What if the key to unlocking the next wave of tech innovation lies in the hands of the entrepreneurs receiving the least funding?

There’s a fascinating paradox in today’s tech landscape: women-led startups are 63% more likely to succeed and have higher chances of becoming unicorns, yet they’re receiving less venture capital funding than ever before. This gap represents not just missed opportunities, but untapped potential that could reshape entire industries.

In this inspiring conversation, tech entrepreneur and AI pioneer Susan Sly reveals the uncomfortable truths about Silicon Valley’s old boys’ club and shares her blueprint for change. From deploying AI computer vision at scale to building The Pause—a revolutionary menopause-focused platform—Susan breaks down exactly how women can stop waiting for permission and start reshaping the industry from within.

“If you don’t like the stats we’re sharing, where did you go shopping for that outfit you’re wearing? Who designed it? We need to get present to where we’re spending our hard-earned dollars—from the apps we download to the brands we’re wearing.” — Susan Sly

Did you know most teams using AI are actually moving slower?

Lots of teams are testing AI tools—but not seeing the payoff. Why? Because tools alone don’t create results. In this episode, I break down what AI-Ready Leadership actually looks like and how to drive real results.

You’ll learn how to create an AI Leadership Strategy that drives results, how to avoid the pitfalls of reactive adoption, and how to position yourself as a future-ready leader with AI who can scale output, protect market share, and accelerate your career.
I’ll also cover why team sizes will shrink, how to lead with confidence in regulated or hesitant industries, and why embracing AI Productivity Leadership is now part of your credibility as a strategic leader.

Whether you’re in marketing, sales, engineering, or preparing for your next promotion — this episode gives you the playbook to lead AI adoption with purpose.

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.