Hey Trailblazers! Welcome back to another episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers" with Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin, and today, we have a remarkable guest—Sapna Ramachandran, the VP of Talent Experience and Culture at Kitestring Technical Services. Get ready to explore her journey of resilience and authenticity in the tech world.

Sapna kicks things off by sharing what authenticity means to her. Spoiler alert: It’s about being true to yourself and embracing your uniqueness. Sapna’s journey wasn’t easy, especially with the challenges of cross-cultural communication and gender bias, but her perseverance shines through.

We dive into real talk about the gender gap in tech. Sapna doesn’t hold back on her experiences as an Asian woman and the barriers she faces. Her insights on the lack of representation and the importance of speaking up are eye-opening.

Then, there’s the magic of mentorship. Sapna discusses the impact of having supportive mentors and how she’s paying it forward. Her story of helping an elderly gentleman transition from loading shelves to a tech role is truly inspiring.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:52) Is being your authentic self a tech game-changer?

(5:05) Should women in tech speak up more?

(6:03) Embracing mistakes in tech

(7:13) Why is intentional diversity important?

(9:56) Is communication a challenge in corporate America?

(10:59) Mastering leadership in tech

(13:27) Why 'me time' is crucial for women in tech

(15:13) What challenges do Asian women face?

(20:28) What makes a great mentor?

(24:55) Overcoming barriers as an immigrant

(28:05) How can you be more authentic?

Sapna Ramachandran is a true trailblazer, breaking barriers and uplifting others along the way. Tune in to hear how she’s making a difference in tech and beyond. What will you do to drive change in your field? Don’t miss out—subscribe, share, and stay tuned for more empowering stories.

About Sapna Ramachandran

Sapna Ramachandran is the Vice President of Talent Experience and Culture at Kitestring Technical Services. With over five years as Head of Talent Acquisition, she has a strong background in recruiting and developing tech talent. She has successfully hired and onboarded engineers, developers, and consultants for various projects and clients. Sapna's efforts in creating a positive and inclusive work environment, emphasizing diversity and collaboration, earned her the Employee of the Year award for Small Businesses in Northwest Arkansas in 2022.

Connect with Sapna:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers." Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here, and today, we've got a powerhouse guest for you—Shereese Floyd, the genius behind AI Consultants for Nonprofits. Get ready to dive into her incredible journey from nonprofit marketing to revolutionizing AI for social good.

Shereese kicks things off by sharing how a moment of necessity pushed her into the world of AI. Ever wondered how AI can transform grant writing? Shereese did, and she ran with it, turning a challenging situation into a game-changing skill.

We dive into the real talk about authenticity. What does it mean to be authentic in tech? Spoiler alert: It’s not a fixed state. Shereese’s take on living true to yourself, even if it varies day-to-day, is something we can all relate to.

Of course, we couldn’t ignore the elephant in the room—biases in tech. Shereese doesn’t hold back on her experiences as a black woman navigating this space and how she’s learned to stand her ground.

Then, there’s the magic of AI in nonprofits. Shereese paints a picture of how AI can ease the load, helping nonprofits focus on their mission without burning out. Who knew AI could be such a hero?

Mentorship is another gem in this episode. Shereese talks about the incredible influence of her first mentor and how she’s paying it forward, lifting other women up with her.

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:57) Are you living authentically in every moment?

(7:16) How did ChatGPT transform a moment of hopelessness?

(9:49) How do you handle bias in the tech world?

(11:41) Can you count on anyone else to change your life?

(12:33) The hard truth about diversity conversations

(17:20) Can AI really close the gender wage gap?

(17:43) Is your AI system biased?

(23:01) How do small gestures make a big impact?

(24:04) The incredible power of personal interactions

(24:58) Do you have a support network beyond work?

(27:08) Is a midlife crisis really about unfulfillment?

Shereese Floyd is an inspiration and a trailblazer in every sense. Tune in to hear how she's changing the game with AI and lifting others along the way. So, what steps will you take to be a part of this tech revolution? Don’t miss out—subscribe, share, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories.

About Shereese Floyd

Shereese Floyd is the founder of AI Consultants for Nonprofits and an executive coach with over two decades of experience in nonprofit marketing. She specializes in integrating AI into nonprofit operations to enhance efficiency and impact. Shereese is also an adjunct professor at the Academy of Nonprofit Excellence and a TEDx speaker known for her expertise in emotional branding and powerful storytelling.

Connect with Shereese:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Curious about what it takes to balance tech leadership with personal authenticity?

In this episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers," Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin introduce you to Danyel Bischoff-Forsyth, the innovative CTO at Seven Brew Coffee. With over 33 years in the tech industry, including 28 years at Hallmark Cards and 5 at Tyson Foods, Danyel’s journey is packed with valuable insights.

Danyel’s path in tech began in high school, where her interest in programming first took root. As her career evolved, she embraced various roles, each contributing to her rich experience in the industry. Danyel underscores the importance of being true to oneself, both at work and at home. She believes that to be effective and comfortable in what you do, you have to bring your authentic self to every aspect of your life.

One of the major challenges Danyel addresses is the balancing act between career and family. She talks about the necessity of setting clear boundaries early on, comparing it to giving someone 100 bucks and then asking for 30 back because you decided to set boundaries later. This practice has helped her manage both her professional responsibilities and personal commitments without feeling overwhelmed.

Danyel also emphasizes the importance of knowing your values and being deliberate in your career choices. Additionally, she highlights the role of strong support networks and mentoring in overcoming industry challenges and advancing in your career.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:20) What happens when authenticity takes center stage?

(4:30) How do gender roles sabotage career growth?

(6:06) Is networking the ultimate career catalyst?

(8:54) Can setting boundaries prevent burnout?

(12:16) How do authenticity and leadership intersect?

(15:35) The synergy of vulnerability and leadership

(18:55) The power of reverse and peer mentoring

(19:37) What role do women-only organizations play?

(22:59) How can the gender gap in tech be addressed?

(26:19) Overcoming self-doubt in career applications

Take a moment to reflect on Danyel’s insights and think about how you can apply them to your own tech career with authenticity and balance. What actions will you take to support women in tech?

Be sure to share this episode with a friend juggling a tech career and family life. For more insights, tune in now!

About Danyel Bischoff-Forsyth

Danyel Bischoff-Forsyth is a technology leader with over 30 years of experience. She has led large transformation projects for public and private organizations in many industries. Danyel worked 28 years at Hallmark Cards, five years at Tyson Foods, and is now the CTO at Seven Brew Coffee.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California. Her doctoral research focused on increasing the number of women in executive technology leadership roles. Danyel is also a board member at NETZRO, SBC, an organization working to eliminate food waste. Outside of her career, she is a mother of six and a grandmother of two.

Connect with Danyel:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

What does it mean to make space at the table in tech? Let’s dive in!

Hey, everyone! In this episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers," Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin sit down with Namrata Collins, a powerhouse at Walmart with over two decades in IT and business. Namrata opens up about her journey from India to the U.S. and the critical role of authenticity in her career.

Ever faced a career setback? Namrata has, and she shares how feedback helped her bounce back stronger. She also introduces the inspiring "Take Five" initiative, a mentorship program designed to create a ripple effect of support and growth.

Namrata emphasizes that tech careers offer stability, growth, creativity, and experimentation. If you enjoy building, experimenting, and pushing boundaries, tech is the place for you. She encourages women to recognize the bias that they might be seen as less technical and to assert their technical skills even more with every opportunity.

Her advice? "Be really good at what you do and share your opinions confidently." She highlights the power of mentorship and the importance of intentionality in making space for others. It's your responsibility and job to make seats at the table for other people. Not everyone gets an invitation to the room, so if you are in the room, make your presence felt.

Here are the key takeaways:

(4:18) Can you bring your whole self to the table?

(7:38) Why tech is the perfect career for creative minds

(9:11) What can you learn from not getting the job?

(11:28) Why do women leave tech by age 35?

(15:03) The double motivation of making decisions for your children

(15:41) The ripple effect of the 'take five' strategy

(19:48) Can tough love from mentors make you a better leader?

(23:27) The secret to making an impact in high-stakes meetings

(23:51) What challenges do first-time leaders face?

(27:20) Can anyone become a mentor if you ask?

(29:08) How crucial is having an opinion for thought leadership?

(30:35) Why collaboration leads to greater success

Reflecting on her journey, Namrata notes that most people, upon introspection, realize how many helped them grow. It's natural to want to give back once we see the role others played in our journey. While you can achieve great things alone, you can achieve more together. Change the narrative, make space for others, and collaborate to create a more inclusive environment.

Tune in to hear Namrata's valuable insights and be inspired to make a difference in your career.

Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe and share with a friend. Let’s create more space at the table together!

About Namrata Collins

Namrata Collins is the Group Director of Workforce Management Technology and Services at Walmart Stores Inc. With 20 years at Walmart, she has led major digital transformation and people leadership initiatives in IT and business. Namrata is an advocate for diversity, active in community work for women's and children's causes, and holds a Six Sigma Black Belt. She lives in Bentonville with her family and enjoys travel and family time.

Connect with Namrata:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hello, everyone! Welcome to another episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers," where today, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are thrilled to sit down with the brilliant Devayani Supekar. Devayani is a champion of bridging gender gaps in tech, bringing a rich background in engineering and leadership from her impactful career at Walmart.

Today, she dives into the essence of authenticity in tech, sharing personal stories that spotlight her journey from an electronics engineer to a senior program manager. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion isn't just a part of her job—it's a passion that drives her every initiative.

Devayani also unpacks the power of mentorship and its pivotal role in her career. She stresses that effective mentorship involves more than guidance—it's about empowering others to explore their paths and discover their strengths. Reflecting on her experiences, Devayani shares how she has navigated tricky situations where stereotypes about gender roles have surfaced, advocating for equality and respect in every interaction.

Throughout the discussion, Devayani addresses the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends, which she sees as crucial for personal and professional growth. She highlights the significance of finding one's tribe and creating mentoring circles, even if it means starting one when none exists.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:27) How does being authentic help you belong?

(7:09) The importance of people skills in tech

(7:46) Are we showing the next generation their options?

(9:26) How to handle unconscious bias?

(13:49) Can saying no hurt your career?

(16:12) How to find the right mentor?

(17:22) The role of authenticity in successful mentorship

(19:16) Choosing between one-on-one and group mentoring

(20:51) How can you teach kids about mentorship?

(23:31) The power of knowing your impact

(26:06) Are you keeping up with industry trends?

(27:01) Can advocacy lead to personal growth?

(28:37) Why don't women apply for certain jobs?

Devayani's journey and insights inspire us all to embrace our true selves and support one another through mentorship and advocacy. She encourages everyone in tech to be a part of the change that fosters diversity and inclusion.

Tune in now to get inspired and think about how you can make a difference in creating an inclusive environment in tech. Remember, it starts with being authentic and supportive. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode to spread the word about making tech a better place for everyone.

About Devayani Supekar

Devayani Supekar is a Senior Program Manager at Walmart Marketing with a background that includes roles as an Analytics Manager for Supply Chain and a Product Manager for Walmart Global Tech. Originally from India, she pursued her Master's degree at the University of Texas at Dallas. She actively supports diversity and inclusion initiatives at Walmart, serving as Vice-Chair on an Employee Resource Group, and is a board member for the Northwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter. Devayani is deeply involved in her Northwest Arkansas community through various volunteer efforts.

Connect with Devayani:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

What is impostor syndrome, and how can you navigate it in your career? Let's get into it!

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of the "Women in Tech Trailblazers" podcast with your hosts, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin. Today, we are thrilled to have Dee Davis with us, a seasoned SVP of Human Resources at Tyson Foods. Dee brings a wealth of experience in tackling impostor syndrome, especially in male-dominated sectors.

Throughout the episode, Dee shares her personal journey and strategies for recognizing and managing impostor syndrome. She breaks down the five types of impostor syndrome and discusses the importance of self-talk in overcoming these challenges. Dee’s stories from her career illuminate her approach to self-validation and assertiveness.

Dee also explores how impostor syndrome manifests differently in men and women and its impact on career progression. She emphasizes the critical role of mentors in navigating professional landscapes and the importance of embracing your achievements.

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:02) The role of positive self-talk in combating impostor syndrome

(5:28) How do men and women experience impostor syndrome differently?

(6:52) Overcoming the 'I just got lucky' mentality

(9:08) Are you holding back from big opportunities?

(10:59) How to build confidence in professional decisions

(12:55) Why do women fight for others more than themselves?

(14:50) How does comparing yourself to others fuel impostor syndrome?

(17:19) Mastering your inner dialogue for greater success

(20:55) Can a mentor spot your struggles before you voice them?

(21:34) What stops us from celebrating our achievements?

(22:45) What role does self-talk play in achieving top performance?

To wrap up, Dee leaves us with a powerful reminder: "Any room you’re in, you deserve to be in." This affirmation is something she believes everyone should adopt to boost their confidence and presence in their professional roles.

Tune in now and discover how you can better navigate impostor syndrome in your career and maybe even become a mentor to others. And here’s a thought-provoking question until our next episode: How will you apply Dee’s insights to conquer your own impostor syndrome?

This podcast aims to empower and elevate the voices of women in tech by addressing the unspoken challenges. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and follow us. And don't forget to share this with someone who might find it helpful. Together, let’s build a more inclusive space in tech for everyone!

About Dee Davis

Dee Davis is a distinguished global HR leader with over two decades of experience guiding organizations through complex people and culture dynamics. She holds an MBA, an MS in Management and Leadership, and a Doctorate in Business.

Originally from Louisiana, Dr. Davis is an avid traveler and museum enthusiast who enjoys exploring different cultures and societies both in the U.S. and abroad. Her passion lies in empowering women to confidently navigate in male-dominated industries, championing the concept of "radical authenticity"—being true to oneself even in the face of adversity.

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

What does authenticity in tech look like, and how do we champion it? Let's dive in!

Hello, everyone! In this episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers," Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin welcome Arya Thorbole, Snigdha Thumma, and Reva Paradkar. These inspiring women discuss the essence of authenticity in the tech world and share their journey to establishing a stronger presence for women in tech.

They each share unique insights from their experiences, highlighting how overcoming challenges and embracing authenticity have shaped their paths. From Arya's shift from medicine to tech due to her passion, to Snigdha's leadership roles breaking gender biases, and Reva's experiences in tech clubs at school, their stories are a beacon for aspiring tech women.

The guests delve into the qualities that define true authenticity in tech, such as courage, honesty, and the ability to be oneself without fear. Their discussion provides practical advice on how these qualities can foster career growth and create a supportive community.

Here are the key takeaways:

(1:50) What does authenticity mean across generations?

(2:03) Why does gender still influence who gets listened to?

(3:36) Why do many girls hide their true selves?

(5:00) What challenges do girls face in tech?

(6:40) The humorous truth about men and women's thought processes

(9:17) How can men and women better support each other?

(14:42) Creating a safe community for newcomers in tech

(18:09) Can you achieve what you cannot see?

(22:04) How does family support influence success?

(25:03) Is tech only for the young?

Ending on a powerful note, our guests stress the critical role of mentorship and visibility in tech, urging young women to step up and be seen, and men to support as allies.

Tune in now and think about how you can help make the tech industry more welcoming and authentic. Before our next episode, consider this: How will you help increase diversity and authenticity in your tech community? Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and share this episode. Let’s open more doors for women in tech!

About Girls+ in Technology of NWA

Girls+ in Technology of NWA empowers young women by fostering a community where curiosity, creativity, and resilience are nurtured. This organization provides a supportive environment for girls to explore technology, develop leadership skills, and become catalysts for innovation in an increasingly digital world.

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hello, trailblazers! Welcome back to "Women in Tech Trailblazers," where your hosts, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin, dive deep into the experiences that shape the leaders in tech. Today, we’re joined by the remarkable Erika Finnestead, who shares her journey and insights on creating inclusive spaces in our industry.

Erika discusses the fine balance between grace and accountability in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture where competition fosters collaboration rather than division. She highlights how women often hold themselves back and the steps we can take to support one another more effectively.

Delving into her personal experiences, Erika talks about walking into boardrooms with confidence, whether in stilettos or Doc Martens, always owning her space and expertise. She also addresses how to handle inappropriate comments professionally, setting boundaries that respect personal and professional dignity.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:44) How can we create more inclusive spaces for women?

(4:07) The role of perfection in women's self-perception

(11:41) Why do we shy away from self-accountability?

(13:51) The power of positive recognition in technology

(14:55) How to transform anxiety into excitement

(18:33) The challenge of being a Latina in a traditional boardroom

(20:56) How to respond to inappropriate comments at work?

(30:00) The role of self-reflection in professional development

(34:10) How to elevate your career by helping others

(37:53) What defines the line between being hateful and helpful?

We wrap up with Erika's advice on recognizing our strengths and the power of mentorship in advancing our careers and supporting others.

Tune in to learn how to leverage your position to foster inclusivity and empowerment in tech. And remember, make space at the table, because when you rise, bring someone with you!

About Erika Finnestead

Erika Finnestead is the Marketing Director at Ozark Regional Transit and former Chief Marketing Officer at Preferred Office Technologies. With over 12 years of experience in B2B and B2C marketing, her expertise spans software development, project management, and digital marketing. Erika is also the D.E.I Chair of the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas, focusing on social equity and sustainable urban development.

Contact Erika at:

LinkedIn

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.