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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.

Leading Women In Tech Podcast, Episode 254 - The Invisible Load: Leadership Shouldn’t Cost Your Wellbeing

254: The Invisible Load: Leadership Shouldn’t Cost Your Wellbeing

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

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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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252: How to Think Like a Leader Instead of Just Another Employee

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

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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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236: The Executive Mindset Gap Part 1: Why You’re Struggling to Think Like an Executive

Why do so many of us struggle to “think like an executive”? If you’ve ever felt like you’re not quite hitting the mark, that people aren’t listening to you, or that you’re constantly scrambling, this series is for you. In part 1 of my executive mindset gap series, I dive into the foundation of executive mindset: executive presence. I explore the common misconceptions, the impact of imposter syndrome, and why “faking it” can lead to burnout. Join me to learn how to develop an authentic executive mindset, build self-awareness, and take the uncomfortable actions that will set you apart.

And come back for part 2 where I dive deeper with a powerful executive thinking framework!

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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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226: Look Me in the Eye: Why It’s Time to Stand Tall with Ushi Patel

In this empowering episode, Brand Expert Ushi Patel joins me to discuss how women can break free from the habit of shrinking and start standing tall in leadership roles. She shares strategies to build confidence from within and create habits that support stepping fully into our greatness, rather than holding back. We dive into the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, from bias to the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) pressures to silence our voices, and emphasize the importance of “going for gold”, advocating for yourself, and setting boundaries—like asking others to truly see you by looking you in the eye.
We also tackle the difficult topic of isolation and the societal stigma around asking for help, offering strategies to help you connect, self-advocate, and embrace your own strengths as a leader. Join us to discuss building healthy habits, surrounding yourself with supportive evidence of your capabilities, and taking ownership of your greatness.

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