Leading Women in Tech Podcast: Recent Episodes

Toni Collis

A podcast discussing how to create the next generation of women leaders in the tech industry, helping you succeed on your terms and being the leader you want to be.

On this podcast, we explore the techniques, tips and strategies you can use to become a standout leader. To give you the time and credibility to focus on what you love doing instead of justifying yourself every moment along the way. I’ll be sharing with you my best insights designed to make success not just simple, but inevitable.

Whether you are on your way to the CSuite, an emerging leader or a budding Entrepreneur, this is the podcast you need to become a Lit-Up Leader and turn your tech passion into the career you love.

For free online resources for your tech leadership journey go to: https://tonicollis.com/

Burnout is not caused by too much work.

That's the argument at the heart of this episode — and Yana Carstens has earned the right to make it. After 12 years in the design and tech space, and her own burnout behind her, Yana shifted into executive coaching, where she now focuses on burnout prevention and authentic leadership for women in tech.

In this conversation, Yana and Toni get into what taking radical responsibility for your own wellbeing actually means — and why most of what we call "wellness" is polishing the car while nobody looks under the hood. They dig into hyper-responsibility, the reflex that makes everything your fault; why rest is a prerequisite for success rather than a reward for it; and how leaders who model genuine wellbeing quietly reset the culture of everyone around them.

If you're stepping into a new role, carrying everyone around you, or wondering why the vacation didn't fix it — this one is for you.

What we cover:

◾ Why tech-native executive coaches are so rare — and why coaching skills spread naturally through teams

◾ The three reasons wellbeing is a leadership issue: modeling, leading from your center, and preventing burnout

◾ Burnout is not caused by too much work — the root causes nobody talks about

◾ The Ferrari analogy: you're built for speed, but without the pit stops you break down

◾ Why unlimited PTO and spa days are polish, not maintenance — and what "under the hood" work looks like

◾ Rest is a prerequisite for success, not a reward for it — and how that belief shapes team culture

◾ Hyper-responsibility: the high-achiever trait that makes everything your fault

◾ Observe, don't absorb — and Toni's version, hold, don't carry

◾ The client story: the boss's bad mood that had nothing to do with her

◾ Moving from hyper-responsible to "response-able": pause, clarify, build the internal boundary system

◾ The honest truth: this pattern comes back under stress — and that's okay

◾ Worst advice Yana ever received (from another coach): "you need to put on an act"

◾ Best advice: if you believe things will work out, you see opportunities — if not, you see obstacles

Useful Links

Connect with today's guest, Yana Carstens, on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanacarstens/) and sign up for her monthly newsletter at https://realignandthrive.com/newsletter.

Ready to learn to coach — for your self-coaching, your leadership toolkit, or a business of your own? Ignite Coach Academy is open for enrollment. Doors close September 11: https://tonicollis.com/ignite-coach-academy

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Yana Carstens. Thank you Yana for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Ever looked at an opportunity, a stretch role, a speaking slot, a bold idea, and thought "I could do that"… and then let it pass? And then been quietly furious with yourself weeks later?

It probably wasn't a courage problem. It was an energy problem.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis introduces the Leadership Energy Model: the relationship between bravery, grit, and confidence, and why understanding it changes how you take on hard things, how you recover from them, and how you lead a team through them.

What's covered:

➡️ The three-stage model — bravery gets you started, grit gets you through, confidence is what you earn on the other side, and each one changes what the next hard thing costs you

➡️ Naive bravery — why not knowing how hard something will be is sometimes the greatest gift, and why the more naive you are, the more grit you'll need later

➡️ Why bravery and grit are finite — one shared pool across your entire life, which is why a house renovation, a health challenge or a hard season at home leaves you with nothing for the bold move at work (and vice versa)

➡️ The celebrity illusion — why some people seem infinitely brave, and what resources actually do to the price of courage

➡️ Confidence as the exchange rate — every hard thing you complete makes the next one cheaper, and how to build confidence deliberately through structured small wins instead of deep-end plunges

➡️ Self-coaching with the model — how to audit your own bravery and grit spend before you commit to the next hard thing

➡️ Coaching your team through it — especially in AI transformations, where you're asking everyone to be brave and gritty at once with no confidence to draw on, and what great leaders do about that energetic cost

If you've been wondering why the version of you who used to leap at challenges has gone quiet, this episode will give you the answer, and the way back.

Useful links

Ignite Coach Academy — Toni's coach training program, enrolling now for the September cohort: tonicollis.com/ignite-coach-academy

Book a complimentary chat with Toni about whether Ignite is right for you: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

What outcome are you actually after? It's one of the most important questions a leader can ask — and one most organizations get wrong.

Jessi Szurek, Associate Partner at Synthesis, joins Toni for a conversation about outcome-focused leadership, AI adoption done right, and the career-defining skill of speaking up when you're being overlooked. Jessi's path took her from an architecture degree at Cornell to an MBA at NYU, through 17 years at Ernst & Young working across process automation and AI with global financial institutions, to a smaller consulting firm reinventing what client value really means.

This episode is full of practical wisdom for anyone leading change, adopting AI, or trying to get clear on what actually matters — plus one of the best examples of calling out being ignored that we've had on the show.

What we covered:

The non-linear journey: architecture, an MBA in economics, and 17 years at a global consulting firm
Why Jessi left a role she was good at when her objectives and her employer's diverged
Outcome-focused thinking: the difference between the actions and the actual outcome
Why most companies think they know their outcomes but don't — and how to find real clarity
Why sometimes the right move is to stop and reprioritize instead of just doing what you're told
Transparency as a leadership tool — and why short-term discomfort creates long-term value
AI adoption is change management, not magic: why AI is just the next tool in the toolbox
The AI skepticism problem: what to do when people are being forced to adopt tools they resist
Why user buy-in matters more than the perfect solution — the paper Rolodex principle
The golf story: how Jessi challenged being overlooked and what it taught everyone in the room
What's the worst that can happen? Reframing the fear of speaking up
Setting boundaries and choosing your environment over putting your head down
Why the most important decision you'll ever make is who you choose as your partner
Finding success in discomfort — and being your own biggest cheerleader

Useful Links

Connect with today's guest, Jessi, on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessi-petrosino/ and find out more about Synthesis at https://synthesis.inc.

This episode was sponsored by our guest,Jessi Szurek. Thank you Jessi & Synthesis for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

You're delivering. You're the one your team relies on, the one who steps up, the one whose reviews are consistently strong. People call you invaluable, dependable, a safe pair of hands.

And yet when the conversations that matter happen, the succession discussions, the stretch assignments, the rooms where the next senior appointment gets decided, you're not in them. Someone else is being talked about as a future leader while you're being talked about as a great performer.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis breaks down the gap between the leadership you're delivering and the leadership you're being credited with, and gives you the practical system for closing it. Not by working harder, and not by becoming someone you're not, but by changing the signals that build how you're seen.

What's covered:

➡️ Perception is a system, not a verdict — why the two stories you tell yourself ("the system is broken" or "something is wrong with me") both keep you stuck, and the third story that actually gives you something to do

➡️ The four perception gaps — the language gap, the visibility gap, the signal gap, and the narrative gap, and how to diagnose which one is costing you most

➡️ Why your best work has no name on it — drama is visible by default, prevention is invisible by default, and what to do about it if your leadership style is prevention

➡️ Helper signals versus leader signals — the behaviors that made you indispensable may be teaching people you're a support function, and the three-signal swap one client used to change how her VP described her within a quarter

➡️ The one-line leadership narrative — could your boss's boss finish the sentence "she's the person you go to when…"? Why choosing your story matters and how to write it

➡️ Is your mindset holding you back? — the three beliefs that stop capable women doing this work, including an honest conversation about the double standard and why contribution signals don't trigger it the way dominance signals do

➡️ Where to start this week — the diagnosis, the one signal change, and the one conversation that accelerates everything

Being seen as a leader isn't a personality transplant. It's a set of consistent, honest signals about the leader you already are. You've been doing the hard part for years. This is letting it be seen.

Useful links Book a complimentary strategy call with Toni: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

Related episodes ⏹️ Episode 264 — Why You're Not Getting Promoted (Even When You're Overperforming): https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/264-why-youre-not-getting-promoted

⏹️ Episode 228 — Mastering Your Value: Strategies to Stop Underselling Yourself: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/228-not-getting-promoted-heres-the-one-thing-you-need-to-stop-doing

⏹️ Episode 112 — The Problem With Not Blowing Your Own Trumpet: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/112-if-you-dont-openly-celebrate-your-achievements-who-will

⏹️ Episode 276 — Busy ≠ Valuable: How to Prioritize Work That Gets You Promoted: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/276-busy-not-valuable-how-to-prioritize-work-that-gets-you-promoted

⏹️ Episode 286 — Executive Presence for Women in Tech: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/286-executive-presence-for-women-in-tech

⏹️ Episode 290 — The Promotion Gap in Tech: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/290-women-in-tech-promotion-gap

What does it mean to build products that truly work for everyone — including the people most systems were never designed to include?

Debbie Hsu, EVP of Product at Experian Consumer Services, joins Toni for a conversation that spans the full arc of her career — from software engineer at Oracle to leading product at one of the world's most significant consumer financial data companies — and gets into some of the most important questions facing product leaders today.

Debbie leads the evolution of EVA, Experian's AI-powered virtual assistant, and brings a consumer-first lens to everything she builds. In this episode she shares how AI is changing team structures and role boundaries in product, why over-reliance on AI risks making every product look and sound the same, and what the socioeconomic stakes of AI access mean for product leaders who care about inclusion.

She also shares three pieces of advice that I see as foundational to leading: Being humble is not the same as being invisible. Self-advocacy is not the same as bragging. And never let an official meeting be the first time people hear about your idea.

What we cover:

⏹ The unplanned path from software engineer to EVP of Product — and what learning by doing really looks like

⏹ Why Debbie went back to business school to pivot into product management — and what actually landed her the job

⏹ How product leadership has evolved over 20 years: from Flash-based seat maps to AI-powered financial assistants

⏹ T-shaped builders and the blurring of roles in the AI era — what this means for product teams right now

⏹ The AI homogeneity risk: why over-reliance on AI makes products look and sound the same — and what differentiates the ones that don't

⏹ EVA: how Experian's AI assistant uses trusted credit data, expert compliance, and lender eligibility to go beyond generic AI responses

⏹ AI access as a socioeconomic equity issue — and why product leaders need to be part of this conversation

⏹ Financial inclusion and credit invisibility: what it means to build products for people the system overlooked

⏹ Being humble is not the same as being invisible

⏹ Self-advocacy is not bragging — and why visibility for meaningful work is a leadership skill

⏹ Never let an official meeting be the first time people hear your idea

⏹ Diverse voices in product: why every product leader has a responsibility to build inclusively

Useful Links

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Debbie on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-hsu/ and find out more about Experian at https://www.experian.com.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Debbie Hsu. Thank you Debbie & Experian for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

There's a room you're not yet in. Maybe it's a literal room — the board meeting, the investor briefing, the conversation at the level above yours where decisions get made that shape your organization and your career. Maybe it's more of a concept — the level of credibility where people seek out your perspective rather than just your report. Where you're consulted, not just informed.

Becoming a trusted advisor to a board is one of those topics that sounds like it belongs to a specific career stage. But the behaviors, habits, and communication patterns that make someone genuinely valuable at board level are not developed the week before you need them. They're built over years — and the leader who starts now will be genuinely ready when the moment comes.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis breaks down exactly what board-level credibility looks like, how it's built, and what you can start doing right now — wherever you are in your career.

This is for you if:

➡️ You're the leader actively working toward the C-suite who knows the board relationship is her frontier

➡️ You're the woman considering fractional work, NED roles, or an encore career — and who needs to understand how to position herself for board-level advisory work

➡️ You're the Director or VP who's not thinking about boards yet — and who is going to leave this episode with the most immediately actionable content, because the seeds of board credibility are planted years before the harvest

What's covered:

➡️ What being a trusted advisor actually means — and why the conventional picture is wrong. Boards don't want information providers. They want people who help them think.

➡️ What boards actually want from an advisor — the real version, not the official one. Five specific capabilities that make someone genuinely valuable in a board context, including pattern recognition, intellectual honesty under pressure, and executive listening

➡️ The communication shift that changes everything — stop leading with the what and start leading with the so what. The four-part trusted advisor structure that works in any high-stakes senior room

➡️ How to build the relationships that create board-level credibility — including why most people start too late, how to be useful before you make an ask, and why making your thinking visible is one of the most effective career investments available to you

➡️ What you can start doing right now — five specific behaviors for the earlier-career listener that compound into board-level credibility over time. Including reading the rooms above yours, practicing strategic language in every meeting you're already in, and volunteering for board-visible work

➡️ The fractional and encore career dimension — how to translate your experience into board language, how to be findable for the right roles, and how to build the portfolio of evidence that boards and fractional hiring organizations are actually looking for

Whether you want the C-suite, a non-executive director role, a fractional career, or you just want to be the kind of leader who gets consulted rather than just informed — this episode gives you the framework.

Further listening (related episodes) ⏹️ Episode 286 — Executive Presence for Women in Tech: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/286-executive-presence-for-women-in-tech

⏹️ Episode 292 — From Tactical to Strategic: The Unspoken Rules for Women Stepping Into Executive Leadership: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/291-c-level-leadership-for-women-in-tech

⏹️ Episode 238 — Thinking Like an Executive: From Firefighter to Strategist: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/238-thinking-like-an-executive-from-firefighter-to-strategist

⏹️ Episode 241 — Thinking Like an Executive: Setting Priorities as an Executive: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/241-thinking-like-an-executive-setting-priorities

⏹️ Episode 236 — Thinking Like an Executive: Cultivating Your Executive Presence: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/236-thinking-like-an-executive-cultivating-executive-presence

⏹️ Episode 291 — C-Level Leadership for Women in Tech: What It Really Takes to Thrive: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/291-c-level-leadership-for-women-in-tech

⏹️ Episode 256 — No More Crickets: The Networking Strategy That Lands Jobs in 2025: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/256-networking-strategy-lands-jobs

⏹️ Episode 284 — Am I Ready to Be a Fractional Leader?: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/am-i-ready-for-fractional/

⏹️ Episode 288 — How to Position Yourself as a Fractional Leader: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/288-fractional-leadership-positioning/

⏹️ Episode 289 — How Fractional Leaders Actually Get Hired: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/289-how-fractional-leaders-get-hired/

Book a complimentary strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

Michelle Darcy-Clarke didn't have a five-year plan. She took a job by accident, made deliberate lateral moves when everyone expected upward ones, stepped back to be an individual contributor, and eventually became a Chief Experience Officer — without really aiming for it.

In this episode, Michelle joins Toni for one of the most honest and energizing conversations about non-linear leadership careers, the VP comfort zone, ambition redefined, and the single mindset shift that separates people who keep growing from the ones who plateau.

She also gets into the AI transformation her team is driving right now — and why women leaders need to be the ones at the front of that conversation.

What we cover: ⏹ The accidental start to a 27-year career in market research — and what kept it interesting ⏹ Lateral moves as a deliberate growth strategy: why sideways sometimes beats upward ⏹ The VP comfort zone: what safety at that level really means and why it can become a trap ⏹ Doing the C-suite job before getting the title — and knowing when to have that conversation ⏹ Ambition redefined: how wanting to do good rather than be better than your peer actually gets you further ⏹ The red personality: challenge first, commit fully — and why this style gets mistaken for resistance ⏹ Best and worst case scenario decision-making at the executive level ⏹ The team-to-company mindset shift: the single biggest blocker to executive progression ⏹ Women driving AI transformation — and why female leaders need to be at the front of this ⏹ Impostor syndrome, confidence, and learning to own your outcomes rather than calling them luck ⏹ The role of executive coaching across every level of a career ⏹ What Michelle would tell her younger self: trust your decisions and let the negativity go

Connect with today's guest & sponsor Michelle Darcy-Clarke of Cint ⏹ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michelledarcyclarke ⏹ Cint: cint.com

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Michelle Darcy-Clarke of Cint. Thank you Michelle & Cint for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

You know something is wrong with your team. Maybe it's the missed deadlines that have become the norm. The low energy in meetings. The friction nobody's naming. The high performer who's gone quiet. Or just a general flatness — a team that's functional but nowhere near what you know it could be.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis gives you the honest, practical framework for turning a struggling team around — including the part most leadership advice skips: the leader's own role in the system.

What's covered:

➡️The four types of team struggle — and why getting the diagnosis right before you act is the most important thing you can do. The wrong solution applied with confidence makes things worse.

➡️The over-functioning trap — why managing around a problem signals to your whole team that the problem is acceptable, and what it's costing your best people right now

➡️Why your team is not where you are — the emotional and informational gap between you and your team, and why moving at your pace without accounting for theirs leaves people behind

➡️The three conversations you've been avoiding — performance, expectations, and recognition — and why the difference between a team that stays stuck and one that turns around is almost always the conversations the leader wasn't having

➡️How to retain your high performers when the team is struggling — because they're always the first to leave, and they always have options

➡️The honest question about your own leadership — and why understanding your role in the system is what makes the rest of this possible

➡️Where to start this week — three specific actions, not twenty

Whether you've inherited a struggling team, watched one develop on your watch, or just know things need to change and aren't sure where to start — this episode gives you the framework.

Related episodes:

⏹ Episode 152 — How to Give Feedback: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/152-how-to-give-feedback

⏹ Episode 174 — What to Do When You Inherit a Poor Performer: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/174-what-to-do-when-you-inherit-an-underperformer

⏹ Episode 172 — When You Need to Let People Go: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/172-when-you-need-to-let-people-go

⏹ Episode 178 — How to Lead and Retain High Performers: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/178-how-to-lead-and-retain-high-performers

⏹ Episode 250 — Leading Through Change: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/250-leading-through-change

⏹ Episode 158 — Unleashing Team Performance: Simple Coaching Approaches: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/158-unleashing-team-performance-the-power-of-simple-coaching-approaches

Book a complimentary strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat/

Burnout isn't a personal failure. It's a clinical condition with three specific characteristics — and understanding exactly what it is may be the first step toward actually recovering from it.

Sheetal Ajmani, physician turned speaker, coach, and consultant, joins Toni for a conversation that reframes burnout and self-care from the ground up. Sheetal practiced pediatrics for over 16 years and experienced burnout multiple times across her career — the first time in 2006, when nobody was talking about it, and the most recent in 2022, when she made the decision to step away from clinical medicine entirely.

This episode goes deep on what burnout actually is, why high-achieving women are so skilled at missing the signs, and what self-care genuinely needs to look like to make a difference — hint: it's not the bubble bath.

What we cover:

⏹ The clinical definition of burnout — three characteristics, and why naming them matters

⏹ Eustress vs distress: where helpful stress ends and burnout begins

⏹ Why high-achieving women are the last to see burnout coming in themselves

⏹ Anticipatory burnout — the specific exhaustion that comes from knowing a change is coming but not being able to make it yet

⏹ Self-care redefined: why the most impactful forms take less time than you think

⏹ Micro moments of self-care — what they look like and how to find yours

⏹ The difference between self-care and self-improvement (they are not the same thing)

⏹ The Ayurvedic whole-person lens on well-being — and why your emotions, relationships, and career all affect your health

⏹ The one thing Sheetal wants every woman to start doing today

⏹ Why small changes make a larger impact than grand wellness gestures

⏹ The inner critic that adds layers of judgment on top of an already hard experience

⏹ Why burnout is an individual stress response within a social context — and what that means for systemic change

Connect with Sheetal Ajmani

⏹ Website: radiantlivinginstitute.com

⏹ Podcast: Essential Self Care: https://www.radiantlivinginstitute.com/podcasts/essential-self-care

⏹ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sheetalajmani

When everything is shifting — a restructure, a board crisis, a project on the edge of collapse, or just the relentless uncertainty of leading a team through sustained change — the expectation is that you hold it together. You stay steady. You have the answers.

But nobody tells you how.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis builds out the adaptive leadership toolkit every senior leader needs for navigating a genuine crisis — not the kind of crisis leadership that sounds good in a conference keynote, but the practical, honest, unglamorous work of staying grounded when everything around you is shifting.

This is not about eliminating the pressure. It is about developing the specific capabilities that let you remain clear, present, and effective within it.

What's covered:

Why crisis leadership is a trainable capability, not a personality trait — and why the unruffled leader you're comparing yourself to is a fiction
The team-speed problem: why your team is not where you are emotionally, and what it actually means to meet people where they are
Crisis communication as a leadership skill — not just a PR function. The specific language that calms, orients, and aligns your team when they're in crisis mode. And why you need to say it far more times than you think
The internal dimension: staying grounded in yourself before you can hold space for anyone else
Protecting decision quality when the stakes are highest — the difference between genuine urgency and anxiety-driven urgency
The blame game, why a crisis is never the time to play it, and the story from early in Toni's career that has stayed with her ever since
The isolation of senior leadership in a crisis — and the structural responses that make it manageable

Related episodes:

Episode 170 - Does it have to be lonely at the top? Drawing the line between being a boss and a friend
Episode 243 - Struggling to Be Heard? Master Leadership Communication Strategies and Coach Upwards
Episode 248 - Recognizing the Signs: Identifying Early Indicators of Burnout
Episode 250 — Leading Through Change
Episode 274 - How to Stop Overthinking at Work: Tools for Clear, Confident Leadership Decisions.
Episode 278 - When No One Listens — How to Lead When Your Voice Isn't Heard
Episode 294 — Burnout-Proof Leadership
Episode 298 - When the Stakes Are High, Does Your Voice Go Quiet? How to Communicate With Clarity Under Pressure

Ready to work through a genuinely difficult period with support? Book a strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

What does it actually take to become an industry leader when you never planned to be one?

Charli Rogers, Chief Customer Officer at Botify, joins Toni for a conversation that covers the full arc of her leadership journey — from an accidental start in tech to leading customer success teams of 150-200 people across multiple continents, to taking her first CCO seat at a company sitting right at the intersection of search, AI discoverability, and the future of how brands get found.

This conversation covers all things great leadership from quiet confidence, allyship in executive teams, what holding space for women in a boardroom actually looks like in practice, and the language shift — "and" versus "but" — that Charli teaches every woman she mentors.

Charli also gets honest about the biggest challenge she's navigating right now: how do you lead an AI-forward customer experience function while keeping the team delivering, changing everything about how you operate, and nobody really knows what the next two years look like?

If you're figuring out what kind of leader you want to be, how to back yourself at the next level, or how to build allies in rooms that weren't always built for you — this is the episode.

What we cover:

◾ The serendipitous career path from accidental tech foray to Chief Customer Officer

◾ Why Charli put her hand up for people leadership before she felt ready — and what happened next

◾ Quiet confidence: what it really looks like at the executive level and why it's different from the performative kind

◾ The "and" vs "but" language shift and why words matter more than most leaders realize

vAllyship in the exec room — what it looks like when it becomes second nature rather than a conscious act

◾ Holding space for women in a male-dominated executive team: practical, not theoretical

◾ AI in customer experience — leading an AI-forward function while the team keeps delivering today

◾ Building a virtual board of directors and why network investment is a long-term leadership strategy

◾ The worst piece of advice Charli was ever given: "dial it down, Charli"

◾ Confidence plus capacity: why both are non-negotiable and how to know when it's time to speak up

Useful links

◾ Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Charli Rogers and Botify:

◾ Charli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlirogers/

◾ Botify: https://www.botify.com/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Charli Rogers at Botify. Thank you Charli for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Are you brilliant at your job — but starting to wonder if this is really it?

One of the most common and least-talked-about challenges facing senior women in tech is the moment when something needs to change, but you don't know exactly what, and the fear of getting it wrong is keeping you exactly where you are.

This is not a "how to find a new job" episode. It is an episode about how to think clearly and strategically about career pivots — before you make a reactive decision you spend the next two years recovering from.

Whether you're bored and feeling guilty about it, you know you need to leave but can't see where to go, or you're ready to pivot but don't know where to start — this episode is for you.

Keep listening to learn more about:

Why the restlessness you're feeling is not a character flaw — it's a signal worth taking seriously
The four types of "something needs to change" — and why getting the diagnosis right is what separates a strategic pivot from a reactive one
The full range of options available to you — including internal pivots, functional moves, smaller organisations, fractional leadership, and entrepreneurship
A five-step framework for thinking through a career pivot strategically without making a decision from your most exhausted place
What's really underneath the fear — and why the identity question is the thing that keeps most women stuck
What a good career pivot actually looks like — and the one first step to take this week
Whether you're actively planning a change or just starting to sit with the question, this episode will help you think more clearly about what you actually want next.

What if the brain that made you feel like you never quite fit — the one that means you always carry 5 jobs even though technically you only have one, the brain that got bored the moment something stopped being challenging, and that saw the whole system when everyone else wanted you to stay in your lane — turned out to be exactly what the AI era needs?

That's not a hypothetical. That's Noe Ramos. And it might just be you too.

Noe is Vice President of AI Operations at Agiloft, where she leads the kind of AI transformation that actually works — not the kind that chases efficiency and calls it progress, but the kind that asks what humans need to thrive in a world increasingly shaped by these tools. Noe has spent 23 years being, in her own words, excellent at jobs that were never quite designed for her brain. And it wasn't until she found the right environment, understood her neurodivergence, and stopped filtering out the parts of herself that made her different that everything clicked.

In this episode we talk self-awareness as a leadership tool, what it means to build a culture of genuine psychological safety, and why AI transformation is only as good as the humans at the center of it.

What we cover:

⏹ 23 years being excellent at jobs never designed for her brain — and what changed

⏹ Systems thinking: what it really means, why women are discouraged from doing it, and how to keep doing it anyway

⏹ Finding the right environment — how Noe figured out what she actually needed and how to diagnose it in a company

⏹ Neurodivergence as a leadership superpower in the AI era

⏹ What authentic leadership really looks like when you've spent a career masking

⏹ Psychological safety: how showing up humanly as a leader creates a ripple effect through your whole team

⏹ Agiloft's human-first AI transformation approach — upskilling people existentially, not just technically

⏹ Role-based vs function-based thinking: why the shift matters for AI adoption

⏹ Visibility vs indispensability — and why being essential at the wrong level is a career trap

⏹ The worst piece of advice Noe was ever given — and the subtlety inside it

⏹ AI as a mirror: what are you bringing to the tool?

Useful links

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Noe Ramos at Agiloft:

⏹ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/noeramos

⏹ Agiloft: agiloft.com

Book a strategy call with Toni: tonicollis.com/lets-chat/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Noe Ramos. Thank you Noe and Agiloft for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Three hundred episodes. Approaching 1500 women coached across corporate tech, startups, and academia. And a long list of things I used to believe that I no longer do.

Episode 300 of Leading Women in Tech is different from any episode I've made before. This is not a tips episode. It is not a framework. It is my honest account of what seven years of conversations and nearly 1500 coaching relationships has actually taught me about women in leadership — including the places where the conventional wisdom is wrong, the advice I've heard given to women again and again that has caused real damage, and what I would say now that I would not have said at Episode 1.

In this episode I cover:

Why leaning in was the wrong answer — not because the system is unfair, but because it asks women to lean into a male model that was never designed for them

Why getting a seat at the table was never the whole answer — and what the goal actually is

The real problem with "just speak up more" and "just be more confident" — and why telling women to be more confident before they've had the chance to build it is one of the most common ways we set them up to fail

Why "you can have it all, just not at the same time" does so much quiet damage — and what to say instead

The zone of genius trap that nobody warns you about — and why staying in it is the goal, but only if you notice when it has changed

Why you need a mentor, a coach, and a sponsor — and why most senior men in tech have all three while most women have only one

What working harder actually costs women — and what to invest in instead

Why we are more individual than society would have us believe, and what happens when women stop performing someone else's model of leadership

And why, despite everything, I am genuinely optimistic.

This episode is for the women who have been listening since the beginning, and for the women who are finding this podcast for the first time. It is my most honest episode yet.

Let's talk about building a positive workplace culture. What does it take to build a workplace where people truly own their work — not just show up for it?

Anusha Iyer, Founder and CEO of Corsha, joins Toni to share the unfiltered journey from software engineer to CTO to CEO — and the leadership philosophy that underpins everything she's built along the way. Corsha secures machine-to-machine communications for the operational systems that run our world, from AI agents to robotic controllers in critical infrastructure. It's deep tech solving some of the most important and underprotected problems in cybersecurity today.

But this conversation isn't just about technology. It's about ownership culture, the realities of founding a company as a woman, how to pivot without destroying your team, and why joy at work isn't a soft concept — it's a strategic one.

Anusha also gets into the AI thread that's running through every organisation right now: why diverse voices need to be shaping these tools while the models are still being trained, and why using AI as an assistant rather than a replacement is a leadership decision, not just a preference.

What we cover:

The real financial and personal cost of starting a startup — and why it's worth it
How to make strategic pivots without flip-flopping and exhausting your team
The power of saying no — to customers, to money, to scope creep
Building a positive workplace culture through ownership: the Joy at Work framework
The CTO-to-CEO transition: what changes, what doesn't, and the vulnerability that makes it work
Why the E in CEO stands for evangelist — and what that means for how you lead
Communication training for the whole team, not just the C-suite
AI as an assistant, not a replacement — and why women need to be in these tools now
The 100% job spec problem — and the mindset shift women need to make
Why diverse voices matter in AI training right now, while it still counts

Connect with Anusha and Corhsa:

https://corsha.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anusha-iyer/

Resources mentioned in this episode

Read the book Joy At Work by Dennis W. Bakke
Emma Wainer, public speaking coach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmawainer/
- Listen to Emma on the Podcast: Episode 107 - Being a great communicator with Emma Wainer
Book a strategy call with Toni: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Anusha Iyer. Thank you Anusha & Corsha for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Do you communicate with clarity when the stakes are high — or does your voice go quiet at exactly the moment it matters most?

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I break down one of the most underrated leadership skills for women in tech: communicating with clarity under pressure. Not when things are calm and you've had time to prepare — but when someone challenges you in front of the leadership team, when an executive asks a question you weren't expecting, or when you can feel the room watching to see how you respond.

This is not about confidence. It's not about personality. It's about a conditioned nervous system response — and a set of practical, trainable tools to work with it.

In this episode:

⏹ Why communication breaks down under pressure — the real physiology behind the freeze, the ramble, the hedge spiral, and the shutdown

⏹ Why this shows up differently for women in tech — and why "just be more confident" is both wrong and unhelpful

⏹ The reframe that changes everything: clarity under pressure is a trained skill, not a personality trait

⏹ Five practical tools you can start building this week, including the one-sentence anchor, the strategic pause, the pressure-proof redirect, and the high-stakes pre-mortem

⏹ Where to start — a sequenced action plan so you build the skill without overwhelming yourself

If you've ever walked out of a meeting thinking "why didn't I just say X?", this episode will tell you exactly why — and exactly what to do about it.

Learn more about communication: Episode 243 — Struggling to Be Heard? Master Leadership Communication Strategies and Coach Upwards

Ready to work on this in the context of your specific leadership challenges? Book a strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat/

If your organization is running AI pilots that aren't moving the needle, waiting for the right moment to commit, or treating AI as a technology problem for IT to solve — this episode is the reset you need.

Charlene Li, NYT bestselling author and one of the world's leading voices on disruptive leadership, joins Toni for her second appearance on Leading Women in Tech. When she was last on the show in Episode 225 (Run To Disruption), the AI conversation was just beginning to accelerate. Now, with her new book Winning with AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success freshly published, Charlene brings a framework that is both more urgent and more practical than anything most organisations are currently working with.

This is a conversation about AI leadership strategy — not as a technology decision, but as a leadership and strategic imperative. And it has particular resonance for women in tech, who face a specific version of this challenge: the deeply conditioned pressure to be certain before acting, and what that costs us when the window for leadership is open right now.

What we cover in this episode:

⏹ Why you don't need an AI strategy — you need an AI roadmap that serves your existing business strategy

⏹ The 95% pilot failure rate, and what to do instead of running pilots

⏹ The 18-month rolling AI roadmap: how to write strategy in ink and your roadmap in pencil

⏹ Speed as the new competitive moat — and what that means for leaders who wait for certainty before acting

⏹ The specific challenge women face: perfectionism, scrutiny, and the risk of sitting out the AI transition

⏹ What AI fluency actually looks like — and why becoming fluent publicly is a leadership act, not a vulnerability

⏹ The "how did you use AI to prepare for this meeting?" technique — and why it changes team culture fast

⏹ The superhuman thesis: what happens when uniquely human skills (empathy, judgment, wisdom, intuition) meet AI capability

⏹ Why the good people have to show up — and why women's voices are non-negotiable in shaping how AI is used

Connect with Charlene — today's guest and sponsor:

⏹ Website: charleneli.com

⏹ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charleneli

⏹ Book: winningwithaibook.com

Mentioned in this episode:

⏹ Episode 225 — Run To Disruption with Charlene Li: tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/225-run-to-disruption-charlene-li

Connect with Toni:

⏹ tonicollis.com

⏹ tonicollis.com/lets-chat

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Charlene Li. Thank you Charlene for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Office politics. Just reading those words probably made you want to click away — and that reaction is exactly why this episode exists.

If you're a high-achieving woman in tech who has built your career on results, integrity, and doing excellent work, the idea of navigating office politics probably feels like a compromise. Like you'd be becoming someone you don't recognise.

But here's what nobody says out loud: not engaging with office politics is itself a political choice. And for most high-performing women in tech leadership, it's one that is quietly costing them promotions, visibility, and influence — regardless of how good their work is.

In this episode, Executive Coach Dr Toni Collis breaks down the critical distinction between the toxic version of office politics (which you should absolutely avoid) and the strategic, integrity-consistent leadership work of building influence, visibility, and advocates — which most high-achieving women have been avoiding along with it.

This is not about becoming a different person. It's about leading fully in the organisation you're actually in.

What you'll learn in this episode:

⏹ Why we as high-achieving women often resist office politics — and the specific career cost of that resistance

⏹ The two completely different things most women are calling "office politics" — and why separating them changes everything

⏹ Five practical moves for building influence and strategic visibility without compromising your values

⏹ How to build advocates (not just allies) who speak up for you in the rooms you're not in

⏹ The integrity check that tells you whether you're building genuine influence or drifting into game-playing

Links and resources mentioned:

⏹ Take the Office Politics Quiz for Women in Tech: tonicollis.com/resources/office-politics-quiz

⏹ Book a strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat/

⏹ Learn more about building your advocates: Episode 292 — From Tactical to Strategic: The Unspoken Rules for Women in Tech Stepping Into Executive Leadership

⏹ Learn more about communication: Episode 243 — Struggling to Be Heard? Master Leadership Communication Strategies and Coach Upwards

If this episode resonated, please leave a review and share it with a woman in tech who needs to hear this conversation.

Chapters:

00:00 — The coaching conversation that changed everything

01:15 — What this episode is and isn't about

03:08 — Why high-achieving women avoid office politics — and what it's costing them

09:44 — What navigating office politics with integrity actually looks like: three core reframes

18:49 — Five moves that build influence and strategic visibility without selling out

19:12 — Move 1: Map the landscape before you need it

21:25 — Move 2: Invest in relationships before you need them

24:33 — Move 3: Make your impact visible — strategically, not constantly

27:31 — Move 4: Learn to read the room and the organisation

30:15 — Move 5: Build advocates, not just allies

34:22 — The integrity check: how to know you're building influence, not playing games

37:39 — The Office Politics Playbook for Women in Tech

Related episodes:

⏹ Episode 112 — If You Don't Openly Celebrate Your Achievements, Who Will?

⏹ Episode 228 — Mastering Your Value: Strategies to Stop Underselling Yourself

⏹ Episode 243 — Struggling to Be Heard? Master Leadership Communication Strategies and Coach Upwards

⏹ Episode 256 — No More Crickets: The Networking Strategy That Lands Jobs in 2025

⏹ Episode 276 — Busy Does Not Equal Valuable: How to Prioritise Work That Gets You Promoted

What does it actually take to become a transformational leader in the age of AI? Catherine Wong, Chief Product Officer at Entrata, joins Toni to share the career philosophy, leadership mindset, and honest hard-won lessons that took her from software engineer to CPO — via architecture, M&A, product, and operations.

Catherine built her career on range, not a straight line. She calls it the jungle gym — and she believes it's more relevant now than ever. In this episode she gets real about diversity as a product quality issue (not just a values issue), why AI adoption is the biggest change management challenge of our careers, and what authentic leadership actually means when the pressure is on.

If you're navigating a non-linear career, trying to lead your team through AI change, or wondering whether you need a perfect plan to reach the C-suite — this one is for you.

What we cover:

◾ Why range matters more than specialisation at the executive level

◾How empathy becomes your most powerful leadership tool across functions

◾Why diversity is a product quality issue — and what's at stake as that conversation disappears

◾AI adoption as a change management challenge at unprecedented speed

◾The "hit song" principle: why consistent messaging is the job

◾How to stop minimising yourself — and what to do if you don't have the right mentors

◾Authentic leadership: what it really means to bring the right energy to your team

About Catherine Wong

Catherine Wong is Chief Product Officer at Entrata, where she leads product and operations. She has held VP of Engineering and product leadership roles across multiple organisations and has spent her career building range across software engineering, architecture, M&A, and product management. She is a passionate advocate for diversity in tech and for leading teams through AI transformation with humanity and clarity.

Connect with Catherine Wong

◾LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catherinewong

◾X: @catherinewong

◾Entrata: entrata.com

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Catherine Wong. Thank you Catherine for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

When someone asks you how you're doing, what do you say?

If you answered "I'm fine" before you'd even finished reading that question — this episode is for you.

Burnout in high-performing women in tech leadership rarely looks like collapse. It looks like going through the motions. Like numbness. Like resentment that arrives out of nowhere and exhaustion that's become so normal you've stopped registering it as a warning sign.

In this episode, Toni breaks down why burnout hits women in tech leadership differently, the three patterns she sees most in her coaching work, and what burnout-proof leadership actually means — strategically, not just in a "take more baths" sense.

This isn't about slowing down. It's about building leadership that doesn't require you to run on empty to function.

What you'll hear in this episode:

◾ Why high-performing women are often the last to identify as burned out — and the specific compounding factors that make burnout in tech leadership different

◾ The three burnout patterns Toni sees most in coaching: the silent spiral, the conflict-avoidant overgiver, and the high-performer in denial

◾ What burnout-proof leadership actually requires — structural protection, a perceptual shift, and leadership identity recalibration

◾ The mistake that keeps women stuck in burnout cycles even when they're actively trying to recover

◾ Four practical first steps you can take this week, even if you're already running on empty

For a limited time, the Burnout to Balance Toolkit is completely free — self-paced audio training, workbook, and an optional four-week reset plan, designed for women in tech leadership who need something concrete right now. Available free for two weeks from release, or until the first 200 downloads. Get it at tonicollis.com/burnout-to-balance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

◾ Burnout to Balance Toolkit (free for limited time): tonicollis.com/burnout-to-balance/

◾ Episode 216 — Understanding and Overcoming Burnout with Lindsay, Jen, and Allison: https://tonicollis.com/leading-women-tech/216-understanding-and-overcoming-burnout-insights-from-leading-women-in-tech-with-lindsay-jen-and-allison/

You don't need a perfect career plan to succeed in tech.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I sit down with Sarah Walker, Chief Executive of Cisco UK & Ireland, to talk about women in tech leadership, non-traditional career paths, AI in the workplace, and why backing yourself matters more than ticking every box.

Sarah didn't follow a traditional route into tech. She didn't leave school with perfect results. She didn't move to London (despite being told she should). And she certainly didn't have a 20-year career plan mapped out.

Yet today, she leads one of the most influential tech organisations in the UK and Ireland.

In this conversation, we explore: ◾ Women in tech leadership and representation ◾ Career advancement for women in tech without a rigid plan ◾ How to become a leader in tech without ticking every box ◾ Leadership mindset and backing yourself before you feel ready ◾ AI in the workplace and how it unlocks human potential ◾ Why social mobility and regional leadership matter ◾ Sustainable leadership and authenticity at the top

If you've ever questioned whether you "fit" the mould of a tech executive — this episode will change how you see your path.

🔗 Connect with Sarah Walker on LinkedIn 🔗 Learn more about Cisco UK & Ireland

👉 Ready to design your path to executive leadership? Book a Strategy Call: https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Sarah Walker at CISCO. Thank you Sarah for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Executive Leadership for Women: From Tactical to Strategic

You've mastered being a leader.

But executive leadership for women is not just the next step up.

It's a completely different game.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we unpack why tactical excellence alone won't get you promoted — and what actually signals executive readiness.

If you've ever been told:

"You're doing great."
"Keep going."
"You're almost there."
"We just need to see a bit more."

This episode is for you.

We explore:

Why women not getting promoted in tech is often a positioning issue
The difference between management and executive leadership
How gender bias in tech leadership shapes perception
Navigating bro culture in tech without losing yourself
Executive presence for women — and why it's about credibility, not charisma
Why sponsorship matters more than merit
A practical 90-day roadmap to reposition yourself strategically

Executive leadership for women is not about becoming louder.

It's about raising your altitude.

Useful links

Listen to Episode 286: Executive presence is about how you are experienced in the room.

Ready to Make the Shift? If you're ready to transition from management to leadership at executive level — but need clarity on your perception gap —

Book a Strategy Call: 👉 https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

Because executive leadership for women is not reserved for a personality type.

It is built.

And you are closer than you think.

In this conversation, Adelina Peltea, CMO at USERCENTRICS shares her unique journey to C-level Leadership for women in tech, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's strengths and the realities of leadership roles. She discusses the significance of communication, empowerment, and the impact of presence in leadership. Adelina also introduces her meditation method, Inner Sanctuary, and explores the responsible use of AI in decision-making. The discussion concludes with advice for personal growth and reflection on one's career path.

Takeaways

◾ Adelina's journey to CMO was unconventional and early.

◾ Understanding your strengths is crucial for career success.

◾ C-level roles require a significant presence and responsibility.

◾ Communication is key in empowering teams and making decisions.

◾ Meditation can be a powerful tool for leaders.

◾ AI should be used responsibly and with critical thinking.

◾ Follow your passion to maintain energy in your career.

◾ Reflecting on your journey is essential for growth.

◾ Empower others while maintaining responsibility for outcomes.

◾ Enjoy the journey and be open to adjustments in your path.

Useful links

◾ Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Adelina Peltea:

▢ UserCentrics: https://usercentrics.com/

▢ Connect with Adelina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelinapeltea/

▢ Find out more about Adelina's work in wellness for leaders and get her book: https://www.verdawellnessclub.com/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Adelina Peltea. Thank you Adelina for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

The women in tech promotion gap is real—but it's not random. High-performing women in tech are still being overlooked for leadership roles, even as they deliver exceptional results. In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we dive into the gender bias in tech leadership, the shift in workplace culture, and the strategic moves you need to close the gap—without losing yourself.

Why are women in tech not getting promoted at the same rate as their male peers? The answer isn't about competence; it's about perception, positioning, and politics. We'll explore:

The promotion gap in the tech industry and why it persists, especially at Director-to-VP transitions.
How executive presence for women and leadership visibility can shift how you're perceived.
The difference between mentorship and sponsorship—and why the latter is critical for advancement.
Navigating bro culture in tech without compromising your authenticity.
Sustainable executive leadership: How to build influence capital without burning out.

This episode is for you if:

✔ You're a Passed-Over High-Performer delivering results but not seeing advancement.

✔ You're a Strategically Focused On Rising, and getting ready to step into executive leadership—but need a roadmap.

✔ You refuse to trade ambition for comfort or shrink in the face of pushback.

Key Takeaways:

Promotion is a strategic game. Hard work alone won't close the gap—you need positioning, visibility, and sponsorship.
Executive presence isn't about personality—it's about framing your work in business impact language.
Sponsorship > Mentorship. Advocates in high places are your ticket to the next level.
Cultural shifts don't have to derail your ambition. Learn to navigate gender bias in tech leadership with composure and strategy.

Resources Mentioned:

Promotion Readiness Scorecard – Assess how you're perceived by leadership.
Lit Up Leadership Academy – Join the next cohort to build your influence capital.

Ready to close the women in tech promotion gap strategically? Book a Strategy Call and let's design your roadmap to leadership.

How fractional leaders get hired isn't random — but it does follow a very different logic than most people expect.

If you've been having good conversations, receiving positive signals, and still not seeing those conversations turn into paid work, this episode will help you understand what's really happening on the hiring side.

In this episode, we step out of the leader's perspective and into the mindset of the organisation making the decision — because fractional leadership hiring doesn't follow a traditional job search or sales process.

Instead, hiring happens when recognition, trust, and timing align.

In this episode, we explore: * Why fractional leadership opportunities don't follow a linear funnel * The difference between visibility and recognisability * The three conditions that consistently lead to fractional leadership hiring * Why timing matters more than effort * How trust is built before a hiring decision is ever made * Why so many capable leaders get stuck in "almost" conversations

This episode is for senior women in tech who:

Are fractional-ready but not yet chosen
Are getting interest, but not conversion
Want to stop guessing — without resorting to hustle or salesy tactics

Listen if you want to: * Understand how fractional hiring decisions are actually triggered * Feel calmer and more in control of the process * Make your leadership easier to recognise and hire

Next steps: * Book a Strategy Session (Positioning + Hiring Clarity) + 👉 https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat * Continue listening to the Fractional Series: + Episode 284 — Am I Ready to Be a Fractional Leader? + Episode 288 — How to Position Yourself as a Fractional Leader

Chat to me to learn more about the Fractional Accelerator:
- 👉 https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

Fractional leadership positioning is one of the most misunderstood — and most important — parts of building a successful fractional career.

In this episode Toni breaks down why so many senior women struggle to gain traction in fractional roles, how positioning differs from full-time leadership, and what it really means to be hired for judgement rather than execution.

Here's what you'll learn in this episode

⏹ Why experience alone doesn't translate into fractional opportunities

⏹ The difference between employee positioning and fractional leadership positioning

⏹ Why fractional leaders are hired for judgement, not capacity

⏹ The most common positioning mistakes that keep leaders invisible

⏹ How to pressure-test your own positioning without "selling yourself"

⏹ What comes next if you want to move from interest to paid fractional work

What's coming next In next week's episode, we'll go one step further and explore how fractional leaders actually get hired — what genuinely leads to opportunities, and what doesn't.

Want support with your positioning? If this episode highlighted gaps or uncertainty around how you're currently positioned, you can book a free strategy session or fractional leadership positioning audit — here:

👉 https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

If women don't experiment with AI now, we risk hard-coding today's leadership gaps into tomorrow's technology.

In this episode I'm joined by Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada's Ocean Supercluster, to explore the intersection of women in leadership, AI readiness, representation, and emerging technology.

This conversation goes beyond theory. It tackles the real risks and opportunities facing women leaders as AI, climate tech, and other emerging technologies reshape how leadership works — and who gets to shape the future.

In this episode, we discuss:

◾ Why representation in leadership matters more than ever in emerging tech

◾ How AI adoption in the workplace can either reduce or reinforce gender bias

◾ Why women's hesitation to experiment with AI is a leadership issue — not a technical one

◾ What it takes to lead confidently in male-dominated industries like tech and ocean innovation

◾ How leadership pipelines for women are shaped early — at work, at home, and through education

◾ The role of experimentation, confidence, and visibility in closing the leadership gap

Kendra shares her own journey — from stepping away from STEM early in life to leading large-scale innovation and commercialisation — and offers practical insight into how women leaders can engage with AI and emerging tech without needing to be technical experts.

If you care about:

✔ women in tech leadership ✔ AI readiness for leaders ✔ gender diversity in leadership ✔ bias in AI algorithms ✔ emerging and sustainable technology

this episode is for you.

If you're ready for your next level explore how to strengthen your leadership clarity, visibility, and career trajectory by booking a discovery call via the link in the description.

Useful links

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Kendra MacDonald:

◾ W: kendramacdonald.com

◾ Substack: https://substack.com/@saltwatersignals

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Kendra MacDonald. Thank you Kendra for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

If performance were enough, more women in tech would already be promoted.

They're not.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis breaks down executive presence for women in tech — what it actually means, why being good at your job isn't enough at senior levels, and how leaders are really evaluated when promotion, influence, and trust are on the line.

This episode is for high-performing women who've been told they need "more executive presence" — without ever being given clarity on what to change.

You'll learn why executive presence is not about confidence theatre or personality, why women are often misread at senior levels, and how to build leadership presence without changing who you are.

In this episode, you'll learn: ◾ Why performance alone doesn't create executive presence

◾ What executive presence for women in tech really looks like at senior levels

◾ How leaders are evaluated on judgement, framing, and decision-making

◾ Why executive presence is harder for women (and how bias actually shows up)

◾ The difference between confidence and leadership presence

◾ Practical ways to build executive presence without becoming someone else

🔗 Resources & Links ◾ Book a free strategy call: https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

◾ Learn more about Toni Collis: https://tonicollis.com

If you've ever worried that an unconventional career path in tech leadership might hold you back — that your background isn't "technical enough," linear enough, or traditional enough — this episode will fundamentally challenge that belief.

In this conversation, Toni Collis is joined by Lisa Ferrante-Walsh, SVP of Engineering at Native Instruments, whose career journey spans music, computer science, engineering leadership, mergers and acquisitions, and even stepping into an acting CTO role. Lisa's story is a powerful example of how a nonlinear career path in tech can become a strategic advantage rather than a liability.

Toni & Lisa discuss what it really takes to move from individual contributor to people leader, how to lead engineering teams through M&A without losing trust or momentum, and why executive confidence, decision-making, and visibility matter even more when your background doesn't fit the "expected" mould.

This episode is essential listening if you're a woman in tech navigating a career transition into senior leadership, leading through organizational change, or questioning whether you truly belong at the executive table.

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Lisa Ferrante-Walsh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaferrantewalsh/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Lisa Ferrante-Walsh. Thank you Lisa for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

If the idea of going fractional feels exciting and terrifying at the same time — you're not alone.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we explore what fractional leadership really looks like for senior women who want more autonomy, impact, and alignment — without blowing up their careers.

This episode is for you if:

◾You're curious about fractional work but worried about legality, stability, or time

◾You've been asked to "advise" startups or former colleagues — informally and often unpaid

◾You want meaningful, senior-level work without the full-time corporate trap

◾You're wondering if a portfolio or fractional career could be a smart next step

Rather than hype or hustle culture, this conversation focuses on clarity.

You'll learn:

◾What fractional leadership actually is (and what it isn't)

◾The three most common starting points women have when exploring fractional work

◾How to explore fractional leadership safely alongside a full-time role

◾The real fears women have — about contracts, confidence, pricing, and visibility — and how to address them

◾Why most fractional experiments fail (and how to avoid those mistakes)

◾How to test fractional work intentionally, without quitting or burning bridges

This episode is not about deciding everything today.

It's about understanding what's possible — so you can make your next move with confidence.

🎯 Next step:

If this episode resonates and you'd like to talk through your own fractional career options, you can book a complimentary strategy session with me to design your own fractional career right here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/64a6bd61/appointment/86825111/calendar/3066450?appointmentTypeIds[]=86825111

What does it really take to lead in a male-dominated industry — and build an AI-driven company grounded in trust, ethics, and human impact?

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I'm joined by Shelley Copsey, CEO & Co-Founder of FYLD — a fast-growing, AI-powered platform transforming how frontline teams in infrastructure and utilities make decisions, stay safe, and improve productivity in real time.

Shelley brings over 20 years of experience at the intersection of physical infrastructure, digital innovation, AI strategy, and human transformation, and she shares powerful insights on navigating self-doubt, being underestimated, scaling ethically with AI, and leading teams through rapid change.

If you're a woman in tech, an aspiring executive, or a leader navigating AI transformation, this conversation will elevate how you think about leadership, trust, and impact.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

⏹ How Shelley went from underestimated early-career consultant to award-winning CEO

⏹ Why traditional male leadership role models don't work for women — and how she found her own executive presence

⏹ The mindset that helped her secure a CEO role during the height of COVID

⏹ How she builds trust as a CEO — and why hiring with a "presumption of trust" changes everything

⏹ What ethical AI looks like in high-stakes environments (safety, field operations, human risk)

⏹ Why leaders must reimagine every role in the AI era (customer success, operations, engineering & beyond)

⏹ How to bring teams along when they resist AI

⏹ What self-doubt looks like at the CEO level — and how Shelley manages it with clarity and compassion

⏹ The best leadership advice she's ever received (and the worst!)

Useful links

⏹ Connect with today's guest, Shelley:

⏹ Web: https://fyld.ai/

⏹ Shelley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleycopsey/

This episode was supported by Shelley Copsey, CEO of FYLD. Thank you Shelley for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Most leaders start the year with good intentions —

but by February, meetings, emergencies, and team issues take over.

And suddenly, your career is something that just happens to you.

In this solo episode of Leading Women in Tech, Toni Collis walks you step-by-step through how to create your 2026 Leadership Roadmap — a clear, strategic plan to move your career forward intentionally, not reactively.

This episode is for you if:

• You're working hard but not seeing progression

• You feel overworked, under-recognised, or invisible

• You're ready for promotion but not being tapped

• You want to stop reacting and start leading strategically

You'll learn:

• Why "trying harder" doesn't create career acceleration

• How senior leaders actually plan their growth

• The difference between productivity goals and leadership goals

• How to define your 2026 North Star

• The key visibility, influence, and strategic gaps holding you back

• A simple 5-pillar leadership roadmap framework

• Why subtraction and boundaries are essential for leadership growth

• How to turn your roadmap into a quarterly, sustainable plan

This episode bridges mindset → action, helping you design a year that supports the leader you're becoming — not the role you've outgrown.

🎯 If you want support turning this roadmap into real momentum, you can book a discovery call at tonicollis.com/lets-chat

#LeadershipRoadmap #WomenInTech #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerPlanning #WomenInLeadership #ExecutivePresence #PromotionReady #LeadershipGrowth #StrategicLeadership #LeadingWomenInTech #ToniCollis

In today's episode, we're going deep into one of the most urgent leadership topics of 2025: cybersecurity, AI risk, and the new era of digital trust.

This is no longer a technical issue — it's a leadership issue.

I'm joined by Karen Kaukol, Chief Marketing Officer at Entrust, a global leader in identity, security, and trust. Karen brings decades of experience across global payments, financial services, and technology, including senior leadership roles at First Data and Graebel Relocation.

Karen has a unique superpower: she translates complex cybersecurity and AI challenges into clear, actionable insight for business leaders.

Together, we explore:

⏹ How AI is reshaping cybersecurity — fast

⏹ Why trust is now the #1 competitive advantage for every company

⏹ What leaders (not just CISOs) must understand about AI agents inside their systems

⏹ The new expectations boards have around cybersecurity risk

⏹ Why high performers need to adopt AI tools, not avoid them

⏹ How marketing and communications are being transformed by AI

⏹ How to build a culture of trust, resilience, and cross-functional alignment

⏹ What it really means to lead through a cybersecurity crisis

If you're a senior leader or aspiring executive — especially a woman in tech — this episode will help you build literacy in AI governance, cybersecurity strategy, digital trust, and leadership communication in an environment where the stakes have never been higher.

About Karen Kaukol Karen Kaukol is the Chief Marketing Officer at Entrust, leading global marketing, brand, and strategy across a company at the forefront of identity, trust, and security innovation. She previously served as CMO at Graebel Relocation and spent 17 years at First Data (now Fiserv) in senior global marketing leadership roles. She holds an MBA from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor's degree from Indiana University.

Connect with Karen and Entrust:

⏹ https://www.entrust.com/

⏹ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenkaukol/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Karen Kaukol. Thank you Karen for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

If you're ending the year exhausted, mentally overloaded, or stuck in a spiral of self-doubt… this episode is your reset.

In today's conversation, we're breaking down the inner critic, the mental load of leadership, and why high-performing women struggle most with overthinking, decision paralysis, and confidence dips at this time of year.

You'll learn self-coaching techniques for leaders, practical executive mindset tools, and the exact thought-reframing strategies I use with my clients to help them create clarity before burnout makes the decisions for them.

Because you don't need more confidence going into 2026 — you need more clarity.

And this episode will help you build it.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

⏹ Why your inner critic gets louder during year-end cycles

⏹ How burnout affects clarity, decision making, and self-trust

⏹ The neuroscience behind overthinking (and how to interrupt it)

⏹ Self-coaching techniques for leaders you can use right away

⏹ Thought reframing for executives: how to shift fear-based thoughts

⏹ The Neutral Question Reset

⏹ The Thought Ladder Reframe

⏹ The Executive Decision Filter

⏹ How to create decision-making clarity at leadership levels

⏹ The mindset shifts required to lead with confidence in 2026

⏹ Why clarity → confidence (not the other way around)

⏹ How to prepare your leadership thinking before planning next year

Free Leadership Resources

Say It Like a Leader Scripts → tonicollis.com/sayitlikealeader

Promotion Readiness Scorecard → tonicollis.com/scorecard

Self-Coaching Toolkit (coming soon!)

Connect With Toni

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tonicollis

Website: tonicollis.com

Career stagnation isn't caused by a lack of talent — it's caused by the wrong strategy.

If you're a high-performing woman in tech who's STILL feeling stuck (despite delivering more than everyone around you), this episode is going to hit home.

In today's conversation, Master Executive Coach Dr. Toni Collis breaks down why you're overperforming but overlooked, why hard work stops working at senior levels, and how brilliant women end up trapped in career stagnation even when they're doing everything "right."

You'll learn:

✨ Why you're not getting promoted (even with exceptional performance) ✨ The 4 hidden barriers behind feeling stuck at work ✨ How overperformance creates the Invisible Leader trap ✨ Why leadership visibility matters more than output ✨ The difference between proving your value vs positioning yourself as a leader ✨ The 5 strategic levers that actually get women promoted ✨ How to know if you've outgrown your leadership strategy ✨ What to do next if you're ready to break your career plateau

If you've been Googling things like "why am I not getting promoted?", "career plateau," or "how to get noticed at work," this episode will give you the clarity and direction you've been missing.

If This Episode Spoke to You…

You're not stuck because you're not good enough.

You're stuck because you've outgrown your old strategy.

And that means you're closer to your next level than you think.

Make sure you're here next week for our special pre-2026 Episode — Silencing the Inner Critic: Rewiring Your Mindset for 2026 Confidence.

We'll dive into how to shift your self-talk, build unshakeable confidence, and finally stop overthinking your way out of the opportunities you deserve.

Struggling to feel heard at work?

You share ideas, offer solutions, repeat yourself — and still nothing lands. Then someone else says the same thing, and suddenly it's brilliant.

You're not imagining it. Being unheard isn't a personal flaw — it's a neuroscience and systems problem. In this episode, Dr Toni Collis unpacks why even great leaders struggle to be heard, and how to change that dynamic without shouting louder or working harder.

You'll learn:

✨ The neuroscience of leadership communication — why some voices carry more weight than others

✨ How bias, bandwidth, and cognitive overload make great ideas disappear

✨ The Outcome – Process – Ask framework to get your message to land

✨ How regulating your nervous system changes how people hear you

✨ Ways to model listening that build trust and influence across your team

If you've been told to "be more strategic" or "speak up more," this episode gives you the science-backed tools to be heard, seen, and respected — without changing who you are.

Key Takeaways ◾ Being heard is about clarity, calm, and connection, not volume.

◾ Bias and overload affect who gets airtime — but you can shift perception through structure and tone.

◾ Listening is contagious: when you model presence, others follow.

Free resource Need help writing your resume? Download my free guide to make resume writing quick, fast, simple & impactful here: tonicollis.com/resume.

AI is changing how people get hired — and it's happening fast.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, Dr. Toni Collis sits down with Nicole Bugenske, a recruiter from Robert Half, to unpack what's really going on in the 2025 tech job market.

From fake résumés and AI-generated cover letters to the rise of quiet hiring and risk-averse employers — we're breaking down what job seekers and hiring managers need to know right now.

Learn how to stand out as the human signal in a sea of AI, what recruiters are really looking for, and how to future-proof your career in tech leadership.

If you're applying for jobs, leading a team, or planning your next career move — this episode will help you navigate the new hiring landscape with clarity, authenticity, and strategy.

What You'll Learn

How AI-written résumés are flooding the job market (and how recruiters are spotting them)
Why 1 in 4 candidate profiles may now be fake — and how hiring managers are adapting
What to do when applying through job boards vs. networking directly
The truth about quiet hiring and the hidden job market
How to show strategic visibility instead of applying to hundreds of roles
What makes a candidate a "safe bet" in today's risk-averse hiring climate
Real recruiter insights on résumés, references, and interview trends
What hiring looks like for women in tech leadership in 2025
Want to make your résumé stand out — without sounding like a bot?

Download my free AI-Powered Résumé Writing Guide to learn how to use AI ethically and effectively to land more interviews:

👉 tonicollis.com/resume-guide

Ready to connect with today's guest? Find Nicole online at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-bugenske-46165958/

Learn more about Robert Half Recruitment at: https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en

http://tonicollis.com/how-to-prioritize-work-to-get-promoted/If your calendar is overflowing but your career feels stuck, this episode is for you.

You're not alone in the busyness trap. For so many high-achieving women in tech, doing more has always felt like the way to get ahead — but it's not what gets you promoted.

In this episode of the Leading Women in Tech Podcast, we're unpacking the truth behind prioritizing impactful work, the hidden gap between performance and promotion, and how to build the kind of executive presence that actually gets noticed.

If you're ready to stop being the go-to person for everything and start focusing on what truly shifts your career — this episode will show you how to lead smarter, not harder.

🔗 Take the free Promotion Readiness Scorecard. Wondering if your work is getting you noticed for the next level? → tonicollis.com/scorecard

💬 Want tailored support? → Book a strategy call with Toni: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

🛠️ Tools & Concepts from the Episode: ◾The CEO Filter — Would the CEO care if I did this? ◾The 90-Day Question — Will this matter in 3 months? ◾The 15-Minute Weekly Priority Reset — Realign your leadership each week ◾The Impact Multiplier — From busy to visible

How do you lead with impact—before you ever get the title?

In this episode, I sit down with Michele Doyle, VP of Data & Analytics at Senos, to explore what it means to lead from the crossroads of engineering, operations, and strategy. Michele shares her unconventional journey from psychology to tech leadership, how to lead with influence before you're formally given the title, and what it takes to build trust, safety, and innovation in complex teams—especially in non-obvious tech spaces like fermentation.

You'll hear about:

◾How to step into strategic leadership without the title

◾The underestimated power of cross-functional influence

◾Creating psychological safety and generous leadership

◾Real-world AI adoption (in the brewing industry!)

◾Why emotional regulation is the unsung skill of great leaders

Whether you're an emerging tech leader or a seasoned exec looking to build empowered teams, this episode will help you lead with confidence, clarity, and real influence.

Useful links

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Michele Doyle from Sennos:

◾https://sennos.com/ and Michele's

◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doylemichele/

Michele's current read: The Murder Bot Series by Martha Wells and Your AI Survival Guide by Sol Rashidi

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Michele Doyle, and Sennos. Thank you Michele and Sennos for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

When was the last time you rewrote an email six times before hitting send?

Or spiraled through a decision long after it needed to be made?

If you've ever been told "you're overthinking it," you're not alone — and you're not failing.

Overthinking at work is often the result of high pressure, perfectionism, and internalized leadership expectations — especially for high-achieving women in male-dominated spaces.

But here's the truth: overthinking isn't helping you get promoted. It's quietly chipping away at your executive presence and leadership impact.

In this episode, I'll walk you through:

✅ How to spot overthinking in real time (vs. strategic thinking)

✅ Why smart women overthink — and how to shift that pattern

✅ The 1-1-1 decision tool to stop spiraling and act with clarity

✅ Executive mindset techniques to build trust in your own decisions

✅ Real stories from my clients who shifted from "perfection mode" to promotion

This is your leadership reset — a tactical, mindset-rich episode to help you step into Q4 with calm, confident clarity.

If you're ready to build a reputation for decisive, strategic leadership — let's dive in.

If this episode helped you shift your thinking, I'd love to hear from you. Drop a comment, leave a review, or connect on LinkedIn @ToniCollis.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode:

Free Strategy Call: https://www.tonicollis.com/lets-chat

📌 Primary Takeaways:

– Overthinking is not a leadership trait — clarity is.

– Learn how to reclaim your time and lead with confidence, even in high-stakes moments.

– These tools will help you build sustainable leadership strategies and finally get out of your own way.

Can your team thrive without you in the room? And what does it really take to lead with confidence in a male-dominated industry?

In this episode, I sit down with Sandy Motley, Senior VP at Nokia and former President of Fixed Networks, to talk about what it means to lead a high-performing team without overfunctioning—and how to build trust, autonomy, and strategic impact into your leadership style.

We explore:

⏹ How to build a team that doesn't need you to function

⏹ What executive leadership looks like beyond control and perfectionism

⏹ Why inclusive leadership drives innovation in engineering and telecom

⏹ How to coach your team through conflict instead of fixing everything yourself

⏹ What it means to lead with confidence in male-dominated spaces

⏹ The mindset shift that takes you from tactical manager to strategic exec

Whether you're a VP, a senior IC, or growing into a more strategic leadership role—this episode will challenge how you think about value, visibility, and voice.

📌 Want to step into your executive leadership without burning out? 💡 Explore coaching and resources at: https://www.tonicollis.com

Useful links

Connect with today's guest and sponsor, Sandy Motley from Nokia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-motley-b116659/

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Sandy Motley from Nokia. Thank you Sandy & Nokia for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Is It Time to Leave? How to Know If You've Outgrown Your Role (Without Burning It All Down)

🔗 Take the free "What's Holding You Back?" Diagnostic → https://tonicollis.com/whats-holding-you-back

You're a high-achiever. You don't quit easily.

But lately… something feels off.

Maybe you're exhausted. Or uninspired. Or quietly wondering if you've outgrown your current role—or even the company entirely.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we're digging into the career stagnation signs that high-performing women often ignore. Whether you're wrestling with golden handcuffs, chronic burnout, or a growing sense that your values no longer align with your leadership path—this is the conversation for you.

We're talking about career alignment, strategic career pivots, and how to realign your leadership journey with what matters most.

By the end of this episode, you'll have:

A checklist of signs it's time to move on
Clarity on whether you're stuck, burned out, or truly misaligned
5 reflection questions to guide your next step
A strategic framework to plan your next move—without quitting prematurely
How to lead a purpose-driven career evolution
What meaningful leadership roles look like after burnout
Tips for navigating a strategic career change in tech

🔥 PLUS: Download the brand new free tool:

👉 What's Holding You Back? A Quick Diagnostic for Women in Tech

Uncover if you're overdue for a pivot, stuck in visibility limbo, or simply misaligned with your current culture.

https://tonicollis.com/whats-holding-you-back

⏱️ Chapters

0:00 The cost of staying too long

5:06 Signs you've outgrown your role

9:53 Career misalignment checklist

12:46 What if you can't leave yet?

22:58 5 reflection prompts for career clarity

26:31 What to do this week to reclaim control

💡 Ready for more clarity?

If you're tired of doing this alone, executive coaching can help.

Book a free strategy call: tonicollis.com/lets-chat

What does it really take to rise to senior leadership as a woman in tech—without burning out, compromising who you are, or constantly second-guessing your worth?

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I’m joined by Leila Kassner, COO at Boku, to explore the power of authentic leadership, how to lean in without losing yourself, and what it means to build a career that blends impact, inclusion, and integrity.

We cover:

Her career journey from entry-level to executive
The challenge of being heard in male-dominated rooms
How to self-advocate without overworking
Lessons in balancing ambition with wellbeing
Why emotional intelligence is a leadership superpower
The DEI strategies making a real difference at Boku
How to speak up, create cultural change, and mentor the next generation

Whether you're climbing the career ladder, managing self-doubt, or trying to build a more inclusive culture from the inside—you’ll find both inspiration and practical insight in this conversation.

Connect with Leila: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-kassner-3a2b4a19/

Leila’s current read: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

👇 Book a free strategy call to explore how executive coaching can help you lead with clarity, confidence, and authenticity: https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

This episode was sponsored by Boku. Thank you Leila and Boku for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Your boss isn’t listening. You’re delivering results, showing up in meetings, and sharing smart insights — but somehow, it feels like your voice never lands.

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, we’re diving into the deeper reasons why high-performing women are overlooked, unheard, or dismissed — and what to do about it.

We’ll explore how to shift perception, develop executive presence, and lead with influence (without becoming someone you’re not). You’ll learn:

✅ The hidden dynamics that cause leaders to tune you out ✅ The performance vs. perception trap (and how to escape it) ✅ Why strategic communication — not more effort — is the answer ✅ Real client stories of turning it around ✅ 5 leadership tools to speak up and be taken seriously ✅ How to self-coach your mindset and energy to be heard

If you’ve ever said, “my boss doesn’t listen to me” — this episode is for you.

🧭 Take the Promotion Readiness Scorecard → https://tonicollis.com/scorecard 🗓 Book a free strategy call with Toni → https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

You don’t need a degree—or a perfect plan—to lead with vision.

In this episode, I’m joined by Jackie Peters, startup founder and longtime tech innovator, for a powerful conversation on how to lead boldly, build something meaningful, and move forward—even when you don’t feel 100% ready.

With 25+ years of experience across mobile gaming, AI-powered healthcare, and privacy-preserving data analytics, Jackie brings a rare mix of visionary thinking, human-centered leadership, and strategic clarity. We talk about building confidence in uncharted territory, trusting your instincts, and turning complex ideas into user-first innovation.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

Why you don’t need credentials to lead powerfully
How to turn big vision into practical progress
What it means to lead with empathy and clarity
Why “privacy by design” matters now more than ever
How to build momentum when the roadmap is uncertain
The founder mindset: from grit to growth
Why leadership starts before you feel ready

✨ This episode is for the bold, the curious, and the women shaping the future of tech on their own terms.

🔗 Connect with today’s guest, Jackie Peters: Website: https://blindinsight.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jackiepeters 📖 Jackie’s current read: Dogen's Genjo Koan: Three Commentaries by Dōgen, Nishiari Bokusan, Shohaku Okamura, Shunryu Suzuki, Kosho Uchiyama, Sojun Mel Weitsman, Kazuaki Tanahasi, Michael Wenger

📞 Want career support or leadership coaching? Book a free strategy session: https://www.tonicollis.com/lets-chat

👩‍💻 Show notes & more: https://www.tonicollis.com/episode269

💬 Join the free Slack community for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/slack

#WomenInTech #TechLeadership #FounderMindset #PrivacyByDesign #StartupLeadership #JackiePeters #LeadingWomenInTech

You’re overdelivering. Everyone relies on you. But you’re exhausted—and no closer to the promotion or recognition you deserve. If you're stuck in overfunctioning, feeling responsible for everyone, or afraid to say no—this episode is your permission slip to lead differently.

Join us as we explore how boundaries aren’t just helpful—they’re essential for executive presence, sustainable leadership, and getting recognized at work. You’ll walk away with the mindset shifts, scripts, and practical tools to reclaim your time, your strategic focus—and your path to promotion.

💡 Want to know what’s really holding you back from a promotion? Take the Promotion Readiness Scorecard (tonicollis.com/scorecard)— a 3-minute diagnostic to find your biggest gap.

In this episode: ✔️ Why women leaders are especially vulnerable to burnout ✔️ The performance vs. potential promotion gap ✔️ How to stop being the team therapist ✔️ 4 signs your boundaries are broken ✔️ Why boundaries = executive presence ✔️ Scripts to say no without guilt or burning bridges

The Micro-Boundary Phrases to help you get started:

🗣️ “That sounds important—can I suggest someone better positioned to help?” (👉 Delegates without guilt, empowers others.)
🗣️ “Let me check my priorities and get back to you.” (👉 Buys you time. Signals intentionality, not resistance.)
🗣️ “To give this the attention it deserves, I’ll need to shift the timeline.” (👉 Balances ownership with realism.)

🔥 You’re not failing. You’re just doing too much of the wrong kind of work. Let’s fix that—starting today.

What if the key to unlocking the next wave of tech innovation lies in the hands of the entrepreneurs receiving the least funding?

There's a fascinating paradox in today's tech landscape: women-led startups are 63% more likely to succeed and have higher chances of becoming unicorns, yet they're receiving less venture capital funding than ever before. This gap represents not just missed opportunities, but untapped potential that could reshape entire industries.

In this inspiring conversation, tech entrepreneur and AI pioneer Susan Sly reveals the uncomfortable truths about Silicon Valley's old boys' club and shares her blueprint for change. From deploying AI computer vision at scale to building The Pause—a revolutionary menopause-focused platform—Susan breaks down exactly how women can stop waiting for permission and start reshaping the industry from within.

“If you don't like the stats we're sharing, where did you go shopping for that outfit you're wearing? Who designed it? We need to get present to where we're spending our hard-earned dollars—from the apps we download to the brands we're wearing." — Susan Sly

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

What’s really driving the decline in VC funding for women
Simple ways to discover and support women-founded companies in your everyday purchases
How perimenopause affects women leaders and why workplace support matters more than ever
Practical strategies for breaking into male-dominated tech spaces without playing small
Why AI governance desperately needs more women's voices and how to get involved
The real reason most medicine is based on data from middle-aged white men and how AI can change this
How to leverage crowdfunding platforms and angel investing to support female founders

🎧 Want to explore the companies mentioned in this episode? Visit Susan's website to learn more about The Pause and discover other women-led companies making waves in tech.

💵 Consider how your own purchasing decisions and investment choices can support the change you want to see in the industry.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Susan Sly:
- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/susansly/
- Instagram https://www.instagram.com/susansly/
- X https://x.com/susanslylive
- Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SusanSlyLive/
- Personal Website https://www.susansly.com
- The Pause Technologies https://www.thepause.ai
Susan’s current read: We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Did you know most teams using AI are actually moving slower?

Lots of teams are testing AI tools—but not seeing the payoff. Why? Because tools alone don’t create results. In this episode, I break down what AI-Ready Leadership actually looks like and how to drive real results.

You’ll learn how to create an AI Leadership Strategy that drives results, how to avoid the pitfalls of reactive adoption, and how to position yourself as a future-ready leader with AI who can scale output, protect market share, and accelerate your career.

I’ll also cover why team sizes will shrink, how to lead with confidence in regulated or hesitant industries, and why embracing AI Productivity Leadership is now part of your credibility as a strategic leader.

Whether you’re in marketing, sales, engineering, or preparing for your next promotion — this episode gives you the playbook to lead AI adoption with purpose.

📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The gap between AI hype and reality — and how to close it
Why AI-driven team acceleration is about leadership, not tools
How to embed AI into workflows without losing critical thinking
The career edge: talking AI-readiness in promotions and interviews
What ethical AI leadership looks like in practice
How to shape the future of work instead of waiting for it

Are you leading your team into the AI era — or just dabbling?

🕛 The window for proactive AI adoption is closing. Don't wait for the market to force your hand. Book a FREE strategy session with me:

👉 https://www.tonicollis.com/lets-chat

Have you ever felt like you couldn't lead in tech because you didn't come from a technical background?

This week's guest, Anna Belova, is living proof that non-technical leaders can build cutting-edge tech companies and thrive in the most technical industries. Anna is a serial entrepreneur and CEO who has built multiple successful companies in AR and AI - including selling over 15 million AR books for kids worldwide and creating one of the leading web XR platforms used by Google and Meta. Her secret? She's never written a single line of code, and she wouldn't have it any other way.

In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to lead highly technical teams without a technical background and how to turn perceived weaknesses into creative advantages.

“I think it's one of the main powers that I have, because I'm always thinking about products for people who are not geeks or non-technical as well, like me." — Anna Belova

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How being non-technical gives you an advantage in creating user-friendly products
Why "What if?" is the most powerful question for breakthrough thinking
How to lead technical teams when you don't speak their language
The mindset shift from "building a unicorn" to "building yourself into someone who can build a unicorn"
Why authenticity trumps trying to fit into male-dominated tech culture
How to turn doubt into creative power as a woman in tech leadership

Ready to embrace your non-technical superpowers?

👉 Connect with Anna Belova on LinkedIn or Facebook to continue the conversation about leading with authenticity in tech.

💬 And share your biggest "What if?" moment with us - we'd love to hear how you're thinking outside the box in your leadership journey.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Anna Belova:
- http://mywebar.com
- http://openway.ai
- https://www.facebook.com/aibelova/
- https://x.com/AIBelova
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode265
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You’re doing all the right things—delivering results, taking initiative, working harder than ever.

So why are you still being passed over for promotion?

In this episode, I’m breaking down the real reason high-performing women in tech get overlooked for executive roles—and how to shift from being overlooked to being seen as a strategic leader so you can take the next step toward your promotion with clarity and confidence.

"Performance doesn't equal promotion. If you're delivering results but still being overlooked, you're playing the wrong game—and it's time to learn how to play like an executive." — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why performance ≠ promotion (and what does)
The 5 executive skills decision-makers are looking for
How to shift from “reliable doer” to “strategic leader”
Subtle perception gaps that derail your promotion path
What to say and do to change how you’re seen in the room

🔍 If you’re not getting promoted, it doesn’t mean you’re not good enough.

It doesn’t mean you need to work harder. 💡 It means it’s time to shift how you’re showing up.

🎯 Grab the free Promotion Readiness Scorecard to find out what’s really holding you back:

👉 tonicollis.com/scorecard

Ready to raise venture funding—but wondering if you’re actually ready to lead at that level?

In this inspiring and honest conversation, I sit down with Emily Dinu, founder and CEO of Numinous Capital, to explore what VCs really look for—and what kind of leadership mindset shifts are essential to succeed as a founder in today’s market.

We go deep on the emotional and strategic prep work that’s required to lead through uncertainty, communicate vision clearly, and move forward with grit and clarity—even when you feel uncomfortable or underqualified.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to build executive mindset tools to lead with confidence in ambiguity
Why clarity often beats charisma in VC pitches
The truth about confidence vs. clarity in leadership
How to reverse engineer a successful exit
What it looks like to lead with values while raising capital
The role of decision-making clarity and thought reframing when the pressure’s on

💬 What’s the bold move you’ve been avoiding?

👇 Drop a comment and share: What’s one thing you’re ready to do—even if it scares you?

✨ And if you want support building your founder mindset, strategy, or leadership presence, let’s talk: 📞 Book your free strategy session: https://www.tonicollis.com/lets-chat

You don’t have to do this alone. 🚀

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Emily Dinu:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilydinu/
- www.numinouscap.com
Emily’s current read: Trauma and the Unbound Body: The Healing Power of Fundamental Consciousness by Judith Blackstone
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our Gld PR. Thank you GldPR for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Want to speak up at work—without risking your reputation or your sanity?

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most uncomfortable (and essential) leadership skills: how to disagree with your boss professionally. Whether you’re navigating power dynamics, trying to avoid “yes culture,” or just want to be heard in meetings—this episode gives you the mindset, strategy, and scripts you need.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Preparing for difficult conversations with clarity
Using respectful dissent to earn trust
Handling pushback with emotional intelligence
When to stand your ground and when to align
How to recover if things get tense
Becoming the kind of leader whose voice makes a difference

If you’ve been biting your tongue to keep the peace, this episode will help you protect your energy and your integrity.

You’ll also discover how to contribute to a culture where respectful dissent is welcomed—so you can speak up and create psychological safety for others.

🔗 Ready for support navigating tough conversations and building your leadership presence? Book a FREE strategy session with me: 👉 https://www.tonicollis.com/lets-chat

🎧 Mentioned Episode: → The Art of Being Professionally Blunt (highly recommended before this one!)

💬 Let me know in the comments:What’s one disagreement you’ve been avoiding?

What if the smartest thing you could do as a leader... was make yourself unnecessary?

In an era where AI is changing how we work and lead, tech executive Amber Winter proves that success isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter.

From her start as a marketing coordinator to becoming CEO in just eight years, Amber shares how she’s used continuous learning, smart delegation, and artificial intelligence to lead high-performing teams without burning out. In this episode, she opens up about what it really takes to scale your leadership while staying human in a tech-driven world.

"Relationships are your superpower." — Amber Winter

Amber reminds us that even with AI on your side, people still matter most.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How Amber uses AI tools to scenario-plan, prioritize, and problem-solve on the fly
Her "tour of duty" approach to leadership—and why it's a game-changer for growth
What she learned from creating AI agents for her teams (and trying to make herself unnecessary)
A real talk moment that taught her the power of clear, human-centered communication
The career path that took her from coordinator to CEO to CRO—without following a traditional roadmap
Why treating people as individuals (not resources) leads to stronger results
How AI can help uncover blind spots, support strategic thinking, and prep leaders for tough conversations

✨ Want to lead smarter, not harder? Start by reflecting on how you show up—and where AI

can amplify your strengths.

🎧 Listen now and discover how modern leadership can be both high-tech and deeply human.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Amber Winter from SuiteDynamics:
- W: www.suitedynamics.io
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amberrwinter
Amber’s current read: How To Raise Successful People: Simple Lessons for Radical Results by Esther Wojcicki
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode261
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, SuiteDynamics. Thank you Amber and SuiteDynamics for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Have you ever sugarcoated feedback to avoid hurting someone’s feelings? Or avoided a tough conversation because it just felt too uncomfortable?

In this episode of Leading Women in Tech, I’m diving into how to be professionally blunt—the leadership communication skill that will help you be more respected, more effective, and build high-performing teams with less confusion and more trust.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why we default to vague or “nice” communication
The high cost of avoiding direct conversations
What professional bluntness actually looks like (hint: it’s not rudeness)
How to give feedback at work with clarity and kindness
Language you can use to be clear without being harsh
Mindset shifts to expand your emotional capacity as a leader
The ripple effect of clarity in leadership communication
And more!

If you're ready to stop sugarcoating, speak with confidence, and develop powerful direct communication in leadership—this one's for you.

Check out episode 245 on passive-aggressive leadership tendencies and how to shift them: https://tonicollis.com/episode245

👇 PLUS: Want help implementing this in your leadership style?

💬 Book a free strategy call with me to explore how executive coaching can help you develop your voice, lead with clarity, and elevate your influence: 👉 https://tonicollis.com/lets-chat

✨ If you found this helpful, hit the like button, subscribe, and share this with another woman in tech leadership who’s ready to level up their communication.

Are you missing the strategic blind spots that could unlock your next big move?

What if the key to leveling up your leadership wasn’t in working harder—but in thinking more strategically?

In this episode, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and strategy expert Ashley Wright, who shares how to spot the hidden gaps that slow teams down—and how to shift from reactive mode to confident, forward-thinking leadership.

With stories from her time at General Mills, launching an AI-driven startup in the green industry, and guiding founders through major pivots, Ashley brings a rare mix of big-picture vision and tactical insight. Whether you’re leading a team or building your own thing, this episode will help you lead with clarity, context, and purpose.

"You can either live your life trying to make someone else's dream happen, or live it trying to make yours happen." — Ashley Wright

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to identify strategic gaps before they become roadblocks
What “Why me? Why now?” means—and why every founder needs to answer it
How to make confident decisions from a place of opportunity, not fear
The role of AI in niche industries (and why humans still matter)
How to lead diverse teams with authenticity and clear deliverables
What it looks like to play to win instead of playing catch-up
The mindset shift that turns early-stage chaos into long-term clarity

🎧 Loved Ashley's insights? Take 5 minutes to reflect: Where are the strategic gaps in your work or team?

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Ashley Wright:
- Connect with Ashley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleywright3/
- Follow Plantista:
  - On Indiegogo: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/plantista-fire-wise-ai-landscapes-for-all#/
  - Web: https://plantista.ai/
  - On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getplantista/
Ashley’s current read:
- Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland's Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World by Eliza Reid
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode259
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ever freeze mid-sentence in a meeting? Start rambling when challenged? Or walk away thinking, “Why didn’t I speak up?”

You’re not alone. This episode is going to be your go-to toolkit for navigating those high-pressure moments with more clarity and confidence.

In this episode, I unpack what pressure really does to high-achieving women — and more importantly, how to coach yourself through it in real time, even when your heart is racing and your voice feels like it’s vanished. If you’ve ever wanted to feel more grounded, more articulate, and more in control under fire, this one’s for you.

"Leadership isn't about what you say out loud, it's about what you say to yourself before you open your mouth." — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why freezing, rambling, or going silent is NOT a sign of incompetence
How to interrupt the “pressure spiral” before it derails your confidence
Micro self-coaching tools — no journaling required
Shifting from reactive to grounded leadership in high-stakes situations
How to apply my “Hold, Don’t Carry” method so you stop replaying every meeting in your head
Using the Say It Like a Leader script pack to pair inner clarity with outer confidence
And more!

This is for you if:

You’ve ever walked out of a meeting replaying every word
You freeze, clam-up and worry about speaking up
You get frustrated when interrupted or dismissed
You want to build executive presence without faking it
You’re navigating pressure, visibility, or senior rooms and want to show up powerfully — even when interrupted, dismissed, or put on the spot

Useful links

Download the free companion guide: Say It Like a Leader: https://tonicollis.com/sayitlikealeader
Want to learn more about the concept of Hold Don’t Carry? Listen to Episode 195: Hold Don’t Carry with Lindsay White here: https://tonicollis.com/episode195
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode258
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you wasting precious time in your job search without realizing it? In today’s volatile job market, especially for women in tech, using the wrong strategies can cost you months of progress—and countless missed opportunities.

Before you polish that resume or fire off another LinkedIn message, hit pause. This episode lays out the real dynamics of today’s job market and gives you a proven playbook to navigate it with clarity, confidence, and intention.

We dig into the tough truths about what’s changed, why old advice doesn’t work anymore, and how women in tech can stand out by leading with strategy and resilience. From AI-filtered resumes to hidden opportunities, we break it all down—so you don’t waste your energy doing the wrong things.

“If you're struggling, get help. Learning how to do this well, learning how to interview well, is not something you're taught in school.” — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why the current job market is unlike anything we’ve seen—and what that means for you
How US elections and AI have reshaped hiring in tech
The biggest myths holding women back in their job search
What kind of leadership is in demand—and how to show you’ve got it
Practical job hunting strategies tailored for women in tech
How to navigate applicant tracking systems and stand out from the crowd
An 8-step “job hunt recipe” to boost your odds of landing the right role
Networking—that actually works
Using data to track your job hunt and improve results
How to build resilience, manage stress, and stay confident through rejection
And more!

Looking for a better way to navigate your job search?

If you're tired of sending out endless applications with little response, this episode breaks down what’s actually working in today’s market. From mindset to strategy to real-world results, you’ll walk away with clarity on how to move forward—smarter and more effectively.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode257
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you still sending out resumes and hearing nothing but crickets?

If you're stuck in the old "apply and hope" cycle, it's time to break out. The job market in 2025 rewards the networked, not just the qualified.

Most people think of networking as a time-consuming chore or an awkward event—what if it's actually your most powerful leadership tool?

Whether you're actively job hunting or simply keeping your options open, your network is your future. And it doesn’t require hours of small talk or massive LinkedIn posts. It’s about small, intentional actions that open doors.

In this episode, I dive deep into why networking—with intention and strategy—is your most important asset in the 2025 job market. From connecting with recruiters to rethinking how you engage with your peers, you’ll walk away with practical ways to shift from invisible to irresistible.

“Networking doesn’t have to take a lot of time. It’s small, consistent action every single day.” — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why job seekers are hearing crickets in today’s market
How “micro-networking” fits into a busy schedule—even with a full-time job
The difference between transactional networking and genuine connection
How to reframe discomfort around networking and make it part of your leadership identity
A step-by-step networking recipe for 2025 that actually works
The powerful role of recruiters and how to build meaningful connections with them
Tools and systems to stay organized and follow up effectively
How to use your existing network to create new opportunities
And more!

Want to take this further?

Try reaching out to just one person today with a genuine message—and track your follow-up. Need a tool? Use a simple spreadsheet or personal CRM to manage your outreach.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode256
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you a reluctant CEO? Telling yourself you're not CEO material?

What if the story you've been telling yourself is the only thing holding you back from stepping into a powerful new chapter?

Christine Spang never set out to become a CEO. As the co-founder and longtime CTO of Nylas, she spent over a decade in the trenches—coding, building, and deeply involved in the work on the ground. But when the time came to lead the company, she said yes... even though she didn’t think she fit the mold.

In this raw, insightful episode, Christine shares what it really looks like to evolve from hands-on engineer to strategic CEO. We explore the emotional weight of leadership, embracing your unique leadership style, and learning to lead in ambiguity. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not the “right kind” of leader, Christine’s journey will challenge and inspire you.

"You don't have to be a CEO that looks like X. The company will change around you." — Christine Spang

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to lead when you don’t see yourself as a CEO
The emotional shift from CTO to CEO
Why technical expertise isn’t enough—and what to develop instead
How introverted leaders can thrive without becoming someone they’re not
The role of coaching and hobbies (like rock climbing!) in building resilience
How to find clarity in the chaos of leadership
Advice for aspiring leaders who feel like they’re “winging it”

Want to go deeper?

If this episode resonated with you, consider journaling on this: What story are you telling yourself about the kind of leader you’re not?

Then ask yourself: What if that story isn’t true anymore?

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Christine:
- Follow Nylas:
  - Web: https://www.nylas.com/
  - LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/nylas
- Connect with Christine:
  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinespang/
  - X: @spang
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode255
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you doing everything “right” at work—and still being told it’s not enough?

If you're constantly overdelivering but still feel like you're falling short, you're not alone. For women in leadership—especially in tech—there’s often a hidden, unspoken weight we carry: the emotional labor, the expectations to nurture, lead, represent, and accommodate. This invisible workload isn't part of your job description, but it shapes how you lead, how you’re perceived, and how your executive presence is judged.

Let’s talk about what that invisible load really is—and why it’s quietly holding you back!

In this episode, I unpack the unseen pressures women leaders face and explore how this hidden weight contributes to burnout, self-doubt, and feeling like you’re always behind—no matter how hard you work. From unspoken DEI expectations to caregiving responsibilities and the pressure to be a role model, I break down why this load exists, how to recognize it, and most importantly—how to lighten it.

“It isn't that you have to work harder…it’s that you're carrying too much of the stuff that isn't getting you recognized.” — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

What the “invisible load” is and how it shows up in leadership roles
Why emotional labor and societal expectations disproportionately affect women in tech
How systemic bias fuels the pressure to go above and beyond—and why that’s not always the right strategy
A VP of Engineering’s real-life example of navigating the invisible load
5 key reasons this unspoken burden exists
Why self-care for leaders isn’t optional—it’s essential for sustainable, effective leadership
6 practical strategies to lighten your load and reclaim your time, energy, and focus
How to recognize if you're doing the right things—not just more things

Ready to stop over-functioning and start leading sustainably?

After listening, take a moment to reflect: What are you carrying that’s not actually yours to hold? Then, share this episode with another woman leader who needs to hear this—because you’re not alone in this. Let’s help each other lighten the load.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode254
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Have you ever wondered how the most grounded leaders stay true to themselves—especially when the room wasn’t built for them?

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really takes to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Sophronia McKenzie—tech founder, CEO, and unapologetically authentic leader—joins us to share how assertiveness, resilience, and authenticity have powered her rise from arriving in the U.S. with $100 to leading her own successful tech company.

We talk about what it really takes to thrive as a female leader in tech—from building resilience during seasons of personal struggle, to navigating bias in boardrooms filled with male CTOs, to making sure your voice is heard without losing who you are.

“I'm going to be authentically me... Why did I decide to be a CEO if I'm going to follow rules?” — Sophronia McKenzie

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Assertiveness tips for female leaders in tech
What building resilience as a woman in tech actually looks like
Leadership strategies for women navigating high-pressure environments
How to be taken seriously without compromising who you are
Signs you’re being dismissed—and what to do about it
Why support systems matter, and how they evolve over time
And more!

Let’s keep the conversation going, after listening, ask yourself:

How are you being more assertive today?
What strategies are helping you get heard and taken seriously?
Are you still leading in a way that feels true to you?

Share your reflections with us using #LeadingWomeninTech, or connect for more conversations and resources that support your growth as a resilient, authentic leader.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Sophronia McKenzie:
- Social Platforms:
  - @iamsophronia
  - @visuEats
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophroniamckenzie/
- VisuaEats https://www.linkedin.com/company/visueats
Sophronia’s current read: Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy by Patrick Bet-David
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode253
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You don’t need permission to lead.

Real leadership starts in your mindset — not in your job description. If you're ready to break free from "employee thinking" and step into the career growth you deserve, this episode is your blueprint.

In this episode, I explore the subtle but powerful leadership mindset shifts that will help you stand out at work, grow your influence, and accelerate your career — especially as a woman in tech. From breaking out of reactive mode to owning ambiguity and thinking beyond your paycheck, we’re diving into 7 key mindset shifts that help you think like a leader instead of just doing the job.

"Leadership isn't about a job title. It's about how you approach your work, how you solve problems, and how you add value every single day." — Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to think like a leader — not just another employee
7 powerful leadership mindset shifts to help you stand out and move up
Why “just doing your job” is keeping you stuck — and what to do instead
The difference between reactive employees and strategic leaders
Career growth strategies for women in tech who want more influence and impact
How to stop waiting for direction and start driving innovation
Why letting go of tasks is a leadership skill — not a weakness
The leadership thinking that reduces burnout and increases fulfillment
And more

Ready to make the shift from employee to leader?

Hit play and start building the leadership mindset that opens doors — for you and those around you.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode252
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

What if the only thing standing between you and the career you dream of… is the belief that you're not ready yet?

Far too many brilliant women delay bold moves, silenced by doubt or the weight of invisible barriers. In this powerful episode, Elisabeth Bykoff—seasoned consultant, startup leader, and now founder—opens up about the 10 game-changing lessons she wishes she knew two decades ago. From navigating bias in male-dominated industries and silencing self-doubt, to building a strong network of mentors and allies, Elisabeth shares the candid truths behind her leadership journey, the confidence she had to cultivate, and the bold decisions that changed everything.

“If you are thinking about making a change, do it. Find help and support. Don't be afraid.” — Elisabeth Bykoff

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why confidence is a career skill—and how to build it before you feel ready
How Elisabeth navigated bias and found allies in male-dominated spaces
The critical role of mentorship and allyship for women in leadership
Her advice to her younger self—and how it can accelerate your growth
What it takes to confront self-doubt and make high-stakes career moves
How she transitioned from corporate operator to first-time founder
The mindset shifts that helped her stop second-guessing and start owning her path
And more!

Navigating doubt doesn’t mean eliminating it—it means moving through it with power and purpose.

🎙️ Let’s chat about breaking barriers and making bold career moves. If you’re a woman navigating leadership—or aspiring to—this episode is your blueprint for moving forward with confidence.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Elisabeth:
- Visit Boxsy:
  - https://www.boxsy.io
  - https://www.linkedin.com/company/boxsy
- Connected with Elisabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethbykoff
Elisabeth’s current read: Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold by Stephen Fry
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode251
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

What if change is the moment you’ve been preparing for as a leader? The best leaders don’t just survive change—they harness it to propel themselves and their teams forward.

In a world where change is constant, your ability to lead through it isn’t just valuable—it’s vital. How you respond to change can either reinforce trust, inspire action, and spark innovation… or leave your team drifting.

In this episode, I unpack why change isn’t something to dread—but something to embrace. You'll discover how to recognize resistance (in yourself and others), reframe your mindset around change, and develop leadership strategies that help your team navigate uncertainty with clarity and confidence. Whether you're facing a small shift or a major transformation, “leading through change” is an essential skill for every modern leader.

"If you're not leading through change, you're not leading." – Toni Collis

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why leading through change is a defining leadership skill
The difference between task-focused thinking and visionary leadership
How to recognize and respond to resistance in yourself and your team
Why empathy, clear communication, and calm confidence matter more than ever during transitions
How to maintain team morale and momentum by celebrating progress
An exercise to identify your current mindset around change and how to reframe it
And more

Think about your current or upcoming season of change—big or small. Are you seeing only the problems, or are you looking for the growth potential? Grab a notebook, reflect on your mindset, and join me in exploring how to lead with resilience and purpose through every transition.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode250
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Could your next big career move be one preparation habit away?

Most people plan for leadership—but the ones who actually get there prepare differently. In this episode, Chaitra Vedullapalli—tech executive, entrepreneur, and President of Women in Cloud—breaks down what it really takes to rise into senior leadership roles like VP or GM in the tech world.

From building business acumen to learning how to self-advocate without losing your authenticity, Chaitra shares the preparation playbook that helped her lead transformative initiatives and open economic access for thousands of women. Whether you're early in your leadership path or preparing for your next big leap, this episode will give you the tools to show up like you're already in the role.

“Leadership isn't a title. It's a state of readiness. You have to prepare. You have to position yourself as a contributor for driving transformation. You show up.” — Chaitra Vedullapalli

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why planning and preparing are not the same—and which one actually gets you promoted
How to develop business acumen and build strategic relationships
Ways to leverage your network and become a rock of trust
How to practice authentic self-advocacy without feeling like you're "too much"
The power of socializing your ideas before you get to the meeting
Daily leadership habits that quietly build influence and compound over time
What it means to position yourself as VP or GM material—and how to prove it
And more!

What’s in your Preparation Playbook?

This episode is your invitation to think bigger—and act bolder. What habits, relationships, and mindset shifts are still missing from your leadership journey?

If you’ve been wondering how to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be—this is where you start.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Chaitra:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaitrav/
Chaitra’s current read: The Holy Grail of Investing by Tony Robbins, Christopher Zook
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode249
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was supported by Gldn Agency.. Thank you Gldn for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Are you silently burning out—and don’t even realize it? Burnout isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s the quiet fatigue, the creeping cynicism, or the missed moments of joy that tell the real story.

Whether you're a woman in tech leadership, or someone simply trying to do it all, this episode is your wake-up call. I’m breaking down the early emotional, physical, behavioral, cognitive, and workplace signs of burnout—and more importantly, how to address them before they lead to long-term damage. Plus, I debunk the myth that burnout means you’re not strong enough—it actually means you’ve been strong for too long without support.

"Burnout is not a reflection of your abilities or your worth. It is a signal that something needs to change." – Toni

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * What burnout really is—and why it's not just stress * The 3 emotional indicators of burnout that often go unnoticed * The physical symptoms your body uses to signal burnout * How your behavior may be quietly telling you something’s wrong * Cognitive signs like decision fatigue and imposter syndrome * How burnout shows up in your work and personal life * Why pushing harder might actually be the problem * Practical strategies for recognizing and reversing burnout * And more!

Feeling off but can’t quite put your finger on it?

If you've been pushing through, this episode invites you to slow down and listen. Because sometimes the strongest thing you can do is stop ignoring the signs.

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode248
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Wondering if it’s time to leave your job, launch your business, or finally take that big leap?

In this powerful episode, I talk with Mary Rombaut, startup founder and working mom of three, about how to overcome fear, escape toxic work environments, and take bold, intentional steps in your career. Within just 12 months, Mary made two major career changes while raising young children—and built her company Recommenda to help entrepreneurs make smarter marketing tech decisions.

We explore how to let go of what’s no longer serving you, how to balance career and personal life, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or simply at a crossroads in your professional journey, this conversation will challenge you to face your fears—and take action.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * How to recognize fear and self-doubt as the biggest barriers to career growth * How to leave a toxic job without guilt—and why job tenure isn’t always a strength * Mary’s mindset and system for managing time and energy while launching a startup * Why mission-driven leadership and intentional career moves matter more than ever * How to ask for help, build your village, and lean into support as a leader * Advice for new entrepreneurs and leaders considering their next big career step * The importance of self-belief, personal investment, and strategic decision-making * How to balance being a parent, professional, and startup founder without burning out * And more!

“Fall into your fears. You have to own them—you have to acknowledge them. The sooner you start falling into them, the growth and the amazing achievements are really going to start.” – Mary Rombaut

What's Stopping You From Taking the Next Step?

Listen now and start taking action on your next bold move-–and share with a friend who’s stuck in indecision or dreaming about something bigger.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Mary:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-rombaut-ed-d-363bb621
- Reommenda: www.yourrecommenda.com
- R-Squared Solutions: www.r-squaredsolutionsllc.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourrecommenda
Mary’s current read: The Six Wives of Henry VIII by Alison Weir
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode247
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In times of uncertainty and change, how do we lead in a way that keeps people at the center? With shifting workplace dynamics, evolving leadership expectations, and constant pressure to adapt to the high-tech world, it’s easy to get caught up in the mechanics of leadership and forget the human side of it.

In this conversation, I sit down with Jen Croneberger, an expert in relational leadership, to talk about what it really takes to build strong, connected teams. She introduces her BRAVE methodology—belonging, resilience, authenticity, vulnerability, and empathy—and shares why these qualities are more important than ever. We dig into the realities of leadership today—how AI is changing the way we work and why technology can enhance efficiency, but it can’t replace human connection. From navigating tough conversations to balancing performance with people, this episode is packed with insights for leaders who want to show up with confidence and heart.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why relational leadership is more important than ever
How to build a workplace culture based on trust, inclusion, and belonging
The BRAVE methodology and how it strengthens leadership effectiveness
How AI is impacting leadership and decision-making—and what it can’t replace
How to lead teams through change, uncertainty, and ethical challenges
Why human skills—like empathy and emotional intelligence—are the new hard skills
And more!

"Human skills are the new hard skills. The best leaders prioritize connection, trust, and emotional intelligence to build thriving teams." – Jen Croneberger

How are you bringing humanity into your leadership? Share your thoughts and subscribe for more expert insights on leadership, team performance, and workplace culture.

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Jen Croneberger:
- Website: https://thehli.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/humanleadershipinstitute
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jencroneberger/
Jen’s current read: The Pivot Year by Brianna Wiest
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode246
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Jen Croneberger. Thank you Jen for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Could your leadership style be unintentionally sabotaging your team's success?

Leadership isn’t just about giving orders—it’s about fostering trust, respect, and open communication. But what if your well-meaning approach is actually damaging team morale and productivity without you even realizing it?

In this eye-opening episode, I reveal the 9 subtle yet destructive passive-aggressive leadership behaviors that could be eroding your team's effectiveness. Learn how these hidden habits affect workplace dynamics and gain practical strategies to shift from indirect communication to authentic, impactful leadership.

"Passive-aggressive behaviors are not inherent. They aren't something we absolutely have to have, but we all have them because the world we live in often models them for us." - Toni

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The 9 most common passive-aggressive leadership traits
How indirect communication weakens team dynamics
The true emotional and professional cost of passive-aggressive behavior
Actionable strategies to improve leadership communication
How to build a culture of trust, transparency, and collaboration
And more!

After listening, take the self-reflection challenge—identify one passive-aggressive habit in your own leadership style and commit to changing it. Share your insights with me on LinkedIn or Instagram.

Useful links

Grab my free passive-aggressive cheat sheet: https://www.tonicollis.com/stopbeingpassive
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode245
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Have you ever wondered what separates a great founder from a great CEO? Or how some startups seem to move effortlessly while others struggle to find their footing?

In this episode, I sit down with Leslie Fine, Managing Partner at Enjoy The Work, to unpack the transition from founder to CEO. Leslie shares hard-earned lessons from her own journey—starting in academia and moving into startup leadership—and reveals the essential skills every aspiring CEO needs. From mastering the rhythm of a startup to navigating fundraising and leadership challenges, this episode is packed with insights for women in tech who are ready to take the leap into leadership.

"Every CEO was a first-time CEO once. Leadership is a craft. It's a learnable skill. People talk about leadership like it's some mystical quality that you either have or you don't, but it's something you can learn and improve." – Leslie Fine

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * The key differences between a founder and a CEO—and why mastering both is crucial * The three pillars of leadership every startup CEO must develop * How to set clear goals and lead with accountability * Why understanding the rhythm of a startup is essential for scaling successfully * The five major phases of a startup and how to act stage-appropriately * How to decide if venture capital is the right fit for your business * The three main jobs of a CEO that define long-term success

After listening to this episode, take a moment to reflect: Are you operating as a founder or truly stepping into the role of a CEO?

Write down the three biggest leadership skills you need to develop to take your startup to the next level. Share your insights with us on LinkedIn or Instagram, and tag me—I’d love to hear your takeaways!

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Leslie Fine:
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lfine
- Website: enjoythework.com
- Enjoy The Work:
  - https://www.linkedin.com/company/etw-advisors/
  - https://x.com/EnjoyTheWork
Leslie’s current read: Quit by Annie Duke
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode244
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Leslie Fine of Enjoy The Work. Thank you Leslie for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Are you struggling to feel heard in meetings and frustrated by misaligned conversations with your boss or team?

In a world where 70% of workplace mistakes stem from communication breakdowns, your voice isn't just a tool—it's your leadership superpower. But if you’re not using it effectively, you risk misalignment, micromanagement, and stalled progress.

In this episode, I dive into the strategies you need to master leadership communication, coach upwards, and navigate challenging workplace dynamics. You'll hear about Sarah, a leader who transformed her relationship with a micromanaging boss through proactive updates, clear expectations, and boundary-setting. Plus, I break down practical tools to handle pushback, communicate with confidence, and build trust with your team.

"Mastering communication isn't just about speaking up, it's about truly understanding and empathizing and adapting to the needs of those around you."

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The root cause of communication gaps—and how to bridge them
How to proactively update your boss to reduce unnecessary check-ins
The key to setting clear expectations and owning your autonomy
Practical strategies for handling pushback with confidence
The role of empathy and active listening in leadership
And more

Want to improve your leadership communication and coach upwards with confidence? Tune in now!

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode243
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Struggling with imposter syndrome? You’re not alone. Many high-achievers experience self-doubt, but what if imposter syndrome wasn’t a weakness—but a hidden strength? In this episode, I explore how to reframe imposter syndrome as your superpower and how this surprising tool can help you with career growth, resilience, and innovation.

Learn how to shift your mindset, overcome perfectionism, and use imposter syndrome to fuel success rather than fear. Whether you're dealing with self-doubt at work, in leadership, or in creative pursuits, these strategies will help you turn imposter syndrome into an advantage.

I dive into:

5 ways to turn your imposter syndrome into a superpower
Facing avoidance, self-criticism, and self-doubt
The power of curiosity in overcoming imposter syndrome
Perfectionism: How to use it without letting it control you
How imposter syndrome fosters diverse perspectives and innovation
Building resilience through imposter syndrome
Practical steps to overcome imposter syndrome
And more

Start seeing imposter syndrome as a tool for success rather than a limitation. Tune in and start turning doubt into your greatest advantage!

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode242
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Have you ever wondered how executives spend their time? Early in our careers, it’s easy to assume they just sit in meetings and make decisions from the sidelines. But as you move up, you quickly realize that great leadership isn’t about doing individual tasks—it’s about setting the vision, making strategic decisions, and enabling your team to execute effectively. In today’s episode, I break down what high-performing executives actually spend their time on and how you can start thinking like one—whether you're an aspiring leader or already in an executive role.

I dive into:

Why strategic thinking—not tactical execution—is the most valuable skill an executive can develop
The strategic pause and how stepping back can empower your team to solve problems independently
The key differences between strategy and tactics, with three essential questions to shift your mindset
How to empower your team by delegating effectively, setting clear boundaries, and fostering autonomy
Why many executives struggle with letting go of control, and practical steps to build trust in your team
How to audit your time using the 30%-60%-10% rule to focus more on high-impact work and avoid burnout
And more

*Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode241
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, I sit down with Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya, a trailblazing STEM leader, engineer, and advocate for diversity in STEM. From her early years in Nigeria to her leadership role in the U.S. energy sector, Adaeze shares how she navigated challenges, broke barriers, and turned her cultural identity into a powerful asset for innovation and leadership.

We explore the role of mentorship, representation, and community in career success, along with her mission to uplift African women in STEM. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a STEM professional, or a leader looking to foster diverse perspectives, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

We dive into:

Adaeze’s career journey from Nigeria to leadership in the U.S. energy sector
Overcoming challenges as an African woman in STEM
How cultural identity plays a powerful role in innovation and leadership
The importance of mentorship and community in professional growth
How she founded African Women in STEM and her vision for global impact
A real-world example of using cultural perspectives to resolve project conflicts
Actionable advice for aspiring STEM leaders
And more

"Your Leadership Readiness Checklist" is a free resource designed to help ambitious professionals ensure all aspects of their careers are aligned. https://link.africanwomeninstem.com/LeadingWomenInTechPodcast

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya:
- Website address: https://africanwomeninstem.com/
- LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adaeze-iloeje-udeogalanya/
- Instagram URL: https://www.instagram.com/africanwomenin_stem/
- Check out Adaeze’s ‘Leadership Readiness Checklist’: https://link.africanwomeninstem.com/LeadingWomenInTechPodcast
Adaeze’s current read: Be your future self now by Dr Benjamin Hardy
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode240
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.
This episode was sponsored by our guest, Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya. Thank you Adaeze for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Sales aren’t just for salespeople—they play a crucial role in the success of every part of an organization. In this episode, I sit down with extraordinary sales leader Colleen Watson to explore why every executive, regardless of department, needs to understand the sales function for leadership effectiveness and long-term business growth.

Whether you’re directly in sales or not, this conversation will change the way you think about leadership, influence, and driving business success. Join us!

We dive into:

How sales impacts every part of an organization and drives executive alignment
Why a consistent sales methodology benefits leaders across all departments
The most common misconceptions about sales—and why they’re wrong
How cross-functional collaboration with sales strengthens business strategy
The role of personality and communication styles in effective sales and leadership
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Colleen:
- https://go.sandler.com/watson/
Colleen’s current read:
- Be Your Future Self Now: The Science of Intentional Transformation by Benjamin P. Hardy
- The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode239
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Thinking like an executive means moving from reactive to strategic leadership, making confident decisions, and focusing on long-term impact. In part two of my series on executive mindset, I’m shifting from how executive presence feels to what you do when you embody it.

I explore the story of Sarah, a Director of Engineering who went from constant firefighting to executive thinking—and earned a promotion in just eight months. You'll learn how to embrace strategic pauses, delegate effectively, and develop the confidence to make high-impact decisions. Plus, I break down the shift from being a problems person to a solutions-driven leader.

If you're ready to stop putting out fires and start leading with vision, this episode is for you!

I dive into:

Shifting from reactive to strategic leadership: stop firefighting and start thinking long term
Building authentic confidence to delegate and tackle imposter syndrome
Thinking bigger: making high impact decisions with long term ROI in mind
Ideas vs. problems vs. solutions: becoming a solutions-driven leader
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode238
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a true change agent as a leader? Or how to future-proof your leadership career in 2025 and beyond? In a world where technical skills alone are no longer enough, the ability to facilitate conversations, drive alignment, and unlock the potential of teams has become the missing piece in modern leadership.

Today’s guest, Therese Miclot, shares the one skill that sets impactful leaders apart: facilitation. We explore why facilitation is essential for scaling organizations, fostering engagement, and leading with impact—and provide practical tips on the art of inclusive meetings, including how to balance authority and approachability and why great facilitators make the best problem solvers.

Whether you're leading a small team or a global organization, facilitation can be your secret weapon for driving change and future-proofing your career. Don’t miss this conversation!

We dive into:

How facilitation skills can future-proof your career, helping you become a more adaptable, resilient, and sought-after leader in any industry
Practical facilitation techniques for removing obstacles and making meetings more productive and inclusive
Why self-talk is your hidden leadership nemesis and how it shapes your ability to facilitate effectively
The power of trust-building and executive presence—and why the most effective leaders don’t just talk, they activate others through facilitation
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Therese Miclot:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresemiclot/
- https://www.thefacilitationadvantage.com/
- https://www.theresemiclot.com/
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode237
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Therese Miclot. Thank you Therese for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Why do so many of us struggle to “think like an executive”? If you’ve ever felt like you’re not quite hitting the mark, that people aren’t listening to you, or that you’re constantly scrambling, this series is for you. In part 1 of my executive mindset gap series, I dive into the foundation of executive mindset: executive presence. I explore the common misconceptions, the impact of imposter syndrome, and why "faking it" can lead to burnout. Join me to learn how to develop an authentic executive mindset, build self-awareness, and take the uncomfortable actions that will set you apart.

And come back for part 2 where I dive deeper with a powerful executive thinking framework!

I dive into:

Executive presence: the foundation of the executive mindset and how to develop it authentically
Overcoming imposter syndrome and second-guessing yourself
Adopting a growth mindset, taking uncomfortable action, and dealing with mistakes
The power of self-awareness, self-talk, and feedback in leadership
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode236
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You don’t want to overlook the emotional intelligence aspect of your leadership in 2025! Leaders with high emotional intelligence (EQ) are more likely to foster greater employee satisfaction and achieve up to 20% higher productivity. Yet, many leaders overestimate their EQ. In this episode, I explore why emotional intelligence is vital for modern leadership and how you might be falling short in surprising ways.

Join me as I explore the link between emotional intelligence in leadership and leadership success, including the connection to employee retention, team performance, and overall workplace dynamics. Through real-life emotional intelligence workplace examples and my 3-part approach to improving EQ, I will provide you with helpful leadership self-awareness techniques to help you improve your leadership EQ.

Whether you’re focused on emotional intelligence in tech leadership or strengthening your executive presence, this episode will show you how confidence and EQ will play a pivotal role in elevating your leadership this year.

I dive into:

The positive impacts of improved emotional intelligence
Common misconceptions about EQ
The relationship between confidence and EQ
My 3-part approach for improving your EQ
Self-awareness techniques for tech leaders
The Notice, Pause, Reframe framework for building higher self-awareness
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode235
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, I dive deep into why LinkedIn is an essential tool for career growth and job market success and break down what's working, what's not, and how to make the platform work for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode will give you actionable insights to elevate your LinkedIn game, including my top tips for analyzing LinkedIn metrics and optimizing your profile so you can open doors to new opportunities.

Ready to transform your LinkedIn profile into a powerful career advancement tool?

I dive into:

The impact of networking and LinkedIn on career advancement
My advice on how to analyze and use LinkedIn metrics to achieve results
The three most important sections of your LinkedIn profile
Practical tips for optimizing your LinkedIn profile for job-hunting success
Tidying up the skills section of your profile (and some tips for skill endorsement)
Specific strategies for effective networking on LinkedIn
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode234
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this special episode, I have an honest and heartfelt coaching conversation with Madeleine Lambert, a young mom navigating the complexities of leadership, work, and family life. Together, we explore the challenges and triumphs of balancing a demanding career with personal responsibilities, touching on important topics like guilt, self-doubt, and the societal pressures of "having it all figured out."

During a candid live coaching session, we dive into the realities of conflicting priorities and explore whether Madeleine’s struggles stem from a prioritization issue or an unrealistic workload. I share actionable strategies to help her feel more in control, such as implementing a task triage system and using tools like brain dumps to capture all tasks and reduce mental clutter.

Join us for these valuable insights and let 2025 be the year you stop "should-ing" all over yourself and give yourself permission to set boundaries and pursue ambitious goals.

We dive into:

Madeleine’s career journey
The challenges of juggling family life and work as a female leader
A special live coaching session addressing conflicting priorities and identifying the root causes of stress
My favorite strategies for task management and freeing up mental space
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Madeleine:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-lambert-b6426aa9/
- originality.ai
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode233
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Madeleine. Thank you Madeleine for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Ready to set inspiring, achievable targets and turn them into strategic, intentional action?

This week, I want to help you harness that fresh start energy of the new year and turn it into real progress on your biggest goals! I’m diving into common barriers to taking action like low confidence and confusion, why understanding the critical difference between proactive and reactive action is vital to your success, and how to tackle goal aversion and negative self-talk going into the new year. Join me for my personal strategies for maintaining momentum and some inspiration to help you lean into the new year energy and show yourself compassion if things don't go as planned.

Whether you're looking to level up your leadership, make a career change, or just meet some important goals, this episode is your roadmap to making this your best year yet!

I dive into:

Harnessing the "fresh start" energy of the new year to drive real progress on your biggest goals
Common barriers to taking action (and what to do about them)
The critical difference between proactive and reactive actions - and why being proactive is key to meeting your goals this new year
My personal strategies for sustaining momentum, managing setbacks, and maintaining self-compassion
Practical tips for clear goal setting and finding success through actionable steps
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode232
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

The holiday season is often a busy and chaotic time, but what if this year, you chose to slow down? In this episode, I explore the transformative power of slowing down and give you helpful tools for building resilience and creating space for rest so you can set yourself up, not just for a great holiday season, but for long-term growth in your leadership and personal life.

I dive into:

The link between rest and resilience, and why rest isn’t an indulgence—it’s essential
Why we struggle to slow down and how to overcome the pull of overcommitment
The simple shifts you can make to create space for restoration, even during a packed holiday season
Tangible benefits of restoration: improved relationships, reduced stress, and enhanced focus and creativity
Practical tips for saying no, setting boundaries, and scheduling time for self-care and recovery
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode231
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, Erica Carder, co-founder of Talent Build Ventures, joins me to discuss why unemployment might just be the career opportunity you never saw coming. From mental health support to personalized career guidance, Erica challenges the outdated practices of traditional outplacement services. Her belief? With the right mindset and tools, you can use unemployment as a powerful reset to make bold, purposeful career moves.

Join us for Erica’s fresh perspective on framing unemployment as a golden opportunity and her insights to help you navigate the unemployment phase with clarity, align your career with your personal values, and build a strategic career plan to move forward with purpose.

We dive into:

Erica’s career journey and how it shaped her bold views on employment and leadership
Why traditional outplacement services are stuck in the past—and how they can improve
Viewing unemployment as a rare chance to pause, reflect, and recalibrate your career
How aligning your career choices with personal values can save you from future job hurdles
Practical tips for building a career strategy, including three steps to see if you’re on the right track
Why thoughtful exit processes matter for both employees and organizations
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Erica Carder:
- https://talentbuild.co/
- origamioutplacement.com
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode230
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Erica Carder. Thank you Erica for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Have you thought about where your career is headed in 2025? Are you ready to elevate your leadership skills, or is it time to dive into a focused job hunt? This week I want to help you avoid a career drift and take control by identifying your goals for the year and planning strategically for them.

In this episode, I’ll guide you through deciding whether to focus on leadership development or a job hunt by identifying skill gaps, assessing your work environment, and understanding when job hunting becomes essential. I’ll also show you how to set clear, actionable career goals that align with your ambitions, whether it’s building executive presence, staying relevant in a fast-evolving industry, or finding a role that truly fulfills you.

If you’re ready to step up your leadership game or transition into something new, I’ll give you the tools to make this pivotal decision before the new year. Let’s set your career up for success in 2025!

I dive into:

My method to help you decide between leadership development and job hunting
The consequences of letting your career drift
Identifying your gaps: skills or environment?
The overlap between skill development and job hunting
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode229
Check us out on Youtube
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Not getting promoted? You’re not alone. Many talented professionals—especially women—face this frustrating barrier, even when they’re excelling in their roles. Here’s the truth: being great at your work isn’t always enough to earn a promotion.

The good news? There’s a way to break this cycle and finally gain the recognition you deserve. In this week’s episode, I’ll reveal why excellence alone often falls short and share three essential strategies to give yourself a competitive edge in your next career step.

Tune in to learn how to avoid the common pitfalls that undermine your impact, overcome the fear of self-advocacy, and use my six-step guide to start effectively advocating for yourself in your career.

I dive into:

Why being great at your job isn't enough to get promoted
How to proactively seek specific, actionable feedback from your manager
The 3 essential elements to focus on for a competitive edge
Strategies to document and communicate your achievements
How to build a network of advocates who can speak up for you
Tips to overcome the fear of self-promotion and start speaking up
My 6-step guide to help you advance in your career
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode228
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you've ever felt frustrated by misaligned goals, miscommunication, or the chaos of cross-functional projects going off track, this episode is for you.

This week, I tackle the challenges and solutions for effective cross-department communication by diving deep into the common barriers that prevent departments from working seamlessly together—such as differing communication styles, unclear expectations, and hidden sources of tension—and the practical strategies you can use to build bridges within your organization. From standardizing communication tools to creating a culture that encourages open, honest dialogue, I’m giving you the tools to enhance understanding across departments so you can build a positive, collaborative, and aligned work environment.

I dive into:

Breaking down the common barriers to effective cross-department communication
Practical strategies for standardizing communication and handling urgent tasks across departments
Fostering a culture of openness and communication
Aligning for success: setting shared goals and making active listening the norm
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode227
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this empowering episode, Brand Expert Ushi Patel joins me to discuss how women can break free from the habit of shrinking and start standing tall in leadership roles. She shares strategies to build confidence from within and create habits that support stepping fully into our greatness, rather than holding back. We dive into the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, from bias to the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) pressures to silence our voices, and emphasize the importance of “going for gold”, advocating for yourself, and setting boundaries—like asking others to truly see you by looking you in the eye.

We also tackle the difficult topic of isolation and the societal stigma around asking for help, offering strategies to help you connect, self-advocate, and embrace your own strengths as a leader. Join us to discuss building healthy habits, surrounding yourself with supportive evidence of your capabilities, and taking ownership of your greatness.

We dive into:

Ushi’s career journey and her passion for helping women
The habit of shrinking and its impact on women in leadership roles
Bias in tech, confidence challenges, and building evidence of your greatness
Self-advocacy, vulnerability, and the “going for gold” mindset
Asking for help and overcoming isolation
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Ushi:
- https://ushi-ink.com/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/ushipatel/
Ushi’s current read: Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode226
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Ushi Patel. Thank you Ushi for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

In this episode, I’m joined by business transformation and AI expert Charlene Li for an insightful conversation on embracing AI and rethinking leadership to disrupt the status quo. Charlene shares her career journey and stresses the need for leaders to embrace AI, not just for efficiency, but to foster bold innovation. We discuss the current wave of layoffs, often due to mismanagement and a lack of disruptive thinking, and how AI can help leaders as we shift focus to asking the right questions and driving meaningful change.

We also explore using AI as a coach, practical advice for creating your own personal AI strategy, and building an organizational culture that thrives on innovation. If you’re ready to rethink disruption and lead with a growth mindset, this episode will inspire you to run toward change rather than avoid it!

We dive into:

Charlene’s career journey and experience with disruption
The power of AI in leadership and how it can free leaders to focus on high-level tasks
Layoffs and mismanagement in today’s business environment
The #1 thing Charlene tells people starting to work with AI
How to create a personal AI leadership strategy
The inevitable nature of disruption: how to prepare for it and why you should
Using AI as a coach and the importance of fostering an innovative organizational culture
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and check out her books at:
- W: http://charleneli.com
- LI: https://linkedin.com/in/charleneli
- FB: https://facebook.com/charleneliauthor
Charlene’s current read: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode225
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of encore careers with special guest Michelle Prince, executive coach and author of “Creating Your Encore Career”. Together, we explore why your career shouldn’t end when you reach a certain age or financial milestone. Instead, this is the perfect time to transform, redefine your purpose, and make a lasting impact by leveraging the skills you’ve developed over your career journey.

Michelle shares insights from her book, guiding us through the importance of bringing your gifts to the world in new and meaningful ways. We discuss her career journey, how balancing family, career, and personal ambitions requires resilience and agility, and her practical advice on creating your own opportunities, regardless of age.

If you’re nearing retirement or simply curious about what your next chapter could look like, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to redefine what retirement means to you and chart a path that feels purposeful and fulfilling.

We dive into:

Michelle’s powerful career journey
What encore careers are and why they matter
How to be your own opportunity catalyst
Strategies for planning your encore career and overcoming challenges like ageism and stereotypes
Financial considerations for your next phase of life
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Michelle Prince:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-prince-dm
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/mprince-consulting
Michelle’s current read: The Women by Kristin Hannah
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode224
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices, quiet, thoughtful leadership can be an incredible asset. If you're not comfortable with being in the limelight, that’s okay—embracing your natural introversion could be your secret to success.

Join me in this episode as I explore how being an introverted leader can enhance productivity, boost team morale, and give you informal influence without changing who you are. We’ll dive into the unique strengths of introverts, debunk common misconceptions, and share strategies for thriving as an introverted leader, in an extroverted world.

Ready to embrace your natural leadership style and thrive at work?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Understanding introversion and extroversion - which one are you?
Introvert communication and leadership styles
Debunking the most common misconceptions about introverts
Strategies to help you thrive in your introverted leadership style
My recipe for effective networking as an introvert
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode223
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, I talk with Chief Product Officer Poornima Farrar about the challenges in tech recruitment and how HR needs to evolve to better support organizations. Poornima shares how her career journey has been shaped by HR, emphasizing the importance of embedding HR more deeply within teams while using data-driven strategies to drive success. We explore how the current recruitment process is failing both candidates and companies, and Poornima offers her insights on passive talent pools and innovative approaches to help fix this. We also dive into Poornima’s advice for women in product roles and the value of embracing cross-functional opportunities to grow in tech.

Join us for these helpful insights on where tech is falling short and how the combination of people and data can help us pave the way for the future of work.

We dive into:

Poornima’s career journey highlights & lowlights
How HR has shaped her career and its strategic role in tech
Where tech is failing us
The biggest recruitment challenges (and the solutions!)
Advice for women in product and embracing cross-functional roles
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Poornima:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/spfarrar/
- http://www.rival-hr.com
- https://www.facebook.com/TheRivalHR/
Poornima’s current read: Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode222
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you ready to challenge the misconception that leadership requires being loud, or always in the spotlight? The truth is, quiet leadership can be even more powerful, with authenticity at its core. If you're a naturally quiet person, know that this doesn't limit your potential—it enhances it.

In this episode, I dive into the myths around loud and quiet leadership, showing how leaning into your natural tendencies can make you a more authentic, impactful leader. Join me to explore the unique and powerful techniques of quiet leadership and how in the end, the best leaders are those who embrace their true selves, and in your quietness lies the power to inspire greatness in others.

I dive into:

The strength of quiet leadership: debunking the myth that leaders need to be loud to be effective
Understanding introversion/extroversion in quiet leadership
Essential qualities of the quiet leader
The biggest challenges and opportunities for quiet leaders
How to nurture more calmness in your leadership
The role of quiet leaders in team dynamics
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode221
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, I’m joined by Vanessa Jupe, CEO and founder of Leva, a company dedicated to supporting mothers in the workplace. Vanessa shares her insights on the challenges new moms face, from identity loss to the cognitive and emotional impacts of motherhood, and the feelings of loneliness that often come with it. We discuss how to normalize conversations about what happens when someone has a child and explore holistic support systems for new parents, including mental health resources, lactation support, career coaching, and more. Vanessa also highlights the high rate of women leaving the workforce within a year of having a baby and the economic impact on companies.

Ready to discover how organizations can better support new moms to thrive at work and learn practical strategies for balancing career and motherhood? Join us.

We dive into:

Normalizing conversations about the impact of motherhood on workplace morale and performance
Holistic support systems for new parents: mental health resources, lactation support, nutrition, career coaching, and sleep
The measurable benefits of companies supporting new moms
Addressing gender bias and the importance of supporting non-birthing parents and all caregivers in the workplace
Practical tips for new moms, including the importance of community, flexibility, and creating a re-entry plan after maternity leave
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Vanessa Jupe:
- https://www.levaapp.com/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/levaapp/
- https://www.instagram.com/leva.app/
- https://www.youtube.com/@leva-app/
Vanessa’s current read: National Park Mystery Series
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode220
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

None

Have you ever found yourself utterly exhausted, disconnected from your work, and questioning whether you can keep going at this pace? If so, you're far from alone. Burnout isn't just another form of stress - it’s a widespread issue that can have serious consequences on both your career and your personal well-being. In this episode, I break down what burnout truly is, how to catch the warning signs early, and most importantly, share practical strategies to help you recharge and rediscover the passion that burnout tends to steal.

We’re here to do more than just survive - we’re here to thrive. Let’s get to the show and take on burnout together!

I dive into:

The symptoms and impact of burnout on your career and personal life
How burnout leads to social withdrawal, procrastination, and long-term effects on your immune system and sleep patterns
The difference between chronic stress and ambition, and how to recognize early signs of burnout
Practical strategies for managing stress and burnout before it becomes overwhelming
The critical role of leadership in preventing burnout in teams, ensuring sustainable growth, and fostering diversity and inclusion
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode219
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you've ever felt like you don't quite fit in or don't look like those around you, today’s guest will inspire you to recognize that your differences are not just an asset—they're the key to your extraordinary leadership potential.

In this episode, I invite Cheryl Johnson, the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks, to share how she found remarkable success by embracing what makes her different. Cheryl refers to her unique qualities as the "magic in her misfit," and her story is a powerful reminder that standing out can be your greatest strength.

We explore her journey to becoming Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks, highlighting key lessons from her time at Amazon and her transition into leadership. She discusses overcoming burnout, embracing her uniqueness, and the power of being a "misfit" in leadership. As Cheryl shares her experiences, you'll discover how being different makes you successful, especially in a world where companies constantly seek ways to differentiate.

We dive into:

Cheryl’s career journey to becoming Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks
Embracing your uniqueness and the power of being a "misfit" in leadership
Overcoming burnout and finding balance in high-pressure environments
The importance of authenticity, adaptability, and leading with humility
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Cheryl:
- W: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylporro
- W: https://www.betterworks.com
Cheryl’s current read: New Happy by Stephanie Harrison
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode218
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Cheryl Johnson. Thank you Cheryl for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Are you feeling the strain of job hunting? You're not alone. This is a hard job market, but I’m here to help you navigate this challenging landscape with practical tips, my best advice, and the proven strategies that will help you survive the job market rollercoaster this year.

I dive into the current demand for AI expertise, key strategies for navigating today’s job market, including how to tailor your resume and cover letter for AI filters, and the mindset tips to keep you focused and resilient. l examine the shifting job market, from recessions and rebounds to the effects of widespread layoffs. What lessons can we learn from past boom and bust cycles? And what role does the tech industry play in global crises like climate change and AI advancements?

Whether you're adapting to AI or refining your job search approach, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay persistent and strategically position yourself to land the job you’re after this year. Don’t miss it!

I dive into:

Proven strategies for navigating the job market rollercoaster
The shifting job market: recessions, layoffs, and rebounds
Lessons from boom and bust cycles
Tech’s role during global crises
Mindset tips for your job search
Presenting your experience: considering AI filters and tailoring resumes and cover letters
Balancing quality and quantity in your job applications
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode217
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this special episode, I invite Lindsay, Jen, and Allison back to the show to dive into the raw reality of burnout, particularly for women in tech. We share our personal experiences, uncovering how burnout manifests in our careers and lives, and discuss the various ways we cope—sometimes successfully, sometimes not. From recognizing the signs to understanding the causes like micromanagement, we explore the complexities of burnout and the lessons we learn along the way.

We also dig into strategies for tackling burnout, from self-awareness to mindfulness practices, and discuss the crucial role of leadership in creating supportive environments. Ready for the insight and encouragement you need to approach burnout in a healthier, more effective way?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Understanding and overcoming burnout as a woman in tech
Lindsay, Jen, and Allison’s career backgrounds and coaching support needs
Causes and signs of burnout
Strategies to tackle burnout: what works & what doesn’t
Leadership’s role in preventing burnout
And more

Useful links

If you’d like to let go of your self-doubt, don’t forget to check out my free course ‘Ditch The Self Doubt’.
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode216
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In today’s episode, I explore the critical link between executive presence, confidence, and the fine line between confidence and arrogance for women in tech. I break down the three key components of executive presence - appearance, communication, and gravitas - and how to leverage these pillars to build genuine confidence without falling into the trap of arrogance.

I also discuss strategies to enhance your executive presence through body language, mindful communication, and self-awareness. With real-world examples and insights, you'll learn how consistent self-examination and inviting feedback can elevate your leadership style, why executive presence is crucial for career advancement, and practical tips for cultivating it to help you flourish and thrive at work.

I dive into:

The three crucial components of executive presence
How the pillars of executive presence can help you build effective confidence
Using body language, communication & mindfulness as a female leader in tech
How to avoid the “arrogance trap” when developing your confidence
Client case studies: communicating with confidence and clarity
The relationship between gravitas and confidence
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode215
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kris Baker, the president of leading sports tech company Demosphere. Kris's journey to success is anything but a straight line—it's a series of bold leaps and reinventions that have led her to where she is today. Her zigzag career path, filled with setbacks, misfires, and missteps, has not hindered her success but rather fueled it.

Kris shares how she has identified and acted on opportunities with courage, stepping away from toxic environments and making purposeful decisions that have been fundamental to her growth and resilience. We explore the importance of embracing a zigzag career journey, understanding how these leaps can shape your leadership and personal career path.

Whether you’re feeling trapped in your career or looking for inspiration to take control and reinvent yourself - tune in to learn how to navigate your own zigzag path to success and take crucial leaps of faith to become a stronger, more resilient leader.

We dive into:

Kris’s zigzag career journey and how it has fueled her success
Taking leaps of faith and creating purposeful goals that are right for YOU
Culture, leadership, and toxicity
Kris’s insights on career development and job searching strategies
Exploring the zig-zag approach to your career
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Kris Baker:
- Follow Demosphere:
  - W: www.demosphere.com,
  - LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/demosphere-inc/
  - FB: https://www.facebook.com/demosphere
  - IG: https://instagram.com/demosphere
- Follow Kris:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristbaker/
Kris’ book recommendations:
- The Purpose of Your Life by Carol Adrienne
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode214
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Kris Baker of Demosphere. Thank you Kris for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Have you ever been advised to improve your executive presence, only to be left wondering what that truly means? Or perhaps you've tried to emulate the behaviors of your male colleagues, only to find it doesn't quite work for you? You're not alone.

Let’s talk about the art of authentic executive presence for women.

In today’s episode, I explore the unique challenges women face in developing executive presence and clarify what it genuinely means to embody this leadership skill. I give you practical tips to help you cultivate an authentic presence that commands respect, influence, and enhances your ability to navigate the workplace with confidence and authenticity.

Ready to cultivate a powerful executive presence, earn respect, drive your career forward, and find fulfillment in your professional journey?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The intricate balance of navigating executive presence as women in tech
Strategies for balancing self-promotion with humility, and navigating risk-taking, competition, confidence, and communication as women in leadership
Understanding gender dynamics in emotional restraint and empathy in the workplace
Defining authentic executive presence
How executive presence intertwines with your personal brand
Client case study: improving executive presence
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode213
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the world of risk-taking and the essential conversations that come with it. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Shauna Garner, who transitioned from aspiring medical doctor to President of a leading tech company. She shares her story of embracing the unknown and the pivotal role of uncomfortable conversations in driving success.

Ready for valuable insights and practical advice on how to hold space for risks to become a powerful and visionary leader?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Shauna’s career journey from medicine to tech
The benefit of taking risks in our careers
Taking risks on behalf of your organization
Handling uncomfortable conversations: team communication and engagement during risky changes
Shauna’s insights on formidable leadership, growth, and forgiveness
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Shauna Garner
- W: https://valhallan.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valhallanesports/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/valhallan/
Shauna’s current read: Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode212
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

It’s important to understand that because of our industry, we as tech leaders, particularly as women, need to do things a little bit differently.

Let’s talk about tech leadership's unique and specific attributes to help you thrive in your leadership role.

In this episode, I dive into how to navigate and thrive in the tech industry and address the common barriers female tech leaders face - and some practical strategies to overcome them. Join me for insights on today’s tech landscape, gender dynamics in leadership, technical expertise vs. soft skills, and more.

Ready to navigate these challenges together and make a lasting impact in the tech world?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The unique challenges that tech leaders are facing today
Gender dynamics & the factors to consider to become a successful female leader in tech
The delicate balance between technical expertise and soft skills
Gender bias, social conditioning, and work-life balance for women in leadership
Strategies for communication and team management in the tech industry
Emulating men: why it doesn’t work and what to do instead!
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode211
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, we take a slight detour from our usual leadership discussions to explore the world of entrepreneurship!

I’m joined by serial entrepreneur Alex Batdorf, who dives into valuable insights from her entrepreneurial journey and her passion for supporting women on the same path. She shares some startling statistics about women in entrepreneurship, useful tips about funding, access to resources, and networking, and the most important things to consider before you leap into entrepreneurship.

Join us for an honest discussion about the path of entrepreneurship - the pros and cons of seeking venture capital, why Alex believes you don't need a business school degree to become a successful entrepreneur, and whether entrepreneurship is the right path for you.

We dive into:

Alex’s entrepreneurial career journey
Surprising stats on women in entrepreneurship: funding and success
Access to resources for women entrepreneurs
Three factors to successful networking for women entrepreneurs
Exploring your “why” for entrepreneurship
The most important things to consider before you embark on an entrepreneurial journey
Funding options in entrepreneurship: venture capital & bootstrapping strategies
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Alex Batdorf:
- W: https://www.shegetsshitdone.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chief-get-shit-done-officer/
Alex’s current read: Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode210
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Is coaching something you need right now?

Let’s demystify coaching and make sure you have the kind of support you need as a female leader in tech!

In this episode, I dive into the power of tech leadership coaching to help you determine if it's what you need now, in the future - or not at all! I explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by leaders in this industry, how coaching can develop your leadership skills specifically for the fast-paced and innovative tech environment, and the factors to consider when seeking coaching as a woman in tech, such as the rapid innovation cycle, team dynamics, and more.

Join me for this important discussion on leading as a female at work, how leadership coaching can play a role in your success, and answering the crucial question: Is coaching something you need right now?

I dive into:

Tech leadership coaching: what it is & the factors to consider when tailoring it for women
The benefits of leadership coaching in various roles and fields
Understanding the importance and impact of having a strategic plan for career advancement
Transition coaching: navigating career transitions with the support of coaching
Building skills for high-stakes decision-making and interpersonal interactions in your career
The unique challenges to consider when coaching female leaders
Combating burnout in tech and “the myth of the MBA”
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode209
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

What does it really take to create a healthy and thriving workplace culture?

Let’s talk about how we as leaders can create an environment where women can thrive!

In this episode, I invite multi-faceted woman in tech, Michele Cober, to share her insights on workplace culture, how leaders can identify and cultivate the right environment, and the significant impact this has on overall culture and individual well-being at work.

Join us for the practical strategies you can use to show up more authentically at work and transform your workplace culture for the better.

We dive into:

Michele’s career journey: from the opera to becoming a big tech lawyer
Career pivots, identity, and managing outside judgment
The keys to a well-adjusted work culture
Using your leadership role to encourage a healthy workplace
The signs of a great workplace culture
Showing up authentically and the cost of “fitting in”
Networking and changing culture from any leadership level
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Michele:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-cober/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Madame_Gutterfly
Michele’s current read: Burn Book: A Tech Love Story by Kara Swisher: https://www.amazon.com/Burn-Book-Tech-Love-Story/dp/1982163895
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode208
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

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How often do you reflect on your leadership approach and if you’re adapting to both your professional growth and the ever-changing world around you?

Let’s talk about the evolution of tech leadership and navigating change while climbing the ladder!

In today’s episode, I dive into the evolving landscape of tech leadership and how your approach needs to transform as you advance in your career. I look at how tech leadership has evolved over the last 25 years, the key factors shaping our tech leadership today (and what you can do to stand out), and my tips for evolving your personal leadership approach as you progress in your career.

Want to thrive in the fast-paced tech world and ensure your growth keeps pace with the evolving landscape?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Shifting your leadership approach to adapt to your career progression & the evolving tech landscape
Leadership evolution in the tech industry over the last 25 years
Tech industry trends: the critical roles of embracing AI and fostering diversity & inclusion
TOP TIPS for evolving your leadership effectively alongside your career progression
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode207
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Let’s talk about what you need to hear to advance your career!

In this episode, I invite the spectacular Valerie Drew, an amazing woman and tech leader at a Fortune 500 company, to share her journey of continuous promotion and the skills that made it possible. We dive into her valuable insights on taking on tough projects, learning continuously, and advocating for yourself to avoid complacency, as well as how to leverage your communication skills, learn from mistakes, and navigate gender bias to better your leadership career.

Ready for the insights, inspiration, and tools to advance your career with confidence and purpose?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Valerie’s career journey of continuous promotion (and how she did it!)
Dynamic leadership, communication, and self-trust
Practical tips for navigating gender bias in your leadership career
The secret sauce for regular career promotion
Multi-tasking, advocating for higher pay, and seasonal planning
Navigating mistakes and taking calculated risks
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Valerie, on LinkedIn.
Valeire’s current read:
- Superman Doomed
- Traditional Medicines from the Earth by Richard Scalzo
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode206
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Do you want to boost team productivity, retention, and innovation while fostering an environment where your team feels comfortable being their authentic selves?

Let’s talk about embracing vulnerability in leadership and how this openness can help you create stronger connections with your team and peers.

In this episode, I dive into the critical role of vulnerability in demonstrating a strong executive presence and fostering genuine connections within your teams. I explore what it truly means to be vulnerable, ways you can embrace more openness in your leadership, and how giving yourself and your team permission to be vulnerable will lead to a stronger work environment.

I dive into:

The power of vulnerability as a leadership skill
Vulnerability client stories: making mistakes & work/life balance
The harm of inauthentic vulnerability
Balancing vulnerability and authority as women in leadership
How vulnerability can help you avoid the cycle of stress and burnout
Reframing vulnerability as a strength: self-compassion & boundary setting
2 actions to help you start building your authentic vulnerability TODAY
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode205
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Angie Read, a remarkable woman who spent 25 years in corporate communications, navigating the complexities of big tech and other industries. Known for her extraordinary resilience, Angie faced a life-altering challenge at 46 when she suffered a massive ischemic stroke. Despite her determination to return to work after just a few months of rehab, Angie found herself battling debilitating anxiety and depression.

Join us as Angie bravely revisits her journey through a career that lacked fulfillment, her mental health crisis after her stroke, and how she navigated being laid off. She sheds light on recognizing the signs of a physical or mental health crisis, understanding the true cost of perfectionism, and why it shouldn't be worn as a badge of honor.

Ready to learn how Angie transformed her adversities into a powerful story of resilience and discover valuable lessons on managing stress, anxiety, and perfectionism in leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Angie’s career journey including the story of her stroke and how it ignited her passion for helping stroke survivors reclaim their confidence
The intense anxiety and depression she faced upon returning to work and her subsequent disability leave due to mental health
Angie’s biggest lessons around career success and identity
Mental health & resilience: health crisis prevention and recovery
Strategies for managing stress and “the superwoman complex”
Returning to work: emotional regulation and cultivating a leadership brand
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest Angie Read:
- W: www.legacycoachingforher.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angieread/
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/angie.read
Angie’s current read:
- The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo
- The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
- The Vacation Rental by Katie Sise
Find out more about Angie’s books on her website.
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode204
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Do you feel you must work crazy hours to get the recognition you deserve?

It’s time to redefine success beyond the quantity of work!

In this episode, I discuss the barrier of the traditional success model, the major pitfalls of quantity over quality, and how you can shift your mindset to redefine success for yourself and your team. I dive into boundary setting, redefining success metrics, and how to escape the burnout cycle by prioritizing high-impact tasks, celebrating wins, and coaching your team to work proactively vs. reactively.

Ready to find success in the quality of your work and the impact you’re making?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The pitfalls of the traditional success model: prioritizing quantity over quality at work
Coaching yourself and your team through the shift from reactive mode to proactive mode
How the focus on quantity and presenteeism leads to burnout
Client case study: from burnout and a possible layoff to a fulfilled VP of Engineering
Building a strategy for prioritizing tasks, saying NO, and celebrating wins
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode203
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Let’s talk neuroscience (and leadership, of course)!

Join me for this enlightening conversation with Dr. Hayley Nelson, a passionate neuroscientist and professor, who dives deep into the intricacies of how our brains operate and the neuroscience of being a great leader.

In this episode, Dr. Hayley shares her personal journey, detailing how overcoming a traumatic experience led her to pursue a career in neuroscience, despite having other early ambitions. We discuss the difference between the brain and the mind, how to rewire our brains to change our outlook, and embracing resistance as a crucial part of creating lasting change in mindset or habits. We dive into the mindset of optimism vs. toxic positivity, instilling an effective mindset in your team, productivity insights from a neuroscience perspective, and embracing & managing neurodivergent team members.

Ready to learn how neuroscience can transform your approach to leadership and personal growth?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Dr. Hayley’s journey to becoming a neuroscientist professor
A look at negativity from the neuroscience perspective
Leading through challenges: optimism vs. toxic positivity
The neuroscience behind effective mindset
Her advice for encouraging an effective mindset in your team
Productivity & motivation in the workplace
Embracing and managing neurodivergence and individuality in your team members
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Dr. Hayley Nelson:
- https://academyofneuro.com
- https://www.academyofneuro.com/stress-brain for a special discounted price of Stress and the Brain Course
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bewellwithdrhayley/
- https://www.instagram.com/bewellwithdrhayley/
- (I'm also on TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter)
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode202
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

It’s time to seek the rewards you deserve!

Let’s talk about negotiation - a core skill essential for your career success.

In this episode, I dive into useful strategies for negotiating your worth and how to own your value regarding salary, recognition, and advancement opportunities. I discuss my top tips for negotiating compensation, handling job offers (counter and multiple), and positioning yourself for advancement. But it’s not just the practical tools you need, we’ll dive into the mindset around owning your value, understanding your limits, and overcoming the specific negotiation challenges faced by women in tech, ensuring you can advocate effectively for the compensation and opportunities you deserve.

Ready for the actionable tips to help you reach your next salary goal or dream role? It’s time to understand your worth and master the art of negotiation.

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Practical strategies for negotiating salary for a new role - or the raise you deserve!
A simple, but essential TIP to help you negotiate your worth
Considering immediate & long-term goals in your negotiations
Navigating recognition and advancement opportunities
Effectively handling job offers: counter offers, rejections & multiple offers
The mindset of negotiation: exploring your limits and owning your value
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode201
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ready to dive into the empowering journeys of three extraordinary women in tech?

In today’s episode, I invite three amazing women I have the honor of supporting to dive into their experiences, insights, and triumphs through the lens of executive coaching. Lindsay, Allison, and Jennifer candidly share their motivations for seeking executive coaching, its transformative impact on their professional development, and powerful career lessons around overcoming imposter syndrome, burnout, gender bias, and more. We explore the pivotal moments that led them to join The Lit Up Leadership Academy, the biggest successes they've achieved, and the one thing they wish they had known about themselves a decade ago.

Join us to uncover the importance of embracing one's identity, confronting self-doubt, and cultivating resilience in the face of adversity - you don’t want to miss these valuable leadership insights & strategies!

We dive into:

The highlights and lowlights from their three incredible tech careers
Why they joined the Lit Up Leadership Academy
Some of their biggest academy successes: empathy, celebration, and finding alignment
Effectively dealing with imposter syndrome and self-doubt in career transition
Lessons on kindness and empathy in leadership, pushing tech boundaries, and external validation
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s amazing women in tech guests:
- Lindsay Kulzer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-kulzer/
- Jen Peters: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferepeters/
- Allison Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonmwilliams/
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode200
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

The glass ceiling concept is well known in the world of work, especially in male-dominated fields like tech. But what about its lesser-known counterpart - the glass microphone?

Many of us have felt the frustration of not being heard or taken seriously, our ideas dismissed before we can fully express them. This glass microphone barrier can hurt our career advancement and lead to stress and burnout.

Let’s talk about how you can break through this communication barrier in your tech leadership!

In today’s episode, I explore how to recognize the presence of the glass microphone and why honing your communication skills is crucial as a woman in tech. From strategies for thinking on your feet to navigating gender biases in communication, I give you practical tips to break the glass microphone and ensure you are heard at work.

I dive into:

How to know if you are dealing with a glass microphone
Gender biases in communication and why you need to make sure to “take the credit” in your career
The 3 KEYS to breaking the glass microphone
Communication must-haves for women in tech: tailoring communication, my “think on your feet” formula, and more!

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode199
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Mindful leadership is powerful leadership!

Let’s talk about the power of mindfulness and how cultivating presence in your leadership will benefit your professional journey.

In today’s episode, I dive into the important role mindfulness plays in leadership development and elevating your executive presence - and how to cultivate it! I explore how key elements of executive presence such as adaptability, strategic vision, and confident communication can be improved through mindfulness, and the practical steps you can take toward more presence in these areas to become a more mindful leader.

Ready to use mindfulness to elevate your executive presence and transform your leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to improve your leadership & executive presence through mindfulness
The elements of executive presence and how mindfulness plays a role in each
Learning to deal with negative/constructive feedback in a better way
The practical steps you can take to become a more mindful leader
One of the MOST important, but underrated, tools of a leader
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode198
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you’re interested in being a leader that promotes a sustainable, enjoyable, and nurturing work environment, prioritizing equity, diversity, and inclusion is a must.

In today’s episode, I invite Jacqui Barrett, CEO of Wider Thinking, to share her inspiring career journey and passion for fostering inclusive workplaces and driving organizational change. We dive into an important discussion on equity diversity and inclusion (EDI) and share actionable insights on creating nurturing work environments, implementing strategies like flexible working arrangements to promote diversity, and overcoming burnout as we strive to apply EDI in our careers.

Ready to explore why EDI is essential for organizational success and leave inspired to build a more inclusive and equitable workplace?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jacqui’s career journey and her story of experiencing cronyism
Practical insights for creating more equitable, diverse, and inclusive work environments
Flexible working as a gateway to more diversity in the workplace
The important difference between equity and equality
Tips for overcoming burnout while championing EDI initiatives
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Jacqui Barrett:
- E: jacqui@widerthinking.com
- W: www.widerthinking.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquibarrettwiderthinking/
Jaciqui’s current read: Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode197
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

It’s time to shift the narrative, to recognize that being in a perpetual state of hustle isn’t the key to success - it’s a catalyst for burnout.

In today’s episode, I explore the cost of constant hustle and why, contrary to popular belief, it’s not the path to greatness in your leadership career. Join me as I disprove the myths surrounding overwork and dive into solutions, from realistic goal setting to the importance of delegation and healthy boundaries.

Ready for the actionable leadership steps you can take to combat burnout and foster a healthier, more sustainable work environment?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The high cost of constant hustle culture
Debunking the myths around the culture of overwork and hustle
The consequences of dismissing downtime and self-care
Signs and symptoms of burnout in your leadership
Practical strategies for preventing hustle and burnout
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode196
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Let’s talk about the powerful approach to leadership - “Hold, Don’t Carry”.

In this episode, HR veteran turned Executive Coach, Lindsay White, joins me to discuss learning to hold space without shouldering undue burdens and how this skill sets great leaders apart. We dive into the nuances of holding emotional space as a leader, cultivating resilience and stamina by “not carrying”, using lead and lag measures effectively, and the roles accountability and delegation hold within the "Hold, Don't Carry" paradigm.

Join us for our top tips on how to implement this approach with self-care and empathy and an insightful discussion on how this leadership skill can uplevel your executive presence.

We dive into:

How to use the “Hold, Don’t Carry” approach to uplevel your executive leadership
A breakdown of what it means to “hold” effectively as a leader
How to cultivate resilience and stamina by “not carrying”
The roles of accountability and delegation in the “Hold, Don’t Carry” approach
TOP TIPS to help you practice this skill as an executive leader
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Lindsay:
- W: www.highvoltageleadership.ca
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-white-high-voltage/
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/highvoltleadership/
Lindsay’s current read: The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl
Listen to Lindsay’s previous episode, Are You Bragging on Your Resumé?: https://www.tonicollis.com/episode65
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode195
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ever found yourself lost in a complex presentation? Maybe you’ve been the presenter and the audience looked a bit confused?

If you want to be an effective senior leader, communicating complex ideas in a simple way is a key skill.

In this episode, we’re talking about communicating complex ideas with simplicity, the biggest traps to avoid, and the tools and tips to help you overcome this common leadership hurdle.

Ready to make sure your words are hitting the mark?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to simplify complex ideas for effective communication
Avoiding communication breakdowns in the workplace
Mistaking complexity for competence (“sounding clever”)
Effective communication across different fields
6 practical tips for conveying your message effectively
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode194
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Failure can be a fascinating contributor to our career success or career hurdles - and it’s determined by the way we look at it.

Let’s talk about failure and learning to look at it differently.

In this week’s episode, I invite recovering investment banker and life coach, Lydia Bai, to discuss failure, how her toxic relationship with achievement impacted her ability to thrive at work, and how burnout, imposter syndrome, motivation, and self confidence can all be linked to the way we perceive our failure.

Ready to shift how you see the failures in your career so you can use them for good?

Let’s go to the show.

We dive into:

Lydia’s upbringing and hyper-focus on achievement
The catalyst for the big shift in her career journey
Failure: the gap between expectation and reality
The 2 biggest sources of burnout for women in the workplace
Exploring failure as a perception
The link between fear of failure and imposter syndrome
Three things to evaluate the next time you fail
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Lydia:
- W: www.lydiabai.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiabai/
- Download Lydia’s worksheet on What to do with failure
Lydia’s current read: Gideon the Ninth byTamsyn Muir
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode193
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Lydia. Thank you Lydia for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Today, I want to share a very special and personal episode with you as I honor my dad and tell you about the powerful impact he had on me and others, and how these leadership lessons can bring insight to your own life and leadership journey. This is a somewhat unusual episode — after all, we don’t normally talk about men on this show. And my Dad was certainly not in Tech! But I hope this episode inspires you with new ideas, and new ways of thinking, as well as a few ways to learn from those around you even if they aren’t intending to ‘teach’ you in any form.

I dive into:

My dad’s biggest leadership lessons
The power of patience and what it can achieve
How my dad felt about the growth mindset
Why I consider my dad to have been a feminist
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode192
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Do you have dreams that seem out of reach or outside the traditional path your education or experience should lead you?

If you have dreams of being in the boardroom, achieving a senior leadership role, or you’re already there but keep getting shut down or shut out, this episode is for you.

This week, I invite Financial Capital Executive in HR, Julie Tschida Brown, to talk to us about whether or not you should “stay in your lane” and how to properly understand and contribute to the business you’re in so you can reach your highest career goals.

Ready to step OUT of your lane and into the boardroom?

Let’s go to the show.

We dive into:

Julie’s journey to a career in HR
Landing any role, even with a non-traditional background
Making an impact in support functions of business (HR, IT, marketing, etc.)
Staying in your lane at work - is it important?
Leading in the boardroom vs. on the executive team
Authenticity & self-trust in leadership
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Julie:
- Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
Julie’s current read: Damsel in Distressed: My Life in the Golden Age of Hedge Funds by Dominique Mielle and The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode191
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Julie. Thank you, Julie, for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

What is workplace trauma, and what can you do about it?

Let’s talk about workplace trauma, how it affects us and our teams, and what organizations and leaders need to know to support themselves and others through it.

We often associate trauma with more obvious experiences such as car crashes, the loss of a loved one, or something far worse. However, the sad reality is that trauma is a universal workplace phenomenon and needs to be acknowledged. In today’s episode, I discuss the 4 main contributors to workplace trauma, exploring the symptoms you might see in yourself or your team, and how to respond as a leader to prioritize your and your team’s well-being.

I dive into:

Workplace trauma: what it is, and what you can do about it
The 4 main contributors to trauma in the workplace
Identifying potential trauma as a leader to make a positive impact
Emotional resilience and control: differing experiences of workplace trauma
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode190
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

It’s time for an important discussion about AI and the role we need to be playing in 2024 as women in the tech industry.

In today’s episode, I invite Sonal Shah, Barclays Vice President, coach, and author of Amazon bestseller “She Chose Tech”, to discuss her non-traditional background and journey to tech and how you can leverage allies, mentors & sponsors to thrive in your tech leadership career. We dive into topics like closing the gap for women in tech and how to tackle the current AI leadership problem in our industry.

Ready for the resiliency tools you need to thrive during the surge of AI and break barriers as a woman in this male-dominated industry?

We dive into:

Sonal’s non-traditional background and journey to the tech industry and senior leadership
The lack of diversity in AI leadership
Closing the gap for women in tech
How to play the long game of sponsorship
The power of networking to overcome a non-traditional background
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Sonal:
- Website: https://shechosetech.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shechosetech
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonalshahtechdiversity/
- Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonalsmile25
- Twitter: @SonalS25
- If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode189
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Sonal. Thank you, Sonal for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Boundaries underpin our professional success and can determine longevity in our careers. Are yours in the right place?

Let’s talk about personal boundaries for professional success.

In today’s episode, I discuss why developing boundaries is so crucial for our tech careers, what happens when we don’t maintain them, and how to create a boundary toolkit of your own to ensure you’re mitigating burnout and building a sustainable leadership career that you love.

Ready to set your priorities at work, and learn the magic of boundaries?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Personal boundaries and their role in our professional success
Gender differences in workplace boundaries and burnout
Examples of setting boundaries at work
Setting physical & emotional boundaries
Avoiding burnout through boundary-setting
How to build your own boundaries toolkit
And more

Useful links

Want to learn more about saying no? Check out Episode 156: The Art Of Saying No
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode188
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you being passive-aggressive at work?

Let’s talk about passive-aggressive behavior and its role in our careers as we grow and develop in our leadership.

In today’s episode, I discuss examples of passive-aggressive behavior in the workplace, what we need to be doing as leaders to prevent the damage this can cause, and helpful strategies for understanding and navigating this dynamic in your career.

Ready for the tools you need to shift from passive aggression at work to more trust, morale, and overall productivity? Join me for this one.

I dive into:

Avoiding passive-aggressive behavior at work
Reasons why we see passive-aggressive behavior coming out in leaders (and how to avoid this)
What to do if you’re struggling with passive-aggressive behaviors in your own leadership
My favorite tool for managing emotions at work
And more

Useful links

Quick read on passive-aggressive phrases that you might not realize you are using: Avoid these 5 phrases that make you sound passive aggressive
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode187
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you walking in your full color at work?

Let’s talk about embracing your differences as a woman in tech!

In today’s episode, I invite Vice President and Digital Business Transformation Leader, Shikha Bajaj, to talk to us about “owning your color” and how you can show up as who you really are at work (and succeed and thrive while doing it). We dive into mentorship, breaking barriers, and lifting each other up our way to the top.

Ready to show up as the best version of yourself in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Shikha’s upbringing in India and journey into tech and mentorship
The mentorship program she started during Covid
Building connection & trust in a mentor/mentee relationship
Navigating the fine line between embracing your executive presence and becoming like the men in the room
How to own/embrace “your color” & find fulfillment in your career
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Shikha Bajaj:
- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shikha-bajaj1/
- Facebook https://www.facebook.com/youownyourcolor
- W: https://www.ownyourcolor.com
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode186
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Shikha Bajaj. Thank you Shikha for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Is there something holding you back from getting your company off the ground?

Let’s talk about the startup dream and how to make it a reality!

In today’s episode, I invite HR Consultant Amy Cell to share her wisdom on all things startups! We dive into the KEY considerations if you’re considering your first startup, identifying your fears (and how to avoid them from stopping you), and setting yourself up for the best chance of success.

Ready to take the journey towards a successful startup?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Amy’s career journey
The KEY traits to develop for a successful startup
Amy’s TOP TIPS for starting a successful company
Getting creative with talent management
What I wish I had known about being profit-focused
Identifying your founder's “wobbles” & avoiding these blocks
Startup funding - is it the only way?
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Amy:
- www.AmyCellTalent.com
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/amycell/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/amy-cell-llc
Amy’s current read: The Defining Decade: https://a.co/d/7nqIO4h
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode185
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Amy Cell. Thank you Amy for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

The job hunt has changed, my love.

If you’re looking for a job in 2024, it might be time for an action plan specific to today’s market to set you apart from the competition.

Let’s talk about what you need to know to succeed in your job hunt this year!

In this episode, I’m sharing the 7 most critical mistakes to avoid in the 2024 job market to make sure you get what you want and don’t miss out on any dream opportunities.

Ready to stand out and land that next role?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

7 critical mistakes you need to avoid in this year’s job market
Tech industry 2024 job market updates
Interview do’s & dont’s
Is your resume ready?
Networking tips to help you meet your job hunt goals
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode184
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

As a business leader, I embrace failure. I encourage my team to try new things and learn from their mistakes. But when does this strategy stop working?

Can failure truly be BAD for business?

Let’s talk about the culture of “fail fast” and if your business or career is paying too high a cost for failure.

In this episode, I invite Debbie Lovett, MBA and CFO of Delta CX, to challenge our ideas on failure as she dives into the high costs companies are paying for a culture that glorifies failure and ultimately ignores the customers’ needs.

Ready to understand where failure should be embraced and when it’s bad for business?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Debbie’s career journey to becoming a consultant in the CX and UX space
Her unique perspective on empathy in business
How stereotyping your customers is hurting them and your business
The high costs you could be paying if your company is running on agile, fail-fast cycles
Exploring corporate failure vs. personal failure
Debbie’s best advice for hitting the brakes on your high failure rate
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Debbie Levitt:
- W: https://deltacx.com/
- YT: https://www.youtube.com/@cx-cc
- LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbielevitt/
Debbie’s current read: Deceptive Patterns: Exposing the Tricks Tech Companies Use to Control You by Harry Brignull
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode183
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Debbie Levitt. Thank you Debbie for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

January offers a unique opportunity for a fresh start beyond personal resolutions, my love.

Let’s talk about making a strategic and transformative annual plan for your professional journey!

In today’s episode, I want to help you take advantage of the “fresh start effect” and give you the tools you need to plan for your professional future as a visionary woman in tech. Whether you’re planning for an even better year in a career that already lights you up, or you’re ready to take the journey towards finding a job you LOVE, this one’s for you.

Ready for a lit-up career of big plans & big celebrations?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The “Fresh Start Effect” and how it can help you achieve your 2024 goals
How to avoid the pitfall of concurrent goals (and other challenges you need to look out for!)
Why your North Star is vital to the annual planning process
My TOP TIPS for realistic planning as a visionary - and what to avoid!
Should we continue planning when we’re in burnout?
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode182
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

How can we help to break the barriers between underrepresented groups and executive leadership?

Let’s talk about the importance of the open door.

In today’s episode, I invite CEO, author, and speaker, Trina Martin, to share her experience as a founder, woman of color, and champion for changing the future of leadership. We discuss people pleasing, scarcity mindset, and how we can break barriers and open the door to help each other reach the top.

Ready to change leadership for the better?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Trina’s diverse career background and journey to founding her professional development firm
Breaking the barriers to the top for women and other underrepresented groups
How you can be a better ally in your leadership career
The ways people-pleasing could be holding you back
Holding onto your feminine energy as you rise to higher-level roles
Her best advice to help you release the mindset of scarcity
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest Trina Martin:
- W: https://trinalmartin.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trina-l-martin/
Trina’s current read:
- Disruptive Thinking: A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love by T.D. Jakes
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode181
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you working towards becoming a founder one day? If you want to start your own company but feel some resistance towards taking the first step, this one’s for you, my love!

Let’s talk about why women-led companies are more successful and the important things to consider before going all-in on chasing your dreams.

In today’s episode, I invite Co-founder & CEO of Alphaa.io, Manuela Seve, to discuss her journey to founding her own company. We discuss why female-led companies generate more unicorns, some of the things to ask yourself if you’re considering starting your own company, and the important first steps you can take right now toward becoming a female founder.

Ready to knock down some of those barriers to starting your own company?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Manu’s career journey to becoming a Founder & CEO
Her BIGGEST lessons from becoming a female founder
The powerful catalyst that had her redefining success in her life & business
Manu’s BEST advice for becoming a female founder
Why women-led companies generate more success
How to remove the blocks, get off the fence, and go all-in on becoming a female founder
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Manuela (Manu) Seve:
- https://www.alphaa.io/
- https://www.instagram.com/manuseve/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuseve/
Manu’s current read:
- Book: have a book club. Just finished Zen Mind/Beginners Mind. Great starter for Zen Buddhism. Alan Watts lectures - on audible. New book: a course in miracles.
- Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice by Shunryu Suzuki
- A Course in Miracles by Helen Schucman
- Alan Watts Lectures on Audible
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode180
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You know the feeling…as the weekend winds down, a sense of unease creeps in and casts a shadow over your last precious hours of relaxation.

This feeling is referred to as the “Sunday Scaries”, and today we’re talking about the ways to overcome it!

In today’s episode, I’m exploring the Sunday Scaries, why they pose such a challenge to our well-being, and most importantly - how to conquer them!

Ready to ditch the dread of returning to work and move into healthy anticipation instead?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Determining if the Sunday Scaries are affecting you or your team
The MOST COMMON causes of the Sunday Scaries
Why the effects of this Sunday dread can be a hindrance to building an effective team
What you can do about your Sunday Scaries & how to help your team overcome it too!
Why “staying for your team” can be problematic
Learning to hold pressure vs. knowing when to release it
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode179
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Can you imagine the extraordinary things that would be possible if you were leading your ideal team?

Let’s talk about how to lead and retain high-performers!

In today’s episode, I discuss the unique characteristics of high-performers, effective strategies to engage & motivate them, and how to create an environment where high-performers can truly thrive.

Ready to build a team that is entirely high-performance moving forward?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The hallmarks of a high performer & how to attract and keep them
Leadership traits you need to focus on to keep high-performers on your team
How to avoid your high-performer feeling neglected or taken for granted
Why you need to be willing to give your high-performer growth opportunities
The BIGGEST challenges to leading high-performers
How you should lead differently with a high-performer vs. a low-performer
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode178
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether you join a new team, get a promotion, or find yourself in a company restructure, at some point, you might find yourself cleaning up someone else’s mess.

How are you going to handle inheriting this crisis, my love?

In today’s episode, I’m diving into another important crisis management topic: what to do when you inherit a crisis. I discuss how to diagnose the issue, the biggest traps to avoid as you navigate it, and the practical tools you need to manage the crisis and come out the other side with improved team performance and trust.

Ready to grow your resiliency & uplevel your leadership with this next challenge?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Properly diagnosing & addressing an inherited business crisis
Practical leadership tips for handling a crisis in your first 90 days
2 of the BIGGEST traps to avoid when tackling an inherited crisis
Immediate action vs. the long-term fix: identifying & accounting for your natural problem-solving tendencies
Tracking your progress toward the end goal
What to do as the crisis begins to resolve (and what to avoid)
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode177
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Can you get better results in your career by shifting your leadership perspective?

Let’s talk about the role of the subconscious mind in our careers.

In today’s episode, I invite visionary leader, entrepreneur, and former woman in tech, Amira Alvarez, to share her inspirational work helping women get intentional about their choices so they can get what they deserve in their careers (whether it’s a dream role or a dream salary)! We dive into how she utilized the lowlights in her career to propel her forward, how your subconscious mind plays a role in your leadership, and how you can shift your leadership perspective to see big results.

Ready to step into your full leadership potential?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Amira’s career journey and her BIGGEST learnings from the lowlights
The role of the subconscious mind in your leadership and how it plays a role in your boundary-setting
Desires vs. goals, and exploring what you truly want
Breaking down the 3 components of The Law of Compensation so you can get the salary you deserve!
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Amira Alvarez:
- W: www.theunstoppablewoman.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theunstoppablewomanwithamiraalvarez/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alvarezamira
- Join Amira’s Retreat in 2024: The Exquisite Life Plan Event
- Listen to The Unstoppable Woman podcast: https://theunstoppablewoman.com/listen/
Amira’s current read: The Masculine in Relationship: A Blueprint for Inspiring the Trust, Lust, and Devotion of a Strong Woman, by G.S. Youngblood
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode176
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

What is at the center of your inclusion efforts, my love?

Let’s talk about how focusing on respect can propel your organization and team to their highest potential!

In today’s episode, I invite Dr. Gena Cox, trained organizational psychologist and executive strategist & coach, to have an important conversation about leadership and the power of respect as a workplace asset.

Ready for the heart-centered approach to inclusion that you’ve been searching for?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Gena’s career journey to organizational psychology
Why she focuses on respect as a KEY outcome
The challenges of the immigrant experience in the workplace
A VITAL leadership solution to bridging inclusion gaps
The practical reasons we should focus on DEI in our organizations
Respect - the 3 components & its importance as a corporate value
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest Gena Cox
- W: https://www.genacox.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genacox/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genacoxphd/
- Check out Gena’s Book Leading Inclusion.
Gena’s current read: The Mirrored Door by Ellen Taaffe
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode175
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Inheriting an underperforming team member is definitely a challenge, but don’t be discouraged - it is manageable!

Let’s talk about what to do when you inherit an underperformer.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into this true leadership topic and giving you my TOP TIPS for effectively managing your new team member so you can do what is best for your team and organization.

Ready to explore some performance improvement tools and the skills you need to make the best leadership decisions possible?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The MOST IMPORTANT things you need to know about inheriting an underperformer
Tackling problems quickly with your new team member
Dealing with gossip and holding off judgment
The importance of the observation stage & why documenting everything is vital
My TOP TIPS for an effective PIP (performance improvement plan) - and why this needs to be a last resort!
How to know if exiting the team member is the next necessary step
And more

Useful links

Want to learn more about your first 90 days in a new role? Check out Episode 148: Your First 90 Days in a New Role
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode174
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Does it feel like there’s only one path to landing your dream role? (hint: there are actually many, my love!)

Let’s talk about becoming a technical leader with the skills that actually light you up!

In today’s episode, I invite Global Information Security Leader & coach, Schlaine Hutchins, to share her unique journey into cybersecurity and how she became a tech leader - without learning to code! We dive into self-doubt & self-belief, managing vs. leading, and how to be better allies to women of color while creating our own unique paths to success.

Ready to carve your own way to tech leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Schlaine’s unique career journey to cybersecurity leadership
How you could be restricting your own career path - and what to do instead!
Normalizing self-doubt and working towards more self-belief in your life and career
The difference between management and leadership - and why we need both
Inclusivity in the tech industry & how we can be better allies
1 piece of advice if you’re looking to pivot in your career
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Schlaine Hutchins:
- W: https://www.tlifecoachllc.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schlainehutchins/
Schlaine’s current read: Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode173
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

One of the toughest things we are called to do in our leadership careers is to let somebody go from our team. And even though doing this very thing can be necessary to move us, our teams & our organizations forward - we can sometimes put it off for too long.

Let’s talk about how to know when it’s time to let someone go.

In today’s episode, I’m discussing the decision to let someone go, the mindset behind this decision, and the tools you need to make sure you’re doing it at the right time so you can achieve the most successful outcomes for you and your team.

Ready to take on this leadership challenge with more confidence?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to know when it’s time to let someone go (and why it’s important to get the timing right!)
The leadership mindset tools you need when making the decision to fire someone
Assessing performance vs. technical abilities
You’ve decided to let someone go, now what?
My TOP TIPS for delivering the bad news
How to handle the rebuilding phase and help your team recover from the loss
And more

Useful links

Catch the episode on how to handle layoffs here: Episode 154: The Two Sides of Layoffs: How to Pick Yourself Up After a Layoff (And Do It Well)
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode172
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you really want to improve your leadership, it’s time to LISTEN UP my love…

Let’s talk about why executives need to hear their team more!

In today’s episode, I invite senior leader & champion of the data world, Jenn Gionfriddo, to have an important conversation about why listening is so essential as an executive skill, the difference between listening and acquiesing, and the practical ways you can get better at really hearing what you need to from your team.

Ready to take a look at how much you’re really listening to your team?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jenn’s journey to running a data governance organization
Exploring how the skill of listening can uplevel your leadership
The KEY things you can do to be a better listener
Listening vs. Acquiescing
The negative impacts of not listening to your team (and how to know if you need to do some work here)
What “listen up” means to Jenn - and identifying ALL the pieces of listening
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest Jenn Gionfriddo:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gionfriddo/
Jenn’s current read: The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Mass
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode171
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Does it really have to be lonely at the top?

Let’s talk about what causes this feeling of loneliness in leadership - and what we can do about it!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into loneliness at the top, why it’s such a common challenge for female tech leaders, and how to make sure it doesn’t slow down your career growth. Ready to ditch the loneliness and step fully into the leader you were born to be?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Does it have to be lonely at the top?
The BIGGEST reasons why leaders feel lonely at the top
1 reason that leaders get coaches
My TOP TIPS for overcoming leadership loneliness
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode170
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Calling all my motivated tech leaders & aspiring female founders!! This one’s for you, my loves.

Let’s talk about why you should consider a combination of hard, soft & AI-enabled skills when developing your leadership toolkit!

In today’s episode, I invite the founder & CEO of Gleac, Sallyann Della Casa, for a powerful conversation on achieving your biggest tech goals. We discuss how she created the first marketplace in the world that actually allows us to use AI & human ingenuity as a service (amazing, right?) and how to position yourself to do big things too!

Ready to create your own journey to tech leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Sallyann’s career journey and surprising background before tech
Her BIGGEST tips for aspiring female founders
Finding success in the tech industry - and exploring how Sallyann achieved her patent!
How to turn your background into an asset for your next big career move (even if you don’t think you have the exact skills, degree, etc.)
The shift to AI - will you be replaced?
Sallyann’s #1 piece of advice if you’re considering a pivot or becoming a founder
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Sallyann Della Casa:
- SallyAnn’s book recommendation: Principles: Your Guided Journal by Ray Dalio
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallyanndellacasa/
- https://www.gleac.com/
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode169
Check us out on Youtube:
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Sallyann! Thank you Sallyann for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Imagine if your team was able to combine their skills & efforts toward common objectives with complete alignment and harmony. (Wouldn’t that be beautiful?)

Let’s talk about cooperation as a leadership trait!

In today’s episode, I discuss cooperative leadership, how to develop these skills in you (and your team!) to see more positive outcomes, and the core principles you can use to build collaborative teams that will increase their output & productivity beyond what you can imagine!

Ready to be the leader who values every voice and fosters cooperative behavior & collective success?

Let's go to the show!

I dive into:

Cooperative leadership - what it is & how to develop these skills!
Healthy & unhealthy tension in teams
The difference between cooperation & compliance
Multi-developmental cooperation
The BIGGEST benefits of cooperative leadership
3 steps to building your cooperative leadership skills
And more

Useful links

Need to learn more about Active Listening? Head over to episode 158: https://tonicollis.com/episode158
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode168
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you’re ready to bust through the glass ceiling & take your rightful place as a lit-up leader in the tech industry (or help others do the same) - this one’s for you, my love!

Let’s talk about the state of women in tech & cybersecurity, and what we as leaders can be doing about it.

In today’s episode, I invite Executive Director of Women in Cybersecurity (WICYS), Lyyn Dohm, to share her experience as a leading woman in tech and how she successfully navigates leading with inclusion, equity & allyship.

Ready to find out what you can do as a leader to actually move inclusion efforts forward?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Lynn’s career journey & experience in cybersecurity
KEY findings from the WICYS State of Inclusion Assessment
Why we should STOP obsessing about policy to address DEI (and what to do instead!)
Utilizing mentorship if you’re experiencing exclusion in your tech leadership career
What to do now if you’ve done all the right things, but you’re still not advancing!
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Lynn:
- https://www.wicys.org/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynndohm?trk=people-guest_people_search-card&original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fpub%2Fdir%3FfirstName%3Dlynn%2B%26lastName%3Ddohm%26trk%3Dpeople-guest_people-search-bar_search-submit
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynn_dohm/status/1314013228809289730
Read: WiCyS State of Inclusion
Lynn’s current read: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High by Kerry Patterson, Stephen R. Covey, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode167
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Lynn. Thank you Lynn for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Does ambition cause burnout?

Let’s talk about your ambition - and how to navigate the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

In today’s episode, I discuss “The Ambition Gap” and how it could be leading to burnout in your career journey. I dive into what “The Ambition Gap” is, how your fear/stress plays a role, and the steps you can take to avoid burnout on the way to achieving your biggest goals.

Your ambition is beautiful, my love - ready to fully embrace it?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The Ambition Gap - what it is & how it affects burnout
High ambition, good or bad?
THREE steps to avoiding burnout in the Ambition Gap
Time spent doing vs. thinking
A mindset shift you can make to help you embrace your ambition
And more

Useful links

Join us inside Ignite Coach Academy - training kicks off on September 18th: https://www.tonicollis.com/coachacademy
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode166
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether your goal is to become a better leader, to become a coach full-time, or to use coaching alongside your leadership in business and in life - this one’s for you!

Let’s talk about how training to be a coach can uplevel your tech leadership.

In today’s episode, I invite three powerful tech leaders, Helen Fanucci, Megan Walsh, and Kathryn Vandiver, to share their experiences with training to be coaches, why they decided to do it, and how they’re leveraging this skill in their leadership & personal lives.

Ready to hear more about how coaching can truly impact your leadership & career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Training as a coach and what it can do for your leadership
Understanding when to hold space vs. solve a problem
The powerful RNF Framework - and what it can do for your team!
Some of the BIGGEST changes they’ve seen in themselves as a result of training as coaches
Coaching vs. mentoring vs. teaching
The #1 piece of advice you need to hear if you’re on the fence about adding coaching to your toolkit (x3!)
And more

Useful links

Connect with this week’s guests:
- Megan Walsh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-kay-walsh/
- Helen Fanucci LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenfanucci/
- Kathryn Vandiver LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynvandiver/
Megan’s current read: The 12-Hour Walk: Invest One Day, Conquer Your Mind, and Unlock Your Best Life by Colin O’Brady
Helen’s current read: The Quinn Essentials for Women: 9 Transformational Tools to Accomplish Anything by Andrea Quinn
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode165
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

We’ve been exploring the idea of coaching for a while on the podcast, but this week we’re wrapping it up with an episode on taking action!

Let’s talk about exploring your calling and asking yourself - is coaching the next addition to my leadership career?

In today’s episode, I dive into how to take action whether you’re exploring coaching, considering its application in your current role, or looking to start a new career! I’m sharing the power of the coaching tool, what the journey to becoming a coach might look like for you, and some of the most important pieces to consider along the way.

Ready to dig a bit deeper and explore coaching as a possible calling?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Exploring coaching as a possible calling - and taking action!
What to consider if you’re thinking about becoming a coach
Mentoring vs. coaching vs. teaching
What training to be a coach could look like for you!
One of the MOST IMPORTANT facets of coaching
Choosing the right coaching program for YOU
And more

Useful links

If you’d like to train as a coach, find out more and sign-up at https://www.tonicollis.com/coachacademy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode164
Check us out on Youtube:
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You know how passionate we are around here about representation and inclusivity!

Let’s talk about what it really means to be an inclusive anti-racist leader this week on Leading Women in Tech!

In today’s episode, I invite my racial equity coach & consultant, Annie Gichuru, to have an incredibly important conversation around representation through the racial justice lens and what we as leaders need to change to meet the needs of our community and organizations.

Ready to take a look at your anti-racism and bring more inclusivity to your leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Annie’s journey to becoming a racial equity coach
The level of safety needed to do this work & how white fragility can play a role
Anti-racism: why “not being racist” isn’t enough
Where we’re going wrong as a culture with organizations & the DEI component (and what to do about it)
How companies can get started on the anti-racist journey
Practical TIPS you can start using TODAY to build a more equitable & diverse team
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Annie:
- Web: https://anniegichuru.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniegichuru/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annie.gichuru/
- Download Annie’s FREE Racial Awareness Glossary with 20 must-know terms to deepen your self-awareness and empower you on your journey. This glossary doesn’t just give you the meaning of the most important words you need to know but it also gives you the history, who coined some of the terms and the instances where particular terms may have been misused: https://anniegichuru.com/glossary/
Annie’s current read: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode163
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Coaching is not just about your team doing better, it’s about what happens inside of YOU.

Let’s talk about what happens when you start using coaching in your leadership & how it actually makes you better at what you do!

In today’s episode, I dive into the impact of coaching on YOU, some practical ways you can become a better leader, and why this is one skill you don’t want to overlook in your career.

Ready to coach your way to being a better leader?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What the skill of coaching is doing for YOU, and as a result, your leadership!
How to “self-coach” through things like imposter syndrome & other limiting beliefs
The BIGGEST reasons why having a coach is a total non-negotiable in my career
How to use my “Reverse Neutral Forward” framework to uplevel your leadership
My mindset tip to help you when you’re team is frustrating you
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to take the leap and train as a coach, then don’t forget you can get early bird pricing until August 7th when prices go up! https://www.tonicollis.com/coachacademy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode162
Check us out on Youtube:
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Why is a diverse workplace such an important goal to achieve?

Let’s talk about diversity in the workplace, how you can be part of building it, and why you should!

In today’s episode, I invite executive, entrepreneur & tech thought leader, Masha Sharma, to share her wisdom on DEI, how she turned lowlights in her career into opportunities, and embracing adversity to build more diversity in the workplace.

Ready to learn more about DEI and how to improve your workplace & career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Building diversity in the workplace - how to do it and why we should
Masha’s career journey and learning to embrace adversity to find success
Where we get it wrong when building diversity of thought in the workplace (and how to fix it!)
How her company, Avenue One, is doing DEI differently
Masha’s favorite mindset tip
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Masha Sharma:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mashasharma/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/avenue1/
- https://www.avenue.one/
Check out Masha’s current read:
- Nothing is Dripping on Us, Eva Knox
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode161
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Masha Sharma. Thank you Masha for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Is your leadership toolkit missing something?

Let’s talk about why coaching should be part of your leadership skillset - and how it can help you elevate your team & their potential!

In today’s episode, I discuss why coaching is so powerful for your team, how to integrate it into your leadership strategy, and the 2-part framework you can use to see BIG shifts in your team dynamics & success.

Ready to use coaching in your leadership journey?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Using coaching as a leadership tool to elevate your team
Coaching in the context of professional development
My 2-part coaching framework and how you can use it to be a better leader & get BIG results from your team
Coaching your team while supporting individual development
Fostering belonging & motivation through the skill of coaching
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode160
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether you’re preparing to go on maternity leave, you’re currently on leave, or you’re getting ready to return to work - it’s normal to feel a bit of overwhelm, or even panic. (But it doesn’t have to be that way, my love!)

Let’s talk about some of the best ways you can support yourself as a new parent in the workplace.

In today’s episode, Rachel Morris, maternity coach and founding partner of Motion Learning, joins me to discuss parenting, the world of work, and how to mesh the two. We discuss navigating the 3 phases of becoming a new mother in the workplace, and the helpful & actionable tips you need to set yourself up for a successful return to work.

Ready to treat this as a new start that will actually set you up for the lit-up career you dream of?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The 3 phases of becoming a new parent in the workplace - and navigating them to set yourself up for success!
Why Rachel suggests you treat your return to work as a new start
Her TOP TIPS for staying in control of your career during your time off
Cultural pressures around returning to work after having a baby
Advice to help you make the case to get parental coaching in your workplace
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Rachel Morris:
- rachel@motionlearning.com
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmorrismotionlearning/
Check out Rachel’s recent read: Dare to be Fair by Amanda Redman
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode159
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Rachel. Thank you Rachel for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Do you believe in the power of coaching? (If not, I’m ready to convince you, my love!)

Let’s talk about how even the simplest coaching approaches can unlock the enormous potential of your team!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the fascinating world of team performance and how leveraging coaching can really elevate your team’s performance. I discuss the value of coaching in the workplace, some of the fundamental coaching approaches you can use, and ways to overcome the challenges that can come up when incorporating coaching into your team dynamics.

Ready to bring this powerful journey to your team?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The power of coaching to unleash your team’s highest performance
KEY aspects of coaching & their value in the workplace
A useful breakdown of some fundamental coaching approaches so you can implement them with your team
Common challenges when incorporating coaching into team dynamics (and how to face them!)
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode158
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Most people don’t realize this, but how you respond in a crisis can actually make or break your career.

Let’s talk about how to shine in a crisis so you can elevate your leadership skills and build the standout career you desire!

In today’s episode, I invite Chief Operating Officer at Avant, Margaret Hermes, to have an important conversation about crisis management. We dig into the mindset & strategy tools you need to shine in a crisis and why crises can actually be good for our careers. (Yes, it’s true!)

Let’s face it, work crises are inevitable - are you ready to shine during the next one?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Margaret’s career journey & building her ability to really shine in a crisis
The planning, strategy & mindset tools you need to stand out as an amazing leader in your next crisis at work
Typical crisis behavior (and ways to uplevel your own)
Why crises are actually good for our careers!
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Margaret Hermes:
- W: https://www.avant.com/
- LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-hermes-neiman-8b47729/
- Check out Avant’s People Blog at: https://www.avant.com/blog/category/avant/
Margaret’s current read:
- Scaling People by Claire Hughes Johnson
- Surrender by Bono
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode157
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Margaret Hermes. Thank you Margaret for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Calling all my recovering people-pleasers who struggle with saying NO…this one’s for you, my loves!

Let’s talk about “the art of saying no” and how it can elevate your leadership & career.

In this episode, I’m talking all about saying no (something I’ve struggled with so much in my life & career!) and the most important things I’ve learned along the way to help you break the patterns that are holding you back from career success.

Ready for the tips you need to say no with grace & confidence so you can say YES to the things that are going to move the needle in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Learning “the art of saying no” so you can elevate your leadership & career
Why you might need to say NO to your own ideas
How imposter syndrome might be holding you back from saying “no” - and how to tackle this
The MOST common examples of saying “yes” to the wrong things
My favorite TIPS for saying “no” with grace & confidence
Determining the right things to say YES to
And more

Useful links

Need help ditching self doubt and impostor syndrome? Sign up for my free mini course here: https://tonicollis.com/dtsd
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode156
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Is it necessary to develop your thought leadership if you want to go further in your career? (The answer is most likely yes, my love!)

Let’s talk about why you should be focusing on thought leadership & how you can get started in making it a part of your career strategy.

In today’s episode, I invite Thought Leadership Publicist, Claire Mason, to share her passion & strategies for helping you get your voice out there & how to become more visible so you can make a bigger impact. We discuss what thought leadership really is, why it matters so much for your career, and some of Claire’s BIGGEST TIPS to help you get started on your thought leadership journey.

Ready to see the results in your career that you’ve been dreaming of?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How thought leadership can actually uplevel your leadership journey & career!
Getting visible - do we need to share our personal lives as much as the business side?
The commonalities between thought leadership & personal branding (and some misunderstandings to avoid)
What to do if you are a reluctant poster, but want to get more visible online
3 TOP TIPS for getting started in your thought leadership journey
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Claire Mason:
- https://www.clairemason.co/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-mason-thoughtleadership/
Claire’s current read: The Buddha in Me, The Buddha in You: A Handbook for Happiness by David Hare
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode155
Check us out on Youtube.
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Claire Mason. Thank you Claire for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Whether you’re the one being laid off or you’re the leader given the task of laying off team members - this will definitely be a stressful time. But don’t worry my love, because there are ways to navigate this situation with confidence & grace, no matter what side you’re on!

Let’s talk about the two sides of layoffs, the tools you need to navigate them effectively, and what you can do afterward to keep momentum in your career.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my favorite tools & tips around the layoff process, what you should avoid, how to manage the harder bits, and the most important ways you can pick yourself up so you can treat this as a growth moment in your career.

Ready to find a path forward after a layoff?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Handling layoffs effectively, from both sides!
How to deal with the initial news so you don’t make things worse
What to be especially cautious about as a leader during this time
Practical tips for having the layoff conversation as the manager
Important steps to take AFTER the layoffs
My favorite tools to help you pick yourself up after being laid off (you’re not alone, my love!)
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode154
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/tZUBmW6qSSs
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ready to learn your Rebel ABCs?

Let’s talk about how to become more of a rebel in your leadership and the anti-oppressive leadership skills you need to do the right things - even when they’re hard.

In today’s episode, I invite leadership coach, expert facilitator, and inclusion specialist, Debbie Danon, to talk to us all about anti-oppressive leadership and how to develop the leadership skills and mindsets you need to spark and sustain positive change in your team and organization.

Ready to develop some rebel authenticity, balance & courage?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Debbie’s career highlights & lowlights
The Rebel ABCs - and why you want to learn them!
Being anti-oppressive in your leadership & how this relates to rebel courage
Using the 5 A’s of Accountability to spark positive change in the workplace
A mindset shift you can make around questions of strategy vs. integrity
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Debbie Danon:
- www.debbiedanon.com
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-danon-a8450015/
- Read Debbie’s blog with a poem ‘Dilemmas of Strategy vs. Integrity: When to stick and when to quit’: https://www.debbiedanon.com/blog/strategy-or-integrity-aka-knowing-when-to-quit
Debbie’s current read: Kindred by Octavia Butler
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode153
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/qCoP85_ixkc
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Debbie Danon Thank you Debbie for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

If you’re on your way to becoming an executive (that’s you, my love), now’s the time to get better at giving feedback.

Let’s talk about how to give proper feedback so you can foster growth & success in your team, organization & your own career!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the very important responsibility of providing feedback as a leader and how to create a culture of feedback in your team & organization. I share the 5 BIGGEST feedback mistakes to avoid, why informal feedback is your secret weapon, and the practical ways you can get better at this skill to help your team grow and thrive.

Ready to get more comfortable with giving feedback?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to give proper feedback to foster growth & success in your team
The different types of feedback - and why they matter!
5 IMPORTANT feedback mistakes I want you to avoid
How to give constructive feedback that actually helps
What to do AFTER delivering feedback
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode152
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/qOaOK-RSBWo
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Your femininity is a leadership advantage, my love - not something you need to get rid of!

Let’s talk about how embracing your femininity can really deliver for you as a leader.

In today’s episode, I invite Annie Raygoza, Director of Client Services at Clear Digital, to share her passion for women being women in the workplace. We dig into how femininity is truly a leadership advantage, the cultural shifts we’re seeing in the workplace as a result of more women in leadership, and how to get more vulnerable in your career and become a better ally for other women on your way to the top.

Ready to find out how far your femininity can take you?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Annie’s career journey lowlights & highlights
Embracing your femininity as one of your most POWERFUL leadership tools
How you might be sacrificing your femininity to gain traction (and why you want to stop!)
The ways you can use allyship to build yourself and others up in the workplace
Annie’s BEST advice to help you to lean into your femininity and achieve your next career goal
And more

Useful links

Find out more about today’s guest and sponsor, Annie Raygoza:
- Website: https://www.cleardigital.com/
- Follow Annie at:
  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annieraygoza/
  - Medium: https://medium.com/@Annie.Raygoza
Annie’s current read: Horse by Geraldine Brooks
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode151
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/MGZ-Q-Yxmk8
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Annie Raygoza. Thank you Annie for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Are you dreading another difficult conversation at work? We’ve all been there! While plenty of executive conversations can be upbeat and collaborative, having uncomfortable conversations is simply part of the high-level leadership role.

You need to be prepared and confident going into these conversations if you want them to be successful. (If you’re not feeling that way, don’t worry my love. I’ve got you covered!)

Let’s talk about how you can approach uncomfortable or difficult conversations to set yourself apart as a standout leader (and actually further your career)!

In today’s episode, I dive into holding difficult conversations, how to develop this essential skill for your leadership toolkit, and how to actually use these conversations for your own growth & development.

Ready for the shift you need to start having these conversations successfully & with ease?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My favorite ways to successfully prepare for your next tough conversations at work
How great executive leaders view difficult conversations - and how this shift can uplevel your career
Why you should be prepared to talk about these conversations in your next interview
Examining your fear of uncomfortable conversations (and how to practically work through it)
Preparing a successful mindset for your next difficult conversation
How you can use my executive presence technique to help tackle fear
And more

Useful links

If you need to uplevel your Executive Presence then don’t forget you can get a quick-start boost with my mini-course on Executive Presence at https://tonicollis.com/ep.
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode150
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/phmrcZj5ysA
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Is work working for you?

Let’s talk about what’s wrong in the workplace for us as women, and more importantly - what we can actually do about it.

In today’s episode, I invite team builder, best-selling author & amazing tech leader, Helen Fanucci, to share her wisdom on where the workplace is failing us as women and ways to make sure we thrive in increasingly hybrid environments. We discuss her best advice to help you navigate male-dominated spaces and the BIGGEST things you can do to remove any obstacles in your way to landing your dream leadership role & building a high-performance team.

Ready to bust through those blocks and reach your highest leadership potential?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Helen’s career journey, from MIT-trained engineer to sales executive
An IMPORTANT TIP to help you actually get what you want in negotiations
The secret to delivering high performance from your teams
Outcome-based expectations in a hybrid/remote world
The KEY leadership skills you need more of if you want to uplevel your career
Addressing the gender gap in senior leadership
Removing obstacles for female leaders on the way to the C-suite
Helen’s FAVORITE mindset tip to help leaders
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Helen Fanucci:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenfanucci/
- Get Helen’s book: Love your team: a survival guide for sales managers in a hybrid world
Helen’s current read: Excellence Now: Extreme Humanism by Tom Peters
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode149
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/aoZAsUvi9_g
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Excellence Now: Extreme Humanism

None

Those first 90 days in a new role really do matter, my love. It’s VITAL to take ownership over this time to secure a successful transition.

Let’s talk about the tools you need to have a successful 90 days in your new role!

In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into those first 90 days and giving you SIX KEYS to a successful transition so you can keep momentum, land some early wins & set yourself up for success in your new role (and the rest of your career).

Ready for the tools you need for a well-planned first 90 days?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Planning for success in your first 90 days in a new role
How to collapse the timeline for delivering success (from 12 months to no more than 6!)
Gaining support from colleagues during the transition period
Why your first recruiter screening is a piece of the 90-day strategy
6 KEYS to thriving in your first 90 days
How to navigate early wins (and what to avoid!)
A breakdown of what you should be focusing on in months 1, 2 & 3
And more

Useful links

Learn more about your Career North Star in Episode 132: https://tonicollis.com/episode132
Want to learn more about becoming a coach? Find out more about Ignite Coaching Academy here: https://tonicollis.com/ignite-coach-academy
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode148
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/5ppcjT_d0Og
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether it’s a promotion or a new job or project, having a plan & setting the tone early will be KEY to finding success in your new role.

Let’s talk about the plan you need for transitioning into your new role, my love - especially in those first 90 days!

In today’s episode, I invite two amazing women from the Lit Up Leadership Academy, Kelly Bristol and Megan Walsh, to discuss transitioning, and in particular, how to prepare for & navigate your first 90 days in a new role.

Ready for the game-changing insights you need to plan for your next transition?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

A framework to help you prepare for the first 90 days in a new role so your leadership can shine!
Kelly & Megan’s career journeys to senior leadership
Why Megan didn’t want to go into people management (and what changed)
Leaning into strategic planning for your next transition
Kelly & Megan’s TOP TIPS to help you thrive when starting a new role
How your stakeholders can play a role in your career transition strategy
Setting expectations for your first 90 days & how to navigate “fitting into a box” in your new role
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guests Kelly Bristol and Megan Walsh on LinkedIn:
- Kelly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-bristol-20b/
- Megan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-kay-walsh/
Kelly and Megan’s book recommendations:
- The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
- The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode147
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/9mEpCsya44U
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Congratulations, you’re the boss! (But now what?)

Let’s talk about the complicated transition from being a peer - to being the boss!

In today’s episode, I discuss the internal promotion transition, the biggest blocks to avoid, and how you can navigate this shift and come out to the other side as an extraordinary, standout leader.

Ready for the tools you need to effectively transition from peer to boss?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The unique challenges of an internal promotion vs. starting at a new company
When to communicate your vision & strategy (and why this is so important)
Dealing with friends in the workplace as the new boss
What I want you to be really cautious with in your 1st month
Tackling resentment with the employee(s) who didn’t land your role
Why change management needs to start day one
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode146
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/irlYITZwWQ4
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you focusing enough on career strategy, my love?

Let’s talk about how you can build a successful career strategy - and use it to land your next dream role!

In today’s episode, I invite career strategist and interview coach, Julia Holian, to share some of her favorite tips and tools for building a career strategy that will elevate your leadership and help you gain the confidence, agility, and networking skills you need in your tech career.

Ready to dig in & build a career strategy that will take you to the next level?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Career strategy - what it really is, and why you need one!
Why you need to network your way to an executive role
The elements of career strategy and which one will help you navigate bumps in the road in your career
How confidence & career strategy are linked
Why developing your professional brand is essential for your career trajectory
The #1 piece of advice Julia has for you, my lovely woman in tech!
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Julia Holian:
- Website: www.holianassociates.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaholian/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuliaHolian
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_nsZ9gbm8yoegfo0Ks1O-Q
Julia’s current read: A Thousand Miles to Freedom: My Escape from North Korea by Eunsun Kim
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode145
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/yxyq_NmzeMg
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Many of us resist time management tactics, but be careful my love! If you’re not being proactive about your time as a leader - your team (and your career) can suffer.

Let’s talk about how to use time management to increase your productivity & effectiveness as a leader and achieve more - without working more!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my 4 principles of time management for exceptional leaders, how you can use these tools to get your time management back on track, and why improving this leadership skill will be time well spent for your career.

Ready for the time management and productivity techniques that are going to set you up for long-term success?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Improving your time management skills to uplevel your leadership (and how you can begin today!)
My 4 principles of time management for exceptional leaders
Why it’s so common to resist time management & why you need to stop
How to practice “using your time” so you can get better at it
The ONE question I ask all of my clients when we first start working together (and why it might help you STOP wasting time)
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode144
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/m8Uhm_GsPRQ

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

From humanitarian work to leadership coaching, this week’s guest, Ghaz, is an incredible force for amplifying women’s voices in the workplace & championing the role of community in the leadership journey.

Let’s talk about how you can use the tools of building a community & honoring the deep humanity in yourself and your team to thrive in your career!

In today’s episode, I invite Ghaz Samandari Ph.D., Team and Culture Change Coach & founder of 9Paths, to share her wisdom on the role of community in your leadership journey - why it isn’t simply team building, the organizational benefits it provides, and how to center the human experience in your leadership so you can foster safety & success in your team.

Ready to learn more about why community is a necessity & how to build more of it?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Ghaz’s background - leaving Iran and her passion for increasing access for women & girls to healthcare
Community as a necessity in the workplace (and how it differs from team-building)
The BIGGEST benefits of creating a great community in an organization
How burnout & a health crisis led to her career transition
Powerful leadership tools: coaching and naming
How you can better amplify underheard voices at work
Ghaz’s TOP TIPS for fostering psychological safety at work
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest and sponsor, Dr. Ghaz Samandari:
W: www.9pathsdevelopment.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ghaz-samandari-phd-4325451/
Find out more about Ghaz’s collection: www.covncollective.com
Ghaz’s current read:: Rest is resistance by Tricia Hersey
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech:

https://www.tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode143
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/pRX69DY34Xk
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This episode was sponsored by our guest, Dr. Ghaz Samandari. Thank you Ghaz for helping to bring Leading Women in Tech to this community!

Do you ever hear a negative voice in the back of your head? You know the one.

The voice that nags you when you look in the mirror or when you’re presenting at work. The voice that doubts who you are, your accomplishments, or that you can even achieve your dreams?

This is an attack by your inner critic, my love! Let’s talk about how I can help you tame it.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into your inner critic, how it could be holding you back, and some of my favorite ways to help you tame it so you can avoid it getting in the way of your career success.

Ready to learn more about your inner critic and the tools you need to quiet it down?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The inner critic & my favorite tools to help you tame yours
My hot take on the inner critic as a catalyst for better performance (hint: I don’t agree!)
What happens when we try to fight our inner critical voice (and what to do instead)
My favorite tools to help you recognize when your inner critic is kicking in
The relationship between imposter syndrome & your inner critic (they are NOT one and the same)
A core executive presence technique to help you build self-awareness
The data you need to help you make a “trigger plan” & why I suggest having one
Reframing & my favorite ways to do it with your inner critic
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech:

https://www.tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode142
Check us out on Youtube: https://youtu.be/GLRvgJ-j60w

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Confidence, support & boundaries - are you getting what you need at work?

Let’s talk about how to create a career that you love as a woman in tech!

In today’s episode, I invite my dear friend, mentor, and SVP at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Trish Damkroger, to talk to us about her career journey, her incredible work with HPC & supercomputing, and her favorite advice and tools for elevating your leadership.

Ready to learn more about the mindset & strategy you need to thrive at work?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Trish’s career journey, finding her sweet spot & her executive position at Hewlett Packard Enterprise
What HPC/supercomputing is all about - and why she’s so passionate about it!
Her secret sauce for keeping her head above water in a male-dominated industry
Evaluating your boss/peers/network for drains & toxicity and some TIPS for creating healthy boundaries at work if you don’t want to leave your job
Trish’s confidence toolkit - and how to build yours
Her TOP advice to help you land sponsors & your next leadership role!
And more

Useful links

Join us for some inspiring talks on International Women’s Day — registration is free but places are limited. Register at tonicollis.com/iwd
Connect with today’s guest Trish Damkroger at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishdamkroger/
Email: trish@hpe.com
Trish’s current book:
When Women Lead — Julia Boostin
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech:

https://www.tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode141

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

“Quiet quitting” is trending…but what is it really?

Let’s talk about quiet quitting and what it really means for us as individuals and leaders in the workplace.

In today’s episode, I’m exploring the quiet quitting concept and how you can positively navigate it in your career. I dive into the pros & cons, the signs to look out for, and how to lead you/your team if you think this trend is becoming a barrier or block to your leadership.

Ready to have a conversation around effort, boundaries & the way we think about work?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Quiet quitting - good or bad?
Toxic leadership behavior & its impact on this trend
Exploring your own boundaries at work
The positive lessons of the quiet quitting concept
What to do if you think you/your team is quiet quitting (and how to recognize it)
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, become an extraordinary leader and shortcut your way to success find out more about Lit Up Leadership Academy at: https://tonicollis.com/academy
Get ready to join us on Youtube! We’ll be on Youtube for the podcast from episode 142 onwards. Follow Toni at: https://www.youtube.com/@tonicollis
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode140

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Do you know what isn’t talked about enough, my love? How to actually enjoy the journey to the c-suite.

Let’s talk about how to climb the leadership ladder - and thrive as you’re doing it!

In today’s episode, I invite extraordinary coach, Tracy Crossley, to share her insights on leadership, mindset, and the practical steps you can take to feel more empowered as you enjoy the journey to breaking that glass ceiling!

Ready for the tools you need to make climbing the leadership ladder easier?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Tracy’s career journey and getting into entrepreneurship as a kid
Attachment theory and its relationship to our careers as women in tech
How overachieving may be holding you back from climbing the corporate ladder
Unconscious bias v. Unhelpful conditioning - which one is holding you back?
The self-determination theory & how it can help you uplevel your career
Tracy’s 3 steps to help you feel more empowered at work and thrive on your way to the c-suite!
And more

Useful links

Connect with today’s guest, Tracy Crossley, and find out more about her work at:
- W: https://tracycrossley.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracycrossley/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracylcrossley/
- Tracy’s current read: The Power of Eight by Lynne Mctaggart
- If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode139

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

The Power of Eight: Harnessing the Miraculous Energies of a Small Group to Heal Others, Your Life, and the World

Did you know that every great boss you’ve ever had most likely had great facilitation skills?

Let’s talk about being a great discussion facilitator & why strengthening this skill will uplevel your ability to lead and set you up for executive success!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into what makes a great facilitator, why you need this skill to achieve success in your leadership career, and how to effectively facilitate so that your team feels heard & empowered to make decisions, solve problems, and reach their goals!

Ready to add facilitation to your leadership toolkit?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What makes a great facilitator & how to develop these skills
When you should be facilitating more than leading
How to effectively facilitate a discussion at work so you & your team see results
Why you need to be an interrupter as a facilitator (and my favorite tip to help!)
My BIGGEST mindset tip to help you become an amazing discussion facilitator
And more

Useful links

If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech:

https://www.tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode138

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you negotiating what you’re really worth at the job offer and/or promotion stage of your career?

Let’s talk about negotiation as a fundamental part of your leadership toolkit!

In today’s episode, I’m delighted to be joined by Claudia Miller, career coach for women in tech & champion for women looking to land fulfilling jobs at the senior level. We discuss building a case for promotion, developing high-value skills so you can get paid more, and how you can leverage salary negotiations & build a strategy that truly uplevels your career!

Ready to dive into salary negotiation 101 & the tools you need for success in your leadership journey?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How you can apply business strategy to landing your next big role or uplevel in your career
Creating a career success log - what it’s for & why you need one!
Steps you can take to improve your salary & compensation negotiations
Why you might want to STOP being humble at work
Building the high-value skills you need to get paid more in your career
Where to start and some practical steps to help you build a case for promotion
Claudia’s favorite mindset TIP to help you leverage salary negotiations to uplevel your leadership & become more strategy-based in your career
A very special FREEBIE to help you with your next salary negotiation
And more

Useful links

Find out more about Claudia Miller:
- W: https://www.claudiatmiller.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiatmiller/
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/claudiatmiller/"
- Grab a copy of Claudia’s $10K Salary Negotiation Script: https://keap.page/fxp705/10k-salary-negotiation-script.html
- Claudia’s book recommendations:
  - Secrets of Six-Figure Women: Surprising Strategies to Up Your Earnings and Change Your Life - Barbara Stanny
  - Value-Based Fees: How to Charge - and Get - What You're Worth - Alan Weiss
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode137

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Secrets of Six-Figure Women: Surprising Strategies to Up Your Earnings and Change Your Life

Value-Based Fees: How to Charge - and Get - What You're Worth

I know setting boundaries and structure in your life and career can feel a bit restricting, but the truth is - it actually sets you free, my love!

Let’s talk about boundaries and structure and how they give you the freedom you need to become the extraordinary leader, senior-level executive, or amazing individual contributor that can have real influence in your organization.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the ways you can implement more boundaries and structure in your life and career so you can free up your time, energy & capacity for the things that really matter and will move you forward.

Ready to give boundary setting a real go?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How boundaries & structure actually give you freedom!
Understanding what boundaries and structure REALLY are
What healthy boundaries help us avoid (and why you need them!)
The surprising things I put in my schedule & why
What to evaluate if you find yourself saying YES too often
My favorite mindset tip to help you with your boundaries around decision-making
And more

Useful links

Need tips on that to-do list? Check out Episode 104 Why You Need to Delete 80% of Your To-Do List.
If you are ready to uplevel your career, get unstuck or you are simply ready to unlock those leadership time-management techniques then join us in my monthly career & leadership coaching program exclusively for women in tech: https://www.tonicollis.com/academy
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode136

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Does what we wear as women really matter? My guest today has a lot to say on the matter and is sharing some new tools for your toolbox that might be worth investigating.

Let’s talk about your style and its impact on your ability to lead!

In today’s episode, I invite Image Consultant Melanie Lippman to talk to us about this (sometimes controversial) topic and how your personal brand & image can help you succeed as a woman in a male-dominated field.

Ready for the practical tools you need to walk into any room with confidence and achieve greatness in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How your personal style could be impacting your leadership
Answering the question - is clothing & style just another burden for us to bare as women?
Finding alignment between your wardrobe and goals and how this can help you uplevel your career
The concrete steps you can take TODAY to use your closet as a toolkit for advancing your career
Melanie’s favorite mindset tip to help you as a woman in a male-dominated field
And more

Useful links

Find out more about today’s guest, Melanie Lippman:
- Grab Melanie’s Free Closet Clarity Experience for Women in Leadership guide: https://pages.melanielippman.com/Podcast-Evergreen-SignUp
- Follow Melanie at:
  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/personalstylistmelanielippman/
  - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanielippman/
  - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/showupandbeseennow
  - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-UB93Mi3JYvu4vSjLyILkw
- Find out more about her work on Melanie’s website.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode135
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

This week’s episode is kindly supported by our guest, Melanie Lippman. We greatly appreciate the support she is giving us as it helps us bring you this podcast every week.

Managing your team’s performance is one of your most important tasks (and can often become a big challenge too). Understanding the psychological stages of group development and leading them through these stages effectively can be the KEY to achieving great team performance.

Not sure how to do that? I got you, my love!

Let’s talk about performance and how to use the storming, forming, norming & performing cycle to help your team achieve positive & impactful results!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into this 4-phase framework to help you understand group formation and the stages your team is going through so you can effectively lead them through ANY challenge that comes up.

Ready to help your team work together and move through these stages with ease?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 4-phase framework of Storming, Forming, Norming & Performing and how to use it to lead your team to better productivity and performance
Some of the negative aspects of team behavior you’ll see in phase 2 (and how to lead effectively during this phase)
How to move from the “storming” to “norming” phase faster
What to do if your team is regressing or stuck in one phase
My mindset tip to help you deal with team problems (and what to consider first!)
And more

Useful links

Sign up and join The Plan2023 Sparkle Workshop https://tonicollis.com/plan2023.
Interested in becoming a qualified coach? Check out Coach Academy: https://tonicollis.com/coachacademy.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode134

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

A lot of us have confidence when we’re young - to go for the goal, say the thing we’re thinking, and be who we are - but somewhere along the way (especially for young women) that assertiveness & confidence gets shut down.

So, how do we get that confidence back, navigate it without falling into the gender stereotype trap, and use it to become even better leaders?

Let’s talk assertiveness on this week’s show!

In today’s episode, I invite the amazing Courtney Johnston, SVP & Product Manager at Verituity, to share her passion for technology, product management, and leadership. We’re talking about what it means to be an assertive woman in tech and how you can navigate this in your career to uplevel your leadership, build better teams, and reach your goals!

Ready to learn more about assertiveness and its role in your executive presence?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Courtney’s career journey and why a small company with a great culture is so important to her
The connection between your physical presence & your leadership (and how this has shifted with more remote work environments)
Her BEST advice for solving problems that other people are NOT seeing!
How assertiveness & executive presence are linked
One of the apparent differences between being assertive & aggressive (and why we need to shut this down!)
How confidence, presence & gender stereotypes play a role in building thriving teams
Courtney’s FAVORITE networking tip
And more

Useful links

Find out more about today’s guest, Courtney Johnston, and her work at Verituity:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtj/
- https://verituity.com/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/verituity/
Sign up and join The Plan2023 Sparkle Workshop https://tonicollis.com/plan2023.
Interested in becoming a qualified coach? Check out Coach Academy:

https://tonicollis.com/coachacademy.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode133

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Do you have resolutions for the new year?

Maybe you’ve already planned out your health, money & mindset goals for 2023. Still, I want to talk about a topic that doesn’t get discussed often enough around goals for the new year - professional career-related resolutions.

Let’s talk about how to reevaluate your career goals and vision (and why finding your career North Star will be the vital piece!)

In this episode, I’m taking you through some steps to setting your own 2023 career North Star so you can see the most significant impact and results in your career this year.

Ready to find your guiding light and start taking more aligned action toward it?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to set your own 2023 career North Star so you can see bigger results this year!
Why we should care about our career North Stars if we want to see real progress toward our goals in 2023
Examining how well your personal & business North Stars align (and if they need to!)
How the journey to reaching your goals can help you figure out if your North Star is the right vision for YOU
A mindset tip to help you navigate changes in your vision
And more

Useful links

Sign up and join The Plan2023 Sparkle Workshop https://tonicollis.com/plan2023.
Interested in becoming a qualified coach? Check out Coach Academy: https://tonicollis.com/coachacademy.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode132

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are you a mentor or are you a champion?

Join us for the answer to that (and more!) as we kick off this year talking about careers, mentorship & upleveling your leadership!

In today’s episode, I invite tech leader & strategist, Bailey Showalter, to share her amazing insights on why women need to stop being mentors (I know it’s a little controversial, but stick with us!) and the real, tangible things that actually help people get hired into leadership roles.

Ready for the resume, mentorship & career transition goodies you need to make this year your best one yet?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Bailey’s career journey and some powerful insights on what really helps people get hired
Why you DO NOT have to start at the bottom of the ladder in your new role
One of the hardest shifts to make as a leader - and why you need to do it
How to shift THIS unhelpful trend in hiring to get a leg up on your competitors
The pros and cons of mentoring & how to be a champion v. a mentor
TOP TIPS for writing a better resume as a leader
Bailey’s #1 piece of advice if you’re considering your next leadership career move this year
And more

Useful links

Find out more about the 2023 Planning Challenge: https://tonicollis.com/plan2023
Find out more about today’s guest, Bailey Showalter:
- Connect with Bailey:
- Bailey’s book recommendations: The Earthsea Cycle Series by Ursula K LeGuin and Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
- Bailey’s TV series recommendation: available on Netflix Extraordinary Attorney Woo.
- Read Credly’s blog for hiring managers here.
Need help on your resume? Download the Women in Tech Leaders’ Resume Toolkit and training here.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode131

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Are there any leadership skills you need/want to work on going into the new year? Not sure where your weak spots are? (It’s okay, today’s episode can help!)

Let’s talk about the 10 different ways you can elevate your leadership, improve your skills, and really shine in your role this year!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 10 ways to shine when you take on a new leadership role & how you can use these to build a better team and identify the leadership areas that need improvement so you can go into 2023 with the confidence and ability to make it the best year ever!

Ready to really shine in your leadership this year?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

10 ways to shine when you take on a leadership role
The KEY to better, more thoughtful decisions (that will have your team fully onboard!)
One core leadership attribute you should NEVER stop utilizing
Why I want you to work on these 3 things every day
Limiting potential v. using your team well (and how to make the switch)
3 BONUS tips around mindset to help you sparkle in your new role
And more

Useful links

Need some help with your executive presence? Check out the mini course on Executive Presence here.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode130

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Is there a difference between management and leadership? Yes, my love! And how you navigate this difference and show up in your leadership career is massively important to have more influence and impact at work.

Let’s talk about crossing the chasm, moving from management into leadership!

In today’s episode, I invite engineering executive and cofounder of SheTO, Nidhi Gupta, to dive into this concept and talk to us about her extraordinary work in engineering and her passion for accelerating the careers and networks of women.

Ready for the tools you need to shift from simply managing your people to leading them powerfully and authentically?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Nidhi’s career journey and the work she’s doing with engineering leaders
3 steps to moving across the chasm from management to leadership
The pressure as women to show up 100% every day (is it the same for men?)
Her take on the KEY differences between management and leadership
How to evaluate your influence to make the shift from management to true leadership
Why you need to become a salesperson (and how to do it without that icky feeling)
Politics in the workplace, and some of the other unique challenges we face as women in leadership
And more

Useful links

Find out more about today’s guest, Nidhi Gupta, and her work at She-TO:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/nidhihgupta/
- https://twitter.com/NidhiGuptaSF
- https://www.divhersity.com
- And check out Nidhi’s book recommendations:
  - Exit West: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30688435-exit-west
  - Radical Candor: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29939161-radical-candor?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=ms6vtcSvSr&rank=1
Need some help with your executive presence? Check out the mini course on Executive Presence here.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode129

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

You made a mistake, now what?

Well, first things first - we don’t want to make it worse. And sometimes the feelings that come up when we make a mistake can throw us into a downward spiral that isn’t good for anyone.

So, let’s talk about the practical things you should do when you mess so you can see better outcomes.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into what you should do when you make a mistake at work and how to manage your emotions & actions to turn your ‘uh-oh’ into a positive experience (yes it’s possible, my love)!

Want to learn how to be the solutions person - even when you or your team created the problem?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My 5 quick tips to help you take ownership & move forward from a mistake
The fastest way to build a great team (and how this applies to your missteps)
How your career may suffer if you don’t face up to your mistakes at work
The 4 key steps to take when you actually CAN’T solve the problem
How to tap into the silver lining of your mess up (yes, there is one!)
And more

Useful links

Need some help with your executive presence? Check out the mini course on Executive Presence here.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode128

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether we’re talking about social, environmental, or fiduciary responsibilities, there’s a great discussion to be had around the impact of each - and how to lead our teams to prioritize and balance all three!

It’s time to talk about that triple bottom line.

In today’s episode, I invite mission-driven strategist & VP of Business Development and Healthcare, Urvashi Bhatnagar, to talk about leadership innovation in the healthcare sector, and everything from the environment and our social equity impact, our required corporate and fiduciary responsibilities, and how we can lead better in all these important areas to help each other - and the world.

Ready for a fascinating discussion on the intersection between our social and corporate responsibilities as leaders?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Urvashi’s career journey and mission for every company to understand the important responsibility towards human health
How considering the social, environmental & fiduciary factors as leaders can benefit your career and team
Corporate success & acknowledging the people who drive it - how this has shifted in the last decade
The intersection between healthcare sustainability and data analytics & the data-driven approach to “perks”
Why the worst & best piece of advice she’s ever been given were both around salary negotiation
And so much more

*Useful links*

Connect with today’s guest, Urvashi Bhatnagar:
- Connect with Urvashi at: - LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urvashibhatnagarmba/ - Twitter: : https://twitter.com/Urvi_Bhatnagar?lang=en
- Buy the book ‘The Sustainability Scorecard’: https://www.amazon.com/Sustainability-Scorecard-Implement-Unexpected-Solutions/dp/1523093781
https://tonicollis.com/episode127

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

None

Does it feel like you’re constantly defending yourself at work? This can turn into a downward spiral of defensiveness that can be very draining (for you and your team) and unhelpful for your career progress.

But did you know there are some tested tools and techniques to help you with this? (It’s true, my love - I’ve helped clients with this very thing!)

Let’s talk about what to do if you’re feeling defensive at work.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my biggest takeaways on defensiveness in the workplace - how it manifests in our leadership & teams, the psychology of what’s going on, and my favorite tips for tackling it.

Ready to break the cycle and feel calmer and happier in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The defensiveness spiral, what it is & how to shift out of it
My favorite tools and techniques for MORE collaboration and LESS defensiveness in your career
How unconscious bias & imposter syndrome are related and what to shift here to become less defensive
One of the BEST ways to diagnose defensiveness
My TOP TIPS to help you deal with difficult colleagues and react better to feedback & bad news
Why I want you to prioritize THIS for 1 month to tackle defensive behavior
And more

*Useful links*

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode126

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

The ability to reframe is a powerful tool. Did you know you can actually use it to become a better leader?

Let’s talk about the power of reframing and how you can shift your perspective to have a bigger, more positive impact on your team & career!

In today’s episode, I invite leadership coach, author, and keynote speaker, Lia Garmin (aka The Queen of Reframing), to share the practical ways you can use the art of reframing in your career to shift your thoughts, insights, and ideas to feel more optimistic about your work - and become a better leader.

Ready for the tool you need to help you and your team break through to that next level?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Lia’s career journey - leaving Google & the weeds of the corporate world to launch her consulting business (and why she loves working with teams in tech)
What reframing is, and some examples of how to use this tool in your career
How to use the lens of empathy to actually solve your problems faster!
Lia’s TOP TIPS to help improve your team’s overall performance
How to shape the narrative of your work - and why this will help you gain more traction
Why Lia thinks THIS could be the worst advice for your future career trajectory
And more

*Useful links*

Connect with today’s guest, Lia Garmin, at:
- W: https://www.liagarvin.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liagarvin/
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/lia.garvin
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode125
Want to learn more about positive psychology? Check out Episode 124 - How positive psychology can make you a better leader

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Part of your role as a leader is to care about your team’s performance, right? What if I told you there’s a proven way to build a happier and more optimistic team, and by extension, better performance?

Let’s talk about how positive psychology can make your team sparkle, and make YOU a better leader!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into positive psychology - what it is, its role in the workplace, and my TOP 7 TIPS for using it to build flourishing, enjoyable & productive teams and to uplevel your own leadership.

Ready for the positive psychology techniques you need to become a better leader?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Positive psychology - what it really is & how you can use it to uplevel your career
7 TIPS to help you roll out positive psychology in your daily leadership
Institutional positive psychology and its role in leadership & workplace culture
Helping your team build happiness and optimism (learned optimism is a thing, my love!)
And more

*Useful links*

Shortcut your route to Executive Presence success at https://tonicollis.com/ep
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode124

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Did you know that you can contribute to improving culture in the tech industry?

You absolutely can, my love! Let’s talk about the practical things you can do daily to create an extraordinary culture that lifts everyone up.

This week, I invite Jen Paxton, VP of People at Smile, HR/recruitment leader, and co-founder of Jamyr, to talk about people operations and how to create better cultures. Whether you’re a leader or head of people (like Jen!), this episode is gold if you want to foster a great culture of feedback, build great communities, and have a team that is working FOR you rather than against you.

Ready to build connections and relationships with people that will serve you, your organization, and your leadership career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jen’s career journey and passion for facilitating people ops in organizations
Transitioning from a support role to becoming a founder - why now, and how she did it!
The BIGGEST differentiator between tech and other industries when it comes to people operations
What you can do to make a positive impact if you’re seeing toxicity play out in your workplace (and how to know if it’s time to leave)
Jen’s TOP TIPS to improve the culture experience for your team
How you can leverage the people ops department in your organization to uplevel your leadership
Her BEST negotiation advice if you’re considering an offer right now (and why you want to leverage THIS)
And more

*Useful links*

Find out more about today’s guest, Jen Paxton, and connect with her:
- Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenpaxton/
- Find out more about Smile.io and jamyr.com
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode123

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Did you know that you can contribute to improving culture in the tech industry?

You absolutely can, my love! Let’s talk about the practical things you can do daily to create an extraordinary culture that lifts everyone up.

This week, I invite Jen Paxton, VP of People at Smile, HR/recruitment leader, and co-founder of Jamyr, to talk about people operations and how to create better cultures. Whether you’re a leader or head of people (like Jen!), this episode is gold if you want to foster a great culture of feedback, build great communities, and have a team that is working FOR you rather than against you.

Ready to build connections and relationships with people that will serve you, your organization, and your leadership career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jen’s career journey and passion for facilitating people ops in organizations
Transitioning from a support role to becoming a founder - why now, and how she did it!
The BIGGEST differentiator between tech and other industries when it comes to people operations
What you can do to make a positive impact if you’re seeing toxicity play out in your workplace (and how to know if it’s time to leave)
Jen’s TOP TIPS to improve the culture experience for your team
How you can leverage the people ops department in your organization to uplevel your leadership
Her BEST negotiation advice if you’re considering an offer right now (and why you want to leverage THIS)
And more

*Useful links*

Find out more about today’s guest, Jen Paxton, and connect with her:
- Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenpaxton/
- Find out more about Smile.io and jamyr.com
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode123

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Negotiation. (I know, even reading the word can bring some discomfort).

But no matter how you feel about it, great negotiation skills are a KEY to making sure you get what you need at work (and in life)!

So, whether negotiation stirs some major anxiety, or you’re simply looking to uplevel your skills - this one’s for you.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips & tools to help you get more comfortable with negotiation so you can get the things that you want. Ready to grab that senior-level position, get that well-deserved salary bump, or start negotiating deals like the amazing leader you are?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My TOP 4 tips to improve your actual negotiation skills
One KEY tactic in negotiating a salary bump
Creating a successful preparation process for any negotiation
A few things to remember that are true for ALL negotiations
My favorite mindset tip to help you with your next negotiation
And more

*Useful links*

Referenced Episode: 096: Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
Need to uplevel your emotional awareness, resilience and executive presence? Sign up for the Executive Presence Training Pack.
Interested in finding out more about Toni’s Monday Planning ritual? Join our monthly membership — Lit Up Leadership Academy — and start implementing it today (and get the coaching to help you stay on track).
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode122

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Negotiation. (I know, even reading the word can bring some discomfort).

But no matter how you feel about it, great negotiation skills are a KEY to making sure you get what you need at work (and in life)!

So, whether negotiation stirs some major anxiety, or you’re simply looking to uplevel your skills - this one’s for you.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips & tools to help you get more comfortable with negotiation so you can get the things that you want. Ready to grab that senior-level position, get that well-deserved salary bump, or start negotiating deals like the amazing leader you are?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My TOP 4 tips to improve your actual negotiation skills
One KEY tactic in negotiating a salary bump
Creating a successful preparation process for any negotiation
A few things to remember that are true for ALL negotiations
My favorite mindset tip to help you with your next negotiation
And more

*Useful links*

Referenced Episode: 096: Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
Need to uplevel your emotional awareness, resilience and executive presence? Sign up for the Executive Presence Training Pack.
Interested in finding out more about Toni’s Monday Planning ritual? Join our monthly membership — Lit Up Leadership Academy — and start implementing it today (and get the coaching to help you stay on track).
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode122

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether you’re in engineering, working alongside engineering teams, or you’re just looking to uplevel your career in tech - I have a treat for you this week, my love!

Today, I invite three extraordinary and powerful leaders in the tech industry to talk about their unique experiences building great engineering teams. Join us as Jossie, Kathryn & Sushma share their approaches to getting ahead as engineering leaders, and how to build better relationships with these important teams in your own organization.

Ready to learn more about how engineering interacts with the rest of the organization - and gain some powerful leadership tools along the way?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How these incredible women became VPs of engineering - and why they do what they do!
4 key metrics you can use to highlight how engineering is moving towards company goals
How to make sure the engineering team supports business strategy (even when the rest of the organization may not fully understand what they do!)
One VITAL piece to building good communication between engineering and the rest of the organization
Their BEST advice to help you on your path to VP!
And so much more!

*Useful links*

Book recommendations:
- Accelerate: Building and Scaling High Performing Technology Organizations, by Nicole Forsgren, Jez Humble & Gene Kim
- Team Topologies: Organizing Business and Technology Teams for Fast Flow by Matthew Skelton & Manuel Pais
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode121

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Whether you’re in engineering, working alongside engineering teams, or you’re just looking to uplevel your career in tech - I have a treat for you this week, my love!

Today, I invite three extraordinary and powerful leaders in the tech industry to talk about their unique experiences building great engineering teams. Join us as Jossie, Kathryn & Sushma share their approaches to getting ahead as engineering leaders, and how to build better relationships with these important teams in your own organization.

Ready to learn more about how engineering interacts with the rest of the organization - and gain some powerful leadership tools along the way?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How these incredible women became VPs of engineering - and why they do what they do!
4 key metrics you can use to highlight how engineering is moving towards company goals
How to make sure the engineering team supports business strategy (even when the rest of the organization may not fully understand what they do!)
One VITAL piece to building good communication between engineering and the rest of the organization
Their BEST advice to help you on your path to VP!
And so much more!

*Useful links*

Book recommendations:
- Accelerate: Building and Scaling High Performing Technology Organizations, by Nicole Forsgren, Jez Humble & Gene Kim
- Team Topologies: Organizing Business and Technology Teams for Fast Flow by Matthew Skelton & Manuel Pais
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode121

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ever felt frustrated by an executive decision that you didn’t understand? (I’ve been there, my love!)

Executive decision-making can be difficult to navigate. Whether you’re the executive who is making the decisions, an aspiring executive, or you’re simply working with them - there are ways to improve this process so it works for the entire team (and gets you further in your career)!

In today’s episode, I’m digging into how to better understand what’s driving executive decision-making and the areas to focus on so you can get better at interfacing with them, and even help them make better decisions that work for you!

Ready to improve cooperation, get rid of the confusion and frustration you’re feeling with your executives, and improve your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What could be driving the executive decision-making in your organization
My BEST TIPS for improving the decision-making process (whether you’re an executive, or just aiming to uplevel your career)
How to navigate a boss with a lack of confidence & exit strategy
The 4 different decision-making styles and how they can help you speak your executive’s language!
Some actions steps to take if you want to improve your decision-making as an executive
My BIGGEST mindset tip around executive decision-making
And more

*Useful links*

Join the Women Leader’s Empowerment Summit this week: https://bit.ly/wles2022
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode120

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Ever felt frustrated by an executive decision that you didn’t understand? (I’ve been there, my love!)

Executive decision-making can be difficult to navigate. Whether you’re the executive who is making the decisions, an aspiring executive, or you’re simply working with them - there are ways to improve this process so it works for the entire team (and gets you further in your career)!

In today’s episode, I’m digging into how to better understand what’s driving executive decision-making and the areas to focus on so you can get better at interfacing with them, and even help them make better decisions that work for you!

Ready to improve cooperation, get rid of the confusion and frustration you’re feeling with your executives, and improve your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What could be driving the executive decision-making in your organization
My BEST TIPS for improving the decision-making process (whether you’re an executive, or just aiming to uplevel your career)
How to navigate a boss with a lack of confidence & exit strategy
The 4 different decision-making styles and how they can help you speak your executive’s language!
Some actions steps to take if you want to improve your decision-making as an executive
My BIGGEST mindset tip around executive decision-making
And more

*Useful links*

Join the Women Leader’s Empowerment Summit this week: https://bit.ly/wles2022
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode120

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Struggling to find success AND joy in your career? It might be time to develop a new relationship with work & success.

(Because the truth is, my love, success is NOT a destination - it’s a feeling!)

Let’s talk about the “Success Wound” and the role it might be playing in your leadership and career.

In today’s episode, I invite career coach for conscious female leaders, Brooke Taylor, to dive into this powerful idea of the “Success Wound”, how it could be holding you, your team & your organization back from TRUE success, and the ways you can contribute to changing the corporate landscape for the better.

Ready to let go of the baggage and define success on your own terms?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Brooke’s career history and discovering what success means to her
The Success Wound - what it is & healing from it!
Some of the factors in sexual harassment going unaddressed in the workplace
Brooke’s corporate life, history with addiction, and her recovery
The #1 reason people left their jobs during the pandemic
How to identify your own success wound so you can find true success in your career
Brooke’s BEST mindset tip to help you in your leadership journey
And more

*Useful links*

Find out more and sign up for the Women’s Empowerment Summit at: https://offers.moiralethbridge.com/women-leader-empowerment-summit
Find out more about today’s guest Brooke Taylor at:
- W: www.brooketaylorcoaching.com
- IG: @brookevtaylor
- And get started with her unstuck guide at www.brooketaylorcoaching.com/unstuck
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode119

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Struggling to find success AND joy in your career? It might be time to develop a new relationship with work & success.

(Because the truth is, my love, success is NOT a destination - it’s a feeling!)

Let’s talk about the “Success Wound” and the role it might be playing in your leadership and career.

In today’s episode, I invite career coach for conscious female leaders, Brooke Taylor, to dive into this powerful idea of the “Success Wound”, how it could be holding you, your team & your organization back from TRUE success, and the ways you can contribute to changing the corporate landscape for the better.

Ready to let go of the baggage and define success on your own terms?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Brooke’s career history and discovering what success means to her
The Success Wound - what it is & healing from it!
Some of the factors in sexual harassment going unaddressed in the workplace
Brooke’s corporate life, history with addiction, and her recovery
The #1 reason people left their jobs during the pandemic
How to identify your own success wound so you can find true success in your career
Brooke’s BEST mindset tip to help you in your leadership journey
And more

*Useful links*

Find out more and sign up for the Women’s Empowerment Summit at: https://offers.moiralethbridge.com/women-leader-empowerment-summit
Find out more about today’s guest Brooke Taylor at:
- W: www.brooketaylorcoaching.com
- IG: @brookevtaylor
- And get started with her unstuck guide at www.brooketaylorcoaching.com/unstuck
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode119

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

We’re back for the third and final part of our special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Did you know you can actually enjoy being the only woman in the room? (I know this can be triggering because this is NOT the ideal scenario, but there are some silver linings!)

In today’s episode, Micha and I dive into the opportunities that come with being the only woman in the room and how you can shift your thinking around this to start approaching your career as a woman in tech with more optimism.

Ready to get inspired and leverage some of the opportunities available to you, my love?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The BIGGEST opportunities of being the only woman in the room (and how to leverage them)
Our surprising “is there a positive side to being the only woman in the room?” poll results
The pros & cons of being underestimated as a woman in tech
Understanding the difference between “I love being the only woman in the room” vs. “I want to stay the only woman in the room”
Being held to a higher standard - and finding the silver lining here!
And more

*Useful links*

This is the third and final part of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode118

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

We’re back for the third and final part of our special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Did you know you can actually enjoy being the only woman in the room? (I know this can be triggering because this is NOT the ideal scenario, but there are some silver linings!)

In today’s episode, Micha and I dive into the opportunities that come with being the only woman in the room and how you can shift your thinking around this to start approaching your career as a woman in tech with more optimism.

Ready to get inspired and leverage some of the opportunities available to you, my love?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The BIGGEST opportunities of being the only woman in the room (and how to leverage them)
Our surprising “is there a positive side to being the only woman in the room?” poll results
The pros & cons of being underestimated as a woman in tech
Understanding the difference between “I love being the only woman in the room” vs. “I want to stay the only woman in the room”
Being held to a higher standard - and finding the silver lining here!
And more

*Useful links*

This is the third and final part of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode118

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

We’re back for part 2 of our special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Because, yes - being the only woman in the room can be tough.

BUT it can also get better!

This week, Micha and I invite a panel of four extraordinary women in tech to join us for an executive leadership discussion. We dive deeper into this important issue and discuss the benefits and opportunities of “being the only woman”, some of our BEST tips and advice for excelling as women in tech, and a quickfire question round to give you some powerful insights you can use to uplevel your leadership and career.

Ready for things to get better? (It is SO possible, my love.)

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

A quick look at our amazing panel & their achievements (this will inspire you)
The opportunities to being the only woman in the room - yes, you read that right!
Our FAVORITE TIPS for excelling in your career as a woman in tech (or any other marginalized group)
The BEST (and worst) advice these powerful and amazing ladies have been given
Shining a light - who is inspiring them right now
The BIGGEST mindset shifts you can make to uplevel your career as a woman in tech
And more

*Useful links*

This is the second of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- COMING SOON Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode117

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

We’re back for part 2 of our special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Because, yes - being the only woman in the room can be tough.

BUT it can also get better!

This week, Micha and I invite a panel of four extraordinary women in tech to join us for an executive leadership discussion. We dive deeper into this important issue and discuss the benefits and opportunities of “being the only woman”, some of our BEST tips and advice for excelling as women in tech, and a quickfire question round to give you some powerful insights you can use to uplevel your leadership and career.

Ready for things to get better? (It is SO possible, my love.)

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

A quick look at our amazing panel & their achievements (this will inspire you)
The opportunities to being the only woman in the room - yes, you read that right!
Our FAVORITE TIPS for excelling in your career as a woman in tech (or any other marginalized group)
The BEST (and worst) advice these powerful and amazing ladies have been given
Shining a light - who is inspiring them right now
The BIGGEST mindset shifts you can make to uplevel your career as a woman in tech
And more

*Useful links*

This is the second of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- COMING SOON Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode117

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Truth is, it’s tough being the only woman in the room.

We have to overcome some unique challenges to elevate our careers -

Being seen and not heard

Doing more than our male peers

Sexism & microaggressions

Lack of role models

But don’t worry too much, my love. Because my guest, Micha Goebig, and I are here to help with our 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Today for part 1, we are diving into the problem with being the only woman in the room. We’re sharing the FOUR blocks that could be keeping you from enjoying and excelling in your leadership career (and what to do about them!) because we know it can feel lonely and frustrating - but you do NOT need to apologize for feeling that way. We are with you, and we have some tips!

Ready for the tools you need to excel as the only woman in the room?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The FOUR barriers we experience as female leaders - and what to do about them!
What it really means to be “the only woman in the room”
The surprise results of our poll “what is the greatest challenge about being the only woman in the room?”
TWO important things you can start doing to make sure your voice is heard
Proof over promise - working harder than your male peers
Our superpower as female leaders (and why I DON’T want you to be more like your male peers!)
The 3 BIGGEST things you can do to overcome these blocks to your female leadership
And more

*Useful links*

This is the first of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- COMING SOON Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- COMING SOON Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode116

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Truth is, it’s tough being the only woman in the room.

We have to overcome some unique challenges to elevate our careers -

Being seen and not heard

Doing more than our male peers

Sexism & microaggressions

Lack of role models

But don’t worry too much, my love. Because my guest, Micha Goebig, and I are here to help with our 3-part series on being the only woman in the room!

Today for part 1, we are diving into the problem with being the only woman in the room. We’re sharing the FOUR blocks that could be keeping you from enjoying and excelling in your leadership career (and what to do about them!) because we know it can feel lonely and frustrating - but you do NOT need to apologize for feeling that way. We are with you, and we have some tips!

Ready for the tools you need to excel as the only woman in the room?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The FOUR barriers we experience as female leaders - and what to do about them!
What it really means to be “the only woman in the room”
The surprise results of our poll “what is the greatest challenge about being the only woman in the room?”
TWO important things you can start doing to make sure your voice is heard
Proof over promise - working harder than your male peers
Our superpower as female leaders (and why I DON’T want you to be more like your male peers!)
The 3 BIGGEST things you can do to overcome these blocks to your female leadership
And more

*Useful links*

This is the first of a special 3-part series on being the only woman in the room. Catch the rest of the episodes here:
- Episode 116: The problem with being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
- COMING SOON Episode 117: Being the only woman in the room executive leadership discussion
- COMING SOON Episode 118: The upside of being the only woman in the room with Micha Goebig
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode116

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Curious about Agile or the role of a transitioning CTO?

Let’s talk about the role Agile can play in improving your team’s performance!

In today’s episode, I am joined by another fabulous woman in tech, Donell Peters, who clearly displays that our careers are never set in stone. She shares her experiences as a fractional CTO, using Agile to successfully improve teams (and the biggest challenges to this process), and her favorite tips and tricks to improve your leadership.

Ready to uplevel your team’s overall performance?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Donell’s exciting career journey (and how she got started with Hewlett Packard in high school!)
How Agile improves overall team performance
The role of a transitioning CTO - and how to get started if you’re interested in a role like this
Donell’s advice for a simple and effective way to shift your mindset
The BIGGEST challenges to an Agile rollout - and how to overcome them
And more

*Useful links*

Catch up with today’s guest Donell at:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/donellpeters/
- Find out more about Crosslake at: https://crosslaketech.com/
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode115

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Curious about Agile or the role of a transitioning CTO?

Let’s talk about the role Agile can play in improving your team’s performance!

In today’s episode, I am joined by another fabulous woman in tech, Donell Peters, who clearly displays that our careers are never set in stone. She shares her experiences as a fractional CTO, using Agile to successfully improve teams (and the biggest challenges to this process), and her favorite tips and tricks to improve your leadership.

Ready to uplevel your team’s overall performance?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Donell’s exciting career journey (and how she got started with Hewlett Packard in high school!)
How Agile improves overall team performance
The role of a transitioning CTO - and how to get started if you’re interested in a role like this
Donell’s advice for a simple and effective way to shift your mindset
The BIGGEST challenges to an Agile rollout - and how to overcome them
And more

*Useful links*

Catch up with today’s guest Donell at:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/donellpeters/
- Find out more about Crosslake at: https://crosslaketech.com/
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode115

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

FOOMO - no, it’s not a typo and yes, it’s a thing!

Let’s talk about if FOOMO is holding you back in your life and career.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into FOOMO - the ways it can be a damaging, yet prevalent issue to your thinking as a leader, and how to release yourself from it so you can stop holding yourself back from true progress in your career.

Ready to stop FOOMO in its tracks and get the attention you deserve in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What FOOMO is - and why you should care!
How to know if you’re experiencing FOOMO (and what to do about it)
My TOP TIPS if your people-pleasing/empathy is getting in the way of your leadership or career progression
The questions to ask yourself to find out how FOOMO is playing out in your life & career
Why I want you to practice this mindset tip around the word NO
And more

*Useful links*

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode114

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

FOOMO - no, it’s not a typo and yes, it’s a thing!

Let’s talk about if FOOMO is holding you back in your life and career.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into FOOMO - the ways it can be a damaging, yet prevalent issue to your thinking as a leader, and how to release yourself from it so you can stop holding yourself back from true progress in your career.

Ready to stop FOOMO in its tracks and get the attention you deserve in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What FOOMO is - and why you should care!
How to know if you’re experiencing FOOMO (and what to do about it)
My TOP TIPS if your people-pleasing/empathy is getting in the way of your leadership or career progression
The questions to ask yourself to find out how FOOMO is playing out in your life & career
Why I want you to practice this mindset tip around the word NO
And more

*Useful links*

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode114

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

There is more than one path to senior leadership in the tech industry and (just a quick reminder, my love) you don’t have to be perfect to get there.

Let’s talk about the non-traditional route to executive leadership - and doing it all while overcoming perfectionism!

In today’s episode, I invite the VP of Strategy at Axio, Jennifer Moll, to discuss her non-traditional journey to her current role in tech and how she has developed a healthier version of what perfection means to her.

Ready to learn how to prioritize progress over perfection and uplevel your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Jen’s non-traditional path to becoming VP of Strategy - and some lessons she’s learned along the way!
A foundational moment that shifted her career toward the strategy side
The TWO important skills that contribute to her reputation as a problem-solver
Overcoming perfectionism (and redefining perfection altogether!)
Her #1 piece of advice for you if you’re considering an executive position
Tips to help you expand your network (especially if you don’t do well networking in person)
And more

*Useful links*

Connect with Jen and find out more about her work at Axio:
- Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-a-moll/
- Find out more about Axio:
  - https://www.linkedin.com/company/axio/
  - axio.com
- Follow Axio on Twitter: https://twitter.com/axio
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode113

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Here’s the thing about recognition, my love.

If you’re not openly sharing about the amazing work you’re doing or the impact you’re making, it’s likely that you won’t be recognized for it by others. This means that even if you’re doing amazing work (which you are!), it may go unnoticed because you aren’t celebrating yourself.

So, how do you get out of the cycle of downplaying yourself and not speaking up?

In today’s episode, I’m diving into openly celebrating our achievements and getting our much-deserved recognition at work. I discuss the consequences of not celebrating yourself in your career and some helpful tools to break the cycle and start owning your abilities.

Ready to celebrate how amazing you are?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Why you might not be getting recognition at work - and what to do about it!
The 2 BIGGEST consequences of talking yourself down
Some simple steps to help you start celebrating yourself and your team
Why THIS could cost you your next promotion (and what to do instead)
And more

*Useful links*

Find out more about the 12-week year in episode 108 of the podcast: https://tonicollis.com/episode108
Find out more about the Lit Up Leadership Academy here.
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode112

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Does a toxic work environment have you questioning your career? Have a racist or sexist boss? Do you want to do something about it, but not sure where to start?

I wish there weren’t a need to tackle this, my love! But it’s so important as women in tech that we know how to protect ourselves.

Let’s talk about access to legal services in your career and what you need to know about your workplace rights.

In today’s episode, I invite my friend, Danae Shell, co-founder and CEO of Valla, to share her nuggets of wisdom on sorting workplace issues (even if you don’t have money for a lawyer!) and how to understand your own rights so you can have more choice in your career.

Ready to feel empowered to tackle any workplace issue?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Helping women & marginalized groups access legal services in their careers
Some powerful examples of Valla’s tools to help you stand up to a toxic boss
Discrimination First Aid - and how this training can help you
The 3 stages of sorting through a toxic workplace issue
Advice on your next step if you are experiencing a toxic work environment
And so much more

*Useful links*

Find out all about Danae, her work at Valla and Discrimination First Aid:
- Connect with Danae on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaeyshell/
- Check out Valla: https://valla.law
- Discrimination First Aid training https://valla.uk/discrimination-first-aid-training
- Book: The Good Ally by Nova Reid (Get it at Waterstones here or at Barnes & Noble here)
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode111

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you’re working on your executive presence right now, are wanting to build consistency in your habits, processes, and ultimately your success, this is for you!

In today’s episode, I share with you the truth behind becoming consistent and having the ability to stand out and be noticed for being good at something. By cultivating self-responsibility and consistency, I break down how to use your brainpower to achieve success and what this can mean in all areas of your life.

Ready to figure out what you can do, how to do it and the mindset work that might be holding you back in achieving your success?

Let’s go to the show!

I’m diving into:

How to use consistency to drive your success
Key core processes that must be consistent so it can become easy
Determining which habits you’ve gone overboard with
A core component of executive presence
Why I believe self-accountability is better than accountability from a Coach
How to notice triggers that take you off track
Key steps you can use today to build momentum with your habits
And more

*Useful links*

Find out all the details on Lit Up Leadership Academy at: https://tonicollis.com/academy
Ready to uplevel your Executive Presence? Check out my mini-course: https://tonicollis.com/shop/exec-presence
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode110
Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

If you’re curious about web3, cryptocurrency, blockchains, or NFTs - this one’s for you, my love!

In today’s episode, I invite Danver Chandler, Head of Community at Synesis One, to share her passion for breaking barriers and enabling the direct participation and creation of benevolent AI for humanity. We break down the lingo, dive into the reputation & possible regulation of crypto, and some powerful ways you can enter this space as a female leader in the tech industry.

Ready to learn more about this new world of crypto & web3 - and what it means for us as women in tech?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Danver’s career journey to blockchain & joining the team behind Synesis One
The lingo breakdown - blockchain, crypto, NFTs & web3
A look at the unfortunate reputation of cryptocurrency
Regulation on crypto - do we need it?
Crypto and climate change
Making AI less biased (and how you can contribute!)
Danver’s mindset tip to help more women enter the crypto space
And more

*Useful links*

Connect with Danver at:
- Connect with Danver on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danverc/
- Check out Synesis One: www.synesis.one
- Want to contribute to improving AI? Get started straight away here: https://discord.gg/synesisone
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode109

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Want to achieve more in your year than you’ve ever thought possible?

Let’s talk about the 12-week year, and how this type of attitude towards achievement can help you do it - without all the stress and hustle!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my approach to the 12-week year, how I execute it in my own business and the tools to help you do the same so you can increase productivity and move your career forward toward your big & small goals.

Ready for the approach you need to operate more strategically?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 12-week year and how to use it effectively to achieve more in your career!
A simple, 3-step process to help you execute your 90-day plan
Why the best execution models do THIS every 12 weeks
Choosing the most effective cycle based on the size of your goals (4, 6, or 12 weeks)
And more

*Useful links*

Want to find more useful tips to get to grips with what really matters? Check out Episode 104: Why You Need to Delete 80% of Your To-Do List
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode108

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Want to know a little secret?

Great speakers are made, not born.

And that means you can actually improve your communication (and future-proof your career!) with some of the amazing tools my guest shares in today’s episode.

I invite extraordinary voice coach, Emma Wainer, to talk to us all about why your voice at work is so important, and her TOP TIPS for improving your communication.

Ready to start using your voice at work to uplevel your team, organization & career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Why voice is so important for your career (and how it can help you future-proof it)
Emma’s TOP TIPS for women to help improve our communication at work
Examining your own default communication system
Why opposition can be a good thing (and what you need to know so that you can leverage it)
How the communication culture of your organization could be showing up in your career - and what to do if there isn’t alignment
Sustainability as a differentiator for organizations
And more

*Useful links*

Connect and find out more about today’s guest, Emma Wainer at https://linktr.ee/emmawainer
If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at: https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni
Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni
Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode107

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives.

Culture - it can make or break an organization.

So, how do we create a great team culture that gets higher engagement from employees, creates higher retention, and increases productivity?

Let’s talk about how you can impact your team’s culture (even when you’re not getting support from senior leadership)!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing the BIGGEST reasons why a fantastic team culture is essential for productivity (and happiness!) and breaking down the 4 key steps to creating it.

Ready to ditch the toxicity, help your organization build a great team culture, and maybe even change the tech industry in the process?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 4 KEY steps to creating a fantastic culture in your organization (even if your broader organization isn’t doing the work!)
Why fostering THIS is essential if you want to create a great work culture
The effects of toxic work culture & what it really means to build a great team culture
A permission slip if you are feeling stuck in a very toxic work environment
And more

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode106

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

This episode is in addition to our normal schedule to address the changes in women's rights in the US and beyond. Know that Leading Women in Tech stands firm and strong. As a community of leaders in the global tech industry we have a duty to take action. So I ask you to take care of you, then when you are ready, stand firm and ensure that the technology industry is on the right side of this battle.

All my love always,

Toni xx

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/June2022Extra

Does your HR department feel like a burden? A department meant to help high-ranking executives and the organization as a whole - but not you?

Imagine instead that your HR department is working for you. What would be possible if you used them well in your career?

Let’s talk about how to leverage your HR team to become a stronger leader and uplevel your career!

In today’s episode, I invite the simply fabulous Amy Dufrane, human capital expert and CEO of HRCI, to share her fascinating insights and favorite tips on positively leveraging HR in your career.

Ready to start using your HR team to become an amazing people leader?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Powerful insights on how to make your HR team work for your career!
Amy’s career journey and her growing passion for people leadership
The practical ways you can use HR to become an extraordinary people leader
Why Amy didn’t take THIS advice (and the best advice she’s ever been given!)
And more

Useful links!

Find out more about Amy and her work at HRCI at:

www.amydufrane.com

https://www.hrci.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amydufrane/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrci/mycompany/

https://twitter.com/hrci_official

And download your free copy of the book “The Rise of HR: The Future of Work” at https://www.hrci.org/rise-of-hr-e-book

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode105

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Let’s bust some to-do list myths…

Your to-do list is a plan (not true!)

The bigger the list, the bigger the motivation (definitely not true!)

You get rewarded for being busy (also, not true!)

Truth is, my love - a lot of what’s on your to-do list is NOT actually moving the needle forward in your career.

So, what are you supposed to do with that massive to-do list that’s keeping you stuck?

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my 5-step system to help you drastically reduce your to-do list and start taking real steps forward toward your goals.

Ready for the tools and tactics you need to make to-do lists work for you?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My 5-step system to ditch the massive to-do lists and start moving the needle forward in your career
Why I separate my personal to-do list and my professional to-do list
A great tool to help with focus (especially if you tend to get distracted when tackling your lists!)
My Do’s & Don’t’s for categorizing and organizing your to-do lists
And more!

Useful links!

Want to join me on a 1 day Women’s Empowerment Summit in September this year? Sign up now to save 20% on tickets before July 1st:

https://offers.moiralethbridge.com/women-leader-empowerment-summit

If you’d like to have a chat with me or Moira about the Summit first, then book calls with us here:

Book a chat with Moira: https://moiralethbridge.com/contact/
Book a chat with Toni: https://bit.ly/coffeewithtoni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode104

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

We think if we don’t try - we can avoid failure.

But that just means we miss the opportunity to learn and succeed. And that is still failing, my love - it’s just failing the wrong way!

Let’s talk about how to embrace failure so you can fail the right way - and reach your career goals in the process!

In today’s episode, I invite Asia Bribiesca-Hedin, founder and CEO of development and executive coaching firm Bridgewell Professional Services, to dig into failure with us and explore why failure isn’t actually a bad thing at all.

Ready to start failing… the right way?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The conditioning we’ve received around failure - and how that could be showing up in your career
Her favorite mindset tip for when things don’t go according to plan
The WORST advice Asia was ever given - and the advice she gives instead
Some insightful tools to help shift your mindset around negative self-talk (especially if you’re not into all the woo woo stuff!)
The ROI on failure (yes, there is one!)
And more

Connect with Asia Bribiesca-Hedin

https://www.bridgewellpro.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/asiabh

Check out Asia’s LinkedIn trainings on Strategic Planning at: https://www.linkedin.com/video/event/urn:li:ugcPost:6916861940736688128/

https://www.linkedin.com/events/leadershipseries-howtocreateast6923118187609800704/

And check out Asia’s favorite movie: Unbound

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode103

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Sometimes it just feels better to give in and acquiesce in our careers. But this can play out in a variety of ways (most of them negative!) and I can guarantee it’s holding you back.

Let’s talk about why we acquiesce in our careers, and more importantly, how to stop!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into how acquiescing in your career is holding you back and the eight steps you can take to stop the self-sabotage. Because this behavior leads to more burnout, less self-confidence, and more regrets - and I don’t want that for you, my love!

Ready to stop limiting yourself and tap into your full potential instead?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Some of the BIGGEST reasons we do this in our careers (and why it’s a bad thing!)
The real effects acquiescing in your career is having on your leadership and career potential
8 steps to help you stop this career self-sabotage behavior
The fastest and easiest way to make change is to develop THIS
And more

Useful links!

Want to join me on a 1 day Women’s Empowerment Summit in September this year? Sign up now to save 20% on tickets before July 1st:

https://offers.moiralethbridge.com/women-leader-empowerment-summit

If you’d like to have a chat with me or Moira about the Summit first, then book calls with us here:

Book a chat with Moira: https://moiralethbridge.com/contact/
Book a chat with Toni: https://bit.ly/coffeewithtoni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode102

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Have you ever been told that if you acted more like a man, more like the executives that already hold the position you want - that you’ll somehow be able to rise in the ranks?

Let’s talk about how we box ourselves in as women and what it means to stop - and embrace who we really are to further our careers!

In today’s episode, I invite Talroo’s VP of Marketing, Martha Aviles, to share her career journey of coming into her power as a Latina woman in tech.

Ready for some insights on leveraging your unique strengths to uplevel your leadership career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Some of Martha’s career highlights (and some low points - because we all have them, right?)
Her experiences as a Latina in tech and a discussion on intersectionality & leadership
The 5 MOST important areas that Martha thinks we as women leaders need to be working on
Her favorite resiliency tip to help you on your career journey
The box you could be putting yourself in (especially if you feel like the only woman in the room) - and what to do about it
And more

Connect with Martha at:

https://www.talroo.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/talroo-official/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maviles/

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode101

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Can you believe it? 100 episodes of the podcast! And I am so grateful to YOU, my listeners, for continuing to tune in and share this time with me.

So, let’s have a little celebration, shall we?

Let’s talk about the TOP 5 books that will change the game for your career journey.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the 5 books (and a few honorable mentions!) that I have used to leverage both my career and my clients’ careers - and how they can help you with elevating your leadership, negotiating salary, and so much more!

Ready for some new career insights…and maybe a little competition? (that’s right, there are prizes too!)

Let’s go to the show.

I dive into:

My TOP 5 books to help you elevate your leadership and career
A fun competition & giveaway to celebrate 100 episodes of the podcast (you don’t want to miss out on these prizes!)
The game-changing book that shifted how I think and operate as a leader
Why this book is so powerful during career transition
If you’re new to negotiation (or you struggle with it!) - you need THIS book
And much more!

*COMPETITION TIME*

If you would like to win a copy of the top 5 books I discussed in this episode then all you have to do is:

Share your favorite episode(s) of Leading Women in Tech (including this one!) on social media.
Grab a screenshot of the share
Fill in the competition form, including uploading the screenshot: https://bit.ly/lwit-ep100

One share = one entry. Share as many episodes and in as many places as you like for multiple entries. You can upload up to 5 entries each time you fill in the form. For more than 5 entries please submit the form multiple times.

My 5 top books:

Rise — Patty Azzarello
The First 90 Days — Michael Watkins
Ask for it — Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever
Flourish — Martin Seligman
Deep Work — Cal Newport

Some honorable mentions (in no particular order)

The One Thing — Gary Keller
Year of Yes — Shonda Rhymes
Savvy Woman in 5 minutes a day — Moira Lethbridge.
Mindset — Carol Dweck
Multipliers — Liz Wiseman
The Coaching Habit — Michael Bungay Stanier

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode100

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Are you in your dream role, or have you settled for something else?

Are you simply powering through the week instead of enjoying your career?

Let’s talk about what the next level looks like for you - because some of the biggest steps in your career happen when you transition!

In today’s episode, I invite The Career Elevator, Sinead Sharkey Steenson, to talk to us all about embracing your career, the strategies and tools to help you achieve more as a female leader in the workplace, and why you should STOP settling in your career.

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Why we settle in our careers - and the long term damage this can have
Sinead’s career journey (and the 2 biggest childhood factors that had an impact)
The 5 MOST IMPORTANT areas female leaders need to be working on right now
One of the biggest sources of workplace stress (and how to avoid this!)
Intersectionality and neurodiversity - how they can help & hinder our careers
Sinead’s TOP TIPS for networking & mindset (and a piece of advice to help you identify your unique career superpower!)
And more

Useful links!

Connect with Sinead at:
Website: https://genwomen.global/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinead-sharkey/

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode99

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

It’s pretty common that when we think about leadership we think about a managerial job title or a prestigious position. But if you’ve been around here long enough, you know that leadership isn’t about the title - it’s about the influence!

Let’s talk about the leadership skills you need as an individual contributor to really make an impact.

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the importance of leadership at the individual contributor (IC) level and how to foster great leadership for yourself (and the ICs that work for you) to achieve bigger impact and elevate both you and your organization.

Ready to learn what it takes to lead as an individual contributor?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The leadership skills you need to develop if you are an individual contributor (and why you want to lead ICs on your own team to develop them too)
Being the thought and ideas leader in your organization from an IC standpoint
Why a title isn’t the resource you think it is (and how to get the resources you really need to make an impact!)
The NINE things you can do to lead without a title and still have a massive influence
And more

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode98

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Are you underestimating how quickly you can make progress in your career?

How about salary - are you prepared to negotiate your next salary bump? (because you deserve it, my love!)

Let’s talk about the action steps you can take to accelerate your career - in the right way.

In today’s episode, I invite career salary and leadership advisor, Sonja Price, to share some powerful insights on salary negotiations and a formula for career acceleration. We dive into the practical steps you can take TODAY - to uplevel your career and salary.

Ready to lean into that next big career move or salary adjustment?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Some of the biggest barriers right now for women in the workplace accelerating their careers
Letting YOUR definition of success guide your career and salary choices
What Sonja wants you to pay attention to in your next work meeting to help drive your organization toward more inclusion
A powerful formula for career acceleration (and maximizing your income!)
Sonja’s helpful tool to help you determine if your current salary (or potential salary/raise) will work for your future career & income goals
A mindset shift to help you negotiate your next salary bump
And more

Useful links!

Find out all the details on joining Lit Up Leadership Academy at tonicollis.com/academy.

Not sure if the Academy is the right thing for you? Book a coffee chat to ask Toni any questions about what’s in the Academy and figure out if this is the support you are after: http://bit.ly/LULACoffee

Connect with Sonja Price at:

Dynamo Salary Calculator - https://dynamocareers.com/calculator
How to Increase Your Income Masterclass - www.dynamoincome.com
And on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonjaprice/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode97

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

If you were comfortable with the actions needed to reach your goals - you would take them, right?

But I’m going to take a guess and say that discomfort - or fear of discomfort - is holding you back from taking action (because it does for most of us)!

So, imagine if you could actually get comfortable with being uncomfortable. If you could move through discomfort and into action without spiraling into overwhelm - what would be possible for you then?

In today’s episode, I’m diving into discomfort, how it could be holding you back from being a truly amazing leader and reaching your goals, and the 4-step process to getting through the worry and into action instead.

Ready to get comfortable with being uncomfortable?

Let’s to go the show!

I dive into:

A 4-step process to help you move through worry & discomfort - and into action!
My three favorite phrases for life & business (these are gold, my love)
How you learning to get comfortable with being uncomfortable will help uplevel your leadership, friends, famliy & team!
What happens when you do not push your boundaries (hint: comfort zones are NOT stagnant)
Some of my favorite tips and tricks around normalizing failure
A mindset shift that can help you with your growth around feeling discomfort
And more

Useful links!

Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy! If you would like to make this the year that you develop your leadership skills and career, and build a job you love, then this program is for you. Head over to tonicollis.com/academy to learn about the program.

Or if you’d like to have a chat about it first,find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from book a call with Toni at: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode96

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

I have a real treat for you today because you’re going to be hearing from, not one, but TWO leadership coaches for women in tech - your leadership bestie (me!) and my extraordinary guest.

In today’s episode, I invite speaker, published author, and fellow coach, Micha Goebig, to discuss her passion for helping tech leaders take their careers to the next level, some of her powerful networking tips, and the real & practical things you can be doing in these times of transition to better your career and leadership.

Ready to hear what two like-minded women supporting others in tech have to say about elevating your leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How Micha came to be a tech leadership coach for women
The challenges for non-tech people in tech - and shifting the belief that there are only a few ways to have a tech career!
Some of the BIGGEST blocks that women in tech are currently facing (and what to do about it)
What you can be doing right now to embrace the post-Covid era and elevate your leadership
The BEST piece of career advice Micha has ever been given - and what a powerful mindset shift this can be for you!
Her TOP TIPS for getting the most out of your network
And more

Useful links!

Want to uplevel your leadership career this year? Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy, Toni’s signature program designed for women in tech and only women in tech! Head over to tonicollis.com/academy to find out more.

Micha is offering FREE 30-minute coaching sessions. Go book a call at

https://micha-goebig-availability.as.me/coachingexperience

Connect with Micha at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michagoebig/

https://www.instagram.com/go_big_coaching/

https://twitter.com/MichaGoBig

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoER0SBQHhFMQByP10RYdAA

https://www.facebook.com/MichaGoBig/

https://gobigcoaching.com/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode95

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

There are leaders who are flourishing right now (yes, even in these uncertain times)!

But what is it that is setting them apart? What are they focusing on that is driving their organizations forward?

Let’s talk about how to set your leadership apart with the FIVE essentials to being an extraordinary leader in 2022!

In today’s episode, I am breaking down the 5 MOST IMPORTANT leadership attributes of 2022 and why NOW is the time to cultivate them for yourself!

Ready for the keys to extraordinary leadership in 2022?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 5 ESSENTIAL attributes of the extraordinary leader in 2022!
A common place young leaders can get themselves stuck (and how to avoid this!)
Why THIS pillar of the Lit Up Leadership Framework is KEY to uplevelling your leadership this year
Poor performance is most often a result of THIS - and what you can lean into as a leader instead to help shift it
And more

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your leadership career and accelerate to your dream role, without hustle and stress, then make sure you check out my free Masterclass over at: https://tonicollis.com/masterclass

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode94

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

If you are a high achieving leader - a focus on resilience and wellness is essential!

So, let’s talk about how to build more resilience and wellness in your life and career so you can live with more intention and start seeing your tech career flourish!

In today’s episode, I invite Stephanie G, tech senior director, executive leadership coach & mindfulness incubator contributor, to talk to us all about the resilience and wellness side of rising to senior leadership.

Ready to learn the wellness and resiliency tools you need to elevate your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How Stephanie came to be senior director at a big global tech company - and the vertical (and lateral!) moves she made along the way
Her TOP 3 TIPS for building resilience and wellness in your life and career
Deep expertise - when it’s essential vs. when it’s a hindrance
The THREE things you should be outsourcing if you are a high-achieving leader
Two questions you need to make a habit of asking yourself when making important decisions as a leader
The mindfulness incubator - what it is and why it’s important!
And more

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Check out Mindfulness Incubator at:

https://www.mindfulnessincubator.com

https://instagram.com/mindfulnessincubator

https://facebook.com/mindfulnessincubator

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulnessincubator/

And these resources that Stephanie shared with us today:

This Mindfulness and Self Compassion in Crisis Guide: https://www.mindfulnessincubator.com/TBwelcome
Our Mindfulness Incubator Digital Detox and Renewal Retreat: https://www.mindfulnessincubator.com/MI-retreat

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode93

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Whether you’re trying to land a new role, uplevel your leadership skills, or get more from your team - prioritizing your mental health WILL get you results in your career.

Let’s talk about the direct link between mental health and your leadership!

In today’s episode, I’m sharing why good mental health should be a non-negotiable in your career moving forwards and THREE of my favorite tips to help you start prioritizing your mental health every single day.

Ready for some practical tools to elevate your mental health and get the best out of yourself and your team?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

THREE tips to help you prioritize your mental health - starting NOW!
The positive correlation between high performance and leaders who value mental health
One of the BIGGEST sources of ambiguity in an organization (and how to avoid this!)
Some of the most relevant and practical benefits of having great mental health as a leader
My favorite examples of self-care (it doesn’t have to be lavish, my love!)
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your leadership and career then join in the free 30-day Leading Women in Tech Bootcamp: https://tonicollis.com/bootcamp

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode92

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you want to connect more with your team, foster empowerment, and build connections that lead to real innovation?

Then let’s talk about how to develop your people and heart-centered leadership - because this is a path to getting there, my love!

In today’s episode, I invite Ashleigh Wilson, founder & CEO of AuditMate and amazing heart-centered people leader, to discuss her passion for putting people first, some of her best tips to become more people-focused in your leadership, and just how powerful this can really be in business.

Ready to dig into your authentic heart-centered leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Developing your people & heart-centered leadership - and what this can really do for your career!
Her TOP TIPS to help you be more people-focused in your approach to building teams & relationships
A deep look at privilege - and leveraging it for the good of others
Some pointers to help you better navigate missteps in your leadership
The BEST piece of advice Ashleigh has ever received (and the WORST!)
An amazing tip to uplevel your networking skills
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your leadership and career then join in the free 30-day Leading Women in Tech Bootcamp: https://tonicollis.com/bootcamp

Connect with Ashleigh at:

https://auditmate.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleigh-wilson-she-her-01131285/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode91

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

The job hunt isn’t a one-off, my love. It is a lifelong journey. And I want every single woman in tech to have a job that has them lit up for Monday mornings. Don’t think it’s possible?

Let’s talk about the relationship between the most important leadership attributes and your job hunt - because the role of your dreams is waiting for you!

In today’s episode, I share how to maximize your job hunt potential by tapping into your most important leadership skills and the strategic moves you need to keep in mind as you uplevel your tech leadership career.

Ready to use your amazing leadership skills to thrive in the job hunt process?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The MOST IMPORTANT attributes of a great leader - and how to use them to succeed in the job hunt process!
ONE mistake you could be making in your search for the dream job (and what you should be doing instead)
My TOP TIPS for maintaining a successful career strategy
The 3 things you need in any job search (and why you need these exact things to be a great leader!)
Why I want you to consider THIS mindset shift around balance
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your leadership and career then join in the free 30-day Leading Women in Tech Bootcamp: https://tonicollis.com/bootcamp

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode90

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

If you’re a senior leader - you are there to solve the big problems, drive the business forward, and unlock your business or organization’s potential. But if you are stuck all day on Slack, answering emails, or on other mundane daily tasks - you might need to take a different approach to your professional life, my love.

Let’s talk about the relationship between planning, your inner critic, and being a high-performance leader - and how to take more aligned action toward your professional (and personal) goals!

In today’s episode, I invite my business bestie & executive coach, Moira Lethbridge back on the show to chat all about extraordinary high-performance leadership and women. We discuss what it takes to be a high-performing leader (and what could be holding you back) and the ways to get more action-oriented so you can build the career of your dreams!

Ready for the practical, actionable steps you need to take your leadership to the next level?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The MOST IMPORTANT things you need to know about planning & your inner critic to uplevel your abilities as a leader
What might be keeping you in a job you don’t enjoy - and what you need to know to get unstuck!
How to differentiate between self-doubt, your inner critic & imposter syndrome so you can figure out if they are getting in your way!
The #1 obstacle to taking action (and what to do about it!)
How many minutes a day it really takes to move the needle forward toward achieving your goals (it might surprise you!)
The number of hours successful leaders spend planning a week - and why this is so important
An exciting announcement you don’t want to miss!
The #1 mindset shift Moira thinks women leaders need to make right now
And more!

Useful links!

Find out more about the HR Leader Empowerment Summit at https://offers.moiralethbridge.com/hr-leader-empowerment-summit

The Summit has been approved for 5.00 HR (General) recertification credit through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®).

Want to chat with Toni or Moira first about the Summit? Book a friendly discovery session here:

Toni: https://bit.ly/DiscoverSummit

Moira: https://moiralethbridge.com/contact/

Email me at support{at}tonicollis{dot}com if you’d like to know more about upcoming Summits for other specialisms, and in particular if you are interested in finding out when we will be hosting future events.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode89

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from early-career leadership to C-level executives: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Why is it so hard to do HARD things?

Let’s talk about the tools you need to get into daily action toward the hard things and truly uplevel your career!

In today’s episode, I am giving you the 7 steps you need to unlock yourself from the mediocrity cycle and move towards growth in your tech career. Because moving away from the easy to focusing on the hard, longer-term goals is the key to unlocking your potential, my love!

Ready to do the hard things and uplevel?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 7 steps you need to move from mediocrity to a standout tech career!
Understanding why it is so hard to do hard things (and how this understanding will change your career & leadership)
How your brain is keeping you stuck on the small stuff - and how to get unstuck!
Some of my TOP TIPS to shift your mood so you can get into action
Helping your brain along by providing context (this one is super important, my love!)
The time of day that you should be taking action toward the hard things
A mindset tip around competition that will unlock your unique potential!
And so much more!

Useful links!

Join the Creating action from strategy' (helping you deliver faster and more effectively as a leader) on March 7th. Find out all the details and save your spot at https://tonicollis.com/creatingaction

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode88

Join the Leading Women in Tech community in Slack where we discuss all-the-things for women’s tech leadership, covering everything from CTOs to early-career leaders, including job opportunities and community: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

What if great leadership was simply a set of behaviors and attitudes that you could learn? How could this mindset change your leadership journey?

Let’s talk about what it really takes to bring your leadership to the next level!

In today’s episode, I invite the fabulous Darja Gutnik, co-founder and Product Manager of Bunch, to share her courageous career journey and passion for leadership. We discuss the most important factors to becoming an amazing leader - and our insights on how to get you there!

Ready for the leadership tools you need to uplevel?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Darja’s personal career journey and the courageous steps she took to pivot into entrepreneurship
If innate leadership abilities are the only path to great leadership (hint: they aren’t!)
How Bunch is doing things differently in leadership development
Why Darja believes THIS is the BIGGEST challenge for teams and companies right now
The skills & behaviors you want to cultivate more of so you can uplevel your leadership in the post-pandemic era
A daily mindset shift that can help make your leadership development easier
And more!

Useful links!

Join the Creating action from strategy' (helping you deliver faster and more effectively as a leader) on March 7th. Find out all the details and save your spot at https://tonicollis.com/creatingaction

Connect with Darja on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darjagutnick/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bunch_hq

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bunch_hq/

Download the Bunch App at: https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1500872908?pt=121075759&ct=Podcast&mt=8

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode87

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

As a leader, you can’t just be good at one thing - and strategy and executive presence are two of the non-negotiables! So, where might you need some work, and how can this help you to avoid burnout?

Let’s talk about the relationship between strategy, executive presence, and burnout - and why understanding it will help you avoid strain on your team (and yourself) and set you up as a high-flying leader!

Ready to dig in and become a strategic and executive presence-driven leader?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The connection between executive presence, your ability to think strategically, and burnout - and why understanding this will massively uplevel your leadership!
Why THESE two traits are essential if you want to be a high-perfmoring leader
One of the MOST IMPORTANT pieces of executive presence (and why you want to dig in here!)
The important steps to avoiding team and personal burnout
How to take more time off as a high achiever (it is possible, my love!)
Some questions to ask yourself to find out if your executive presence & strategy are weak - or strong!
A leadership mindset moment around time (and saving you from burnout!)
And more!

Useful links!

Join the Creating action from strategy' (helping you deliver faster and more effectively as a leader) on March 7th. Find out all the details and save your spot at https://tonicollis.com/creatingaction

Want to get your hands on a fast-action simple-to-implement training to up-level your executive presence? Checkout https://tonicollis.com/shop/exec-presence for my unique training on how to develop and use executive presence to power-glide through the leadership glass ceiling

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode86

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Ready for some powerful tech leadership inspiration?

Let’s talk about how Erin Fusaro, VP of engineering at Chipper Cash, is standing out in her leadership career!

In today’s episode, I invite Erin to talk about what she is doing to rise up and be an extraordinary leader. We discuss her people-first and performance-driven leadership, being a role model for hyper growth-stage startups, and some important tips and advice to help you uplevel your leadership & career.

Ready to learn how this woman in tech did it?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Erin’s personal story and career history (and why a computer science degree isn’t the only path to an extraordinary career in tech!)
Why THIS is a big predictor for success - and how it has served Erin in her career
Scaling and hiring like you are preparing for the zombie apocalypse (you have to hear this!)
Why you want to work for companies and hiring managers that hire for THIS
Erin’s MOST IMPORTANT tips for dealing with skeptics, pushback, and setting boundaries in your career
The WORST piece of advice she’s ever been given (and the best!)
And more!

Useful links!

Want to get your hands on a fast-action simple-to-implement training to up-level your executive presence? Check out https://tonicollis.com/shop/exec-presence for my unique training on how to develop and use executive presence to power-glide through the leadership glass ceiling

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode85

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

If you notice your ideas getting shut down a lot, you often find yourself in defensive mode, or you struggle a bit with thinking on your feet - these might be a sign you need to work on your executive presence (but don’t worry my love, this is what I’m here for)!

Let’s talk about how to tell if executive presence is your career blocker.

In today’s episode, I am breaking down the 11 KEY things that you need to be looking out for if you’re wondering if executive presence is holding you up.

Ready to lean in and get intentional about your executive presence?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to know if executive presence is holding you back in your career (and the 11 BIGGEST things to watch out for!)
One of the MOST fundamental & important skills to have as a leader
How to shift from being a problems person to a solutions person
What happens when you don’t make swift decisions as a leader - and the things you need to make this easier for you!
How to improve your executive presence by focusing on THIS in your daily life
And more!

Useful links!

Want to get your hands on a fast-action simple-to-implement training to up-level your executive presence? Checkout https://tonicollis.com/shop/exec-presence for my unique training on how to develop and use executive presence to power-glide through the leadership glass ceiling

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode84

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Let’s talk about what it means to be a Chief Technology Officer in 2022!

I have a simply extraordinary guest on the show this week! I invited Jessica Popp, CTO at Ada and fellow champion for women in tech, to speak to us all about what it means to be a CTO in 2022 and some IMPORTANT mindset tips and tools you can use as you navigate your career in tech.

Ready to learn some important lessons around expanding your skillset, imposter syndrome, improving your leadership, and more?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jessica’s personal story and how she came to work as CTO at Ada
Switching fields after a long time - and the mindset work it took to do it!
What it means to be a people & organization focused CTO
Being a successful CTO in 2022 (and why this can mean different things!)
THREE key takeaways to help you navigate your own career
An IMPORTANT and underrated move that can actually expand your skillset
Some TIPS for landing a new leadership role in the midst of the Great Resignation
And more!

Useful links!

Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy! If you are ready to light up your career this year and accelerate your success (without the burnout), then make sure you join Lit Up Leadership Academy before doors close on Jan 31st. https://tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode83

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Let’s talk about what it means to be a Chief Technology Officer in 2022!

I have a simply extraordinary guest on the show this week! I invited Jessica Popp, CTO at Ada and fellow champion for women in tech, to speak to us all about what it means to be a CTO in 2022 and some IMPORTANT mindset tips and tools you can use as you navigate your career in tech.

Ready to learn some important lessons around expanding your skillset, imposter syndrome, improving your leadership, and more?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jessica’s personal story and how she came to work as CTO at Ada
Switching fields after a long time - and the mindset work it took to do it!
What it means to be a people & organization focused CTO
Being a successful CTO in 2022 (and why this can mean different things!)
THREE key takeaways to help you navigate your own career
An IMPORTANT and underrated move that can actually expand your skillset
Some TIPS for landing a new leadership role in the midst of the Great Resignation
And more!

Useful links!

Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy! If you are ready to light up your career this year and accelerate your success (without the burnout), then make sure you join Lit Up Leadership Academy before doors close on Jan 31st. https://tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode83

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are your habits serving you and your bigger vision?

Let’s talk about how to build habits that are going to set you up for success - and that actually stick!

In today’s episode, I am diving into the power of habits and giving you the practical tools you need for healthy, productive habit building so you can take more aligned action toward your goals.

Ready to let go of the habits that aren’t serving you and build ones more aligned with who you want to be?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to build healthy habits that actually stick so you can uplevel your leadership & career!
The power of 1% a day - and how to apply this to habit building
A simple exercise to help you sort through your habits (without judgment!)
The framework to help you find the one habit that will make everything easier!
Why you need to understand these FIVE human needs if you want to make a behavior stick!
The 3x a day prompt to help you find out if your habits are serving you!
And more!

Useful links!

Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy! If you are ready to light up your career this year and accelerate your success (without the burnout), then make sure you join Lit Up Leadership Academy before doors close on Jan 31st. https://tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode82

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

If you are ever planning to apply for another job, or if you’re a hiring manager looking for the next great leader - I have a super special show for you today!

In this episode, I reached out to four amazing recruiters to ask them about the tools and practical steps you need to help set yourself apart and land your next dream role during the great resignation.

Ready to hear the truth about recruiting and leveraging this hot labor market?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

What these four recruiters have to say about making the most of your career hunt journey!
The BIGGEST barriers to recruiting more diverse candidates (and what to do about them!)
Some of the KEY ways you can leverage the hot labor market as a woman in tech
Recruiter tips for successfully using your LinkedIn profile to land your dream role!
A question you can ask in an interview that can make the difference between moving on to the next stage - or not!
What you can be doing at the offer stage to improve negotiations
The BEST advice for hiring managers to improve their talent acquisition process
And so much more!

Useful links!

Doors are open to Lit Up Leadership Academy! Find out more about the program and how to sign up at tonicollis.com/academy

Connect with the recruiters we chatted to today:

Eric Gong

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erictheteambuilder/

https://www.ericgong.com/

https://twitter.com/egong4real

https://wiggly-anorak-035.notion.site/How-we-work-with-clients-167894983fda4a0089cb24efba1c453e

Natalie Leon

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nleonconde/

Amanda Scott

https://www.solutionharbor.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaleighscott/

Joe Van Tassel

www.integressinc.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/9232806/admin/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode81

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

You set a goal, you get excited, and your ambition bubbles to the surface. But somewhere along the way, the fire fades and you lose confidence and motivation. Sound familiar?

Let’s talk about leaning into your ambition - because I want 2022 to be the year that you start believing in yourself, my love - and your abilities as the ambitious woman in tech that you are!

In today’s episode, I share the FOUR things that you need to do more of to really fuel and build your ambition this year (whether it’s reigniting a dying spark or amplifying what you already have!) so you can get excited about your goals again and assure your success in 2022.

Ready to (re)ignite that ambition?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 4 simple & IMPORTANT things you can do to fuel your ambition this year!
What to do if you don’t think you are ambitious enough
My FREE resource to help you assure your success in 2022
Why too much ambition isn’t a problem - and what actually is!
How to nurture your ambition (and how this can apply to your team and organization)
A mindset tip to help you get into action (hint: this one might push some buttons!)
And more!

Useful links!

Sign up for the Planning Your Year: The 2022 Success Path Workshop at http://tonicollis.com/successpath

Get on the waitlist to be the first to find out when Lit Up Leadership Academy doors open: http://tonicollis.com/waitlist

Want to uplevel your executive presence? Check out the Executive Presence training in the Leading Women in Tech Shop: http://tonicollis.com/shop

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode80

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you feeling inspired about your leadership and tech career going into the new year?

Let’s talk about finding your unique route to becoming a standout leader & executive!

In today’s episode, I invite an amazing woman in tech, Hema Ramaswamy, to tell us all about her inspirational journey to becoming a tech executive and how her authentic leadership style is paving the way for more women in tech to thrive!

Ready to get inspired?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Hema’s personal story, career history, and her journey to becoming a Senior VP of Engineering
What it means to have a “genderless” leadership style
How to deal with being told you’re not technical enough to be the subject matter expert
Why so many women leave the tech sector - and why you need THIS perspective if you are struggling with the same thing!
Hema’s BIGGEST career highlight AND challenge
Her TOP TIPS for women navigating the tech industry
A powerful mindset shift to help you thrive as the only woman in the room!
And more!

Useful links!

Connect with Hema at: http://linkedin.com/in/hemar/

Find out more about Tracer labs: https://tracer.tech

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode79

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you set up to have a massively successful 2022? I can help you with this, my love!

Let’s talk about the small & simple things you can be doing, so that come January 1st - you’re ready to hit the ground running in your career!

In today’s episode, I am sharing the planning, mindset tools, and practical exercises you can use right now to make sure you start 2022 off right.

Ready for the actions & mindset that are going to make your next year phenomenal?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The practical exercises & mindset tools you need to start off 2022 right!
Why you need a success log now if you want to have MASSIVE success in 2022
The MOST IMPORTANT things you need to assess from this year
How to do your own skills appraisal (and the trap you want to avoid!)
Keeping essential habits in place over the holidays
A mindset tip about focus and clarity that will set you up for success in 2022!
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode78

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Balancing family life and your desire to be an amazing leader in tech can have you questioning - can I really have it all? But you CAN, my love!

Let’s talk about how you can start to redefine success and uplevel as a leader AND a parent!

In today’s episode, I invite extraordinary tech leader, Sushma Nallapeta, to share her wisdom on having it all! We discuss balancing motherhood with an executive leadership career, the common identity crisis mothers and executives face, and how to overcome bias in the industry and your own perfectionism to uplevel your tech leadership!

Ready to have it all?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Ways to balance motherhood with your passion for your career
Some of the MOST COMMON challenges that women leaders face as mothers and executives (and what to do about it!)
The TWO things you should know early in your career to be a standout leader!
What it really means to redefine success as a leader AND a parent
The mother & executive identity crisis - the 2 root causes, and what to do about it!
Proactive vs. Reactive mode - and what happens in your career when you stay proactive
Bias within the industry and how it affects the motherhood experience as a leader in tech
And more!

Useful links!

Connect with our guest today, Sushma Nallapeta, over at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sushmanallapeta

Twitter: Twitter.com/sushmars

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode77

Join the free Leading Women in Tech community on Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Is creating systems really worth the time it takes? YES, my love! Systems are essential to achieving great things as a leader.

So, let’s talk about the systems you need in place to make sure you are achieving your full potential in your leadership career!

In today’s episode, I dig into how to systemize more of your work so you can focus your decision-making energy on the things that really matter.

Ready for the THREE foundational systems you need to shine as an executive leader?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The THREE high-level areas of systems you need in place to achieve great things as a leader
Why a system is NOT the same as a habit or behavior
The system you might need if you struggle with perfectionism & procrastination
How to move from reactive mode to proactive mode in your leadership career - and why this is SO important!
And more!

Useful links!

Want to learn more about impostor syndrome (both fo you and your team)? Check out my free mini training series: Ditch The Self Doubt http://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode76

Join the free Leading Women in Tech community on Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/leadingwomenintech/shared_invite/zt-w8qbxeue-jDgnuaz8lK29Ws6Sr8NXVg

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Now is the time to own your value. It’s the time to stand up for the unique and amazing skills you bring to the table!

Let’s talk about how to make your next career move easier during the Great Resignation!

In today’s episode, I invite the fabulous Susan Gygax, hiring & team strategist and founder of Spectacle Talent Partners, to talk to us about the tools you need to find success in the talent acquisition process and how to leverage the Great Resignation to achieve more - and make your next career move easier!

Ready to make the most of this time and uplevel your career and leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Susan’s career journey and how she came to be the founder of Spectacle Talent Partners
Some simple steps to making the acquisition process a little smoother (this is for all my hiring managers out there!)
The SECRET to hiring top performers
Common mistakes candidates make in their job search - and how to avoid them!
The BIGGEST differentiator in your career (and why you shouldn’t be deterred from using it!)
Why undervaluing THIS THING could be cutting you off from big success in your career
The ONE THING you should be doing at least 10 minutes a day to uplevel your career!
A question to ask yourself that will help you land your next dream role
And more!

Useful links!

Want to be on my mailing list to be the first to hear about my Black Friday sale? Head to http://tonicollis.com/resources

Connect with Susan at:

https://spectacletalentpartners.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susangygax/

https://www.facebook.com/SpectacleTalentPartners

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode75

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

I have something really important that you need to hear - at some point in your career, you are going to need an assistant to be exceptional at what you do (it’s true, my love!)

So, let’s talk about how to effectively use an assistant as a busy executive!

In today’s episode, I share how to identify what to outsource to an assistant, some general rules to follow when you’re getting serious about hiring one, and why an executive assistant will be a game-changer in your career!

Ready to hire an assistant and spend more time in your zone of genius?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What effectively using an assistant looks like (and why you need one!)
Some general rules to follow when hiring an assistant
A surprising fact you need to know if you cram your schedule full of tasks and work more than 40 hours a week!
How to identify what should be outsourced to an assistant
Why you should STOP putting off your creative work until the end of the day
Some of the MOST COMMON things you can outsource that will free you up to do the fun, creative work you love!
The MOST IMPORTANT thing your assistant controls
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode74

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Is there something you want to change in your life or career? Well, you already have the power to change it! YOU create your life.

Let’s talk about the mindset of success - and how you can use it to reach your big career goals!

In today’s episode, I invite the inspiring Shikha Kapoor - Product Lead at Google - to talk to us all about her tech journey, what it took to uplevel early in her career, and how to adopt a mindset of success to reach your goals.

Ready to shift your mindset and uplevel in your career faster?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Shikha’s career history and her path to working at Google
Her experience dealing with imposter syndrome and learning to trust herself
The core principle Shikha lives by - and what we can learn from this!
What we can be doing to instill a growth mindset & the belief in bigger possibilities for the next generation of girls
A day in the life of a product manager at Google
What you need to know about the advice you are getting in your career
A practical mindset tip from Shikha to help you move forwards faster in your career - and really thrive!
And more!

Useful links!

If you’d like to connect with Shikha, find her over on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shikhakapoor/

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode73

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

They offered you the job! Now, what?

Let’s talk about how to stop underselling yourself in the job offer process so you can uplevel your career - without giving up the things you really want (and deserve)!

In today’s episode, I dig into the FOUR most common areas you could be underselling and undervaluing yourself at the offer stage - and what to do instead!

Ready to STOP underselling yourself and get the job offer you deserve?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 4 MOST COMMON job offer underselling mistakes - and how to avoid them!
Reasons why you might take a job offer you don’t really want (and what to do instead!)
My TOP TIPS for doing your due diligence around your job offer
Why you need to do your homework - and some resources to help you avoid accepting a low-ball offer!!
The high cost of failure to negotiate as a leader and how that plays into the job offer process
One BIG mistake I made with my employment contract that I want you to avoid!
A mindset tip for you around stress and your next job offer
And more!

Useful links!

Want to know more about negotiation? Check out Episode 44 — The High Cost of Failing to Negotiate at Work:

http://tonicollis.com/episode44

Great resources for checking salaries:

https://www.payscale.com/for-individuals/

https://www.levels.fyi/

http://glassdoor.com

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode72

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you taking action steps toward your big career dreams? If not, or if you feel stuck in your leadership journey - you might want to think about your strategic career action plan!

In today’s episode, I invite the fabulous Patricia Hayes - executive advisor and career empowerment coach - to talk to us about strategic career action planning. We discuss why you need to develop one, how to get started, and what to do AFTER the plan is set - because this is so important, my love!

Ready to get really strategic with your career development?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Why you need to have a strategic action plan in your tech career if you want to uplevel!
Goal setting - and how to know if you are setting your goals high enough (you are capable of so much, my love!)
The MOST IMPORTANT difference between your personal strategic career action plan and the one your employer puts in place
Where to begin when developing your strategic career action plan (and some tips if you are feeling stuck on this initial step!)
The MOST IMPORTANT thing you can be doing to elevate your career - and how this opened the doors to my first executive position!
Patricia’s TOP TIP for elevating your career faster when transitioning - and why it might surprise you
A BIG mistake you might be making around networking - and how to avoid it!
And more!

Useful links!

Lit Up Leadership Academy doors open! A complete program for women in tech to accelerate their influence, step into their dream leadership career and break through the glass ceiling

Go to tonicollis.com/academy to learn more.

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free no obligation chat with me at bit.ly/CoffeeWithToni, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from.

Connect with Patricia Hayes at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciavhayes/

https://patriciavhayes.com

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode71

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Decisions...decisions…the catalyst for a magnetic, high-power career OR the fast track to burnout - which one will it be?

Let’s talk about what it takes to make decisions purposefully, step into your power, and be assertive in your career so you can uplevel your abilities as a great tech leader!

In today’s episode, I dive into all things decision-making because the further up you climb in your career, the more of this responsibility you will be taking on - so, let’s get you prepared!

Ready to train yourself in the decision-making habits that will get you to the top?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to create decision-making habits that will set you up for success in your career!
The lens of leadership - and how that comes across with our decision-making
Why you might be struggling with decision-making if you are doing THIS (hint: it’s about timing!)
Understanding our limited capacity for decision-making - and this means ALL decisions, my love!
A helpful tip for reigning in your emotions when making strategic decisions
And more!

Useful links!

Lit Up Leadership Academy doors open! A complete program for women in tech to accelerate their influence, step into their dream leadership career and break through the glass ceiling

Go to tonicollis.com/academy to learn more.

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free no obligation chat with me at bit.ly/CoffeeWithToni, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode70

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

If you are going to be an executive, you’re going to need a few very IMPORTANT things.

Let’s talk about what you need to know to avoid being behind the curve professionally and the tools you need to get to the executive team!

In today’s episode, I am talking to the fabulous Tacie Avedikian, VP of digital transformation at Little Bird Marketing, about the mindset and framework you need to build effective online habits so you can elevate your career - and your organization!

Ready to get visible, serve more, and elevate your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The essential mindset shifts Tacie made to get her role as VP - and how you can utilize these to elevate your career & organization!
How to build a framework for effective online habits (and why this is SO important to your career success!)
Some of the MOST IMPORTANT commonalities with women who get to the c-suite
Your BIGGEST asset both personally and professionally
Tacie’s #1 networking tip for transitioning or upleveling your career
An important mindset shift to help if you’ve fallen behind in your career (don’t worry, you can catch up!)
And more!

Want to find out more about Tacie and connect with her?

Find out more about here work at Little Bird Marketing: https://littlebirdmarketing.com/dla/

Or connect with her at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tavedikian/

https://twitter.com/tacie_a

tacie@littlebirdmarketing.com

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episodeXX

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Performance review season is approaching - and your leadership career bestie is here to make sure you are ready!

Let’s talk about performance evaluations and how to use them as a tool for your professional development!

In today’s episode, I am sharing the tools, techniques, and strategy you need to rock your next performance review - by alleviating the stress, and using it to uplevel your career instead!

Ready to make the most of your next performance evaluation?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Everything you need to know to shine in your next performance review!
The MOST IMPORTANT steps to take when preparing for your evaluation
Why I want you to pull out your last performance evaluation NOW (and what I want you to do with it!)
The COMMON mistake I see early career women make - and how to avoid it
My TOP TIP to help get your boss emotionally invested in your progress
How to prepare for a bad review (and the BIGGEST thing I want you to remember!)
A practical mindset tip to help you if you’re feeling triggered or unsettled going into your review
And so much more!

Useful links!

Ready to boost your leadership credentials, your credibility and career progression? Check out my free 5-part leadership framework training series

https://tonicollis.com/framework

And don’t forget to sign-up for a completely free sneak-peak of the Lit Up Leadership Academy after you’ve watched the videos.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode68

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Getting ready to step into your first VP position? Or maybe you’re looking to level up in your current role?

Let’s talk about the leadership skills you need to inspire, lead, and build great teams!

In today’s episode, I invite global engineering leader and my amazing client, Kathryn Vandiver, to share her wisdom with you! We discuss her reputation for turning things around and bringing teams together, what hiring support has done for her career, and how to become a true people leader.

Ready to embrace the characteristics of a people leader and change the face of the tech industry?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Kathryn’s inspiring career history and how she landed her current role as VP of engineering
How she uncovered her zone of genius and started focusing her career on those strengths!
Why empowering your team and creating great change are NOT mutually exclusive
The MOST IMPORTANT thing to learn in ANY role (especially if you want to be an amazing leader)
Why Kathryn wished she got a coach 10 years earlier!!
A simple mindset tip to help you uplevel your tech leadership
And more!

Useful links!

If you’d like to connect with Kathryn, find her over on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynvandiver/

Ready to step up and get the support you are after and join Lit Up Leadership Academy? Go check out all the details and be the first to find out when doors open at http://tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode67

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Ever been told that hard work and long hours will inevitably lead to burnout, my love? You are not alone - but I am here to give you the truth about how burnout is playing a role in your career.

Let’s talk about the burnout myth and how to identify the REAL causes of burnout - so you can ditch it!

In today’s episode, I talk all about burnout - the common misconceptions, the leading causes, and my 5 TOP TIPS to help you navigate away from burnout in your life and career so you can uplevel with confidence and less stress!

Ready to take action, ditch (or avoid!) the burnout, and feel differently?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My 5 TOP TIPS to help you navigate away from burnout in your career (and life!)
The BIGGEST myth I am debunking about burnout - and how this is going to help you advance your career!
Why you NEED to ditch this leading cause of burnout
How reducing this ONE thing will help you move forward faster in your career
The #1 tool in your tool kit against stress - and ultimately burnout!
A simple tool you can use every day to help you avoid burnout
And more!

Useful links!

Want to get on the waiting list for the Lit Up Leadership Academy? Head to

https://tonicollis.com/academy

Ready to let go of your impostor syndrome and ditch your self doubt? Get instant access to my free mini course:

https://tonicollis.com/dtsd

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode66

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you feel like you’re bragging when you talk about what you’re good at? Ever questioned your own leadership or the value you bring to your organization?

Let’s talk about how to confidently step into your unique leadership to uplevel your career!

In today’s episode, I invite the amazing Lindsay White - my new biz bestie and outstanding leadership coach - to talk to us all about how to truly step into your inner leader. We discuss some important lessons from her years in HR and recruiting, and how to confidently stand in your own greatness to stand out and make a big impact in your career!

Ready to get out of your own way and start owning your awesomeness?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Some important nuggets from Lindsay’s experience as a recruiter to help you on your career journey
What it took for her to leave a toxic work environment (and her advice for you if you are in a similar situation!)
One common thing small businesses getting wrong and the impact it can have when you get it right!
If you are doing a great job as a leader - you are not making it about THIS
One of the MOST IMPORTANT skills you need to cultivate to be more effective in your job hunt - and the trick to doing it right!
The mindset shift you need to get you to that next level in your career
And more!

Connect with Lindsay at:

Web: http://www.highvoltageleadership.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-white-high-voltage/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highvoltageleadership

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highvoltcoach/

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode65

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Want to know the thing I do all day, every day that allows me to have an optimistic view on life, business, and leadership?

Let’s talk about how you can do it too and move forwards into more optimism in your life and career!

In today’s episode, I share why optimism is fundamental to the foundation of great leadership and the 5 MOST IMPORTANT steps you need to move forwards in your career with more of it!

Ready to start thinking differently and become a happier leader (and human)?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 5 steps you can practice TODAY to become a better leader and happier human!
How you can actually use negativity to catapult you forward in your career
One of the BIGGEST fundamental foundations to great leadership - and how you can get more of it!
My FREE leadership challenge and how to join (you don’t want to miss this!)
Why avoiding THIS thing is keeping you stuck in negativity - and what to do about it!
How you can use conscious reframing to move forward FASTER in your career
And so much more!

Useful links!

Join the 30-Day Leadership Visibility Challenge:

http://tonicollis.com/challenge

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode64

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

We don’t have to sacrifice and struggle in our careers, my love - we CAN have it all!

Let’s talk about how understanding the impact our personal lives have on our careers can uplevel our tech leadership (and get us the dream role and career!)

In today’s episode, I invite coach Ewelina Szczeblewska to talk about her deep transformational work and how to find the clarity and confidence you need to lead powerfully in your life and career.

Ready to ditch the burnout and self-doubt and find your voice?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Why Ewelina is so passionate about helping highly ambitious women with their confidence
How to STOP giving away your power and START finding your voice and reclaiming your story!
The unique challenges you might be facing as a woman in the workplace (and an IMPORTANT tool you can use to identify your own blindspots)
One of the MOST underrated executive presence skills - and how to get it!
How to develop an early warning system so you can increase your self-awareness and bounce back quicker in your career
Why women struggle to gain traction in their leadership career and Ewelina’s BIGGEST piece of advice to help
How fear of embarrassment could be showing up in your career, what it REALLY is, and what to do about it!
A simple mindset shift you can make TODAY to help you get what you want and thrive in your career
Ewelina’s FREE training opportunity!
And more!

Ewelina Szczeblewska:

I help high achieving professionals to reclaim their stories so that they can create their careers and lives according to their aligned vision.

My area of expertise is deep transformational work on the subconscious level. I help you to eliminate damaging beliefs, patterns and habits that stand in your way to that next level of success. Self-sabotage, imposter syndrome, low confidence, stress, anxiety, overwhelm or burnout are all just symptoms of a much deeper issue that I can help you to identify and eliminate.

Useful links!

Excited to connect with Ewelina? You can find her on:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ewelina-szczeblewska/

https://www.facebook.com/bravingthebeing

https://www.instagram.com/ewelina_j_szczeblewska/

And on her website at: www.bravingthebeing.com

Get your hands on her free impostor syndrome training: ‘Conquer the Imposter Syndrome!' https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/conquer-the-imposter-syndrome-tickets-167601954959

Ready for the 30-Day Leadership Visibility Challenge? Join in at https://tonicollis.com/challenge

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode63

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

What actually is servant leadership? And should you be worried about implementing it in your organization?

Let’s have a talk about why adopting a servant leadership model might be right for you (and how to do it!)

In today’s episode, I dive into the servant leadership philosophy - I dispel some common misconceptions, share ways to implement it effectively, and give you the pros and cons list you need so you can fully understand and put the servant leadership model into action!

Ready to learn more about what being a servant leader REALLY means?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What servant leadership REALLY is and ways to implement it!
My pros & cons list to help you decide if the servant leadership methodology is right for you and your organization
What happens when we put too big an emphasis on stakeholder and customer happiness (and what we can do instead!)
Where I see servant leadership derailing companies - and how to avoid this!
The BIGGEST mistake you can make when adopting ANY leadership model
An easy mindset tip to help you take action toward servant leadership
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode62

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Can we be ambitious and still be great parents? And how does showing up more consciously as a parent relate to how you show up in the workplace?

Let’s talk about how to balance being an ambitious woman in tech AND showing up as the parent you want to be!

In today’s episode, I invite the extraordinary Robbin McManne, parenting coach for ambitious women, to share her work as a parenting coach and discuss ways to balance being a more conscious parent with standing out in your career and leadership.

Ready to gain some tools to help you balance parenting kiddos while upleveling your tech leadership, my love?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Robbin’s work as a parenting coach - and how it can help you balance your tech career & mom life!
The synergy between conscious parenting and actually stepping up as an outstanding leader
Breaking the cycle of low emotional intelligence in the workplace
The 3 IMPORTANT steps you can take to help balance parenting and your tech career
A highly actionable mindset tip you can use TODAY to help you be a more conscious parent while being the amazing, ambitious woman in tech that you are!
And more!

Useful links:

Get Robbin’s parenting tools and resources https://www.parent-toolbox.com

Check out Robbin’s website: https://www.parentingforconnection.com

And take a listen to Robbin’s Podcast ‘Parenting Our Future’: https://www.parentingforconnection.com/podcast-1

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode61

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you ready to move forward with purpose, ease, and confidence to end your 2021 on a high?

Let’s talk about how to make sure the end of 2021 is really kick-ass for you!

In today’s episode, I share the THREE fundamental things you need to do to move forward faster and find success (and ultimate happiness!) in your career.

Ready to roll into these final months with purpose and ignite the spark back into your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 3 KEY things you need to do to find success AND happiness at work
My advice to help you keep momentum in your career (this is SO important, my love!)
One of the MOST IMPORTANT things that I have taught myself that has allowed me to build a strong business (and how you can learn it too!)
The practical steps to help you strengthen your reframing muscle (and why it will help you move forward faster and more purposefully in your career!)
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode60

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Imagine if you were completely lit up by what you do! It takes some work to get there, but when you do - it’s magical!

Let’s talk about how to identify your unique career advantage so you can do more of what you enjoy (because that is where your success lies, my love!)

In today’s episode, I invite fabulous author, speaker, and executive coach, Moira Lethbridge, to talk to us all about how to identify and use your zone of genius to find success (and enjoy it)!

Ready to unlock more opportunities in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

How you can expand your capacity to enjoy your success TODAY!
What it means to have your own unique career advantage - and why it’s so important to identify it!
Being bullied at the top and the turning point in Moira’s career
Why you always have THREE options (and what they are!)
Four questions to help you increase your productivity, meaning, and purpose
The basic steps you can take to identify your zone of genius
How to use your zone of genius to unlock more opportunities in your career!
One thing you can do RIGHT NOW to overcome the mindset blocks holding you back from more success AND joy in your life
A VERY SPECIAL announcement for you!
And more!

If you’d like to win a copy of Savvy Woman In 5 Minutes A Day: Make Time For A Life That Matters, by today’s guest, Moira Lethbridge, then make sure you send an email to support@tonicollis.com with your number 1 takeaway from today’s show by Tuesday August 10th 2021 at 11:59pm Pacific Time.

Useful Links

Want to buy a copy of Moira’s book? Go to: https://savvywomanbook.com

You can connect with Moira online at:

Web: https://www.moiralethbridge.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moiralethbridge/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/moira.lethbridge/

Twitter: @moiralethbridge

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRp3PJhgTzhPX8ftW-uIVPQ?view_as=subscriber

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode59

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Does the idea of using influence in your career make you feel a little icky or uncomfortable? You’re not alone - but we are going to change that today, my love!

Let’s talk about why influence is actually a GOOD thing - and essential at every stage of your leadership career!

In today’s episode, I share a repeatable 5-step influence process you can start using RIGHT NOW - that will take you from having your ideas shut down, to people buying in!

Ready to ditch the negativity around influence and start using it to uplevel?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

A repeatable 5-step influence process you can start using RIGHT NOW to make sure you get yourself heard - by the right people, at the right time!
One common block I see coming up with my clients at the higher level of leadership (and how to bust it!)
An IMPORTANT place to start before you begin the 5-step influence process!
What it means to map out your network and some questions to help
A practical way to understand threat responses so you can use influence to impact more people
And more!

Useful links!

Ready to get your hands on exclusive access work with me and get Executive Coaching for just $97/month?

Here's the quick version. I'm offering a small number of amazing ladies the chance to help me develop my new coaching focus to the extraordinary program that is the Lit Up Leadership Academy. I'm welcoming in just a handful of beta-testers for two months where you'll be getting:

🚀 Leadership development at your fingertips in the Lit Up Leadership Academy training portal, covering everything from executive presence and communication, having those difficult but crucial conversations, to strategy made simple for new managers and executives. You can see what's inside just this portion of the program by having a look at our sales page from our last launch! Click here to take a peek (note you can't enroll for just the Academy right now!).

🚀 3x Executive Mastermind Coaching sessions with your fellow members, to help you stay on track, stay focused and get your burning questions answered.

🚀 Advice, guidance and support in figuring out how to shape and take action on a personalised professional development plan (you know, one that’s made for you, not made by your boss for the benefit of the business!) so you accelerate your career fast, while positively gliding your way up the career ladder

🚀 Private Slack community just for members so you can support each other and get your questions answered in real time.

🚀 BONUS (only for this beta launch!): Monthly 1:1 20-minute coaching sessions with yours truly, so you can tailored, personal advice, and get traction faster (value: $500)

And you can get all of that for just $3.08/day!

Click here to get started and ensure you grab one of these spots:

https://tonicollis.thrivecart.com/academy-beta-membership/

Want to have a chat first? Book a coffee chat with me but make sure you do that THIS week before doors close on Friday July, 30th.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode58

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

You can be the person who speaks up, the person who chooses empathy. No matter the stage of your career - you can be the person who shows a better way!

In today’s episode, I invite the extraordinary Jane Yang, engineer without borders and proud child of immigrants, to talk to us all about a topic near and dear to my heart - inclusion! We discuss the tools we need to build strong leadership that manifests into effective AND inclusive tech organizations, and how we can use these tools right now to start building a better future - together.

Ready to show up, speak up, and create more inclusivity?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How people-management and leadership affect each other (and what happens when we effectively combine the two!)
The MOST IMPORTANT thing you can do to be a better ally for others around you
Intention & Impact - the relationship between the two, and how they play a role in toxicity
Why inclusivity is talked about so often and how to get into action instead!
The triangle of enablement - and what you can do to tackle toxic employees and culture in the workplace
One simple shift you can make TODAY to become a more inclusive ally!
And more!

Useful links!

Connect with Jane at:

https://janeyang.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/janejyang/

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode57

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Job offers today are rarely simple. Whether you’re getting a promotion, or stepping into a new role - these offers can be very complex.

Let’s talk about understanding your new job offer so you can determine whether to take it, negotiate further, or even walk away (with confidence)!

In today’s episode, I am on a mission to give you the practical tools and techniques you need to understand what’s really going on underneath your next job offer so you can feel empowered to negotiate and make decisions from a place of strength to get what you want and deserve!

Ready to truly get down to what your new job offer means to you?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to look at the 3 VITAL pieces of your new job offer holistically so you can make the decision that is right for you!
One of the BIGGEST reasons why people regret taking an offer (and how to avoid it!)
A FREE resource from me to help you analyze what each offer means to you
What it really means if your organization is pushing you to accept an offer on the spot (and what to do about it!)
The common costs not considered when moving locations for your career
How to practically consider healthcare costs as part of your offer
General rules to help you understand your perk package
My BIGGEST mindset lesson about considering a job offer
And more!

Useful links!

Grab the spreadsheet to help you with your calculations: https://bit.ly/analysemyoffer

Catch up on episode 44 - the high cost of failing to negotiate at work

http://tonicollis.com/episode44

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode56

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Have you been feeling a bit stuck or stalled in your career?

Let’s talk about how you can build a support framework to uplevel your leadership, get you to that c-suite, or set you up for a career transition!

In today’s episode, the amazing Rashim Mogha - best selling author, keynote speaker, and women in tech evangelist - is joining us to talk all about networking, diversity and inclusion, and how to take risks in your career to get into action toward your dreams.

Ready to start cultivating and leveraging relationships to grow your leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The 3 CRITICAL pieces to cultivating and leveraging sponsorships
How to identify roles and organizations where your voice will be valued and heard
The difference between a Mentor and a Sponsor (and why we need to be cultivating BOTH!)
Some useful networking tips to help you through a career transition
The 3 BIGGEST mindset challenges we face as women climbing the corporate ladder (and what to do about them!)
The TOP 3 things that women need to do more to grow their leadership potential
And more!

Useful links!

Connect with Rashim and find out more about her work at:

W: https://rashimmogha.com

eWOW: https://eWOWglobal.com

T: @rmogha, @eWOWleaders

L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashimmogha/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/ewow/

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode55

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Have you ever been told exactly how and what to be in your career to find success? Or maybe that you need to be more like your male peers? No, no, no - my love!

Let’s talk about why YOU and your unique set of experiences and values as a woman in tech is the KEY to getting you a seat at the table!

In today’s episode, I share how authentic and value-driven leadership can help you reach your career goals, how to work on your executive presence (without giving up your uniqueness!), and

why staying true to your unique values and approach will help you stand out!

Ready to bring your uniqueness and authentic leadership to the executive table?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Why YOUR unique values and authentic leadership is the KEY to getting your dream role
What the diversity dividend is really about (and why gender diversity = more money!)
The #1 challenge I see new leaders facing (and what to do about it!)
A simple practice to help you figure out where you need to grow and double down on your value system to uplevel your leadership
How to grow your executive presence and improve your strategic thinking (without giving up your uniqueness!)
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Want to diver straight into what it means to do a one-off Shift-To-Thrive intensive? Check out: https://tonicollis.com/shift

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode54

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you lifting others up on your way to the leadership table?

Let’s talk about how to start embracing the idea that there is room at the top - for all of us!

In today’s episode, I invite Stacy Sherman, Certified Customer Experience (CX) pioneer and Founder of DoingCXRight®, to talk all about using the customer experience to humanize business and how we as women can change the nature of leadership and give support to others as we rise to the top!

Ready to shift your mindset and inspire others around you as you uplevel?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

What humanizing business means (and how it can help in your career growth!)
The challenges that come up for women around supporting other women - and how to be part of the solution!
What it means to “be in the room” (and why doing this will help you excel in your career)
Some tips to help you find a mentor so you can uplevel your leadership
How to become a better ally to underrepresented groups in the workplace
One of the few benefits of being the only woman in the room (and how this applies to psychological safety)
The IMPORTANT mindset shift you can make to help lift others up (and some tips from Stacy to increase your confidence on your way to the top!)
And more!

Certified Customer Experience (CX) pioneer and Founder of DoingCXRight®, helping business leaders apply her ‘Heart & Science’ framework to improve customer and employee experiences while maximizing results.

Stacy’s been working at companies of all sizes where she increases loyalty, retention, and overall customer satisfaction through engaged employees, resulting in record- breaking Net Promoter scores (NPS), 6% revenue growth & $2B portfolio protection. She’s on a mission to ensure everyone is DOING, not talking about CX, so that REAL human connections & happiness exist.

Useful Links:

Find out more about Stacy and her work in CX at: https://doingcxright.com/

And connect with her on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacysherman/

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode53

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Can we really “fake it ‘til we make it”? Do we even want to?

Let’s dig into the whole “fake it ‘til you make it” idea - what it is AND what it isn’t!

In today’s episode, I dismantle the bad reputation of “fake it ‘til you make it” and give you the tips, tools, and mindset you need to “fake” your way through the uncomfortable moments in your life and career so you can show up more confident in your leadership and accelerate faster!

Ready to ditch the self-doubt and uplevel your leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What “fake it ‘till you make it” really means (and what it doesn’t!)
The 3 steps to “faking it” and how they will help you accelerate your career!
How to determine if you are experiencing imposter syndrome in your life or career
The #1 thing that is holding you back from career progress (and how to change it!)
My FREE resource to help you ditch your self-doubt (this is a game-changer!)
The BIG trap you could be falling into and why it’s stopping you from making an impact!
A short, simple practice to help you with your confidence
Negative mood cycles and a helpful process to help you interrupt them
And so much more!

Useful links!

Ready to Ditch your self doubt, tackle your imposter syndrome, and put in place your personalised impostorism action toolkit? Grab my free 5-part mini training at http://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode52

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you approaching your leadership with “people-first” in mind? What does that even look like?

Let’s talk about how you can use transparency, a healthy work-life balance, and a people-first approach to reach your team goals!

In today’s episode, I invite Jordan Danger Stalker, founder of Danger Co. and master of brand development and consumer behavior, to share her insights on leading a team with a people-first approach and how to use these strategies to cultivate a powerful and impactful team culture and business.

Ready to put your people first and uplevel your tech leadership?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

The specific skills you need to cultivate to build a people-first team culture
What led Jordan to tech after a decade in social services (and how she changed the game with her people-first approach!)
The inspirational company culture she built and how it relates to the progress she has seen in her company (including massive success during Covid!)
How the contractor team model has impacted her business (and why it might be the right choice for you as a leader!)
Why she uses the same approach of transparency and pragmatism for her clients AND her team
How deadline-driven work might be holding your team back from creativity (and what to do about it!)
A highly actionable mindset shift to help you with your team leadership
And more!

Useful Links

Danger Co: https://dangerco.co

Danger Co on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37243795/admin/

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordandangerstalker/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode51

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Did you know that mindset is the #1 barrier between you and your dream role?

Let’s talk about the mindset shifts you need to think like an executive so you get taken more seriously at work!

In today’s episode, I share TEN simple shifts you can make in how you think as an employee that will help you uplevel your career and move you toward a leadership position (and excel at it when you get there!)

Ready to take action on these 10 shifts and bust the barrier between you and success?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The #1 thing standing between you and your dreams (and why it’s not about how clever you are!)
A simple practice I do EVERY morning that helps me stay focused and out of overwhelm
The 10 shifts you NEED to think more like a leader (and the practical ways to put them into action!)
How to bust one of the BIGGEST mindset challenges (and why this will help you be more innovative and creative!)
The 3 MOST IMPORTANT mindset shifts you can make to help you take action toward up-leveling your career
How learning to manage this ONE THING can help you navigate overwhelm and find true success
A SIMPLE practice to help you put these 10 mindset shifts into action - starting TODAY!
And more!

Useful links!

Want to find out more about how to identify opportunities at work for standing out? Check out Episode 1 (https://tonicollis.com/episode1) How to build credibility as a leader

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode50

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

What really happens when women show up powerfully and authentically in the workplace?

Let’s talk about how you could be showing up differently in your career so you can elevate your leadership!

In today’s episode, I talk to one of my business besties, fellow leadership and executive coach, and co-founder of Women Leading Powerfully, Natalie Barron, about what it takes to elevate women in leadership, the tools you need to accelerate your career, and why women in collaboration can do so much good in the world.

Ready to uplevel your executive presence or confidently step into your next role?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Natalie’s mission to help women up-level their leadership and show up more powerfully in their careers
The pivotal question that sparked Natalie’s entrepreneurial journey
How you could be leaving promotions and money on the table in your career (and how to get what you deserve instead!)
One of the BIGGEST reasons women are lacking confidence in the workplace
How you could be holding yourself back as a woman in a male-dominated industry (and the mindset shift you need to stop!)
Why B- work is better than A+ work (seriously, it’s true!)
How you can bust through the blocks around asking for what you want in the workplace (especially if you fear backlash or negative outcomes)
The #1 thing that gets people promoted within organizations (and why you might be missing this step!)
Natalie’s TOP advice around confidence to help move you forward in your career
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

If you'd like to connect with Natalie you can find her on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-marie-barron/

Find out more about Natalie's 12-week group coaching program in The Leadership Lab. The next cohort starts June 3rd and Natalie is taking applications now. Visit www.womenleadingpowerfully.com

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode49

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

So, you’ve decided to get a coach (yay!) or you have been thinking about it for a while - but are not sure what’s next. How do you identify the right coach for you? And how do you avoid wasting too much time getting to that person?

Let’s talk about what it takes to choose the RIGHT coach!

In today’s episode, I give you my TOP TIPS for landing a great coach so you can take your life and career to the next level!

Ready for your shortcut to finding a great coach?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Why finding the RIGHT coach is just as important as having one (and how to do it!)
The TWO primary things that coaching is really about
Why their background and experience matters (and what to look for!)
Three of the MOST IMPORTANT factors to consider when choosing a coach
What the minimum coaching term should be if you are looking for career transformation
Why I don’t encourage corporate coaches
What it can mean if your prospective coach doesn’t have a coach themselves
And more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode48

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you thinking about pivoting your career? Or maybe you’re expanding your family and need some tips to maintain balance while still standing out as the amazing tech leader that you are?

Let’s talk about how my guest launched a business and pivoted into tech - all while starting a family!

In today’s episode, I have an inspiring conversation with Jenn Hunter, COO of PayShepherd, self proclaimed nerd, and mom (of two under two!) about her entrepreneurial journey. We discuss how she balances motherhood and business, the challenges around adopting technology and instigating change in the construction industry, and some helpful insights on how to uplevel your leadership in a male-dominated industry.

We dive into:

Dealing with mom guilt (and why Jenn was able to jump back into work a week after her child was born!)
How she is helping the construction industry move forward by normalizing the use of data
The 2 things you need to know to be able to truly commit to something (and make it happen!)
One of the MOST IMPORTANT things you need to do as a senior leader for your customers and team to build belief in you
How Jenn views work/life balance (and why it might be different than how you’re viewing it now)
The significant mindset challenges Jenn had to work through moving into tech
An actionable mindset shift you can use to uplevel your leadership
And more!

Connect with Jenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18413697/admin/

Website: https://www.payshepherd.com/

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Find out more about Jenn and her work at Pay Shepherd at: https://www.payshepherd.com/

And you can connect with Jenn on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hunter-01/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode47

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

How do you prepare for a management interview? If you are embarking on this journey, I know it can be daunting - but don’t worry, I’ve got you!

Let’s talk about preparing for management interviews.

In today’s episode, I go over the KEY preparations you need to ace your next leadership interview and some of my favorite advice to help you stand out and shine!

Ready to take that next step and get a more rewarding job (and hopefully a salary raise to go along with it?)

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The KEY preparations you need to successfully prepare for your next management interview
One of the BIGGEST mistakes I see people making (and why it is so important to avoid!)
A game-changing tool to help you focus on the right areas when preparing for your interview
The NECESSARY skill that I take all of my students through in my course and is well-worth developing NOW so you can ace your next interview!
An important document that can set you up for less work and an easier interview preparation process
How a management presentation can send you off on a winning interview strategy (and why you should prepare one - even if you haven’t been asked!)
A quick tip to help you blow that interview panel out of the water!
Setting up a 30-60-90 day plan and a great place to start that process
And so much more!

Useful links!

Need some help landing and leveraging that informational interview? Check out Episode 038: How to Land and Excel in an Informational Interview to Accelerate Your Career and Job Hunt

https://tonicollis.com/episode38

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

If you’d like to get ahead on the executive job hunt, check out my intensive Leadership Job Hunt VIP service. Find out more at https://tonicollis.com/vip

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode46

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you looking for a simple way to uplevel your leadership? Maybe you’re searching for new ways to empower and motivate your team?

Let’s talk about how using DiSC - a personality profiling tool - can help you become a better leader!

In today’s episode, I invite Olivia Carter, leadership coach and DiSC personality profiling expert, to talk about how you can use DiSC to help maximize your strengths and identify effective ways to drive and inspire your team.

Ready to identify and enhance your leadership style - and become a better leader?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Why Olivia left the corporate sector and what might have helped her stay!
The MOST common mindset challenges that hold women back from pushing through the glass ceiling of leadership (and how to overcome them!)
How you can use the profiles of your team to become a better leader
The 4 personality styles that are defined in the DiSC assessment (and how knowing yours can uplevel your leadership!)
How perfectionism shows up and what to do about it (especially if you are a C type!)
Why understanding the common fears of your profile can help you overcome them
Olivia’s TOP TIP to help you uplevel your leadership!
And more!

Connect with Olivia:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/femaleleadclub

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviacartercoaching/

W: www.oliviacartercoaching.co.uk

Find out more about Olivia’s 8 Week Group Programme - " Be Your Own Leader " Empower The Female Leader In You to Elevate Your Success In Your Career or Business: https://oliviacartercoaching.co.uk/be-your-own-leader

Useful links!

Ready to ditch your impostor symptom, inner critic and self-doubt? Get instant access to my 5-part free mini training on Ditching Your Self Doubt at https://tonicollis.com/dtsd

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: https://tonicollis.com/episode45

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

If you’re not willing to negotiate, what does that say about you as a leader? Just because you landed the offer doesn’t mean you are done selling yourself.

Let’s talk about getting comfortable with negotiating at work!

In today’s episode, I discuss the cost of failing to negotiate in your career and ways to uplevel your negotiation skills at work so you can build trust, improve relationships, and sell yourself as the standout leader you are.

Ready to set the tone at work by learning to negotiate?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The BIGGEST costs of failing to negotiate in your career
Why negotiating is especially difficult for women (and what to do about it!)
The unconscious message you might be sending your employer if you do not negotiate your compensation
Something I ALWAYS suggest you do when you are offered your initial compensation (and what it could say about you if you don’t!)
Examples of how I negotiated terms in my own career - and what came from it!
And so much more!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

If you’d like to get ahead on the executive job hunt, check out my intensive Leadership Job Hunt VIP service. Find out more at https://tonicollis.com/vip

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode44

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Is it possible to find success and be happy at the same time? As high-achieving women in tech, there are a lot of extra hurdles to finding success, but if we aren’t finding satisfaction along the way - we are missing the point!

In today’s episode, I invite executive, career coach, and author, Terry B. McDougall, to talk all about finding success AND happiness as a high-achieving woman in a male-dominated industry. We discuss some of the major things that could be holding you back from true success and how to break through that glass ceiling by tapping into your own unique and authentic leadership.

Ready to get more thoughtful and strategic about the moves that you’re making in your career?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

One of the MOST VALUABLE pieces of career advice Terry has ever received
The specific behaviors you need to cultivate to show up as your authentic self in your leadership role (without becoming “one of the boys”!)
Why it is so common for high-achieving women to be successful but NOT satisfied (and what to do about it!)
How the habit of delaying gratification could be playing a negative role in your career progression
The true opportunity cost of doing something that is not your highest value work
Terry’s BIGGEST tip for working through negative thinking in your life and career
And so much more!

Useful links:

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Find out more about Terry and her work at:

W: www.terrybmcdougall.com

Connect on LInkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/terrybmcdougall

Download a free chapter of Terry’s Book at www.tinyurl.com/gameofworkbook

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode43

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Frustrated at being passed over for another promotion? Applying for jobs and not getting the right traction?

Let’s talk about what you could have been doing all along to get noticed at work and what you can do NOW to make sure you are noticed when the next opportunity comes!

In today’s episode, I share the 5 MOST IMPORTANT things you need to be doing right now (and really, all the time!) to get noticed in the workplace so you can get the new job title, pay raise, or promotion that you deserve!

Ready to start getting noticed for the standout leader that you are?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 5 MOST IMPORTANT things you can be doing EVERY DAY to get noticed at work!
What behaviors you need to release to be able to uplevel your reputation as a leader at work (and how these behaviors could be showing up for you)
A common trap that could be keeping you stuck and disregarded at work
Why women often hit the first glass ceiling (and how to avoid this!)
A must-have as a leader that will communicate your value (and a simple way to help you discover it)
How modesty could be holding you back from your next career opportunity (and some practical ways to push through this common barrier)
And so much more!

Useful Links:

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free, no-obligation Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode42

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Want to take that next step in your career and step into an executive role? Maybe you feel burnt out or stuck where you are and need a shift to get you moving in the right direction?

Let’s talk about what it takes to step into your dream role!

In today’s episode, I talk with award winning leader and champion for women in tech, Jossie Haines. We discuss how she shows up in the industry - her role as V.P of Software Engineering at Tile and her mission to keep women and underrepresented minorities in tech - and the mindset shifts that you need to step up to the executive team (or any leadership role that you want!)

Ready to shift your mindset and get a seat at the table?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

Jossie’s education background and career history (including positions at Apple, Zynga, American Express, and Tile!)
The incredible work she accomplished as Engineering Manager for a Siri domain team at Apple
Acknowledging the bias women in tech face and starting “Women at Siri”
The ONE thing she truly valued from her time at Apple that helped her as a manager
Dealing with imposter syndrome as a leader and how she moved out of that mindset
How you could be holding yourself back in your career when receiving feedback (and how to avoid this!)
The MOST IMPORTANT mindset shift she had to go through to step into her V.P. role
Jossie’s TOP TIPS to help you get a seat on the executive team
What triggered her decision to hire a leadership coach and what it’s done for her career
And more!

Useful Links:

Connect and follow Jossie on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jossiemann/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode41

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Wondering what your path to the c-suite could look like? Need some guidance on upleveling your career, leadership, and executive presence?

Let’s talk about my journey to the c-suite - what drove me and how I got there (and what you can do to get there too)!

In today’s episode, I give you a behind the scenes peek at what it took to land my first executive role (wrote the description for the job myself!) and the major lessons I learned along the way so you can use these same tools to ditch the self-doubt and become the standout leader you were born to be!

Ready to become a better leader and elevate your career?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Why your passion is the KEY to getting your dream role!
How imposter syndrome could be holding you back from your leadership potential (and how to ditch it!)
Why I was told I would NEVER be promoted (and what I did about it!)
The ONE thing you must have to be able to ditch self-doubt (hint: you just have to tap into it!)
Some ESSENTIAL skills I learned along the way that will help you get to the c-suite faster
Why being technical is NOT what gets you to the executive team (and what actually does)
And so much more!

Useful Links:

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free, no obligation Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Needing help with your own self doubt and impostorism? Sign up for my free 5-part mini course on Ditching the Self Doubt: http://tonicollis.com/dtsd

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode40

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you have a clear and unique online presence? Is it possible that you’re leaving opportunities on the table by not leveraging your personal brand?

Let’s talk about how you can start using your personal brand TODAY, to elevate your career and business!

In today’s episode, I talk to personal brand communication specialist, Ewa Pietreniuk, about all things personal branding - how to build your brand authentically and professionally, what could be holding you back from creating a strong online presence, and the specific skills and behaviours you can use to uplevel your branding and career!

Ready to embrace your authentic self, show her to the world, and accelerate your career and opportunities?

Let’s go to the show!

We dive into:

What a personal brand really is and what it can do for your career and business!
The evolution of personal branding and why it is a NECESSITY if you don’t want to fall behind in your career
What you need to know about communicating your brand online (and why this is SO important!)
The BIGGEST fear Ewa sees come up with clients around personal branding (and how to overcome it!)
One of the BIGGEST things that could be holding you back from career success
How to create a personal brand that is BOTH authentic and professional (and a simple place to start!)
A special discount Ewa is offering my listeners to help you leverage your personal brand and control your online presence!
And more!

Useful links:

Find out more about working with Ewa over at https://uandeve.com/, and connect with her on LinkedIn or Instagram to find out more about her personal branding strategy sessions. Don’t forget to share that you heard her on the Leading Women in Tech podcast to get a 10% discount!

Website: https://uandeve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pietreniuk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/u_and_eve/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode39

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you getting ready to apply for a new job? Or maybe you’re looking for a way to uplevel in your current role, but aren’t quite sure where to start?

Let’s talk about how to boost your career success by landing (and excelling in!) informational interviews.

In today’s episode, I talk ALL things informational interviews - what they are, why they are SO important for your career success, and my 6 TOP TIPS for how to prepare for them.

Ready to accelerate your career or job hunt and set yourself up for success?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

Why informational interviews are one of the FASTEST ways to boost your career success
My 6 TOP TIPS to help you prepare for an informational interview so it can feel easy and get you that job or advancement in your career that you’re looking for!
How you can better position your covering letter based on what you gain from an informational interview (this WILL help you land that next job!)
A FREE resource to help you organize and run an informational interview so you feel prepared and ready!
The TRUE purpose of an informational interview (that most people don’t talk about!)
What you should ALWAYS start with in an informational interview to set yourself up for success
And so much more!

Useful links!

Download my free guide on preparing for and excelling in your informational interview at:

https://tonicollis.com/informational

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode38

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you often tell yourself you will find that elusive work/life balance once you’ve got your to-do list under control? Or maybe you will finally feel less stressed and overwhelmed once you’ve landed that next dream job?

If this sounds familiar - let’s talk about what you can do to get out of burnout and into a place of healthy, balanced (and more productive!) leadership.

In today’s episode, I share my 5 TOP TIPS if you’re feeling overworked or exhausted in your career and how these can help you cultivate a healthy work/life balance that will lead to more productivity, innovation, and overall success for you and your team.

Ready to move away from burnout and see your productivity skyrocket?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My 5 TOP TIPS to help you achieve a healthy work/life balance
How I’ve actually helped my clients get promoted by eliminating burnout and finding work/life balance
The ONE thing that might be keeping you in burnout (and how to fix this!)
Internal validation vs. external validation (and how important this is for my perfectionists and people-pleasers out there!)
The correlation between healthy work/life balance and career success
My favorite mindset tip if you feel like you’re not getting noticed for all your hard work
And so much more!

Useful Links:

Find out more about toxic workplaces in EP032 - 7 Symptoms of a Toxic Workplace:

http://tonicollis.com/episode32

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode37

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Where do you think you stand in your organization? Are you being recognized as a superstar or are you on the burnout track?

Let’s talk about what it takes to be noticed as a top-tier employee at work!

In today’s episode, I share what you need to know to determine where you are in your career (superstar, sufficient but essential, or an underperformer!) and the MOST IMPORTANT things you can do to become the stand-out superstar at work.

Ready to move away from burnout, stop treading water, or maybe just showcase those talents a little more?

Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Need some help ditching your self-doubt? Get started on letting go of your inner critic and building your confidence in my free 5-part mini course: https://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Shift To Thrive intensives at:

https://tonicollis.com/shift

And don't forget that if you book during February, you can use the SHIFTTO2021 code to get a 50% discount.

Find out more about my 1:1 coaching at https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni.

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode36

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are the members of your team thriving? Are you utilizing your team’s strengths, while paying attention to your own areas of strength and weakness?

Let’s talk about how self-awareness and personality types can impact your leadership!

In today’s episode, I take you through how understanding personalities and developing self-awareness can help your team thrive in even the most stressful of situations.

Ready to improve your leadership by getting to know the personalities and characteristics of your team?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How developing self-awareness can truly up-level your leadership
Why understanding the characteristics and personalities of your team is one of the BEST WAYS to improve your leadership
How you might be holding yourself back if you only hire team members that have similar characteristics as you
What personality types DO NOT predict (and how to use this knowledge appropriately)
How acknowledging personality types in the workplace can help with toxicity and friction
And so much more!

Useful links!

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode35

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Does it feel like you are drowning in excessive meetings? Ready to get back to work and spend more time doing the things that light you up and move things forward?

Let’s talk about how to overcome the common issues with working remotely by focusing on and enhancing the communication skills within your team.

In today’s episode, I take you through my TOP SIX STRATEGIES to implement effective asynchronous communication into your team so you can dramatically improve productivity and output (while working remotely)!

Ready to embrace asynchronous communication and start operating at a higher level?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

What asynchronous communication is and the BIGGEST thing you need to deal with to effectively move into it
My TOP SIX STRATEGIES to implement effective asynchronous communication into your team
How to decrease the number of meetings you attend and why this can IMPROVE communication!
The MOST IMPORTANT reasons communication could be holding your team back from higher productivity and output (and what to do about it!)
Identifying where you can use synchronous communication effectively (without unnecessary meetings!)
The BIGGEST objection you will come up against when trying to reduce meetings (and how to bust through it!)
Practical tools and systems to help your team with asynchronous communication
The common ways Slack and other comparable systems are misused
And more!

Useful links:

If you are ready to take on asynchronous communications, punch through that glass ceiling and powerglide your way to success, then don’t forget to check out the Shift To Thrive program that is available at a 50% discount during the month of February. Head over to: https://tonicollis.com/shift

To find out more. And don’t forget to use the coupon SHIFTTO2021 to get that 50% off!

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Ready to learn more about Remote Friendly - check out Episode 33: http://tonicollis.com/episode33

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode34

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

How has the move to working remotely affected you and your team? Are you dealing with problems like less productivity or too many meetings?

It’s time to have a real, hard look at what the next step might be and if you and your team could thrive better under a different remote environment.

In today’s episode, I go over what it really means to build a remote-friendly team and how to cultivate a healthy culture of productivity and success while empowering your team as they work from home.

Ready to uplevel your leadership and start thriving in a remote-friendly environment?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The MOST IMPORTANT differences between a remote-allowed and a remote-friendly work environment
How to know if you have built or are working in a remote-friendly environment (and how to turn it around if you aren’t!)
Why the amount of formal meetings has increased during Covid (and why this isn’t always the best approach)
How to create tools and processes that actually promote a remote-friendly culture
A mindset shift you need to make as a leader if you have ANY team members working remotely
And more!

Useful links!

If you would like some help up-leveling your team and organizational culture, then check out the Shift To Thrive at http://tonicollis.com/shift

And don't forget to use 'SHIFTTO2021' code to get 50% off during February.

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode33

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

How do you know when your workplace is toxic?

Let’s talk about how you can evaluate your current workplace culture to figure out if it’s still the right place for you!

In today’s episode, I take you through the 7 core symptoms of a toxic workplace and how you can use these as tools to take control of your career.

Ready to look at your options and take steps toward a happier work environment?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How to identify the 7 core symptoms of a toxic work environment
Diagnosing the #1 sign of toxicity by looking at communication in the workplace
Why paying close attention to time boundaries is so important
The MOST visible symptom of a toxic workplace environment
Why listening to your intuition is so vital when evaluating if you’re dealing with toxicity in your career
My TOP TIP if you find yourself in a toxic work environment
And so much more!

Useful links:

Catch up on the "4 Tips for Standing Out and No Longer Being Passed Over for Your Next Opportunity": https://tonicollis.com/episode31

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode32

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Doing all the right things at work, but not getting noticed for your efforts with the opportunities you want and deserve?

Let’s talk about getting yourself back on track for promotion!

In today’s episode, I am digging into what’s going on if you keep getting passed up for opportunities at work and my 4 TOP TIPS to help you break that glass ceiling and meet your big career goals.

Ready to do more of what gets you noticed at work?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

My 4 TOP TIPS for getting yourself back on track for promotion!
Why getting results is NOT enough to get you noticed
The ONE thing that held me back in my career (and how you can overcome this!)
How to make sure you are top of mind when opportunities come up at work
A trap to avoid at work so you can get noticed for the RIGHT things
The single BIGGEST career progression killer
My favorite tips to help you become more likable in the workplace
The one thing you can be doing to create better business outcomes (hint: ditch the people-pleasing!)
And more!

Useful links!

Join my signature, life-changing program, that is designed to take your tech leadership dreams and turn them into a career that you are excited about every Monday morning, check-out Lit Up Leadership Academy at:

https://tonicollis.com/academy

Want to learn how to identify the tasks that will get you noticed? Head over to the very first Episode of the Podcast: 001: Building your credibility as a leader https://tonicollis.com/episode1

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode31

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you have great, big ambitions you want to reach in your life and business, but just aren’t seeing the outcomes you want?

Let’s talk about why you might be stalling out on taking the right actions toward your goals and get you moving forward instead!

In today’s episode, I take you through the 3 BIGGEST reasons you might not be moving forward on your goals and the things you need to stop doing so you can get out of your own way and start taking action towards your dreams!

Ready to stop stalling out and start getting into action?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

The 3 MOST IMPORTANT things to understand about why you might not be reaching your big goals
Why simply getting into action toward your goal will give you this ONE thing (and why it’s so important!)
The first step to taking action once you’ve decided what your goal is
When things skyrocketed for me in my career and the MOST IMPORTANT thing I eliminated
My TOP TIP to help you get out of hustle mode and busywork
The 5 scholarship winners announcement!
And more!

Useful links!

Want to accelerate your leadership career in 2021, go check out all the detail of the Lit Up Leadership Academy: tonicollis.com/academy

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode30

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you want to reach your goals with more ease and less stress?

Let’s talk about getting into your flow zone and how to use your proficiencies AND passion to do more of the work you love.

In today’s episode, I talk you through the 4 productivity zones, understanding how they are affecting you and your business, and how to move more of your activities into your flow zone so you can get more done and start reaching those big goals in your business!

Ready to move the needle forward and do more of the work that lights you up?

Let’s go to the show!

I dive into:

How understanding the 4 productivity zones will make it easier to reach your goals
Why moving more activities into your desire zone is KEY
How to let go of the tasks that aren’t lighting you up (and how to find out what they are!)
An easy tip from me about evaluating your calendar to make your days more productive (while still enjoying them!)
The importance of building a diverse team so that all aspects of your business are supported
2 exciting announcements if you want to accelerate your career and leadership!
And so much more!

Useful links!

Leveraging LinkedIn Kit Scholarships:

https://tonicollis.com/llk-scholarships

Deadline for applications: Friday January 8th, 2021 @ 5pm GMT / 9am PT

The Lit-Up Leadership Masterclass: A 3-Pillar System For Leading With More Impact & Getting A Seat At The Table

https://tonicollis.com/masterclass

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode29

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

It's Christmas!

As we lean into the festivities, I’m throwing out the normal format and today, I'm answering questions I've been asked throughout the year so you can see the inner workings of my brain.

Feeling a little bit nosey? Want to learn more about me, your host, Toni Collis? This is the episode for you!

From what I do when I’m stressed, to the best (and worst) things about my job. I’ve got them all covered.

Let’s talk about 2021 Planning.

And how to go from ‘I want this’ to achieving not just what you set out to in 2021, but perhaps even more.

Do you want to be the person who blows their goals out the water?

Are you sick and tired of setting goals and not achieving them?

Well today, we are going through my tried, tested and proven (and yet surprisingly simple) annual planning strategy so you can make 2021 the year that you know you will be proud of.

Ready to soar?

Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Sign-up for the Lit Up Leadership Academy Waitlist: https://tonicollis.com/waitlist

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode27

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Let’s talk 2021.

I want you to have the best year yet in 2021. I want it to be the year that you change things and make that big step up in progress that you’ve been dreaming of.

I want you to know that everything is possible in 2021. Especially after a year like this year.

But how do you do that? How do you ensure that a year can and will go well?

Well if 2020 has taught us anything, its that the best laid plans can go sideways for all of us. Life really does throw a lot of curve balls from time-to-time.

But what I do know, from personal experience and from the experience of coaching some simply inspirational women in tech, is that good planning isn’t about having a single plan that you stick to 100% and then feel let down by life when the world throws us a year like 2020. No great planning is about knowing what we want and the options for getting there.

If you are wondering how on Earth this works, and why myself and many of my clients have been having great years despite COVID, then join me in the first of a two part planning special as we set you up for 2021 success.

Ready to make 2021 the year you soar, the year your career and ambitions really take off?

Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Sign-up for the Lit Up Leadership Academy Waitlist: https://tonicollis.com/waitlist

Need some help with your self-doubt and understanding your perfectionist tendencies? Sign up for the free 5-part course at https://tonicollis.com/dtsd

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode27

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

We are well and truly into the December slowdown.

But what do you do in a slow period?

Do you put your feet up, pause and breath a deep sigh of relief?

Do you just keep going because you don’t know what else to do?

Or something else entirely?

Whether December is a time when you slow-down, or if this comes at another time of the year for you, what you do in these calmer periods is the foundation to your success in the medium and long term. And yet so many people miss out on this opportunity.

Because success isn’t built on maintaining the hustle and high productivity. Success is built on leveraging slower times to thrive in busier times.

But success does require that you know exactly how you are using that time, and being as strategic as possible with it, whether for you personally or your organization.

So let’s talk slow-down strategy, and how to ensure you operate at your best all year round by enjoying times such as these.

Useful links!

Get on the Lit Up Leadership Academy waitlist and be the first to find out when doors open in January, and get exclusive access to bonuses: https://tonicollis.com/waitlist

Need help with planning with your team? Listen to episode 015: Using planning to keep your team informed and motivated: https://tonicollis.com/episode15

Want some helping with how to identify strategic opportunities? Listen to episode 001: Building your credibility as a leader: https://tonicollis.com/episode1

If you are interested in finding out more about my strategic process for elevating your career with processes such as my unique gap analysis, hop on a no-obligation discovery call to find out more about working together, how you might be able to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success: bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Find out more about Toni’s Coaching at: https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode25

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

When was the last time you were told you weren’t going to get that next opportunity or promotion because you didn’t have the right Executive Presence, the gravitas or the networking capabilities?

Maybe you’ve been told to work on your office politics?

Or maybe you’ve been told you need to get experience of direct reports, but that’s exactly why you want the role you are asking for.

Maybe in an interview you’ve been told you don’t have the right experience, even though the experience they are asking for is in your resume, just from two jobs ago.

What’s going on? Why aren’t these people seeing you as the superstar candidate you know are? (And side-note: while doing that, your impostor syndrome is flaring up sky-high, alongside a whole load of anger and annoyance!)

Why are they holding you back?

Let’s dig into the 6 things you can do to re-position yourself to overcome these positioning obstacles without having to go out and get another job you don’t really want, or spend a year getting a certificate that probably won’t fix the problem.

Useful links!

Get access to my new free guide: 7 Reasons you aren’t already in the C-Suite

(and what you need to be doing differently to get there!): tonicollis.com/barriers

Ready to let go of Impostor Syndrome and Ditch Your Self Doubt? Check out my free mini-coursre at tonicollis.com/dtsd

Ready to work on your self awareness and emotional intelligence? Find our more in episodes 11 and 12:

011: Self awareness and leadership
012: Up-levelling your social awareness to step into high performance leadership

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode24

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you sitting on a decision? Stuck in a loop of indecision?

Perhaps you are thinking of investing in yourself, getting help in your career.

Maybe you know you need to go for a new role. Deep down you know you should. But you aren’t taking action

Maybe there is some exciting training coming your way, but you just aren’t pulling go.

But you also aren’t letting go of the decision and saying no.

It sounds like you are stuck in the indecision cycle. And it’s sitting there inside you.

And it applies to our work decisions too. Although we may find it easier to make decisions when it is about a product, or team action, instead of about us, from time-to-time you still find yourself in a decision-making loop.

Well, for what it’s worth, this is 100% normal. But also completely stifling.

When we sit in this space it is stifling, and it fills us up with stress and anxiety.

So today I’m calling you out, my love, on your indecision. I’m here to provide that helping hand to help you get off the decision fence, and feel GOOD about whichever side you land on.

Useful links!

Get access to my new free guide: 7 Reasons you aren’t already in the C-Suite

(and what you need to be doing differently to get there!)

At tonicollis.com/barriers

If you are on the fence and need to get off, go ahead and book yourself a no stress, no-obligation discovery call - maybe that is the decision you need to make this week: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode23

Back in October, I hit a wall.

A pandemic wall.

For the first time since March, I cried because the pandemic was impacting me personally.

That might seem odd - I mean haven’t we all had a good cry from time to time between the start of the pandemic and now?

Well for me, I’d started the pandemic with the intention for optimism and a truckload of self-care. So although I’ve cried - because hey I love a good cry (zero judgment if you do too!), up until October it had not been about me. It had been about other people hurting, the lives lost, the fact that people had to put their lives on the line to take care of us. I cried that people had to put their lives at risk to get heard because of the injustice that has meant we are finally listening as a species to the BLM movement - that they had to demonstrate in a pandemic to make the world wake up to something truly horrific.

But I hadn’t cried about me. Until October.

And then I hit the 6-month wall.

So today I’m taking the lid off how we are all feeling about the pandemic as we are now more than 7 months into something that is here with us for a good long time to come. I’m sharing with you what you need to be doing for yourself, and for your team as a leader. And I’m sharing a whole lot of love in your direction too.

So if you are hitting a pandemic wall this one's for you, my love. Because yes, you may well be a leader in tech. But you are also a human experiencing a crisis. And remember: you are a human, even at work!

Useful links!

Grab the free course on ditching self-doubt and letting go of impostor syndrome: http://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to uplevel your career and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode22

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

As the nights draw-in (at least in the northern hemisphere), it feels like it is time to embrace our inner hermits, give in to the new social distancing norm, and just give up on networking for the rest of the year. Just turn up to work (in person or virtually), mooch about, get stuff done, and go home (or close the laptop).

But we all know that networking is key. We all know that networking opens doors. And yet, the old boys network standard where you go golfing, or those networking events are just a bit meh. If that’s what it means to network, then, at least for the rest of the year, we’ll leave it to that old boys club, right?

Wrong. Networking doesn’t have to be icky. But most people miss what networking really is. We know it's a good thing in principle. But we resist it. We know it opens doors, and yet, we go about it wrong.

Today I’m sharing with you what is really going on with effective networking. Why the old boys network works, and how we can use that knowledge to build a great women’s network, or whatever your network needs to be. I’m talking about the 5 components that mean it isn’t uncomfortable and instead open doors for you and for others. And when you learn how to get this right, it isn’t icky and uncomfortable. It feels good.

Want to know how on earth networking can feel good? Let’s dig in and go to the show.

Useful links!

Get access to the free Ditch The Self Doubt course: http://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to take action to accelerate your career and leadership in tech, or need some help pushing through those mindset blocks, then it might just be time to book a 1:1 Elevate Intensive one-off coaching session, including a 90-minute coaching session, a tailored plan and one week of follow-up support. Find out more:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni/elevate

If you are interested in getting on my waiting list for 1:1 coaching in early 2021 then hop on a free no obligation discovery call and we can chat about the kind of support you are after and what you need right now. Book at: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode21

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you ready for the C-Suite?

Ready to have more influence, and help make your team or organisation make better decisions?

Are you itching to build a better way, lead more effectively and get your opinions heard in a meaningful way?

I’ve been there.

In 2016 I was desperate to make real change and have a positive influence. But I was stalled in my career. I felt stifled, and held back.

Four years on I’ve worked in the C-Suite, led an international charity spanning 65 countries, influenced the Supercomputing industry for the better and now run my own business. And today, I’m lifting the lid on what I did to get here. Spoiler: it's not what you might think!

So let’s dig into my story…

Useful links:

Ready to ditch the self doubt for you or for your team? Sign up for my free 5-part mini training for Ditching the Self Doubt, and letting go of impostor syndrome, all while becoming a better leader: https://tonicollis.com/dtsd

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode20

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you wondering if you have enough, or the right data for your decision making?

As we rise up in our leadership careers, the one defining feature of all leadership is that we make more and more decisions. But how we make those decisions is crucial.

In today’s Leading Women in Tech podcast I’m interviewing Dr Linda McIver, the founder and Executive Director of the Australian Data Science Education Institute on the power of data driven decision making, her three principles for making decisions, and the danger of confirmation bias when we use data. We dig into everything from decisions in organisations to decisions about COVID, and of course, we can’t help but touch a little on decisions around building an equitable, diverse and inclusive workforce.

So let’s dive in.

Useful links!

Find out more about Linda McIver and the Australian Data Science Education Institute (ADSEI) at https://adsei.org/ or follow Linda on Twitter at: @datasciau

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode19

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Building connections has always been important for creating opportunities, opening doors, seeing what is possible, and even pushing through self-doubt and building our motivation.

But for many of us maintaining connections during a period where all, or nearly all, interactions are virtual, is hard work.

Creating new connections, whether they are new professional connections or new friendships can sound nearly impossible right now

I’ve said it before, but I think it is time to say it again: it can actually be easier to build connections while we are virtual, than it was in-person. But it does require a conscious reframing of the tactics we used before we entered the virtual-first approach…

And the bonus of working on strengthening and deepening your network connections is that we get to boost our moods. Yes really! Even if you find that reaching out to your network is truly uncomfortable. You may have recently hit a wall after 6 months of social distancing. But the act of active connection, even if it for primarily professional purposes, can be just the thing you need to get unstuck once again.

So if you know you need to kick-start your networking again, or that you’d love to feel less isolated, but dread getting going, today’s podcast is for you. Join me as I explain 8 steps to make virtual networking easier and give yourself that emotional boost you are in need of.

Are you feeling stuck with how to handle those difficult people at work? You know, the people who seem to always put roadblocks in your way. And after 10 roadblocks you are wondering, surely this cannot be accidental. The people who are resistant to your ideas and make life problematic for everyone in the team.

Are you wanting to build real personal resilience, so that you feel confident with those difficult conversations, instead of feeling anxious, exhausted, overwhelmed, and on the verge of burnout?

Perhaps you are an ambitious change-agent, motivated to inspire others into a better way of doing things. But finding the time and energy to get the buy-in you know you need is, well, exhausting.

Are you left feeling overwhelmed, drained and depleted?

Perhaps you know the theory of leading, but it doesn’t seem to play out that way for you, and management seems to take up all your time, so you deciding to stick with the tech role you started with, despite your desire to influence and create positive change.

If you are ready to be full of confidence and be that influencer you crave, then I have one thing you need to know. The one thing that is not talked about enough when we are taught about leadership or leadership is ‘shown’ to us by those above. This one thing: it is the glue that makes great leadership happen.

Curious? Let’s go to the show.

Do you ever feel like you are drowning in decisions?

Demanded to choose between things minute to minute, hour to hour?

By the end of the working day are you so done from decision making that you can barely handle choosing what to do about dinner?

The job of a leader is, above all, making and communicating decisions. Providing clarity on focus, direction, and exchanging information. Reviewing data, and making informed decisions based on that data. Evaluating alternatives and prepping plans for critical analysis and escalation.

Decision making just intensifies as we progress in our careers.

But the one thing we don’t realise needs to change is how we make decisions. Moving from the action-based decision making in our first management roles to more strategic decision making as an executive. Realizing that that decision-making styles and actions that got you to where you are now, won’t just fail to get you further, but could be damaging your reputation right now if you aren’t adapting to the needs of the decision-making required of you in your current role.

So what can you do? In today’s episode of the Leading Women in Tech podcast I’m diving into how do you get out from under the weight of these decisions, avoid the ‘you aren’t communicating well’ spoken or unspoken criticism that is often a symptom of decision burnout, and learn how to level up your decision making alongside your other leadership skills.

Ready? Let’s go to the show!

Useful links

Sign-up to get first access to my new free 5-part mini course and develop your understanding of impostor syndrome, why it impacts you, and the impact on others in your team: https://tonicollis.com/impostorsyndrome

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode16

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Ever get frustrated that your team doesn’t know what is going on in the business, despite numerous communications from you?

Get surprised when someone tells you that they didn’t know about an important deadline that you’ve emailed out to all staff 100 times?

Find that your team isn’t working on the highest priority?

If this sounds familiar, here’s a little tough love that you need to hear: even though you think you are communicating well, you aren’t. Yes, this is on you, not on your team.

So how do you get your team to listen? To pay attention to those incredibly important goals and take action on them?

Well, the answer definitely isn’t to speak louder or send more emails! Instead, it is time to involve them in planning.

If you are wondering how to involve your team in planning without drowning in voices, ideas, conflicting priorities, or concerned that having everyone involved in planning is a waste of time, this episode of the Leading Women in Tech podcast is for you. I take you through a very simple recipe to get full team engagement, and find out how, for a small upfront time cost, can save weeks of unproductive effort and missed deadlines.

Ready to take control of Q4 and wrap up 2020 with a team filled with clarity, passion and excitement for shared goals? Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Sign-up to get first access to my new free 5-part mini course and develop your understanding of impostor syndrome, why it impacts you, and the impact on others in your team: https://tonicollis.com/impostorsyndrome

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode15

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Almost a third of employees don’t trust their employer.

As a leader, choosing to make trust a priority, can increase productivity, commitment to goals.

The flow of ideas, and the early identification of problematic situations increases because communication is becomes viewed as something to be encouraged and acknowledged, instead of feared.

And change becomes much easier. In an ever-changing world, embracing trust as a priority, building it in your team, and embedding it as a principle in your organisation makes your team more comfortable with change - and as change is inevitable at all times - they are more willing to embrace a new vision.

But what can you do to gain your team's trust, create trust in the first place if it's completely absent, use your growing emotional intelligence to help eliminate team dysfunction? Ready to stop having all your ideas questioned, or your ideas and decisions undermined?

If you are wondering how to build, or repair trust in your leadership, lets dive into this weeks Leading Women in Tech episode.

Are you actively managing your leaders?

Training them, working with them to hone their leadership skills? Helping them to figure out the road to great leadership?

Or do you just let your team of managers get on with it because you are hands-off?

If you are a hands-off manager of managers, even if that is the style of management you liked at that level, you are leaving opportunity on the table.

Despite what you might hear, no one is born a perfect leader. Some do have more intrinsic leadership skill than others, but everyone needs to develop and hone their leadership and management. So leaving your new managers to figure out how to navigate a new role as a team lead, a general manager or even a VP is a recipe for many bumps along the road or worse.

But having an attitude of ‘my door is open, come to me for help’ doesn’t work either. Remember: they feel the need to prove themselves to you, and will try their best to not bother you.

It’s time to round the square peg so you and your team of managers all up-level, learn how to effectively lead in the way that works for them, but with your guidance as someone who was there before. And hint: using team meetings which focus on exception reporting won’t achieve this growth and development.

In today’s Leading Women in Tech podcast I’m diving into how to help your managers remain autonomous, keep their new found confidence as a leader, but boost them up quickly and effectively so that you, your managers, their teams, and the entire business division benefits. It’s time to stop leaving the benefits of great management and leadership at every level of your organisation on the table, simply because you had to figure this out yourself. And instead let's use your emotional intelligence to help your managers become great leaders in their own right.

Useful Links!

Catch up on developing your emotional intelligence in Episodes 11 and 12.

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode13

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

95% of people think they are self-aware, but only between 10 and 15 percent really demonstrate high levels of self-awareness.

That might be shocking. But consider that far more than 50 percent of people that drive also think they are above average drivers… clearly that can’t be true.

The irony with self-awareness is that the more self-aware you are, the more likely you are to realize whether you are actually as self-aware and in control of your emotions as you think.

In today’s episode, I’m continuing the emotional intelligence journey and discussing how to use your newly awakened self-awareness to build great leadership. It’s time to lean into pausing, reflecting, listening, and reacting in a constructive way. To realize when your outbursts are negatively impacting your team. Taking us all from needing to be liked as a leader, or assuming that to be great at what you do you need to be feared, and instead, learning how to show up as an authentic and transparent leader that builds team productivity through understanding others around you, and acting in full knowledge of that awareness, instead of irrespective of it.

Because when we act and react with knowledge of how our actions will be received we are able to boost productivity, create greater impact, boost creativity, empathy and so much more.

Ready to step up your emotional intelligence and lean into your high-performance leadership? Let’s dive into part two of emotional intelligence as we turn our focus on social awareness and relationship management.

Useful links!

Get on the Leveraging LinkedIn Kit waitlist: http://tonicollis.com/linkedinkit

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode12

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Would you consider self-awareness as a leadership trait?

For many people, when asked to list the top leadership skills, they would suggest listening, communication, organization and strategy. Self-awareness doesn’t typically make it to the list.

But if you’ve ever wondered what Emotional Intelligence is, and what all the fuss about EQ is all about, then a large piece of the puzzle is self-awareness.

Today, in the first of two special episodes on emotional intelligence in leadership I am digging into the first piece of the emotional intelligence puzzle: self-awareness.

This is the piece of the leadership puzzle that is most uncomfortable for many of us to tackle. It requires time, practice and patience. And yet, it can come with huge rewards.

And it doesn’t just help with leadership: great self-awareness, and the actions that this creates within you, are your number one tool for avoiding or coming out of burnout. Not quitting your job, not throwing your toys out of your metaphorical pram, not pivoting… No, it is self-awareness.

If you are ready to learn how to use self-awareness as a leadership tool, and how to cultivate more of it in you (because none of us are as self-aware as we think we are, and honestly, we are never done on the self-awareness work!), then keep listening, as we dive deep in this week's episode of Leading Women in Tech.

Useful links!

Get access to the Leveraging LinkedIn Kit: http://tonicollis.com/linkedinkit

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode11

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Would you consider self-awareness as a leadership trait?

For many people, when asked to list the top leadership skills, they would suggest listening, communication, organization and strategy. Self-awareness doesn’t typically make it to the list.

But if you’ve ever wondered what Emotional Intelligence is, and what all the fuss about EQ is all about, then a large piece of the puzzle is self-awareness.

Today, in the first of two special episodes on emotional intelligence in leadership I am digging into the first piece of the emotional intelligence puzzle: self-awareness.

This is the piece of the leadership puzzle that is most uncomfortable for many of us to tackle. It requires time, practice and patience. And yet, it can come with huge rewards.

And it doesn’t just help with leadership: great self-awareness, and the actions that this creates within you, are your number one tool for avoiding or coming out of burnout. Not quitting your job, not throwing your toys out of your metaphorical pram, not pivoting… No, it is self-awareness.

If you are ready to learn how to use self-awareness as a leadership tool, and how to cultivate more of it in you (because none of us are as self-aware as we think we are, and honestly, we are never done on the self-awareness work!), then keep listening, as we dive deep in this week's episode of Leading Women in Tech.

Useful links!

Get access to the Leveraging LinkedIn Kit: http://tonicollis.com/linkedinkit

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode11

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

How’s your mindset?

Feeling good about taking action? Never pausing, never held up from fear of what might happen?

Never fail to take a step forward because you are fearless about what will come?

If this sounds like you - awesome my friend. Go take over the world.

But, for most of us… we stumble from time to time (or all the time) and fail to take action.

Half the time we might not even know that we are in our own way.

And here’s the cruncher: it is fear and a lack of self-trust and self-belief that is holding us up.

EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.

Today I’m talking about how our fears can be our own worst enemy (and why you would always be saying something completely different to your own best friend!).

Because you’ve got the tech skills down (probably more than you think). You have the know how to uplevel, you know the theory, you even have the people skills, even though the tech industry is notoriously lacking in them. So what’s holding you up? Your head!

It's time to get out of your own way my my love.

Let’s dig into the self-belief mindset.

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel LinkedIn presence, and develop the easy way to network your way to a new job

(even if you hate networking and find reaching out to people extremely icky!)

sign up for the free Leveraging LinkedIn Masterclass:

https://tonicollis.com/leveraging-linkedin-masterclass

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode10

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

It’s not what you know, it’s who you know that gets you the job.

Does that feel uncomfortable to you?

Maybe it sounds like this means you have to play in the old boys network (and as a leading women in tech, that just fills you with dread and well, who wants to play that game - that’s part of what we are changing right as women rise up in tech, right?!)

But powerful relationships don’t have to mean back-room deals or job offers made to sons of men on the golf course.

As the hidden job market flourishes as a source of jobs, it is more important than ever that you get out there and network. Build real connections that will open doors to other connections, jobs and much more.

In a hyper connected world, your most important asset in your career is your network. It can overcome the endless application process. It can deal with the difficult career gap you have easily, and it can remove the need for yet another expensive qualification (which you don’t actually need, but you think you do need because how else do you stand out from 1000s of resumes)?

Your network is your biggest asset, and yet for many of us, applying for a hundred jobs feels infinitely easier than reaching out and building this mythical all-problems-solved network that the world (and I ) are talking about.

What if I told you that networking could be comfortable (yes even for introverts), and will land you a job in less time?

Interested? Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Sign up for the free Leveraging LinkedIN Masterclass: https://tonicollis.com/leveraging-linkedin-masterclass

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode9

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Job hunting. Eugh. Such a chore right?

But so necessary.

But in a world that is a hirers market how do you get that job? And how do you get your next job right now, even if you are safe and secure in your current role? If you are looking to uplevel and your current company has a promotion freeze, do you stay put just because we are living in a time where unemployment is rising?

I’m here to tell you that you can get a job right now. But you may not be going about it the right way.

There is a hidden job market, which as your rise up the ranks in your organization becomes more and more important. The top level jobs are basically never advertised. But what is this hidden job market and what can you do to access it? Well I’ll tell you straight up that it isn’t about applying for every job you find advertised!

Want to find out more? Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

Become a Leading Women in Tech Insider: https://tonicollis.com/get-visible

Join Elpha - an online women in tech networking group: https://elpha.com/

Join the Leading Women in Tech Career Q&A live: 4pm UK/11am ET/8am PT. Register here: https://www.facebook.com/events/293067128432978/

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode8

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Ready to step up to the C-Suite. Wondering why you aren’t already there?

Are you frustrated that no one is noticing you? Or are you ready to get ahead and wondering how on earth to get there. Perhaps you feel like you don’t have the time to give to a C-level executive role.

Today I’m going to share with you the lessons I’ve learnt on my journey to the C-Suite, and from my clients who are on their way or already there. These are the top 5 barriers, that everyone of us faces, but few figure out. And hint: it isn’t about working more hours!

This might just be a little triggering as we unpick the reality of what it means to be in the C-Suite, what those already there are looking for, or indeed what is holding you back as an entrepreneur.

Sound good? Let's go to the show!

Useful links!

Want to work with Lauren on your graphics and marketing? Check out https://laurengraphics.co.za/

Ready to ask for what you want, but want to know how? Listen to Episode 4: https://tonicollis.com/episode4

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode4

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you feeling angry, annoyed and frustrated by your boss, your colleagues or your team? Are they just not doing what you need them to? Tempted to lose your temper? Or do you have a wave of seething anger inside you much of the time?

As humans we have emotions - that’s normal! We don’t want to be robots after all! So claiming that you never get angry is probably foolish. But what you do with heightened emotions at work is what counts.

Let’s talk anger, tempers, and how this can be used in the workplace: when is anger appropriate, and when it isn’t (or indeed if it ever is!).

Useful links!

Find out more about anger and motivation: Shao, B., Wang, L. & Tse, H.H.M. (2018). Motivational or dispositional? The type of inference shapes the effectiveness of leader anger expressions. The Leadership Quarterly, 29, 709-723.

Find out more about authentic leadership in Episode 5: http://tonicollis.com/episode5

If you are ready to up-level your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode6

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

How authentic do you feel every day when you start work? Do you feel energised by your purpose, and how you turn up as a woman in tech and as a leader? Or do you feel on the verge of burnout and exhausted by being the person you think everyone wants you to be.

Spending all of our time being someone we aren’t is exhausting. And many of us are doing it, and have been doing it all of our lives. It wastes energy, creativity and problems solving on something that, quite honestly, is making you a less effective leader.

But everyone else is doing it. We turn up as the person we think others want us to be.

How do you break out of this mould? How do you become your authentic self when our entire lives have been about being the person that others want us to be. And how on earth does this reduce overwhelm, avoid burnout and bonus, help you become a better leader?

Curious? Let’s dig in! Let’s go to the show!

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career, and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at: https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni.

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni.

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Feeling annoyed at not getting what you want? Did you get the chance to step-up and manage a new project or activity for a few weeks? Did you do a great job? Then, well, nothing? No offer of doing it permanently? Just back to the same old boring work that doesn’t light you up?

Are colleagues getting more opportunities than you, even though know your work is of excellent quality?

If this is you, then it’s time to talk about asking for what you want. Yes! Ask!

If we don’t ask for what we want, why would anyone give it to us?

In today’s podcast, I’m discussing why we sometimes don’t ask for what we want, and how to start doing it. I’m removing your objections, and hey, calling you out on assuming someone has noticed how awesome you are! Just because they know you are awesome, doesn’t mean they will give you that next step.

So let’s break this down, and discuss how to ask for what you want, so you can take that next step and let go of those frustrations.

Useful links!

If you are ready to uplevel your career and get a boost (and a salary bump) by shortcutting your way to success, find out more about Toni’s Coaching at:

https://tonicollis.com/workwithtoni

Alternatively, go straight ahead and book a free Discovery Call, to find out more and discuss the type of support you would most benefit from: https://bit.ly/DiscoverToni

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode4.

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/.

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/.

Does communication work in your team or your organization?

Do you have have a clear communication plan, send copious emails, and yet when you implement practices and policies, despite all the communication you sent, you get a lot of angry responses?

Do you announce a new activity in your team to the wider company and then get asked ‘why didn’t you tell me sooner’? Or did you tell everyone sooner, but they didn’t listen?

Communication is the number one tool in your toolkit as a leader, whatever stage of your career you are at. But communicating well so you get more helpful responses, and less annoyance is a skill that needs to be nurtured.

Great communication makes your life easier. It makes being a change agent that bit simpler. It lends you credibility, it removes the roadblocks. It stops those angry messages where someone says ‘why didn’t I know this’, even though you told them 10 times.

If you are ready to use your communication to make your life easier, spend less time justifying why you did something and more time doing what you know you are meant to be doing, then let’s chat communication strategies that work.

If you want to find out more about leading by listening, and how to be an active listener, check out the Leading Women in Tech blog post:

Wondering what Toni was talking about when discussing how to use meetings to generate ideas? Head over to Episode One to find out how to use this information to help you, your career and improve outcomes for your organization.

Ready to get your hands on the 5-part audio training on the repeatable steps you can take to up-level your career? Just send me a screengrab of your review of the podcast. Head to the Leading Women in Tech page on iTunes, write your review, but before you hit ‘submit’, make sure you take a screengrab and send it to support{at}tonicollis{dot}com and you’ll get access to the audio training!

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode3
Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/
Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Do you have a fire burning inside you to do more?

Do you know that if you could just get people to listen to your idea that your team could do more, your organization could be better or that the world would be a better place?

If you know you have more to offer... now is the time to step up as a leader.

Whether you at the bottom of the corporate ladder, run your own business or are in the C-Suite, now is the time to lead.

But being a manager doesn't make you a leader.

It is time to take the lid off and talk about how to channel that energy and desire for a better way that is inside you so that you can be the change agent the world needs.

Sound good? Let's go to the show!

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode2
Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/
Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/

Are you feeling stifled? Are you tired of working long hours, but just never seem to get ahead in the world of work? Perhaps you love your tech job, and what it can enable in the world, but you know that you are capable of so much more.

If you are ready to get noticed, have your ideas taken up more readily, and up-level your career so you can focus more on doing what you know is important and less time justifying how your spend your time, then this episode of the Leading Women in Tech podcast is for you.

Today I'm sharing the 7 steps you can take to get noticed and built your credibility. It's time to start doing more with less and get the recognition you deserve.

Sound good? Let's go to the show!

Catch the show notes, and more details about today's episode here: http://tonicollis.com/episode1

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingwomenintech/

Join us in the Leading Women in Tech LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12391391/