Beyond the Binary: Women's Voices in Tech

Asmita Puri and Sally Wahba
Beyond the Binary: Women's Voices in Tech

Tech is for everyone, but the industry doesn’t always reflect that. Beyond the Binary: Women's Voices in Tech is a podcast where Asmita Puri and Sally Wahba —two tech professionals passionate about equity and representation—highlight voices that are often overlooked in the industry. From navigating bias to celebrating wins, our guests share real stories about breaking barriers and reshaping the industry. Whether you’re in the field or just tech-curious, these conversations will inspire, inform, and maybe even fire you up. 🎙️ Listen, learn, and join the conversation.

Episodes

  1. Interview With Donna Kolnes

    MAY 28

    Interview With Donna Kolnes

    A law degree may seem out of place in the world of tech, but Donna Kolnes begs to differ. In this conversation with Asmita Puri, she looks back on how her legal expertise allowed her to bring refreshing perspectives to the development of various tech products. She explains how her unique technical skill is vital in the tech industry, which is full of equally technical elements as well. Donna also shares valuable advice for women who are navigating careers in both technology and law, emphasizing how they can showcase their talents while navigating issues on diversity and inclusivity.

    42 min
  2. The Right Kind Of Obsession: How Passion Fuels Meaningful Change With Vicky Demas

    APR 30

    The Right Kind Of Obsession: How Passion Fuels Meaningful Change With Vicky Demas

    We all have obsessions, but are yours helping or hindering you? Discover the power of embracing the right kind of obsession—one that fuels your growth, empowers your journey, and elevates your life. In this episode, Asmita Puri engages in a captivating conversation with Vicky Demas, the visionary CEO of identifeye HEALTH. Vicky shares how her lifelong hyperfocus to learning and problem-solving has driven her journey in healthcare technology. Get ready to be captivated as Vicky shares key moments from her early passion for space and engineering to her groundbreaking work in AI healthcare. Don't miss this inspiring conversation – tune in now and unlock the potential of your positive obsession!

    41 min
  3. The Immigrant Experience: A Career Journey Towards Embracing The Stars With Maria Varmazis

    07/25/2024

    The Immigrant Experience: A Career Journey Towards Embracing The Stars With Maria Varmazis

    Ever dreamed of ditching your computer science career and launching a podcast about space? Buckle up, because that's exactly what our guest did! This season, we're diving deep with inspiring women in tech, and our first episode features the incredible Maria Varmazis. Maria's journey is anything but linear, and she gets real about the challenges of navigating societal expectations, the immigrant experience, and unexpected life detours. From mental health struggles to career pivots, Maria's story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and embracing the power of failure. Whether you're a woman in tech or simply someone who's ever felt like you didn't quite fit the mold, this episode is a must-listen. This content discusses topics related to suicide and suicidal thoughts. If you are struggling with suicidal feelings, please know you are not alone. There is help available, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength. You may contact:  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (US) (https://988lifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/)Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (US) (https://www.crisistextline.org/) If you are outside the US, please search online for suicide prevention resources in your country. Remember, you are not alone. There is help, and hope.

    48 min
  4. Painting My Way To The Top: An Artist's Journey To Tech Leadership With Rachelle Mohtadi

    07/11/2024

    Painting My Way To The Top: An Artist's Journey To Tech Leadership With Rachelle Mohtadi

    Art and engineering might seem like opposite ends of the spectrum, but they share a surprising connection. In this episode, Asmita Puri interviews Rachelle Mohtadi, who discusses her unconventional career path from an art history major to a successful VP of Engineering for a real estate technology startup. Rachelle shares the challenges she faced as a woman in the tech industry, from self-teaching HTML and CSS to navigating her first engineering job after a tech boot camp. Tune in to uncover the fascinating journey of blending creativity with technology, and be inspired to explore your unique career path. Don’t miss out—listen now! Rachelle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachmoht Here are some of the resources shared by Rachelle: Python (40 - 60 hours for the core chapters but can take +100 hours if you're thorough) Depending on your learning style, it can be helpful to read the exercises first, take notes on vocabulary that is unfamiliar to you, and then go back and read the chapter looking for definitions. Working from the digital version of How to Think Like a Computer Scientist*, the following are the most important chapters.  How to Think Like a Computer Scientist: https://runestone.academy/ns/books/published/thinkcspy/index.html Simple Python Data Strings Lists Selection Python Turtle Graphics Functions HTML and CSS  Codecademy's web track is good; you can scroll down and filter by Free, and it keeps track of your progress.  www.codecademy.com/tracks/web

    45 min
  5. Tech Freelance Work With Maddy Osman

    04/18/2024

    Tech Freelance Work With Maddy Osman

    Maddy Osman discovered her deep love for all things digital back when she was doing freelance work in tech. Finding her purpose in this space, she strived to grow her skills and build her network, eventually starting her own B2B content SEO agency. In this episode, she joins Asmita Puri to share the genesis story of The Blogsmith, as well as her strategies for maintaining a collaborative team and setting the right business standards. Maddy also discusses how she mastered the art of work delegation that allowed her to step away from the daily operations that consume a huge chunk of her time.

    32 min
  6. Navigating Career Transitions And Embracing Creativity In Tech With Jillian Funes

    01/25/2024

    Navigating Career Transitions And Embracing Creativity In Tech With Jillian Funes

    Tech innovation is successful when we appreciate everyone's input, encourage creativity, and foster a culture where ideas can grow, leading to a brighter future through breakthroughs. In this episode, Jillian Funes discusses the narrative of creativity, resilience, and passion in the tech world, particularly on her transition from software engineering to Technical Product Manager. She explores the importance of cultivating a creative atmosphere within teams, with a special focus on how psychological safety plays a critical role in fostering innovation. Jillian shows that building genuine connections and valuing every voice has the power to transform. Tune in now!

    36 min
  7. Pixels And Purpose: The Artistry Of Front-End Engineering And Inclusivity In The Tech World

    01/11/2024

    Pixels And Purpose: The Artistry Of Front-End Engineering And Inclusivity In The Tech World

    Front-end engineering is the canvas where pixels meet purpose, crafting digital experiences that shape our online world. In this episode, software engineer Stacey Shkuratoff takes us to the world of front-end engineering as a neurodivergent individual in the tech field. She dismantles stereotypes and underscores the vital role that pixel-perfect attention to detail plays in crafting exceptional user experiences. But more than her experience in the tech world. Stacey also candidly discusses how she champions diversity and inclusion initiatives within her organization. She emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups and promoting an environment where everyone's ideas are valued. Tune in to unravel the mysteries of front-end engineering, personal growth, and the strength of community.

    41 min
  8. Empowering Teams And Championing Diversity: A Tech Leadership Journey With Ruth Lee

    12/07/2023

    Empowering Teams And Championing Diversity: A Tech Leadership Journey With Ruth Lee

    Tech leadership is about empowering teams, building trust, and championing diversity—creating an environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued. In this candid discussion, we sit down with Ruth Lee, CTO of Wave Mobile, to delve into the world of tech leadership, team dynamics, and the unique challenges faced by underrepresented individuals in the industry. Ruth discusses how she builds trust and empowers her teams, shedding light on the intricate process of evolving from micromanagement to a more self-driven approach. Moreover, as a queer woman in a predominantly male industry, Ruth touches on the challenges of being a diverse leader. She reveals strategies to create a safe space where team members from all backgrounds can thrive. Throughout the episode, Ruth reveals the tech world, the struggles of engineering management, and the need for change in the industry. Tune in to learn about tech leadership, and get inspired to champion diversity and positive change in your own professional journey.

    51 min
  9. Step Up From Your Role: From Statistical Genetics To Business Analyst Manager With Mo Villagran

    11/29/2023

    Step Up From Your Role: From Statistical Genetics To Business Analyst Manager With Mo Villagran

    An experienced business analytics veteran will provide tremendous value for today’s discussion. Her career journey goes with the flow, and today, she helps others understand stakeholders, manage expectations, and deliver actual value. Mo Villagran navigates through the obstacles with the transition from academics to tech and the value of utilizing statistical genetics and networking. She explains how her role bridges the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Mo provides insights on how you could step up from your role and learn how to deliver value to your organization. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to seek value for yourself!

    37 min
  10. Anthropologist In Tech: Marketing Strategies Catering To Diversity With Anne James

    11/16/2023

    Anthropologist In Tech: Marketing Strategies Catering To Diversity With Anne James

    Diving into the evolutionary phase of technology in many industries, what is it like to welcome an anthropologist in tech? Anne James brings so much value to developing marketing strategies that cater to diversity and still achieve their objectives. As she navigates through neurodiversity, she sheds her expertise and wisdom to bring light on how supporting folks in a safe environment for everyone is key to growth in the tech industry. Anne also touches on the disability tax. Learn more about building a safe space for everyone by tuning in to this episode with Anne James.

    50 min
  11. Building A Diverse Culture In The IT Space With Nichele Dudley

    11/16/2023

    Building A Diverse Culture In The IT Space With Nichele Dudley

    Women have so much to offer in the IT space. Nevertheless, the industry’s leadership is dominated by white men, making diverse culture a seemingly impossible goal. Asmita Puri explores how to change this with Nichele Dudley of VGS. Nichele shares her journey from Apple Genuis to Director of IT, opening her eyes to the important role of women in the IT industry. She explains how the DEI conversation must not be treated as a checklist but an actionable mission, pushing C-suite leaders to do something to create better workplace cultures. Nichele also discusses why people must not be treated akin to plug-and-play technology and how to make IT leadership opportunities more accessible to everyone.

    38 min
  12. Beyond The Binary: Women's Voices In Tech

    SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Beyond The Binary: Women's Voices In Tech

    Welcome to Beyond The Binary: Women’s Voices in Tech, a podcast rewriting the rules of tech industry one episode at a time. Get ready to take a deep dive into the dynamic world of technology, innovation, and empowerment. Join Asmita Puri in these conversations that goes beyond the binary, exploring stories of resilience, brilliance, and inclusivity. Be sure not to miss a single episode!

    2 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Tech is for everyone, but the industry doesn’t always reflect that. Beyond the Binary: Women's Voices in Tech is a podcast where Asmita Puri and Sally Wahba —two tech professionals passionate about equity and representation—highlight voices that are often overlooked in the industry. From navigating bias to celebrating wins, our guests share real stories about breaking barriers and reshaping the industry. Whether you’re in the field or just tech-curious, these conversations will inspire, inform, and maybe even fire you up. 🎙️ Listen, learn, and join the conversation.

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