What is impostor syndrome, and how can you navigate it in your career? Let's get into it!

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of the "Women in Tech Trailblazers" podcast with your hosts, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin. Today, we are thrilled to have Dee Davis with us, a seasoned SVP of Human Resources at Tyson Foods. Dee brings a wealth of experience in tackling impostor syndrome, especially in male-dominated sectors.

Throughout the episode, Dee shares her personal journey and strategies for recognizing and managing impostor syndrome. She breaks down the five types of impostor syndrome and discusses the importance of self-talk in overcoming these challenges. Dee’s stories from her career illuminate her approach to self-validation and assertiveness.

Dee also explores how impostor syndrome manifests differently in men and women and its impact on career progression. She emphasizes the critical role of mentors in navigating professional landscapes and the importance of embracing your achievements.

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:02) The role of positive self-talk in combating impostor syndrome

(5:28) How do men and women experience impostor syndrome differently?

(6:52) Overcoming the 'I just got lucky' mentality

(9:08) Are you holding back from big opportunities?

(10:59) How to build confidence in professional decisions

(12:55) Why do women fight for others more than themselves?

(14:50) How does comparing yourself to others fuel impostor syndrome?

(17:19) Mastering your inner dialogue for greater success

(20:55) Can a mentor spot your struggles before you voice them?

(21:34) What stops us from celebrating our achievements?

(22:45) What role does self-talk play in achieving top performance?

To wrap up, Dee leaves us with a powerful reminder: "Any room you’re in, you deserve to be in." This affirmation is something she believes everyone should adopt to boost their confidence and presence in their professional roles.

Tune in now and discover how you can better navigate impostor syndrome in your career and maybe even become a mentor to others. And here’s a thought-provoking question until our next episode: How will you apply Dee’s insights to conquer your own impostor syndrome?

This podcast aims to empower and elevate the voices of women in tech by addressing the unspoken challenges. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and follow us. And don't forget to share this with someone who might find it helpful. Together, let’s build a more inclusive space in tech for everyone!

About Dee Davis

Dee Davis is a distinguished global HR leader with over two decades of experience guiding organizations through complex people and culture dynamics. She holds an MBA, an MS in Management and Leadership, and a Doctorate in Business.

Originally from Louisiana, Dr. Davis is an avid traveler and museum enthusiast who enjoys exploring different cultures and societies both in the U.S. and abroad. Her passion lies in empowering women to confidently navigate in male-dominated industries, championing the concept of "radical authenticity"—being true to oneself even in the face of adversity.

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

What does authenticity in tech look like, and how do we champion it? Let's dive in!

Hello, everyone! In this episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers," Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin welcome Arya Thorbole, Snigdha Thumma, and Reva Paradkar. These inspiring women discuss the essence of authenticity in the tech world and share their journey to establishing a stronger presence for women in tech.

They each share unique insights from their experiences, highlighting how overcoming challenges and embracing authenticity have shaped their paths. From Arya's shift from medicine to tech due to her passion, to Snigdha's leadership roles breaking gender biases, and Reva's experiences in tech clubs at school, their stories are a beacon for aspiring tech women.

The guests delve into the qualities that define true authenticity in tech, such as courage, honesty, and the ability to be oneself without fear. Their discussion provides practical advice on how these qualities can foster career growth and create a supportive community.

Here are the key takeaways:

(1:50) What does authenticity mean across generations?

(2:03) Why does gender still influence who gets listened to?

(3:36) Why do many girls hide their true selves?

(5:00) What challenges do girls face in tech?

(6:40) The humorous truth about men and women's thought processes

(9:17) How can men and women better support each other?

(14:42) Creating a safe community for newcomers in tech

(18:09) Can you achieve what you cannot see?

(22:04) How does family support influence success?

(25:03) Is tech only for the young?

Ending on a powerful note, our guests stress the critical role of mentorship and visibility in tech, urging young women to step up and be seen, and men to support as allies.

Tune in now and think about how you can help make the tech industry more welcoming and authentic. Before our next episode, consider this: How will you help increase diversity and authenticity in your tech community? Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and share this episode. Let’s open more doors for women in tech!

About Girls+ in Technology of NWA

Girls+ in Technology of NWA empowers young women by fostering a community where curiosity, creativity, and resilience are nurtured. This organization provides a supportive environment for girls to explore technology, develop leadership skills, and become catalysts for innovation in an increasingly digital world.

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hello, trailblazers! Welcome back to "Women in Tech Trailblazers," where your hosts, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin, dive deep into the experiences that shape the leaders in tech. Today, we’re joined by the remarkable Erika Finnestead, who shares her journey and insights on creating inclusive spaces in our industry.

Erika discusses the fine balance between grace and accountability in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture where competition fosters collaboration rather than division. She highlights how women often hold themselves back and the steps we can take to support one another more effectively.

Delving into her personal experiences, Erika talks about walking into boardrooms with confidence, whether in stilettos or Doc Martens, always owning her space and expertise. She also addresses how to handle inappropriate comments professionally, setting boundaries that respect personal and professional dignity.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:44) How can we create more inclusive spaces for women?

(4:07) The role of perfection in women's self-perception

(11:41) Why do we shy away from self-accountability?

(13:51) The power of positive recognition in technology

(14:55) How to transform anxiety into excitement

(18:33) The challenge of being a Latina in a traditional boardroom

(20:56) How to respond to inappropriate comments at work?

(30:00) The role of self-reflection in professional development

(34:10) How to elevate your career by helping others

(37:53) What defines the line between being hateful and helpful?

We wrap up with Erika's advice on recognizing our strengths and the power of mentorship in advancing our careers and supporting others.

Tune in to learn how to leverage your position to foster inclusivity and empowerment in tech. And remember, make space at the table, because when you rise, bring someone with you!

About Erika Finnestead

Erika Finnestead is the Marketing Director at Ozark Regional Transit and former Chief Marketing Officer at Preferred Office Technologies. With over 12 years of experience in B2B and B2C marketing, her expertise spans software development, project management, and digital marketing. Erika is also the D.E.I Chair of the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas, focusing on social equity and sustainable urban development.

Contact Erika at:

LinkedIn

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts:

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.