Microsoft Spotlight Podcast: Recent Episodes
Microsoft Spotlight
The Microsoft Spotlight Podcast highlighting the important of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion by speaking with those who share our same beliefs.
We believe that all members of the technical community are equally important. We are part a tech community where we value a diverse network and learn and share from one another: regardless of age, regardless of colour, regardless of their ethnicity, regardless of their religion or beliefs, regardless of disability, regardless of gender, regardless of sexual orientation
The Microsoft Spotlight shines brightly today as it welcomes Rakhi Sachdeva, a dynamic force within Microsoft. Hailing from a background rich in culture and tradition, Rakhi's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of familial influence.
Born into a family deeply rooted in values, Rakhi credits much of her success to the strong model provided by her mother. Her mother's unwavering support and guidance molded Rakhi into the driven individual she is today, instilling within her the belief that no dream is too grand to pursue.
Rakhi's path to the United Kingdom where she now resides with her husband and young child comes from an arranged marriage. Far from her familiar surroundings, she embraced this new chapter with an open heart, navigating the challenges of adaptation and cultural integration with grace and poise.
Her journey didn't stop there. With a thirst for knowledge and a passion for technology, Rakhi found her calling within the realms of Microsoft. Rising through the ranks, she now stands as a beacon of inspiration, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes in the male-dominated tech industry.
Through her story, Rakhi Sachdeva exemplifies the transformative power of embracing change, the importance of familial support, and the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams, no matter where they may lead.
Tune in to a special episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast as we honor International Women's Day by featuring a remarkable guest, Umayal Palaniappan from Rolls Royce. In this inspiring episode, Umayal takes us on a journey from her roots in Malaysia to her current role in Derby, reflecting on her impressive 19-year career with the prestigious company.
Join us as Umayal shares insights, challenges, and triumphs from her professional journey, offering valuable perspectives on leadership, diversity, and breaking barriers in the corporate world. This episode serves as a tribute to the achievements and contributions of women in technology and beyond, celebrating their resilience, innovation, and determination.
Don't miss this empowering conversation with Umayal Palaniappan, as we amplify her voice and recognize her outstanding accomplishments on this International Women's Day.
Welcome to the latest episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Rachel Irabar, a remarkable individual with a unique journey from her native Nigeria to the picturesque island of Malta. Rachel brings to light her experiences and insights into the dynamic world of the Microsoft Student Ambassador program, showcasing her deep affection for the Microsoft community. Tune in as Rachel shares her story, her passion for technology, and the transformative impact of being part of a global network dedicated to innovation and collaboration. Join us as we delve into Rachel's inspiring narrative and uncover the invaluable contributions she makes to the tech ecosystem. You won't want to miss this enlightening conversation! For more information on the Microsoft Student Ambassador program, visit https://mvp.microsoft.com/studentambassadors.
Dive into the heart of innovation with Chris Wheeler, a Senior Technical Specialist at Microsoft, as he takes center stage in the latest installment of the Microsoft Spotlight series. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of southwest England, Chris's journey into the dynamic realm of Information Technology.
In his candid interview, Chris unveils the path that led him from his upbringing in the southwest of England to his esteemed position at Microsoft. Along the way, his passion for technology was ignited, propelling him toward a career dedicated to driving innovation and transformation within the industry.
However, what truly sets Chris apart is his unwavering commitment to championing diversity and inclusion, particularly through his support for Women In Tech initiatives within Microsoft. Embracing a "mentor to one, mentor to many" approach, Chris has played a pivotal role in empowering and uplifting women in the tech community, serving as a guiding light and source of inspiration for countless individuals.
Through his dedication to fostering talent and nurturing a culture of support and collaboration, Chris embodies the values of inclusivity and empowerment that are at the core of Microsoft's mission. His belief in the power of mentorship to effect meaningful change underscores his efforts to create a more diverse and equitable tech landscape, one where every voice is heard and valued.
Join Chris Wheeler on the Microsoft Spotlight as he shares his insights, experiences, and vision for a future where diversity is celebrated, and opportunities abound for all who dare to dream and innovate in the world of Information Technology.
Step into the dynamic world of IT with Peter Rising, a trailblazer in the field, as he takes center stage in the 2023 Microsoft Spotlight. In a captivating interview, Peter shares his remarkable journey into the realm of Information Technology, shaped by a Women In Tech at his first organisation. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, he has actively recruited and mentored a significant number of talented women at Insight, contributing to the empowerment and representation of women in the tech industry.
As a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience, Peter Rising not only excels in his role at Insight but also extends his influence to the online realm as a prominent YouTuber. With a keen focus on Microsoft content, his YouTube channel is a treasure trove of valuable insights, tutorials, and expert commentary. Whether you're an IT enthusiast, a budding professional, or someone looking to enhance their Microsoft skills, Peter's channel is a go-to destination for engaging and informative content.
In the interview, Peter generously shares his expertise on crafting standout CVs, offering invaluable tips for those navigating the competitive landscape of the IT job market. His commitment to fostering talent and promoting inclusivity echoes not only in his hiring practices but also in his dedication to providing resources that empower individuals to stand out in their professional journeys.
Join Peter Rising on the Microsoft Spotlight as he unravels the layers of his inspiring career, sheds light on the impact of Women In Tech, and imparts practical advice for those aspiring to make their mark in the ever-evolving landscape of Information Technology. Whether through his thought-provoking interviews or his engaging YouTube channel, Peter continues to be a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in the world of IT.
In our final episode of 2023 we were joined by Alejandra Leon, industry Solutions World-wide Delivery Lead @Microsoft in Australia.
In today's episode, Andrew interviewed Harpreet Kaur, a Principal Technical Program Manager from Microsoft. In this episode, we discussed her move from India to the United States with her husband and young child and her side hustle as a Speaker/Career Coach.
In today's episode, Andrew was joined by Priyanka Sharma from Microsoft. This was her very first time speaking on a podcast episode and she was incredibly nervous but once we got going the conversation was very natural.Priyanka talks about her move from her native India to the UK and childcare challenges as her support network from family is back home in India.
In today's episode which was recorded a while ago but we seem to have lost the recording for some time. We welcome our biggest fan Areti Iles to the show.
Areti is now Head of Professional Service at Incremental Group and knows for about our podcast history than Andrew/Jon together.
In today's episode we are joined by Onyinye Madubuko, she is a Consultant in Modern Workplace at Avanade Irelands. Onyinye shares with us her drivers for moving from her native Nigeria to Ireland and the reasons why she got involved in the Microsoft Community.
Note:
In today's episode we are joined by Shachi Agarwal, she is a Technical Specialist in Security at Microsoft with a big passion for Diversity and Inclusion. Check out this brilliant episode as we diving deep into her career and understand her passions for D&I.
Note:
In today's episode we are joined by a fellow podcast Jeevantika Lingalwar, she is a Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft with a big passion for Women In Tech. Check out this brilliant episode as we diving deep into her career and understand why she setup the International Women In Tech group on LinkedIn
Note:
LinkedIn Group - International Women In Tech
Podcast: The Unplanned Journey
Lilia Geogieva is our guest in this podcast episode, where she talks about how she became interested in IT and pursued a career in this field. She also shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities for women in tech, and how she advocates for more diversity and inclusion in the industry.
In this episode, Andrew and Jon are joined by Vishakha Ghosh a Customer Experience Engineer in Security at Microsoft. Being passionate about something does not mean it distracts us from our goals. Instead, it enhances our abilities and propels us forward. Vishakha's story is a reminder that our diverse interests can complement and strengthen our professional journeys. 🚀as she took her love of classic Indian dancing to beat the block and speak publicly at technical events.
Today, we are joined by Linda Monahan, who is an accountability and habit coach. Linda tells us her story of how she became a coach and how she helps other women in tech achieve their goals and overcome their challenges.
Notes:
Linda's Website: https://shor.by/CorporatetoCalm
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@corporatetocalm
Excited to welcome back Corinna Lins on Episode 64 of our podcast! Corinna first featured on Episode 3, and in this episode, she shares her personal journey of returning to work after maternity leave. She sheds light on the real-world challenges of childcare and illness that many working parents face. Corinna's story serves as a reminder that we need to continue advocating for policies that support working parents. Tune in to hear her inspiring story!
#workingparents #maternityleave #childcare #podcast
Exciting news, I have decided to drop Episode 63 early! Listen in as we interview Mohana Bhattacharya from Microsoft in the Netherlands. She shares fascinating stories of her childhood moving around India and how it shaped her career. Mohana's biggest career highlight was joining Microsoft, but she has also worked for other big corporate organizations. Don't miss out on this insightful episode!
#Microsoft #microsoftemployee #WomenInTech #womenempowerment
In this episode, we welcome Brittany Saylor, Digital Advisor for Sustainability at Avanade. Andrew and Jon dive into Brittany's fascinating career path, which took her from the US to multiple countries. They also discuss the importance of sustainability and share their love of grassroots football and the women's game in the UK
Show Notes:
About Pledgeball - Tackling climate change requires collective action. Most of us belong to a collective, from football fans or teams to friend groups to parents’ class chats. Pledgeball mobilizes these collectives, shows the emissions we can save together, and unites us all in this. Pledgeball - https://pledgeball.org/
Today, we welcome Holly Rae, M365 Architect at CPS. Andrew and Jon discussed Holly's career path from making custom wedding invitations to her taking control of our career path and becoming an Architect. It was great to finally have her on our show as she has been nominated by so many in the community.
Show Notes:
N/a
Today, we welcome Kristi Robison CEO, Strategic Advisor from Paintrock Consulting. Jon had to run this episode on his own due to Andy being ill and Sophie being unavailable. In this episode, Jon and Kristi discussed her IT career path and their love of IT Conferences.
Show Notes:
N/a
Today, we welcome Briana Brady Senior Program Manager for Viva Goals at Microsoft. Alev returns as guest co-host to help discuss all things Microsoft, as we learn how Briana was inspired to start a career in IT via her older brother which led to her working at Microsoft.
Show Notes:
Today, we welcome Stephanie Stasey Healthcare Transformation Lead at Microsoft. Stephanie shares with us her passion for the Healthcare industry and how a Microsoft PowerApp she created to help triage patients suffering from Mental Health led to her being headhunted for Microsoft.
Show Notes:
And we are back with another after a bit of an unscheduled break due to calendar conflicts. Today, we welcomed Elena Branet CEO and Founder of Digital Camp a brilliant incentive to get more young people real-world experience within the IT Market. Even during the podcast both Andrew and Jon signed up to be tech mentors as it is something they both massively believe in. Show Notes: Students – Get Creative with Tech at Digital Camp: Register at https://DigitalCampApr2023.eventbrite...Volunteers--Join our Mission: https://bit.ly/dcvolunteer2023
Today, we welcome Cathrine Wilhelmsen Data & Analytics Solutions Architect in Evidi and Microsoft Data Platform MVP. Cathrine shared with us her love of the Microsoft Community and how she got involved to become the first female Microsoft MVP in Norway. Show Notes: Pete Rising - What does it take to become MVP https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BwTGd87ppQ
In episode 55 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we were joined by Michelle Wong who is Microsoft MVP and Power Platform Consultant. Michelle shares with us her life experiences within the community and why she got involved.Michelle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellewongnl/Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernodeMicrosoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlightJon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvisSophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie Notes:
In this special episode of the Microsoft Spotlight Sophie is joined by two guest as they discuss International Womens Day and what it means to them.
In episode 53 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we were joined by Storm Rae who is the Head of Learning and Development at The National Museum of Computing. She is responsible for our interactive learning experiences and educational visits. Storm holds her PGCE in Secondary Maths with 8 years of teaching experience both internationally and across multiple curricula. Her mission is access to inspirational, curriculum-linked learning experiences for all young people through immersive history at The National Museum of Computing.
Storm's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/storm-rae-71923855/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
The National Museum of Computing - https://www.tnmoc.org/
In episode 52 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we were joined by Ana Inés Urrutia de Souza who is Microsoft MVP and D365 Human Resources Practice Lead. Ana shares with us her life experiences within the community and why she got involved.
Ana's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anainesurrutia/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
In episode 51 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we are back for 2023 with another new episode this time with Malin Martnes who is Microsoft MVP and MCT from Norway. Malin shares with us her life experiences within the community and also the challenges of how migraines affected her work day.
Malin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malinmartnes/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes: Becoming a Microsoft Dynamics 365 Marketing Functional Consultant: Learn to deliver enterprise marketing solutions and insights to exponentially grow your business
https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Microsoft-Marketing-Functional-Consultant-ebook-dp-B0B97RPMV4/dp/B0B97RPMV4/ref=mt_other?_encoding=UTF8&&me=&&qid=1662982150
Migraine Trust - https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/treatments/botox/
In episode 50 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts discuss the past 49 episodes and welcome several Women In Tech Allies to the episode who recorded their messages answering our very simple question. Why is it important in your perspective to support Women In Tech? Thank you to;
Peter Rising, Kevin McDonnell, Billy Hopkins, Scott Riley, Carl Sargunar, Marc D Anderson, Bob Mellor and Phil Clarke
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 49 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Edyta Gorzon who is the Product Manager at Staffbase. Edyta shares her story on how to become a Microsoft MVP through her community activities.
Edyta's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/egorzon/
Edyta's Twitter: https://twitter.com/EdytaGorzon
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 48 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Alev Nur TAMER Tamer who is Microsoft Teams Technical Specialist at Microsoft. Alev shared her story with us about how she moved from her native country in Turkey to the United Kingdom during COVID and found her happy place in the Midlands.
Apologies for the long discussion about Harry Potter lol
https://lnkd.in/eJJt59Cr
Alev's LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eH5W9YVP
Alev's Twitter: https://lnkd.in/e4JH83jQ
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://lnkd.in/dAvC5WV
Spotlight User Group: https://lnkd.in/gXNvd934...
Andrew's Twitter: https://lnkd.in/dg7H5vg
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://lnkd.in/dZuD8pB
Jon's Twitter: https://lnkd.in/d5qf-K2
Sophie's Twitter: https://lnkd.in/dxdk7tqi
microsoftteams #podcast #microsoft #covid #womenintech
In episode 47 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Stephanie Wynter who is Digital Skills Trainer & Specialist Teams Producer at UK Healthcare Specialist. Stephanie recently featured on the Women In Teams Community call sharing her experiences with Microsoft Teams and how its empowered her organization, so we sit down and discuss her career path into her current role.
Stephanie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tswynter/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
In episode 46 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts were live at the South Coast Summit with Carlene Jackson who is CEO at Cloud9 Insight. Carlene shares with us her life experiences and neurodiversity challenges in becoming a founder of her own organization.
Carlene's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlene/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
potlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
N/a
In episode 45 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Angeliki Patsiavou who is a Senior Consultant at Avanade. After Andrew finishes getting Angeliki's name wrong facepalm she tells us about her journey into the world of IT and her experience as a novice speaker, to speaking at events internationally within 6 months.
Angeliki's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angeliki-patsiavou/
Angeliki's Twitter: https://twitter.com/a_patsiavou
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In this special episode of the Microsoft Spotlight Podcast Andrew and Jon are joined by Mike Hartley and Janet Robb where they discuss mental health. This subject is very close to Andrew's heart who has suffered from Mental Health and wanted to share a discussion with others affected.
Mike Hartley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebhartley/
Mike Hartley's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Hart365
Janet's Robb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetrobbmicrosoft/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 43 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Maryam Riaz who is Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft. Maryam tells us about her journey into the world of IT and her experience as an Asian Women In Tech.
Maryam's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-riaz/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 42 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Amanda Sterner, Technical Architect for Advania - Knowledge Factory. Amanda is a fantastic Women In Tech who has recently returned to work after her maternity level. We discussed the importance of supportive home life and all the wonderful things Amanda does in the community.
Amanda's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandasterner/
Amanda's Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandassterner
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 41 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Femke Cornelissen who is Teamlead Adoption and Modern Work at Tredion ICT & Telecom. Femke hosts the "Microsoft Community Talks" held on Twitter with Pete Rising and co-founder of the Dutch Women In Tech community.
Femke's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/femkecornelissen1
Femke's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Femkedebruin
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 40 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Emily Mancini who is Principal Architect at Sympraxis Consulting. Emily is a very active member of the Microsoft community and has been awarded Microsoft MVP status for her hard work.
Emily's LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/EEMancini
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 39 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Stacey Forman who is Group Portfolio and PMO Lead for Nuivas UK. Stacey is a very active member of the Women In Tech community and is very passionate about Diversity/Inclusion
Stacey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyaforman/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
In episode 38 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts welcome back by Zoe Wilson who has changed role since Episode 2 and also become an MVP. In this episode, we discuss the Microsoft Community and events, the Microsoft Valued Professional (MVP) program, and how Zoe become an MVP.
Zoe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-wilson-uk/
Zoe's Twitter: https://twitter.com/SharePoint_Zoe
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
South Coast Summit CFC: https://sessionize.com/south-coast-su...
M365 Community Day – Middle Earth Coming Soon
In episode 37 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Kristine Kolodzlejski who is a Principal Technical Consultant at Computacenter. Kristine shares her story of how moved from our native Poland to the United Kingdom in the quest of building a career for herself after deciding that the Police force wasn't for her.
Kristine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristine-kolodziejski/
Kristine's Twitter: https://twitter.com/kristinekk94
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
South Coast Summit CFC: https://sessionize.com/south-coast-summit-2022
In episode 36 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Karoliina Kettukari who is a Modern Work Leader at Meltlake. Karoliina is a Microsoft Valued Professional and shares her story of how transitioned into IT and got involved with the Microsoft Community.
Karoliina's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karoliinakettukari
Karoliina's Twitter: https://twitter.com/kettukari
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/ South Coast Summit CFC: https://sessionize.com/south-coast-summit-2022
In episode 34 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Jonah Andersson who is a Senior Software Engineer Consultant at ForeFront Consulting. Jonah is a Microsoft Valued Professional and shares her story of how she moved from our native country to Sweden.
Jonah's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonahandersson/
Jonah's Twitter: https://twitter.com/cjkodare
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Notes:
Blog - https://jonahandersson.tech/
Meetup - https://www.meetup.com/azureusergroupsundsvallsverige/
In episode 33 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Anna Wykes who is a Senior Consultant at Advancing Analytics. Anna is a Microsoft Valued Professional and shares her story of how she entered the world of IT after studying Photography.
Anna's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-maria-wykes-31939454/
Anna's Twitter: https://twitter.com/annawykes
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes:
None
In episode 32 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by "Maverick" Miri Rodriguez who is a Senior Storyteller Future of Work at Microsoft. Miri has released her own book on storytelling which is currently being used in schools as a source of learning, and if you are interested in purchasing her book it is available in all good book stores. We learned that Miri originally wanted to be a Fighter Pilot but thankfully for Microsoft and us that never happened, also Miri had recently beat breast cancer which has given her a new lease of life.
Miri's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirirod/
Miri's Twitter: https://twitter.com/mirirod
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes:
Brand Storytelling: Put Customers at the Heart of Your Brand Story:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Brand-Storytelling-Customers-Heart-Story/dp/0749490470/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=19lno&pf_rd_p=4d619998-507a-44d3-b580-1c7fc24282f7&pf_rd_r=2FMFREN56EHCDKHHKYY2&pd_rd_r=e2c3f33f-70d1-4cfd-bf16-1f8980ac77e4&pd_rd_wg=mZFK4&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m
In episode 31 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Kat Greenan who is a Microsoft Solutions Specialist for Core Technology Systems and a recently awarded Microsoft MVP. Kat is a member of the Cloud Conversation podcast which discusses tech, career, and all things Microsoft. We learnt how Kat really became an MVP within a 18 month period from a non-tech background and has seriously made waves within the community.
Kat's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katgreenan/
Kat's Twitter: https://twitter.com/GreenanKat
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes:
Cloud Conversation Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/CloudConversations
In episode 30 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Isidora Katanic who is a Community Manager for Experts Inside and a Microsoft MVP. Issy is the 2nd half of the Head in the Cloud, Heart in the Community podcast which she shared with our former guest Holly. She explained to us how she went from being a nanny to Women in Tech and her love for the community.
Issy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isidora-katanic-mvp-0b479534/
Issy's Twitter: https://twitter.com/IsidoraKatanic
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes:
Heart in the Community, Head in the Cloud Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/HeadintheCloudHeartintheCommunity
In episode 29 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Kema Davies who was UK Early Careers Recruitment Lead for Microsoft before joining Meta. Kema has a successful career within IT Recruitment within the tech industry and shares her knowledge and passion for DE&I.
Kema's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kema-davies/
Kema's Twitter: https://twitter.com/KemaDavies
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes: #internationalwomensday2022
In episode 28 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Nikki Chapple who is Principal Cloud Architect for Cloudway. Nikki has been recently awarded Office Apps and Services MVP for her excellent community work within the Microsoft Compliance arena.
Nikki has also Ryan John Murphy from Microsoft to create a new podcast called "M365 Compliance"
Nikki's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkichapple/
Nikki's Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChappleNikki
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spotlight-user-group/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Notes:
M365 Compliance Podcast: https://msftcompliance.com/blog/coming-soon/
In episode 27 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Tricia Sinclair who is Dynamics 365 Customer Service Lead for Avanade. Tricia is also the founder of an amazing project called "The Power Platform School" which helps adults of diverse backgrounds learn the Microsoft Power Platform for free with the view of upskilling and finding a new career within IT.
Tricia’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciasin...
Tricia’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/tassyja
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spot...
Andrew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Show notes
The Power Platform School - https://powerplatformschool.com/
The Power Platform School Twitter: https://twitter.com/powerplatschool
In episode 26 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Ellie King who is co-founder of Equal.IT! Ellie works with organizations to help diversify tech teams through refined talent acquisition complemented by diversity and inclusion consulting. She also runs our own podcast and YouTube channel about all things DE&I, so make sure you subscribe via the links below. We also learned that Ellie DE&I's passion came from our love of football where she was once signed to Arsenal Ladies.
Ellie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-king-62842777/
Ellie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/ekdiversitytech
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spotlight-user-group/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Show notes https://www.developdiverse.com/
YouTube Ellie King - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLJTFrrjCZx43REQsaZqUWQ
YouTube Equal.IT - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoN-S2Y5KJ2QCUM4thEi8xg
In todays final episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast for 2021, our hosts are joined by April Edwards, who is the Senior Cloud Advocate for Microsoft. April talks to our hosts about her life before Microsoft, moving from and her friendship with Abel Wang who inspired her career. April has spoken at many events across the globe and presents the DevOps Lab which can be found over on YouTube.
April’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azureapril/
April's Twitter: https://twitter.com/theapriledwards
Azure DevOps: https://www.youtube.com/c/AzureDevOps
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Andrew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Andrew’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmoran1985/
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Jon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonjarvisuk/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
In episode 25 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Heather Newman who is a Principal PM Manager for Dynamics 365 and Power Platform Community at Microsoft! Andrew and Jon discuss the "real cool shit" on Heather's LinkedIn profile as we dive into your career path back to Microsoft after a conversation with Dona Sarkar. Heather even shared a stage with Bill Gates very early on in her career when demoed the very first online customer portal.
Heather’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathernewman
Heather's Twitter: https://twitter.com/heddanewman
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Microsoft Spotlight User Group: https://www.meetup.com/microsoft-spotlight-user-group/
Andrew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In episode 24 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Ioana Tanase who is an Accessibility PM at Microsoft!
Ioana, originally from Romania speaks to our hosts about finding out she had dyslexia when she was 32 and how that has affected her life. Ioana has published books including "Life v2" having moved from Romania to London and wanting to write about her experiences. Being an avid shoemaker you can check out Ioana's website where you can find her Journals and also browse shoes that Ioana has created herself https://www.ioanatanase.com/
Ioana's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioana-tanase
Ioana's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ioana_in_a11y
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In today's episode, Jon Jarvis is joined by guest co-host Sophie Dimelow and Sara Lagerquist!
Sara is a 3 time Microsoft Business Applications MVP from Sweden and works as a Power Platform Consultant at CRM-Konsulterna. Sara has spoken at many events over the past couple of years including the South Coast Summit, 365 Saturday Amsterdam, and the upcoming Scottish Summit in February 2022. Sara is an inspiring individual who talks to our hosts about her battle and recovery from breast cancer.
Sara's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saralagerquist/
Sara's Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagerquistsara
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Jon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonjarvisuk/
Sophie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiedimelow/
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
In today's episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Holly Lehman, who is the Product Marketing Manager for Microsoft Teams. Holly talks to our guests about her life before Microsoft, moving between Vegas and Seattle working in hospitality.
Holly has spoken at many events across the globe and has her own community podcast titled “Head in the Cloud, Heart in the Community”.
Holly's Twitter: https://twitter.com/lehman_holly
Holly's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-lehman-103b8050
Head in the Cloud, Heart in the Community: https://www.youtube.com/c/HeadintheCloudHeartintheCommunity
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Microsoft Women In Tech UK Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
On this week's episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we are joined by Antje Lamartine who is a Microsoft MVP based in Germany.
Antje is a Senior Change Success Manager for IF-Blueprint AG based in Munich, Germany. In this episode, we discussed Antje's life in the US/ Germany, how the Women In Tech community varies in each country and how she becames a part of the Microsoft MVP Community.
Antje's Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntjeLamartine
Antje's LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/AntjeLamartine
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On this week's episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we are joined by Tracy van der Schyff who is the first dual MVP that has joined us on the show.
Tracy is a Microsoft 365 coach and has owned her own company The GUID Stuff for the past 10 years. This episode is one of the funniest episodes with both hosts in hysterics throughout. Tracy speaks about her own health after recently suffering from a stroke and what she is doing now to ensure a better work/life balance.
PS - This episode is interrupted by Tracy's internsheep!
Tracy's Twitter: https://twitter.com/elena_sinel Tracy's
LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/tracyvds
Tracy's Blog: https://tracyvanderschyff.com/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode M
icrosoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On this week's episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we listen to the inspirational story of Elena Sinel who is the Ceo and Founder of TeensInAI
Elena is our second Microsoft Regional Director on the show and is the first Regional Director from Uzbekistan. Having worked all over the world, Elena settled in London having never worked in IT but after her daughter had a bad experience expressing interest in Computer Science at school, TeensInAI was born. Elena talks about all things AI, her career journey, and a wonderful story about the co-owner of TeensInAi!
On Episode 17 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by April Dunnam who is the Power Platform Advocacy lead at Microsoft.
April talks to our hosts about her IT career so far, earning her MVP status in 2018 after running her on consulting company for 8 years before taking on a role at Microsoft in 2019. April unlike most of our guests so far has had a love of IT from an early age and built her first computer at around 9 or 10 years old then building websites to pay for her college tuition.
Check out Microsoft Spotlight at the South Coast Summit on the 16th October at 4pm where we will be doing a roundtable with the Women In Teams group.
April's Twitter: https://twitter.com/aprildunnam
April's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprildunnam/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
On Episode 16 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Dona Sarkar who is the Director of Accessibility at Microsoft.
Dona talks about her time at Microsoft where she has worked since 2005, Dona was an engineer on the Windows Dev team for 12 years covering 5 versions of Windows. Dona speaks passionately about neurodiversity and how her role at Microsoft will ensure that accessibility needs for all users are met.
Dona will be at the South Coast Summit where you can watch her session “Burnout Begone as a Service” on Saturday 16th October at 13:00. After you can also watch the Microsoft Spotlight Podcast live, where we will be hosting a roundtable with the Women in Teams community at 16:00.
Dona's Twitter: Dona Sarkar (@donasarkar) / Twitter
Dona's LinkedIn: Dona Sarkar | LinkedIn
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
South Coast Summit: https://www.southcoastsummit.com/
On Episode 15 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, after a small Summer break, our hosts are joined by Sharon Weaver who is a Microsoft Regional Director, Microsoft Certified Trainer, Process Improvement, and Productivity Expert.
Sharon is the founder and CEO of Smarter consulting and speaks to our hosts about being a leader within the Kansas area by running the Kansas City O365 User Group. Sharon shares her journey from coding as a hobby when growing up to working in medicine then falling back into IT!
We also find out what the role of a Microsoft Regional Director is! Sharon will be hosting a session at Commsverse on the 15th September, where you can watch her session "All Roads Lead to Teams! Working with Tasks by Planner and To Do" at 17:20pm GMT.
Sharon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/sharoneweaver
Sharon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonweaver/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On today's episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Sophie Dimelow who is our youngest guest so far!
Sophie is a Microsoft Sales Consultant at The Pure Technology Group, Sophie talks about how her IT career started after starting off as an IT recruiter and her journey to her current role. Sophie enthusiastically tells our hosts that although not from a technical background, she is enjoying learning and immersing herself in Microsoft technology.
Sophie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/dimelow_sophie
Sophie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiedimelow/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On episode 13th of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, our hosts are joined by Jese Navaranjan who is a Microsoft MVP working at Avanade.
Graduating university after completing a maths degree, Jese talks to our hosts about her journey from being a Business Analyst to becoming an MVP. Jese talks about her passion for presenting in user groups and her desire to become a mentor for women in the IT community.
Jese's Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeseNav2
Jese's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jese-Navaranjan
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Sara Fennah is our guest on episode 12 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast! Sara is a freelance Microsoft Certified Trainer having been certified for 14 years!
Sara talks to our hosts about her career progression starting as a teacher at a secondary school to delivering Microsoft 365 courses. Both of our hosts had plenty of questions about the MCT program and its community. Sara has a unique style of delivering her courses where our host Jon believes she is one of the best MCTs in the industry!
Sara's Twitter: https://twitter.com/sfennah
Sara's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarafennah/
Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In the 11th episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, we speak to Microsoft's Anne Michels who works as the Director of Product Marketing for Microsoft Teams. Anne passionately speaks about her job at Microsoft, her love for Microsoft Teams, and how it has positively helped the world in a time of crisis.
Recording this during her maternity leave, Anne talks about her she got into her role at Microsoft and her experiences from speaking at big conferences such as Microsoft Ignite. Anne is also passionate about her work/life balance as a working Mum and how she is navigating a working life as a mother of two.
You can also reach out to Anne on our LinkedIn Group - Microsoft Women In Tech: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9053874/ where Anne has volunteered to help mentor those within the group.
Anne's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Anne_Michels
Anne's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-michels/
Microsoft Tech Community: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Andrew and Jon welcome Layla Porter aka LaylaCodesIT to the 10th episode of the Microsoft Spotlight Podcast. Laya works as a Developer Advocate for VMware Tanzu and is a Microsoft MVP and GitHub Star! Layla speaks to our hosts about her journey into IT and her rise in just over 5 years in the industry. Layla talks about her work as a content creator on Twitch, dealing with trolls, and her role as a .NET Developer Advocate.
Layla's Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaylaCodesIt
Layla's Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/laylacodesit
Layla's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/layla-porter/
Microsoft Tech Community: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On episode 9 of the Microsoft Spotlight we welcomed Anna Chu who is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Microsoft! Australian native Anna is based out of Seattle currently and works predominately in the Microsoft Tech Community, working on the launch to what it is today.
Anna talks to our hosts about starting at Microsoft as a graduate 15 years ago and her experiences of not only being female but a female with a diverse background. Anna also gives some great advice on how to win competitions for a fully paid wedding!
Anna Chu’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/_achu
Anna Chu’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annachu08/
Microsoft Tech Community: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/
Andrew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
On the 8th episode of the Microsoft Spotlight Podcast, we are joined by the one and only Karuana Gatimu the Principal Program Manager for the Customer Advocacy group for Teams. She is one of the most recognizable faces within Microsoft having hosted several Microsoft lead events including MSIgnite and many other community-driven events.
Karuana takes time out of her busy schedule to share her journey having been a theatre-trained dancer to working as a GM for a large Professional Services organization before working for Microsoft and developing solutions for Satya Nadella office.
Karuana's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Karuana Karuana's
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karuanagatimu/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In this episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, Kathi Kellenberger talks to our hosts about the journey from working in pharmaceuticals to pursuing a new career in IT. Being our first active MVP on the podcast, Kathi talks about how she became an MVP and maintained the award for 11 years. Kathi has done it all in her career; an MVP, a developer, a DBA, consultant, trainer, author, and now an editor!
Kathi's Twitter: https://twitter.com/auntkathi Kathi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathikellenberger/ Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Listen to us on;
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAlwyX2vyn0pmQ6CRnu0siA
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XFgTlvbs4HholpigMPtZe
Google Podcast: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80YTJkNDE5Yy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==
Anchor.FM: https://anchor.fm/msftspotlight
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/microsoft-spotlight-podcast-1786419
Following us on;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/msftspotlight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msftspotlight/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
This episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast features Jen Stirrup, CEO, and Founder of Data Relish. Jen talks to our hosts about her life growing up in technology, having learned to code from a young age! Other topics include work as a speaker, the effects of social media, being a single parent, and also a little bit of martial arts!
Jen is the creator of the Diversity Charter which we at the Microsoft Spotlight wholeheartedly agree with.
Jen’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenstirrup
Jen’s Personal Website: https://jenstirrup.com/
Jen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenstirrup/
The Diversity Charter: https://diversitycharterblog.wordpress.com/
Andrew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis Listen to us on;
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAlwyX2vyn0pmQ6CRnu0siA
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XFgTlvbs4HholpigMPtZe
Google Podcast: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80YTJkNDE5Yy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==
Anchor.FM: https://anchor.fm/msftspotlight
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/microsoft-spotlight-podcast-1786419
Following us on;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/msftspotlight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msftspotlight/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
On episode 5 of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, Andrew and Jon speak to Microsoft's Laurie Pottmeyer! Laurie passionately talks about her role as the Microsoft Teams Community Manager and how she positively engages with the community to improve the Microsoft Teams experience, including the creation of the Women in Teams community. As a single Mum who travels a lot, Laurie tells Andrew and Jon how she structures life around her kids and how her daughter even managed a trip to Paris for a conference!
Laurie's Twitter: https://twitter.com/lauriepottmeyer
Laurie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriepottmeyer/
Women in Teams Community: aka.ms/WITCommunity
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In this episode of the Microsoft Spotlight podcast, Andrew and Jon are joined by Catriona Janes of Tibco Software!
Catriona speaks about working with dyslexia and spreading awareness about neurological illnesses. She also talks about her early career, working during the pandemic, and her journey into IT. Catriona has worked extensively within the WIT network in the past 12 months, listen to see how the WIT Network can benefit everyone!
Links Mentioned
Catriona's Twitter: https://twitter.com/catnottingham
Catriona's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrionajanes/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
Fearless Organisation - https://fearlessorganization.com/
The WIT Network: http://www.thewitnetwork.com
oVdbnYtoiKrXtmdwNyjE
In the third episode of Microsoft Spotlight, Andrew and Jon speak to Corinna Lins who works as a Modern Workspace Consultant in Germany. Corinna is very well known throughout the community for being an active speaker as events such as CollabDays, SharePoint Saturdays and CollabSummit. Corinna also organisers Collaboration Meetup and collabDays Munich.
In the episode, Corinna talks to us about her early years in IT, how she moved into consultancy and spoke about her goals in the future.
Links Mentioned
Corinna's Blog: https://www.corinnalins.com/
Corinna's Twitter: https://twitter.com/corinna_lins
Corinna's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinna-lins-10830a135/
Andrew's Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewatchernode
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: https://twitter.com/msftspotlight
Jon's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonjarvis
In today's episode Andrew and Jon speak to Zoe Wilson who is the Head of Enterprise Collaboration and Productivity at Agilisys. The main discussion points of the conversation include Zoe's work with Women in the Community, how she got started within IT and how her career has progressed from the IT service desk to a senior figure within a Microsoft partner.
Zoe is an aspiring Microsoft MVP having spoken at many events in the past, we spoke about the most recent Scottish Summit event and the journey towards MVP status.
Links Mentioned:
Zoe's Twitter: @SharePoint_Zoe
Zoe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-wilson-uk/
Zoe Wilson - Creating a More Inclusive Workplace: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwgBt3LFbvE
Andrew's Twitter: Andrew J. Price (@thewatchernode) / Twitter
Microsoft Spotlight Twitter: Microsoft Spotlight (@msftspotlight) / Twitter
Jon's Twitter: Jon Jarvis (@jonjarvis) / Twitter
In this episode, Andrew and John provide introductions to each other and how the podcast come about. It has been a goal of Andrew's to provide a platform and cast a spotlight on those from a Diversity, Equality and Inclusion background. They also discuss the vision for upcoming episodes where they will be talking to women from the tech community to promote, highlight and spotlight the excellent work they are doing.