Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Leading Women in Tech Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 216: Understanding and Overcoming Burnout: Insights from Leading Women in Tech with Lindsay, Jen, and Allison | 03 Sep 2024 | 01:06:44 | |
In this special episode, I invite Lindsay, Jen, and Allison back to the show to dive into the raw reality of burnout, particularly for women in tech. We share our personal experiences, uncovering how burnout manifests in our careers and lives, and discuss the various ways we cope—sometimes successfully, sometimes not. From recognizing the signs to understanding the causes like micromanagement, we explore the complexities of burnout and the lessons we learn along the way. We also dig into strategies for tackling burnout, from self-awareness to mindfulness practices, and discuss the crucial role of leadership in creating supportive environments. Ready for the insight and encouragement you need to approach burnout in a healthier, more effective way? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 215: Practical Tips for Building Executive Presence: What Really Works For Us As Women In Tech | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:38:48 | |
In today's episode, I explore the critical link between executive presence, confidence, and the fine line between confidence and arrogance for women in tech. I break down the three key components of executive presence - appearance, communication, and gravitas - and how to leverage these pillars to build genuine confidence without falling into the trap of arrogance. I also discuss strategies to enhance your executive presence through body language, mindful communication, and self-awareness. With real-world examples and insights, you'll learn how consistent self-examination and inviting feedback can elevate your leadership style, why executive presence is crucial for career advancement, and practical tips for cultivating it to help you flourish and thrive at work. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 206: What You Really Need to Hear to Advance Your Career with Valerie Drew | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:37:48 | |
Let's talk about what you need to hear to advance your career! In this episode, I invite the spectacular Valerie Drew, an amazing woman and tech leader at a Fortune 500 company, to share her journey of continuous promotion and the skills that made it possible. We dive into her valuable insights on taking on tough projects, learning continuously, and advocating for yourself to avoid complacency, as well as how to leverage your communication skills, learn from mistakes, and navigate gender bias to better your leadership career. Ready for the insights, inspiration, and tools to advance your career with confidence and purpose? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 205: Vulnerability in Leadership: Breaking Down Barriers | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:31:31 | |
Do you want to boost team productivity, retention, and innovation while fostering an environment where your team feels comfortable being their authentic selves? Let's talk about embracing vulnerability in leadership and how this openness can help you create stronger connections with your team and peers. In this episode, I dive into the critical role of vulnerability in demonstrating a strong executive presence and fostering genuine connections within your teams. I explore what it truly means to be vulnerable, ways you can embrace more openness in your leadership, and how giving yourself and your team permission to be vulnerable will lead to a stronger work environment. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 204: Bounce-Back-Ability: Mastering the Art of Resilience as a Leader with Angie Read | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:41:52 | |
In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Angie Read, a remarkable woman who spent 25 years in corporate communications, navigating the complexities of big tech and other industries. Known for her extraordinary resilience, Angie faced a life-altering challenge at 46 when she suffered a massive ischemic stroke. Despite her determination to return to work after just a few months of rehab, Angie found herself battling debilitating anxiety and depression. Join us as Angie bravely revisits her journey through a career that lacked fulfillment, her mental health crisis after her stroke, and how she navigated being laid off. She sheds light on recognizing the signs of a physical or mental health crisis, understanding the true cost of perfectionism, and why it shouldn't be worn as a badge of honor. Ready to learn how Angie transformed her adversities into a powerful story of resilience and discover valuable lessons on managing stress, anxiety, and perfectionism in leadership? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 203: Redefining Success Beyond the Quantity of Work | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:22:53 | |
Do you feel you must work crazy hours to get the recognition you deserve? It's time to redefine success beyond the quantity of work! In this episode, I discuss the barrier of the traditional success model, the major pitfalls of quantity over quality, and how you can shift your mindset to redefine success for yourself and your team. I dive into boundary setting, redefining success metrics, and how to escape the burnout cycle by prioritizing high-impact tasks, celebrating wins, and coaching your team to work proactively vs. reactively. Ready to find success in the quality of your work and the impact you're making? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 202: Hacking Your Brain: The Neuroscience of Being a Great Leader with Dr. Hayley Nelson | 28 May 2024 | 00:46:59 | |
Let's talk neuroscience (and leadership, of course)!
Join me for this enlightening conversation with Dr. Hayley Nelson, a passionate neuroscientist and professor, who dives deep into the intricacies of how our brains operate and the neuroscience of being a great leader. In this episode, Dr. Hayley shares her personal journey, detailing how overcoming a traumatic experience led her to pursue a career in neuroscience, despite having other early ambitions. We discuss the difference between the brain and the mind, how to rewire our brains to change our outlook, and embracing resistance as a crucial part of creating lasting change in mindset or habits. We dive into the mindset of optimism vs. toxic positivity, instilling an effective mindset in your team, productivity insights from a neuroscience perspective, and embracing & managing neurodivergent team members. Ready to learn how neuroscience can transform your approach to leadership and personal growth? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 201: Negotiating Your Worth: Salary, Recognition, and Opportunities | 21 May 2024 | 00:32:10 | |
It's time to seek the rewards you deserve! Let's talk about negotiation - a core skill essential for your career success. In this episode, I dive into useful strategies for negotiating your worth and how to own your value regarding salary, recognition, and advancement opportunities. I discuss my top tips for negotiating compensation, handling job offers (counter and multiple), and positioning yourself for advancement. But it's not just the practical tools you need, we'll dive into the mindset around owning your value, understanding your limits, and overcoming the specific negotiation challenges faced by women in tech, ensuring you can advocate effectively for the compensation and opportunities you deserve. Ready for the actionable tips to help you reach your next salary goal or dream role? It's time to understand your worth and master the art of negotiation. Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 200: Celebrating Women in Tech, Beating the Burnout, and Letting Go of Needing to Be Like the Men in the Room with Lindsay Kulzer, Allison Williams, and Jennifer Peters | 14 May 2024 | 00:54:36 | |
Ready to dive into the empowering journeys of three extraordinary women in tech? In today's episode, I invite three amazing women I have the honor of supporting to dive into their experiences, insights, and triumphs through the lens of executive coaching. Lindsay, Allison, and Jennifer candidly share their motivations for seeking executive coaching, its transformative impact on their professional development, and powerful career lessons around overcoming imposter syndrome, burnout, gender bias, and more. We explore the pivotal moments that led them to join The Lit Up Leadership Academy, the biggest successes they've achieved, and the one thing they wish they had known about themselves a decade ago. Join us to uncover the importance of embracing one's identity, confronting self-doubt, and cultivating resilience in the face of adversity - you don't want to miss these valuable leadership insights & strategies! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 199: From Glass Ceiling to Glass Microphone: How Women Can Break Through Communication Barriers in Tech Leadership | 07 May 2024 | 00:27:27 | |
The glass ceiling concept is well known in the world of work, especially in male-dominated fields like tech. But what about its lesser-known counterpart - the glass microphone? Many of us have felt the frustration of not being heard or taken seriously, our ideas dismissed before we can fully express them. This glass microphone barrier can hurt our career advancement and lead to stress and burnout. Let's talk about how you can break through this communication barrier in your tech leadership! In today's episode, I explore how to recognize the presence of the glass microphone and why honing your communication skills is crucial as a woman in tech. From strategies for thinking on your feet to navigating gender biases in communication, I give you practical tips to break the glass microphone and ensure you are heard at work. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 198: Mindfulness in Leadership: Cultivating Presence | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:21:16 | |
Mindful leadership is powerful leadership! Let's talk about the power of mindfulness and how cultivating presence in your leadership will benefit your professional journey. In today's episode, I dive into the important role mindfulness plays in leadership development and elevating your executive presence - and how to cultivate it! I explore how key elements of executive presence such as adaptability, strategic vision, and confident communication can be improved through mindfulness, and the practical steps you can take toward more presence in these areas to become a more mindful leader. Ready to use mindfulness to elevate your executive presence and transform your leadership? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 197: Getting Started With Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion with Jacqui Barrett | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:52:12 | |
If you're interested in being a leader that promotes a sustainable, enjoyable, and nurturing work environment, prioritizing equity, diversity, and inclusion is a must. In today's episode, I invite Jacqui Barrett, CEO of Wider Thinking, to share her inspiring career journey and passion for fostering inclusive workplaces and driving organizational change. We dive into an important discussion on equity diversity and inclusion (EDI) and share actionable insights on creating nurturing work environments, implementing strategies like flexible working arrangements to promote diversity, and overcoming burnout as we strive to apply EDI in our careers. Ready to explore why EDI is essential for organizational success and leave inspired to build a more inclusive and equitable workplace? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 214: Why You Need to Learn to Leap as a Leader with Kris Baker | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:35:36 | |
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kris Baker, the president of leading sports tech company Demosphere. Kris's journey to success is anything but a straight line—it's a series of bold leaps and reinventions that have led her to where she is today. Her zigzag career path, filled with setbacks, misfires, and missteps, has not hindered her success but rather fueled it. Kris shares how she has identified and acted on opportunities with courage, stepping away from toxic environments and making purposeful decisions that have been fundamental to her growth and resilience. We explore the importance of embracing a zigzag career journey, understanding how these leaps can shape your leadership and personal career path. Whether you're feeling trapped in your career or looking for inspiration to take control and reinvent yourself - tune in to learn how to navigate your own zigzag path to success and take crucial leaps of faith to become a stronger, more resilient leader. We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Kris Baker of Demosphere. Thank you Kris for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 196: The Cost of Constant Hustle: Avoiding Burnout in Leadership | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:26:18 | |
It's time to shift the narrative, to recognize that being in a perpetual state of hustle isn't the key to success - it's a catalyst for burnout. In today's episode, I explore the cost of constant hustle and why, contrary to popular belief, it's not the path to greatness in your leadership career. Join me as I disprove the myths surrounding overwork and dive into solutions, from realistic goal setting to the importance of delegation and healthy boundaries. Ready for the actionable leadership steps you can take to combat burnout and foster a healthier, more sustainable work environment? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 195: Hold Don't Carry with Lindsay White | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:37:49 | |
Let's talk about the powerful approach to leadership - "Hold, Don't Carry". In this episode, HR veteran turned Executive Coach, Lindsay White, joins me to discuss learning to hold space without shouldering undue burdens and how this skill sets great leaders apart. We dive into the nuances of holding emotional space as a leader, cultivating resilience and stamina by "not carrying", using lead and lag measures effectively, and the roles accountability and delegation hold within the "Hold, Don't Carry" paradigm. Join us for our top tips on how to implement this approach with self-care and empathy and an insightful discussion on how this leadership skill can uplevel your executive presence. We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 194: Speaking Up: Communicating Complex Ideas Simply | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:32:03 | |
Ever found yourself lost in a complex presentation? Maybe you've been the presenter and the audience looked a bit confused? If you want to be an effective senior leader, communicating complex ideas in a simple way is a key skill. In this episode, we're talking about communicating complex ideas with simplicity, the biggest traps to avoid, and the tools and tips to help you overcome this common leadership hurdle. Ready to make sure your words are hitting the mark? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 193: Learning to Look at Failure Differently with Lydia Bai | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:33:19 | |
Failure can be a fascinating contributor to our career success or career hurdles - and it's determined by the way we look at it. Let's talk about failure and learning to look at it differently. In this week's episode, I invite recovering investment banker and life coach, Lydia Bai, to discuss failure, how her toxic relationship with achievement impacted her ability to thrive at work, and how burnout, imposter syndrome, motivation, and self confidence can all be linked to the way we perceive our failure. Ready to shift how you see the failures in your career so you can use them for good? Let's go to the show. We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Lydia. Thank you Lydia for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 192: Leadership Lessons From My Dad | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:26:25 | |
Today, I want to share a very special and personal episode with you as I honor my dad and tell you about the powerful impact he had on me and others, and how these leadership lessons can bring insight to your own life and leadership journey. This is a somewhat unusual episode — after all, we don't normally talk about men on this show. And my Dad was certainly not in Tech! But I hope this episode inspires you with new ideas, and new ways of thinking, as well as a few ways to learn from those around you even if they aren't intending to 'teach' you in any form. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 191: Are You Staying in Your Lane? with Julie Tschida Brown | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:37:07 | |
Do you have dreams that seem out of reach or outside the traditional path your education or experience should lead you? If you have dreams of being in the boardroom, achieving a senior leadership role, or you're already there but keep getting shut down or shut out, this episode is for you. This week, I invite Financial Capital Executive in HR, Julie Tschida Brown, to talk to us about whether or not you should "stay in your lane" and how to properly understand and contribute to the business you're in so you can reach your highest career goals. Ready to step OUT of your lane and into the boardroom? Let's go to the show. We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Julie. Thank you, Julie, for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 190: Trauma in the Workplace: What It Is and What You Can Do About It | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:35:50 | |
What is workplace trauma, and what can you do about it? Let's talk about workplace trauma, how it affects us and our teams, and what organizations and leaders need to know to support themselves and others through it. We often associate trauma with more obvious experiences such as car crashes, the loss of a loved one, or something far worse. However, the sad reality is that trauma is a universal workplace phenomenon and needs to be acknowledged. In today's episode, I discuss the 4 main contributors to workplace trauma, exploring the symptoms you might see in yourself or your team, and how to respond as a leader to prioritize your and your team's well-being. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 189: Ethics, AI, and Being a Woman in Tech in 2024 with Sonal Shah | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:34:26 | |
It's time for an important discussion about AI and the role we need to be playing in 2024 as women in the tech industry. In today's episode, I invite Sonal Shah, Barclays Vice President, coach, and author of Amazon bestseller "She Chose Tech", to discuss her non-traditional background and journey to tech and how you can leverage allies, mentors & sponsors to thrive in your tech leadership career. We dive into topics like closing the gap for women in tech and how to tackle the current AI leadership problem in our industry. Ready for the resiliency tools you need to thrive during the surge of AI and break barriers as a woman in this male-dominated industry? We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Sonal. Thank you, Sonal for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 188: Personal Boundaries for Professional Success | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:36:10 | |
Boundaries underpin our professional success and can determine longevity in our careers. Are yours in the right place? Let's talk about personal boundaries for professional success. In today's episode, I discuss why developing boundaries is so crucial for our tech careers, what happens when we don't maintain them, and how to create a boundary toolkit of your own to ensure you're mitigating burnout and building a sustainable leadership career that you love. Ready to set your priorities at work, and learn the magic of boundaries? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 187: Are You Being Passive-Aggressive at Work? | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:23:47 | |
Are you being passive-aggressive at work? Let's talk about passive-aggressive behavior and its role in our careers as we grow and develop in our leadership. In today's episode, I discuss examples of passive-aggressive behavior in the workplace, what we need to be doing as leaders to prevent the damage this can cause, and helpful strategies for understanding and navigating this dynamic in your career. Ready for the tools you need to shift from passive aggression at work to more trust, morale, and overall productivity? Join me for this one. I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 213: The Art of Authentic Executive Presence for Women | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:28:23 | |
Have you ever been advised to improve your executive presence, only to be left wondering what that truly means? Or perhaps you've tried to emulate the behaviors of your male colleagues, only to find it doesn't quite work for you? You're not alone. Let's talk about the art of authentic executive presence for women. In today's episode, I explore the unique challenges women face in developing executive presence and clarify what it genuinely means to embody this leadership skill. I give you practical tips to help you cultivate an authentic presence that commands respect, influence, and enhances your ability to navigate the workplace with confidence and authenticity. Ready to cultivate a powerful executive presence, earn respect, drive your career forward, and find fulfillment in your professional journey? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 186: Embracing Your Differences As A Woman In Tech with Shikha Bajaj | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:33:09 | |
Are you walking in your full color at work? Let's talk about embracing your differences as a woman in tech! In today's episode, I invite Vice President and Digital Business Transformation Leader, Shikha Bajaj, to talk to us about "owning your color" and how you can show up as who you really are at work (and succeed and thrive while doing it). We dive into mentorship, breaking barriers, and lifting each other up our way to the top. Ready to show up as the best version of yourself in your career? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Shikha Bajaj. Thank you Shikha for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 185: Dreaming About Starting Your Own Startup? with Amy Cell | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:39:00 | |
Is there something holding you back from getting your company off the ground? Let's talk about the startup dream and how to make it a reality! In today's episode, I invite HR Consultant Amy Cell to share her wisdom on all things startups! We dive into the KEY considerations if you're considering your first startup, identifying your fears (and how to avoid them from stopping you), and setting yourself up for the best chance of success. Ready to take the journey towards a successful startup? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 184: The Critical Mistakes You Need to Avoid in the 2024 Job Market | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:25:11 | |
The job hunt has changed, my love. If you're looking for a job in 2024, it might be time for an action plan specific to today's market to set you apart from the competition. Let's talk about what you need to know to succeed in your job hunt this year! In this episode, I'm sharing the 7 most critical mistakes to avoid in the 2024 job market to make sure you get what you want and don't miss out on any dream opportunities. Ready to stand out and land that next role? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 183: The Cost of Failure with Debbie Levitt | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:43:39 | |
As a business leader, I embrace failure. I encourage my team to try new things and learn from their mistakes. But when does this strategy stop working? Can failure truly be BAD for business? Let's talk about the culture of "fail fast" and if your business or career is paying too high a cost for failure. In this episode, I invite Debbie Lovett, MBA and CFO of Delta CX, to challenge our ideas on failure as she dives into the high costs companies are paying for a culture that glorifies failure and ultimately ignores the customers' needs. Ready to understand where failure should be embraced and when it's bad for business? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Debbie Levitt. Thank you Debbie for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!
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| 182: Beyond Resolutions: Transformative Annual Planning for the Visionary Woman in Tech | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:28:17 | |
January offers a unique opportunity for a fresh start beyond personal resolutions, my love. Let's talk about making a strategic and transformative annual plan for your professional journey! In today's episode, I want to help you take advantage of the "fresh start effect" and give you the tools you need to plan for your professional future as a visionary woman in tech. Whether you're planning for an even better year in a career that already lights you up, or you're ready to take the journey towards finding a job you LOVE, this one's for you. Ready for a lit-up career of big plans & big celebrations? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 181: The Importance of the Open Door with Trina Martin | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:36:43 | |
How can we help to break the barriers between underrepresented groups and executive leadership? Let's talk about the importance of the open door. In today's episode, I invite CEO, author, and speaker, Trina Martin, to share her experience as a founder, woman of color, and champion for changing the future of leadership. We discuss people pleasing, scarcity mindset, and how we can break barriers and open the door to help each other reach the top. Ready to change leadership for the better? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 180: Why Women-Led Companies Generate More Unicorns with Manuela Seve | 19 Dec 2023 | 00:40:05 | |
Are you working towards becoming a founder one day? If you want to start your own company but feel some resistance towards taking the first step, this one's for you, my love! Let's talk about why women-led companies are more successful and the important things to consider before going all-in on chasing your dreams. In today's episode, I invite Co-founder & CEO of Alphaa.io, Manuela Seve, to discuss her journey to founding her own company. We discuss why female-led companies generate more unicorns, some of the things to ask yourself if you're considering starting your own company, and the important first steps you can take right now toward becoming a female founder. Ready to knock down some of those barriers to starting your own company? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 179:The Sunday Scaries | 12 Dec 2023 | 00:23:59 | |
You know the feeling…as the weekend winds down, a sense of unease creeps in and casts a shadow over your last precious hours of relaxation. This feeling is referred to as the "Sunday Scaries", and today we're talking about the ways to overcome it! In today's episode, I'm exploring the Sunday Scaries, why they pose such a challenge to our well-being, and most importantly - how to conquer them! Ready to ditch the dread of returning to work and move into healthy anticipation instead? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 178: How to Lead and Retain High Performers | 05 Dec 2023 | 00:20:08 | |
Can you imagine the extraordinary things that would be possible if you were leading your ideal team? Let's talk about how to lead and retain high-performers! In today's episode, I discuss the unique characteristics of high-performers, effective strategies to engage & motivate them, and how to create an environment where high-performers can truly thrive. Ready to build a team that is entirely high-performance moving forward? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 212: The Power of Uncomfortable Conversations in Business with Shauna Garner | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:33:11 | |
In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the world of risk-taking and the essential conversations that come with it. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Shauna Garner, who transitioned from aspiring medical doctor to President of a leading tech company. She shares her story of embracing the unknown and the pivotal role of uncomfortable conversations in driving success. Ready for valuable insights and practical advice on how to hold space for risks to become a powerful and visionary leader? Let's go to the show! We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 211: Leading with Impact: Practical Insights and Strategies for Women in Tech | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:38:03 | |
It's important to understand that because of our industry, we as tech leaders, particularly as women, need to do things a little bit differently. Let's talk about tech leadership's unique and specific attributes to help you thrive in your leadership role. In this episode, I dive into how to navigate and thrive in the tech industry and address the common barriers female tech leaders face - and some practical strategies to overcome them. Join me for insights on today's tech landscape, gender dynamics in leadership, technical expertise vs. soft skills, and more. Ready to navigate these challenges together and make a lasting impact in the tech world? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 210: Is Entrepreneurship the Right Next Step For You? with Alex Batdorf | 23 Jul 2024 | 00:48:05 | |
In this episode, we take a slight detour from our usual leadership discussions to explore the world of entrepreneurship! I'm joined by serial entrepreneur Alex Batdorf, who dives into valuable insights from her entrepreneurial journey and her passion for supporting women on the same path. She shares some startling statistics about women in entrepreneurship, useful tips about funding, access to resources, and networking, and the most important things to consider before you leap into entrepreneurship. Join us for an honest discussion about the path of entrepreneurship - the pros and cons of seeking venture capital, why Alex believes you don't need a business school degree to become a successful entrepreneur, and whether entrepreneurship is the right path for you. We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 209: The Power of Tech Leadership Coaching: Strategies for Success | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:29:22 | |
Is coaching something you need right now? Let's demystify coaching and make sure you have the kind of support you need as a female leader in tech! In this episode, I dive into the power of tech leadership coaching to help you determine if it's what you need now, in the future - or not at all! I explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by leaders in this industry, how coaching can develop your leadership skills specifically for the fast-paced and innovative tech environment, and the factors to consider when seeking coaching as a woman in tech, such as the rapid innovation cycle, team dynamics, and more. Join me for this important discussion on leading as a female at work, how leadership coaching can play a role in your success, and answering the crucial question: Is coaching something you need right now? I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 208: Creating an Environment Where Women Thrive with Michele Cober | 09 Jul 2024 | 00:36:52 | |
What does it really take to create a healthy and thriving workplace culture? Let's talk about how we as leaders can create an environment where women can thrive! In this episode, I invite multi-faceted woman in tech, Michele Cober, to share her insights on workplace culture, how leaders can identify and cultivate the right environment, and the significant impact this has on overall culture and individual well-being at work. Join us for the practical strategies you can use to show up more authentically at work and transform your workplace culture for the better. We dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 207: Evolving Tech Leadership: Navigating Change and Climbing the Ladder | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:29:03 | |
How often do you reflect on your leadership approach and if you're adapting to both your professional growth and the ever-changing world around you? Let's talk about the evolution of tech leadership and navigating change while climbing the ladder! In today's episode, I dive into the evolving landscape of tech leadership and how your approach needs to transform as you advance in your career. I look at how tech leadership has evolved over the last 25 years, the key factors shaping our tech leadership today (and what you can do to stand out), and my tips for evolving your personal leadership approach as you progress in your career. Want to thrive in the fast-paced tech world and ensure your growth keeps pace with the evolving landscape? Let's go to the show! I dive into:
**Useful links**
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| 270: When Your Boss Doesn't Listen: How to Shift from Frustrated to Heard | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:16:20 | |
Your boss isn't listening. You're delivering results, showing up in meetings, and sharing smart insights — but somehow, it feels like your voice never lands. In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we're diving into the deeper reasons why high-performing women are overlooked, unheard, or dismissed — and what to do about it. We'll explore how to shift perception, develop executive presence, and lead with influence (without becoming someone you're not). You'll learn: ✅ The hidden dynamics that cause leaders to tune you out If you've ever said, "my boss doesn't listen to me" — this episode is for you. 🧭 Take the Promotion Readiness Scorecard → https://tonicollis.com/scorecard
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| 269: Big Vision Without Burnout: How to Lead Without Overwhelm with Jackie Peters | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:37:59 | |
You don't need a degree—or a perfect plan—to lead with vision. In this episode, I'm joined by Jackie Peters, startup founder and longtime tech innovator, for a powerful conversation on how to lead boldly, build something meaningful, and move forward—even when you don't feel 100% ready. With 25+ years of experience across mobile gaming, AI-powered healthcare, and privacy-preserving data analytics, Jackie brings a rare mix of visionary thinking, human-centered leadership, and strategic clarity. We talk about building confidence in uncharted territory, trusting your instincts, and turning complex ideas into user-first innovation. 💡 What You'll Learn:
✨ This episode is for the bold, the curious, and the women shaping the future of tech on their own terms. 🔗 Connect with today's guest, Jackie Peters: 📞 Want career support or leadership coaching? 👩💻 Show notes & more: https://www.tonicollis.com/episode269 💬 Join the free Slack community for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/slack #WomenInTech #TechLeadership #FounderMindset #PrivacyByDesign #StartupLeadership #JackiePeters #LeadingWomenInTech
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| 260: How to Be Professionally Blunt (Without Being Rude) | Leadership Communication Skills for Women in Tech | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:25:25 | |
Have you ever sugarcoated feedback to avoid hurting someone's feelings? Or avoided a tough conversation because it just felt too uncomfortable? In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I'm diving into how to be professionally blunt—the leadership communication skill that will help you be more respected, more effective, and build high-performing teams with less confusion and more trust. What You'll Learn in This Episode:
If you're ready to stop sugarcoating, speak with confidence, and develop powerful direct communication in leadership—this one's for you. Check out episode 245 on passive-aggressive leadership tendencies and how to shift them: https://tonicollis.com/episode245 👇 PLUS: Want help implementing this in your leadership style? 💬 Book a free strategy call with me to explore how executive coaching can help you develop your voice, lead with clarity, and elevate your influence: ✨ If you found this helpful, hit the like button, subscribe, and share this with another woman in tech leadership who's ready to level up their communication.
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| 259: From Startup to Strategy: How to Spot Strategic Gaps & Lead with Confidence with Ashley Wright | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
Are you missing the strategic blind spots that could unlock your next big move? What if the key to leveling up your leadership wasn't in working harder—but in thinking more strategically?
In this episode, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and strategy expert Ashley Wright, who shares how to spot the hidden gaps that slow teams down—and how to shift from reactive mode to confident, forward-thinking leadership.
With stories from her time at General Mills, launching an AI-driven startup in the green industry, and guiding founders through major pivots, Ashley brings a rare mix of big-picture vision and tactical insight. Whether you're leading a team or building your own thing, this episode will help you lead with clarity, context, and purpose.
"You can either live your life trying to make someone else's dream happen, or live it trying to make yours happen." — Ashley Wright
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
🎧 Loved Ashley's insights? Take 5 minutes to reflect: Where are the strategic gaps in your work or team?
**Useful links**
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| 258: Freeze, Ramble, Go Silent? Coach Yourself in Real Time | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:27:55 | |
Ever freeze mid-sentence in a meeting? Start rambling when challenged? Or walk away thinking, "Why didn't I speak up?"
In this episode, I unpack what pressure really does to high-achieving women — and more importantly, how to coach yourself through it in real time, even when your heart is racing and your voice feels like it's vanished. If you've ever wanted to feel more grounded, more articulate, and more in control under fire, this one's for you. "Leadership isn't about what you say out loud, it's about what you say to yourself before you open your mouth." — Toni Collis What You'll Learn in This Episode:
This is for you if:
**Useful links**
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| 257: The Job Market Shift: A Playbook for Landing Your Next Role As A Woman in Tech | 01 Jul 2025 | 01:12:19 | |
Are you wasting precious time in your job search without realizing it? Before you polish that resume or fire off another LinkedIn message, hit pause. This episode lays out the real dynamics of today's job market and gives you a proven playbook to navigate it with clarity, confidence, and intention. We dig into the tough truths about what's changed, why old advice doesn't work anymore, and how women in tech can stand out by leading with strategy and resilience. From AI-filtered resumes to hidden opportunities, we break it all down—so you don't waste your energy doing the wrong things. "If you're struggling, get help. Learning how to do this well, learning how to interview well, is not something you're taught in school." — Toni Collis
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Looking for a better way to navigate your job search? If you're tired of sending out endless applications with little response, this episode breaks down what's actually working in today's market. From mindset to strategy to real-world results, you'll walk away with clarity on how to move forward—smarter and more effectively.
**Useful links**
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| 256: No More Crickets: The Networking Strategy That Lands Jobs in 2025 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:31:47 | |
Are you still sending out resumes and hearing nothing but crickets? If you're stuck in the old "apply and hope" cycle, it's time to break out. The job market in 2025 rewards the networked, not just the qualified. Most people think of networking as a time-consuming chore or an awkward event—what if it's actually your most powerful leadership tool? Whether you're actively job hunting or simply keeping your options open, your network is your future. And it doesn't require hours of small talk or massive LinkedIn posts. It's about small, intentional actions that open doors. In this episode, I dive deep into why networking—with intention and strategy—is your most important asset in the 2025 job market. From connecting with recruiters to rethinking how you engage with your peers, you'll walk away with practical ways to shift from invisible to irresistible. "Networking doesn't have to take a lot of time. It's small, consistent action every single day." — Toni Collis
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Want to take this further? Try reaching out to just one person today with a genuine message—and track your follow-up. Need a tool? Use a simple spreadsheet or personal CRM to manage your outreach.
**Useful links**
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| 255: What Happens When You Don't Want the CEO Job… But Take It Anyway – with Christine Spang | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:37:48 | |
Are you a reluctant CEO? Telling yourself you're not CEO material? What if the story you've been telling yourself is the only thing holding you back from stepping into a powerful new chapter? Christine Spang never set out to become a CEO. As the co-founder and longtime CTO of Nylas, she spent over a decade in the trenches—coding, building, and deeply involved in the work on the ground. But when the time came to lead the company, she said yes... even though she didn't think she fit the mold. In this raw, insightful episode, Christine shares what it really looks like to evolve from hands-on engineer to strategic CEO. We explore the emotional weight of leadership, embracing your unique leadership style, and learning to lead in ambiguity. If you've ever felt like you're not the "right kind" of leader, Christine's journey will challenge and inspire you. "You don't have to be a CEO that looks like X. The company will change around you." — Christine Spang What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Want to go deeper? If this episode resonated with you, consider journaling on this: What story are you telling yourself about the kind of leader you're not? Then ask yourself: What if that story isn't true anymore? **Useful links**
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| 254: The Invisible Load: Leadership Shouldn't Cost Your Wellbeing | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:31:01 | |
Are you doing everything "right" at work—and still being told it's not enough? If you're constantly overdelivering but still feel like you're falling short, you're not alone. For women in leadership—especially in tech—there's often a hidden, unspoken weight we carry: the emotional labor, the expectations to nurture, lead, represent, and accommodate. This invisible workload isn't part of your job description, but it shapes how you lead, how you're perceived, and how your executive presence is judged. Let's talk about what that invisible load really is—and why it's quietly holding you back! In this episode, I unpack the unseen pressures women leaders face and explore how this hidden weight contributes to burnout, self-doubt, and feeling like you're always behind—no matter how hard you work. From unspoken DEI expectations to caregiving responsibilities and the pressure to be a role model, I break down why this load exists, how to recognize it, and most importantly—how to lighten it. "It isn't that you have to work harder…it's that you're carrying too much of the stuff that isn't getting you recognized." — Toni Collis What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Ready to stop over-functioning and start leading sustainably? After listening, take a moment to reflect: What are you carrying that's not actually yours to hold? Then, share this episode with another woman leader who needs to hear this—because you're not alone in this. Let's help each other lighten the load. **Useful links**
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| 253: Standing Her Ground: Sophronia McKenzie on Assertiveness and Leadership in Tech | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:32:00 | |
Have you ever wondered how the most grounded leaders stay true to themselves—especially when the room wasn't built for them? In this episode, we're talking about what it really takes to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Sophronia McKenzie—tech founder, CEO, and unapologetically authentic leader—joins us to share how assertiveness, resilience, and authenticity have powered her rise from arriving in the U.S. with $100 to leading her own successful tech company. We talk about what it really takes to thrive as a female leader in tech—from building resilience during seasons of personal struggle, to navigating bias in boardrooms filled with male CTOs, to making sure your voice is heard without losing who you are. "I'm going to be authentically me... Why did I decide to be a CEO if I'm going to follow rules?" — Sophronia McKenzie What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Let's keep the conversation going, after listening, ask yourself:
Share your reflections with us using #LeadingWomeninTech, or connect for more conversations and resources that support your growth as a resilient, authentic leader.
**Useful links**
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| 252: How to Think Like a Leader Instead of Just Another Employee | 27 May 2025 | 00:35:20 | |
You don't need permission to lead. Real leadership starts in your mindset — not in your job description. If you're ready to break free from "employee thinking" and step into the career growth you deserve, this episode is your blueprint. In this episode, I explore the subtle but powerful leadership mindset shifts that will help you stand out at work, grow your influence, and accelerate your career — especially as a woman in tech. From breaking out of reactive mode to owning ambiguity and thinking beyond your paycheck, we're diving into 7 key mindset shifts that help you think like a leader instead of just doing the job. "Leadership isn't about a job title. It's about how you approach your work, how you solve problems, and how you add value every single day." — Toni Collis What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Ready to make the shift from employee to leader? Hit play and start building the leadership mindset that opens doors — for you and those around you. **Useful links**
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