embrace technical debt, ruthlessly cut scope, and create magic your competitors can't copy | Gaurav Misra (CEO and co-founder of Captions): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-to-win-in-the-ai-era-gaurav-misra• “Dumbest idea I've heard” to $100M ARR: Inside the rise of Gamma | Grant Lee (CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-50-people-built-a-profitable-ai-unicorn• Eric Ries on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eries• Elena's post on LinkedIn about Lovable Missions: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/elenaverna_everythingispossible-lovableway-activity-7401627519646474242-hn6e• SheBuilds: https://shebuilds.lovable.app• Shopify + Lovable: https://lovable.dev/shopify• The Product-Market Fit Treadmill: Why every AI company is sprinting just to stay in place: https://www.elenaverna.com/p/the-product-market-fit-treadmill• Cursor: https://cursor.com• The rise of Cursor: The $300M ARR AI tool that engineers can't stop using | Michael Truell (co-founder and CEO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-rise-of-cursor-michael-truell• Unorthodox frameworks for growing your product, career, and impact | Bangaly Kaba (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Instacart): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/frameworks-for-growing-your-career-bangaly-kaba• The adjacent user: https://brianbalfour.com/quick-takes/the-adjacent-user• Granola: https://www.granola.ai• Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai• I'm worried about women in tech: https://www.elenaverna.com/p/im-worried-about-women-in-tech• Slack founder: Mental models for building products people love ft. Stewart Butterfield: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/slack-founder-stewart-butterfield—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.—Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. To hear more, visit www.lennysnewsletter.com