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The podcast that helps women in tech accelerate their influence, step into their dream leadership career and break through the glass ceiling.

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Leading Women In Tech Podcast, Episode 253 - Standing Her Ground: Sophronia McKenzie on Assertiveness and Leadership in Tech

253: Standing Her Ground: Sophronia McKenzie on Assertiveness and Leadership in Tech

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

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251: 10 Lessons I Wish I Knew 20 Years Ago: Elisabeth Bykoff’s Advice for Women in Leadership

What if the only thing standing between you and the career you dream of… is the belief that you’re not ready yet?

Far too many brilliant women delay bold moves, silenced by doubt or the weight of invisible barriers. In this powerful episode, Elisabeth Bykoff—seasoned consultant, startup leader, and now founder—opens up about the 10 game-changing lessons she wishes she knew two decades ago. From navigating bias in male-dominated industries and silencing self-doubt, to building a strong network of mentors and allies, Elisabeth shares the candid truths behind her leadership journey, the confidence she had to cultivate, and the bold decisions that changed everything.

“If you are thinking about making a change, do it. Find help and support. Don’t be afraid.” — Elisabeth Bykoff

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250: Leading Through Change

Could your next big career move be one preparation habit away?

Most people plan for leadership—but the ones who actually get there prepare differently. In this episode, Chaitra Vedullapalli—tech executive, entrepreneur, and President of Women in Cloud—breaks down what it really takes to rise into senior leadership roles like VP or GM in the tech world.

From building business acumen to learning how to self-advocate without losing your authenticity, Chaitra shares the preparation playbook that helped her lead transformative initiatives and open economic access for thousands of women. Whether you’re early in your leadership path or preparing for your next big leap, this episode will give you the tools to show up like you’re already in the role.

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243: Struggling to Be Heard? Master Leadership Communication Strategies and Coach Upwards

Have you ever wondered how executives spend their time? Early in our careers, it’s easy to assume they just sit in meetings and make decisions from the sidelines. But as you move up, you quickly realize that great leadership isn’t about doing individual tasks—it’s about setting the vision, making strategic decisions, and enabling your team to execute effectively.
In today’s episode, I break down what high-performing executives actually spend their time on and how you can start thinking like one—whether you’re an aspiring leader or already in an executive role.

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242: Turning Imposter Syndrome into Your Secret Weapon

Struggling with imposter syndrome? You’re not alone. Many high-achievers experience self-doubt, but what if imposter syndrome wasn’t a weakness—but a hidden strength? In this episode, I explore how to reframe imposter syndrome as your superpower and how this surprising tool can help you with career growth, resilience, and innovation.

Learn how to shift your mindset, overcome perfectionism, and use imposter syndrome to fuel success rather than fear. Whether you’re dealing with self-doubt at work, in leadership, or in creative pursuits, these strategies will help you turn imposter syndrome into an advantage.

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241: Thinking Like an Executive: Setting Priorities as an Executive

Have you ever wondered how executives spend their time? Early in our careers, it’s easy to assume they just sit in meetings and make decisions from the sidelines. But as you move up, you quickly realize that great leadership isn’t about doing individual tasks—it’s about setting the vision, making strategic decisions, and enabling your team to execute effectively.
In today’s episode, I break down what high-performing executives actually spend their time on and how you can start thinking like one—whether you’re an aspiring leader or already in an executive role.

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227: Building Bridges: Effective Cross-Department Communication

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by misaligned goals, miscommunication, or the chaos of cross-functional projects going off track, this episode is for you.

This week, I tackle the challenges and solutions for effective cross-department communication by diving deep into the common barriers that prevent departments from working seamlessly together—such as differing communication styles, unclear expectations, and hidden sources of tension—and the practical strategies you can use to build bridges within your organization. From standardizing communication tools to creating a culture that encourages open, honest dialogue, I’m giving you the tools to enhance understanding across departments so you can build a positive, collaborative, and aligned work environment.

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215: ​​Practical Tips for Building Executive Presence: What Really Works For Us As Women In Tech

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.

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214: Why You Need to Learn to Leap as a Leader with Kris Baker

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.

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213: The Art of Authentic Executive Presence for Women

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?

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