Why Is SHE Still Here?

My Ungraceful Journey from the Playground to the Boardroom

By: Patty Azzarello

Narrated by: Patty Azzarello

A sharp, funny, behind-the-scenes look at proving yourself in a high-stakes corporate culture while quietly panicking on the inside.

With warmth and clarity, Patty Azzarello shares the true story of her extraordinary rise through the male-dominated tech industry. Why Is SHE Still Here? is an insightful, candid, and unexpectedly vulnerable memoir—not just about the promotions and boardroom wins, but also the awkward meetings, serious outfits, sex and violence, and deeply human moments that shaped her leadership journey.

This is not a how-to book. It’s a how-it-felt book—about ambition, imposter syndrome, anxiety, and the constant pressure to prove yourself in a world where you are undervalued simply because you have boobs.

If you’ve ever doubted your place at the table or felt too nervous to go after your dreams, Patty’s story will give you the encouragement you need to pull up a chair anyway.

About the Author: Patty Azzarello is a former tech executive, speaker, and bestselling author. She lives in Chicago and spends as much time as possible in Italy eating pizza.

©2025 Patty Azzarello (P)2025 Patty Azzarello

Excellent understanding of who Patty is

Thank you for giving me permission to put my inner critic in the backseat. And to never let it drive.

Carved her own path

Patty’s direct and unflinching message that good things, good life and especially a good career is possible for those who work hard and navigate the ‘secret passageways’ of professional life is both encouraging and sobering. A wonderful listen that leaves one hopeful and edified. Great!

Mission Accomplished

Listening to Miss Azzarello read the “Audible” for her own book made me feel as though I was having a private conversation with her. Her “Passageways” are a gift to us all. …. To be shared with with gratitude. Thank you, thank you thank you!!! I thoroughly enjoyed your book.

A treasure trove of wisdom

Full disclosure: Patty is a friend so I’m biased, having heard many of her fabulous stories over dinner over the years. That said, like Patty, I’ve spent decades as a woman in leadership positions in tech and can say unequivocally that Patty is one of the best curators of wisdom I know. This book weaves fascinating stories with really impactful and actionable takeaways on everything from energizing your career growth to escaping toxic relationships. Highly recommend!!