North Pole Marathoner & Oracle Exec: Melissa's Extreme Grit in Tech & Endurance

In this episode of Ambition Aligned, discover the unwavering grit and strategic mindset it takes to navigate billion-dollar transformations in tech—from shrink-wrapping CDs to global cloud infrastructure and AI changes—while also running on a floating sheet of ice with polar bear guards.Melissa shares invaluable insights on financial leadership, tolerance for risk, and the art of understanding business beyond the numbers. Learn how her experiences as an endurance athlete translate directly to leading global teams, fostering resilience, and mastering communication across technical and financial domains. Don't miss her crucial advice for CFOs and product finance leaders on AI integration and the "three C's" of data strategy.Tune in to learn how Melissa's goal-oriented approach and commitment to continuous learning have fueled an extraordinary career and life. What can you apply from her journey to align your own ambition?00:00 Introduction to Melissa's Journey00:32 Welcome to Ambition Aligned01:17 Melissa's Career Path: From Bookkeeping to Global Finance07:23 Adventures in Running: 51 Marathons and the North Pole10:48 Challenges in Cloud Migration vs. Marathon Training11:27 The Importance of Finance Partnership15:47 Navigating AI Hype and Substance19:05 The Three C's of Data Management22:06 Mindset and Grit: Overcoming Extreme Challenges25:08 The Power of Teamwork in Business and Life25:43 Lessons in Resilience and Leadership27:17 Building Confidence Through Risk-Taking29:17 The Importance of Impact and Legacy31:13 Aligning Personal Values with Professional Goals37:27 Advice for Rising Finance Leaders43:04 Final Thoughts and Future Plans