On The Mic...WIT Shaz - Women in Tech Leadership: The Upsides

TechtoExec by Sharon (Shaz) Daly
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On the Mic…WIT Shaz is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement - Dedicated to inspiring and empowering more women in tech to enter into & remain in C-suite, Exec and leadership roles and to encourage this we need to be talking more about the UPSIDES of being in tech leadership roles. The more we talk about positive impact, the more we attract more positive impact!! What to expect? 🎙️ Each week I sit down with incredible humans in tech leadership who keep it real — no sugar-coating, just raw, honest stories. From zig-zag career paths to turning rejection into redirection.

  1. FEB 20

    Episode 16: She Went to Antarctica and Came Back Rethinking AI Leadership–Dr. Catherine Lopes

    In this episode of On the Mic WIT Shaz, Women in Tech Leadership: The Upsides, I sit down with Dr. Catherine Lopes — AI executive, community builder, and globally recognised data leader for a conversation that stretches from Antarctica to the boardroom. Catherine shares her once-in-a-lifetime leadership expedition to Antarctica and how standing among melting glaciers reshaped her perspective on leadership, responsibility, and impact. What happens when you realise leadership isn’t about control but stewardship? Together, we explore: 🌏 What Antarctica taught Catherine about perspective, fragility, and global responsibility 🤖 Why AI transformation is failing in many organisations (and what leaders are getting wrong) 👥 The danger of “tool-led” transformation instead of people-led strategy ⚖️ Why integrity, governance, and ethical AI are non-negotiables 💡 The real reason AI implementation sabotage is emerging 🌱 Why community is critical for women in data and AI 📊 A practical way to manage imposter syndrome (hint: stop thinking in binary) 🏆 What it actually takes behind the scenes to be named a Top 25 Analytics Leader Catherine also shares the story behind founding Ada’s Tribe, a thriving community supporting women to enter, stay, and grow in data and AI careers, inspired by Ada Lovelace and built to ensure women don’t feel alone in the field. This episode is a powerful reminder: Just because something can be built, doesn’t mean it should be. AI is built by people, for people and people must remain at the centre. ✨ Most importantly, here are Catherine’s UPSIDES of being in tech leadership: ✔ A once-in-a-lifetime leadership expedition to Antarctica ✔ Global recognition as a Top 25 Analytics Leader ✔ Founding Ada’s Tribe to support women in data & AI ✔ Creating meaningful impact on women’s careers ✔ Intellectual stimulation in one of the fastest-moving industries in the world ✔ Personal growth through resilience and humility ✔ Shaping the global conversation around ethical AI This is what tech leadership makes possible. If you’re leading AI, building teams, stepping into executive growth or even quietly wondering whether leadership is for you, this conversation will resonate. Because the more we talk about the upsides of tech leadership, the more we attract women ready to step into it. Get in touch with Catherine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-lopes/ Ada’s Tribe: https://adastribe.org/ Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly www.techtoexec.com.au LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/ Instagram: @techtoexec https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/ Facebook: TechtoExec https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/ Join the MOVEMENT https://techtoexec.com.au/the-movement/

    41 min

  2. JAN 29

    Episode 15: Why Sue Keay Stayed in Tech (When So Many Women Leave)

    Dr Sue Keay is an expert in robotics, AI and automation. She is the Director of the UNSW AI Institute and founded Robotics Australia Group, the peak body for the robotics industry. Sue is a fellow of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE), a member of the Kingston AI Group and Chief Executive Women, and is on the board of computer vision start-up, Visionary Machines. Sue has an MBA from UQ Business School, PhD in Earth Sciences from ANU and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute for Company Directors. “Sue Keay could have left tech many times.Instead, she stayed — and reshaped the space around her.” Sue didn’t stay in tech because it was easy.She stayed because she refused to give up something she loved even when the environment wasn’t built for her. In my latest podcast episode, I sat down with Dr Sue Keay — Director of the UNSW AI Institute and a national leader in robotics and automation. When I asked her what no MBA ever taught her about leadership, her answer surprised me: Stubbornness. Not the “put up and shut up” kind.Not tolerance of toxic behaviour. But the kind that says:👉 “I’m not leaving a field I love just because it hasn’t made room for me yet.” Sue shared how this inner steeliness — paired with clarity — is often what keeps women in tech long enough to lead, influence, and change the system. In this episode, we cover: ●Why stubbornness can be a leadership strength for women in tech ●What really keeps women in (or pushes them out of) male-dominated environments ●The difference between resilience and staying too long in the wrong place ●How to protect your energy without shrinking your ambition ●Why visibility matters — and why women are still under-quoted, under-seen, and under-funded in AI and robotics ●The 80–10–10 rule for career progression (and why women struggle most with the last 10%) ●Saying yes to high-impact opportunities — even when they feel uncomfortable ●Designing your career intentionally, not reactively   Key Quote: “Stubbornness isn’t about tolerating bad behaviour — it’s about refusing to let go of your passion.”   🎧 Ideal for women in tech, STEM leaders, executives, founders, and anyone navigating leadership pressure in complex systems.   Get in touch with Sue: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suekeay/ Website: www.suekeay.com     Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly   www.techtoexec.com.au LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/ Instagram: @techtoexec  https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/ Facebook: TechtoExec  https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/    Join the MOVEMENT https://techtoexec.com.au/the-movement/

    47 min

  3. JAN 14

    Episode 14: Late Diagnosis of Neurodivergence in Women & Female Leaders (with Vicky Little)

    There’s a moment many women in tech don’t expect. You’ve climbed the ladder. You’ve done the work. You’ve proven yourself (again and again). And then… another layer unfolds. A late diagnosis of neurodiversity. ADHD. Autism. A brain that finally makes sense but also leaves you wondering “What is the point? How much more do I have to carry?” In this deeply honest and affirming episode of On The Mic WIT Shaz – Women in Tech Leadership: The Upsides, I’m joined by Vicky Little - neurodiversity advocate, leader, and founder of The Little NeuroInclusion Agency. Together, we unpack: Why so many women and female leaders are diagnosed later in life The grief, confusion, relief, and identity shift that comes with “finally knowing” Why burnout, fatigue, and masking are not personal failures, but systemic failures How neurodivergent women are often exceptional leaders because of how their brains work What psychological safety actually looks like (beyond policies and posters) How leaders can dismantle invisible barriers in hiring, leadership, and culture Why the question isn’t “What’s wrong with me?” but “What environment do I need to thrive?” This conversation is real, practical, and deeply human. No fluff. No fixing. Just truth, clarity, and permission to stop resisting who you are. 🎧 This episode is for: Women in tech who’ve received a late diagnosis and are questioning everything Female leaders who are exhausted from masking, proving, and pushing through Tech leaders, hiring managers, and executives who want to actually create inclusive cultures Organisations serious about retention, psychological safety, and high-performing teams Anyone ready to move from awareness to action 🎙️ Because inclusion isn’t about fitting people in,  it’s about building environments where they can thrive. Get in touch with Vicky: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vicky-little-1856278 Where to find me:  Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly   www.techtoexec.com.au LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/ Instagram: @techtoexec  https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/ Facebook: TechtoExec  https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/ Join the MOVEMENT https://techtoexec.com.au/the-movement/ Reference links from this podcast episode: The Little Neuroinclusion Agency by Vicky Little   Little Neuroinclusion Agency - Little Neuroinclusion Agency is a specialist consultancy supporting organisations to cultivate genuinely neuroinclusive and psychologically safe workplaces. Tech Team Building Facilitation with Sharon (Shaz) Daly and Nicole Ireland https://techtoexec.com.au/tech-team-building-facilitation/ - A play-based, yet research-grounded methodology creating fun, inclusive and psychologically safe team environments. Tech Recruitment Workshop with Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://techtoexec.com.au/tech-recruitment-workshop/ - Designed to help you attract and retain the women in tech who are counting on all of us to get this right.

    48 min

  4. 12/04/2025

    Episode 13: The Upsides of Leadership (feat. Payal Pandya — in my first-ever in-person episode!)

    This episode is extra special, not just because of the insights, not just because of the laughs… but because it was recorded in person. Yes, for the first time ever, I had a guest sitting right beside me, and the energy was unreal. And after we wrapped? We celebrated the moment with tacos and guac. As you do. Today’s guest is the brilliant Payal Pandya, Data Governance Lead at Sportsbet — a self-described data nerd, people-first thinker, and a woman who knows exactly how to turn messy complexity into clarity, calm, and meaningful action. In this conversation, we dig into the real upsides of leadership, the surprising parts, the growth moments, the identity shifts, the “face-yourself” reality checks… all the things you don’t see on a job description. What We Dive Into The moment Payal realised leadership wasn’t about perfection — it was about learning yourself. We talk blind spots, biases, delegation struggles, and those unexpected traits that show up only when someone hands you a team.Why leadership gives you a seat at the strategy table — and why that’s worth every challenging moment. Payal shares how being part of shaping company direction has changed the way she sees her role, her team, and herself.Coaching vs Captaining (this one hit hard) A simple analogy that will change how you lead tomorrow morning.The Women in Tech Toastmasters program she runs — and how it’s transforming confidence from the inside out. This is the kind of culture-building we want more of in tech.Personal life + leadership: the messy overlap we need to talk about more. Triggers, patience, perimenopause, sick pets, busy kids, overloaded calendars — and how to stay connected to your why when life comes barging in.How to rethink career paths when life throws you “the universe has other plans” moments (Spoiler: her career story is the plot twist every woman needs to hear.) My Favourite Mic-Drop Moments “Fail… but fail safely.” “What problem are we really trying to solve?” “Just be you. Invest in you. Be kind to you.” “Careers aren’t linear anymore — and that’s actually your superpower.” 🎧 Listen If You’re… a woman in tech stepping into leadershipan aspiring leader who isn’t sure where to startan exec wanting to build a healthier, people-first tech culturesomeone going through a career pivotOR simply needing a reminder that leadership isn’t just about leading others — it’s about knowing yourself 🌮 PS: After the recording, Payal and I got Mexican food and debriefed like old friends. That’s the energy of this episode - warm, honest, real, and spicy in all the right ways. Get in touch with Payal: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/payalppandya Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly www.techtoexec.com.au LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/ Instagram: @techtoexec https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/ Facebook: TechtoExec https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/ Join the MOVEMENT https://techtoexec.com.au/the-movement/

    38 min
  5. Episode 12: From IBM to Slalom – The Growth, Grit & Gratitude of a Global Tech Leader | With Sayanti Sarkar

    11/27/2025

    Episode 12: From IBM to Slalom – The Growth, Grit & Gratitude of a Global Tech Leader | With Sayanti Sarkar

    In this episode of On The Mic WIT Shaz, I was joined by Sayanti Sarkar – Senior Principal Client Delivery at Slalom to explore the real, human, and powerful upsides of stepping into bigger roles in tech leadership. From landing in New Jersey as a young professional with just a jumper in sub-zero temperatures… to leading major delivery and transformation initiatives across NAB, REA Group, Accenture, and Slalom, Sayanti has built a career defined by growth, courage, empathy, and impact. We talk about confidence, identity, decision-making, multicultural leadership, creating opportunities for others, the importance of belonging over fitting in, and why strong companies thrive when they celebrate diversity rather than tolerate it. If you’ve ever felt like ✔ the only woman in the room ✔ the only migrant voice ✔ not “experienced enough” ✔ or are stepping into leadership for the first time this episode gives you the real talk, reassurance, strategy, and encouragement you need. In This Episode We Cover: ●What living and working across India, the US, and Europe teaches you about resilience and independence ●The LinkedIn story about thinking “gold coin donation” meant actual gold – and what it revealed about cultural assumptions ●The first day as a leader when the decisions fell on her – and how that shifted everything ●Why empathetic leadership isn’t soft – it’s strategic ●The surprising truth about people in tech: once you build rapport, the most introverted voices have the most to say ●How to grow into leadership even without the role yet ●Why belonging matters more than fitting in ●The ripple effects of celebrating and bringing your culture into the workplace 💬 Quotable Moments: “Nobody gives you leadership on a platter, we have to create the opportunity and the confidence.” “Your career shifts when you stop trying to fit in and realise you already belong.” “Experience is powerful in Australia – but initiative is unstoppable.” “The techiest people are often the most social. You just need to build rapport and let them show up.” ________________________________________ 🎧 Listen If You Want: ● A mindset shift around leadership and confidence ● Tangible steps to move towards delivery & leadership roles ● Real-world examples of cultural inclusion done right ● Permission to be more you, not less, at work ● Proof that one person can ripple change through an entire organisation 🌐 Connect With Sayanti LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sayantisarkar LinkedIn Post referenced in this episode from Sayanti: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sayantisarkar_indiansinaustralia-diversity-inclusion-activity-7370271110447362049-DUrW?tm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAZAOu0BLsL4yziNEAXLVp-idkF7k8TliVc Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly www.techtoexec.com.au LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/ Instagram: @techtoexec https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/ Facebook: TechtoExec https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/ Join the MOVEMENT https://techtoexec.com.au/the-movement/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women in Tech Leadership 01:26 Sayanti's Journey: From SAP Consultant to Leadership 04:58 Cultural Insights: Experiences in Different Countries 07:48 Morning Rituals: Setting Up for Success 10:46 Leadership Style: The Collab Chiller 12:47 The Excitement of Leadership Roles 14:38 The Fulfillment of Helping Others Grow 16:40 Transformations Through Leadership 18:34 Building Confidence in Diverse Environments 21:43 Authenticity and Empathy in Leadership 24:34 The Strength of Diversity in the Workplace 26:34 Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership 29:39 The Importance of Belonging 32:35 Cultural Celebrations and Their Impact 35:33 Career Growth and Leadership Development 39:21 Taking Initiative in Your Career 43:30 Understanding Tech Culture and Leadership 47:20 Personal Growth Through Leadership 49:16 Empowering Women in Leadership

    43 min
  6. Episode 11- Nevash Pillay | Leading with Kindness, Courage & Data that Changes Lives.

    11/13/2025

    Episode 11- Nevash Pillay | Leading with Kindness, Courage & Data that Changes Lives.

    Nevash is a global technology leader with over 20 years of experience in communications and technology. She partners with telecoms worldwide to harness data and AI, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. She currently travels between Sydney & New York for her current role as Global Head of the Communications Industry at Databricks. Nevash began her career at Telstra, where she rose from graduate to Executive, leading global sales teams accountable for $6.5B annually and driving major business transformations. She also served as VP of Telecom and Media at UiPath. Passionate about empowering women, advancing diversity, and building thriving cultures, Nevash leads with kindness, collaboration, and impact. Description Episode 11: The Upsides of Tech Leadership — with Nevash Pillay In this episode of On the Mic WIT Shaz, we’re diving into what really makes leadership in tech worth it — the purpose, the growth, the impact — and the moments that remind you why you stepped up in the first place. My guest, Nevash Pillay, is a global technology leader who’s walked the talk — from graduate at Telstra to Global Head of Communications for Databricks. She’s built multi-billion-dollar teams, led with kindness, and used technology to make a real difference in the world. Together we explore: 🌍 How AI and data are driving positive change — from stopping online fraud to shaping the future of health equity. 💡 Why your difference is your superpower — and how to stop trying to fit in. 💬 How to embrace feedback without losing yourself in the noise. 🤝 The power of kindness and authentic leadership. 🧠 Why curiosity and learning are the real edge in tech. 💖 How leadership isn’t just about a title — it’s about the energy and belief you create in others. This one is honest, warm, and full of gold for every woman ready to lead with heart and purpose. 🎧 Listen now and be reminded why your voice, your story, and your leadership matter. Get in touch with Nevash: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nevashpillay Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly ⁠www.techtoexec.com.au⁠ LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/⁠ Instagram: @techtoexec ⁠https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/⁠ Facebook: TechtoExec ⁠https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/⁠ Book a FREE Career Clarity Call to join the movement ⁠https://coach.techtoexec.com.au/sharon-daly/free-career-clarity-call

    50 min
  7. Episode 10: Dream. Leap. Lead - Kristina Brencheva on Building a Career (and Life) You Love.

    11/06/2025

    Episode 10: Dream. Leap. Lead - Kristina Brencheva on Building a Career (and Life) You Love.

    Kristina is a Tech Lead and front-end engineer who’s passionate about building meaningful, inclusive digital experiences. Over the past few years, she has worked on large-scale projects like HESTA’s digital transformation, helping shape tools that support real people in managing their financial futures. She cares deeply about user experience, clean code, and team culture — and she aims to bring heart into everything she does. Quote from Kristina: “I’m still learning, still growing, and always trying to build things that matter — with people who care.” Episode Summary: In this uplifting episode of On The Mic WIT Shaz, Shaz chats with Kristina Brencheva, a Technical Lead at AKQA, whose career journey has taken her from a small Siberian town to leading digital innovation in Melbourne. Kristina opens up about courage, mindset, leadership, and what it really means to build with heart — from learning English as a second language to becoming a finalist in the Women Leading Tech Awards. Together, Shaz and Kristina unpack the magic that happens when you back yourself, trust your gut, and choose workplaces that align with your values. They dive deep into authentic leadership, handling imposter syndrome, protecting your peace, and the power of never settling for less. In This Episode: ● How Kristina went from a junior developer in Russia to a tech lead in Australia ● The mindset shift that turned “I can’t” into “I can do everything” ● Why leaders must create cultures of empathy, learning, and experimentation ● What it means to “build digital experiences with heart” ● How to stop comparing yourself to others and focus on your own growth ● The role of boundaries, mindset, and kindness in leadership ● Why being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” is the true superpower Quote of the Episode: 💬 “Once you set it in your mind, it’s already half done.” Takeaway for Listeners: If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step up, lead, or make your next big move — this is it. Get in touch with Kristina: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kristina-brencheva-52018a195 Where to find me: Website: Sharon (Shaz) Daly ⁠www.techtoexec.com.au⁠ LinkedIn: Sharon (Shaz) Daly https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/⁠ Instagram: @techtoexec ⁠https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/⁠ Facebook: TechtoExec ⁠https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/⁠ Book a FREE Career Clarity Call to join the movement ⁠https://coach.techtoexec.com.au/sharon-daly/free-career-clarity-call

    59 min
  8. Episode 09: “Reimagining Engineering for Growth — with Shivangi Singal”

    10/30/2025

    Episode 09: “Reimagining Engineering for Growth — with Shivangi Singal”

    Shivangi is the Head of Engineering at REA Group, bringing over 15 years of experience leading large-scale technology and digital transformation initiatives. She is a recognized advocate for women in technology and a finalist at the Women in Tech Awards, known for her ability to build high-performing, inclusive teams while driving business impact. Shivangi combines strategic vision with a practical, people-first approach to leadership, inspiring teams to deliver excellence with authenticity and purpose. Her focus on innovation, quality, and collaboration continues to shape the future of technology leadership. Episode Summary:In this powerful conversation, Shaz sits down with Shivangi Singal, a trailblazing engineering leader reshaping what inclusive, purpose-driven tech leadership looks like. From coding in India to leading large-scale transformation at REAGroup in Melbourne, Shivangi’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical empathy. Together, they unpack: ● The Bias Backpack — what we unknowingly carry from one role to the next, and how to finally put it down. ● Transformation journey that went from straight line to Formula One speed — and the lessons learned along the track. ● Navigating the messy bits - delivery pressure, restructures,transformation fatigue. ●  Real Talk on periods, perimenopause, menopause, endometriosis, and parenthood — and why these must be part of every leadership conversation. Shivangi and Shaz go deep on redefining success, leading through change, and protecting your energy — while building cultures where people actually want to show up.   Quote:“I have had moments where we were going in a straight line for a delivery and all of a sudden we were in an F1 race. Up and down, up and down, roundabout, and I could feel it as a leader.” ~ Shivangi Singal Quote:“When we let go of that bias backpack — our own and others’ — we create room for growth, connection, and freedom.” ~ Shaz   Connect with Shivangi: 🔗 linkedin.com/in/shivangis Where to find me: Website:Sharon (Shaz) Daly  ⁠www.techtoexec.com.au⁠ LinkedIn:Sharon (Shaz) Daly ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-daly/⁠ Instagram:@techtoexec  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/techtoexec/⁠ Facebook:TechtoExec  ⁠https://www.facebook.com/techtoexec/⁠ Book a FREE Career Clarity Call to join the movement ⁠https://coach.techtoexec.com.au/sharon-daly/free-career-clarity-call

    55 min
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On the Mic…WIT Shaz is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement - Dedicated to inspiring and empowering more women in tech to enter into & remain in C-suite, Exec and leadership roles and to encourage this we need to be talking more about the UPSIDES of being in tech leadership roles. The more we talk about positive impact, the more we attract more positive impact!! What to expect? 🎙️ Each week I sit down with incredible humans in tech leadership who keep it real — no sugar-coating, just raw, honest stories. From zig-zag career paths to turning rejection into redirection.

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