Leading Women in Tech Podcast

Toni Collis
Leading Women in Tech Podcast Podcast

A podcast discussing how to create the next generation of women leaders in the tech industry, helping you succeed on your terms and being the leader you want to be. On this podcast, we explore the techniques, tips and strategies you can use to become a standout leader. To give you the time and credibility to focus on what you love doing instead of justifying yourself every moment along the way. I’ll be sharing with you my best insights designed to make success not just simple, but inevitable. Whether you are on your way to the CSuite, an emerging leader or a budding Entrepreneur, this is the podcast you need to become a Lit-Up Leader and turn your tech passion into the career you love. For free online resources for your tech leadership journey go to: https://tonicollis.com/

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Burnout Busters: Reclaiming Your Energy

    Have you ever found yourself utterly exhausted, disconnected from your work, and questioning whether you can keep going at this pace? If so, you're far from alone. Burnout isn't just another form of stress - it’s a widespread issue that can have serious consequences on both your career and your personal well-being. In this episode, I break down what burnout truly is, how to catch the warning signs early, and most importantly, share practical strategies to help you recharge and rediscover the passion that burnout tends to steal.  We’re here to do more than just survive - we’re here to thrive. Let’s get to the show and take on burnout together! I dive into: The symptoms and impact of burnout on your career and personal life How burnout leads to social withdrawal, procrastination, and long-term effects on your immune system and sleep patterns The difference between chronic stress and ambition, and how to recognize early signs of burnout Practical strategies for managing stress and burnout before it becomes overwhelming The critical role of leadership in preventing burnout in teams, ensuring sustainable growth, and fostering diversity and inclusion And more   **Useful links** If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode219 Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    33 min
  2. 17 SEPT

    Why Being a Misfit Makes You Magic with Cheryl Johnson

    If you've ever felt like you don't quite fit in or don't look like those around you, today’s guest will inspire you to recognize that your differences are not just an asset—they're the key to your extraordinary leadership potential.  In this episode, I invite Cheryl Johnson, the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks, to share how she found remarkable success by embracing what makes her different. Cheryl refers to her unique qualities as the "magic in her misfit," and her story is a powerful reminder that standing out can be your greatest strength. We explore her journey to becoming Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks, highlighting key lessons from her time at Amazon and her transition into leadership. She discusses overcoming burnout, embracing her uniqueness, and the power of being a "misfit" in leadership. As Cheryl shares her experiences, you'll discover how being different makes you successful, especially in a world where companies constantly seek ways to differentiate. We dive into: Cheryl’s career journey to becoming Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks Embracing your uniqueness and the power of being a "misfit" in leadership Overcoming burnout and finding balance in high-pressure environments The importance of authenticity, adaptability, and leading with humility And more **Useful links** Connect with today’s guest, Cheryl: W: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylporro W: https://www.betterworks.com Cheryl’s current read: New Happy by Stephanie Harrison If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode218  Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.   This episode was sponsored by our guest, Cheryl Johnson. Thank you Cheryl for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

    55 min
  3. 10 SEPT

    The Job Market Rollercoaster: The Job Hunt Survival Guide for Women in Tech Leaders

    Are you feeling the strain of job hunting? You're not alone. This is a hard job market, but I’m here to help you navigate this challenging landscape with practical tips, my best advice, and the proven strategies that will help you survive the job market rollercoaster this year.  I dive into the current demand for AI expertise, key strategies for navigating today’s job market, including how to tailor your resume and cover letter for AI filters, and the mindset tips to keep you focused and resilient. l examine the shifting job market, from recessions and rebounds to the effects of widespread layoffs. What lessons can we learn from past boom and bust cycles? And what role does the tech industry play in global crises like climate change and AI advancements? Whether you're adapting to AI or refining your job search approach, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay persistent and strategically position yourself to land the job you’re after this year. Don’t miss it! I dive into: Proven strategies for navigating the job market rollercoaster The shifting job market: recessions, layoffs, and rebounds Lessons from boom and bust cycles Tech’s role during global crises Mindset tips for your job search Presenting your experience: considering AI filters and tailoring resumes and cover letters Balancing quality and quantity in your job applications And more   **Useful links** If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode217 Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    31 min
  4. 3 SEPT

    Understanding and Overcoming Burnout: Insights from Leading Women in Tech with Lindsay, Jen, and Allison

    In this special episode, I invite Lindsay, Jen, and Allison back to the show to dive into the raw reality of burnout, particularly for women in tech. We share our personal experiences, uncovering how burnout manifests in our careers and lives, and discuss the various ways we cope—sometimes successfully, sometimes not. From recognizing the signs to understanding the causes like micromanagement, we explore the complexities of burnout and the lessons we learn along the way. We also dig into strategies for tackling burnout, from self-awareness to mindfulness practices, and discuss the crucial role of leadership in creating supportive environments. Ready for the insight and encouragement you need to approach burnout in a healthier, more effective way? Let’s go to the show! We dive into: Understanding and overcoming burnout as a woman in tech Lindsay, Jen, and Allison’s career backgrounds and coaching support needs Causes and signs of burnout Strategies to tackle burnout: what works & what doesn’t Leadership’s role in preventing burnout And more **Useful links** If you’d like to let go of your self-doubt, don’t forget to check out my free course ‘Ditch The Self Doubt’.  If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode216  Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    1h 7m
  5. 27 AUG

    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. I dive into: The three crucial components of executive presence How the pillars of executive presence can help you build effective confidence Using body language, communication & mindfulness as a female leader in tech How to avoid the “arrogance trap” when developing your confidence Client case studies: communicating with confidence and clarity The relationship between gravitas and confidence And more   **Useful links** If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode215 Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    39 min
  6. 20 AUG

    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. We dive into: Kris’s zigzag career journey and how it has fueled her success Taking leaps of faith and creating purposeful goals that are right for YOU Culture, leadership, and toxicity Kris’s insights on career development and job searching strategies Exploring the zig-zag approach to your career And more   **Useful links** Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Kris Baker: Follow Demosphere:  W: www.demosphere.com,  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/demosphere-inc/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/demosphere IG: https://instagram.com/demosphere  Follow Kris:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristbaker/ Kris’ book recommendations:  The Purpose of Your Life by Carol Adrienne Dare to Lead by Brené Brown If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode214  Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.   This episode was sponsored by our guest, Kris Baker of Demosphere. Thank you Kris for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

    36 min
  7. 13 AUG

    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? Let’s go to the show! I dive into: The intricate balance of navigating executive presence as women in tech Strategies for balancing self-promotion with humility, and navigating risk-taking, competition, confidence, and communication as women in leadership Understanding gender dynamics in emotional restraint and empathy in the workplace Defining authentic executive presence How executive presence intertwines with your personal brand Client case study: improving executive presence And more   **Useful links** If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode213 Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    28 min
  8. 6 AUG

    The Power of Uncomfortable Conversations in Business with Shauna Garner

    In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the world of risk-taking and the essential conversations that come with it. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Shauna Garner, who transitioned from aspiring medical doctor to President of a leading tech company. She shares her story of embracing the unknown and the pivotal role of uncomfortable conversations in driving success. Ready for valuable insights and practical advice on how to hold space for risks to become a powerful and visionary leader? Let’s go to the show! We dive into: Shauna’s career journey from medicine to tech The benefit of taking risks in our careers Taking risks on behalf of your organization Handling uncomfortable conversations: team communication and engagement during risky changes Shauna’s insights on formidable leadership, growth, and forgiveness And more **Useful links** Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Shauna Garner W: https://valhallan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valhallanesports/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/valhallan/ Shauna’s current read: Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy  Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode212  Check us out on Youtube. Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

    33 min

About

A podcast discussing how to create the next generation of women leaders in the tech industry, helping you succeed on your terms and being the leader you want to be. On this podcast, we explore the techniques, tips and strategies you can use to become a standout leader. To give you the time and credibility to focus on what you love doing instead of justifying yourself every moment along the way. I’ll be sharing with you my best insights designed to make success not just simple, but inevitable. Whether you are on your way to the CSuite, an emerging leader or a budding Entrepreneur, this is the podcast you need to become a Lit-Up Leader and turn your tech passion into the career you love. For free online resources for your tech leadership journey go to: https://tonicollis.com/

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