Shellye Archambeau, one of Silicon Valley's first female African American CEOs, shares her journey from a challenging childhood to tech industry trailblazer. In our conversation, she reveals the power of intentional risk-taking, reframing adversity, and strengthening your strengths to achieve unprecedented success. Archambeau offers contrarian career advice, including why everyone should do a stint in sales, and how to navigate uncertainty in today's business landscape.

00:00:00: Introduction and Shellye's Perspective on Risk

00:00:39: Welcome and Shellye's Background

00:02:18: Shellye's Childhood and Early Influences

00:04:22: High School and Setting the CEO Goal

00:06:38: Handling Emotional Responses and Reframing

00:09:34: The Importance of Saying Yes to Yourself

00:12:11: Learning from Mistakes and Business Failures

00:14:27: Trade-offs and Sacrifices in Career

00:17:45: Embracing Discomfort and Growth

00:19:42: The Value of Sales Experience

00:21:18: Memorable Customer Interactions

00:24:21: Taking Risks at IBM

00:27:23: Risk and Reward in Business

00:29:46: Building a Great Career in Uncertain Times

00:31:14: Evaluating Career Moves

00:33:04: Challenging Conventional Wisdom

00:35:21: Feedback and Controversy on Ambition

00:37:42: Mentors and Their Impact

00:41:10: Closing Remarks and Book Recommendation