Career Podcast Featuring Lisa Davis Senior Vice President, and Chief Information Officer at Blue Shield of California : Women in Tech

In episode #102 of the 2B Bolder Podcast, we feature the well-respected artist and AI thought leader April Brown. Using her lifelong practice as an artist, she has been focusing on artistic development using AI and consulting for organizations who need help understanding how AI can be leveraged in marketing and sales organizations. 

April also gives us a peek into her artistic world, sharing the inspiration behind her art. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a journey into the future of careers at the intersection of art and technology. It offers insights, inspiration, and advice for anyone navigating this exciting terrain.

Tune in to hear her exciting career story.

• April Brown on LinkedIn  & AprilShelleyBrown.com 
• AIArtists.org - AI-generated art.
• The Google Arts & Culture Experiments - AI-powered art projects.
• The IBM Art with Watson Project 
• The AICAN (Artificial Intelligence Creative Adversarial Network) Gallery 
• The Art AI Gallery 
• The Neural Style Transfer Art Gallery 
• The DeepDream Generator - allows users to create AI-generated artwork using Google's DeepDream algorithm.
• The DALL-E Gallery - artwork generated by DALL-E, an AI model created by OpenAI that creates images from textual descriptions.
• The Artbreeder Platform - users create and explore AI-generated artwork using tools and techniques.
• The NightCafe Studio - users can create AI-generated artwork using various styles and techniques.
• MoMA The Museum of Modern Art:  Unsupervised, AI art by artist Refik Anadol
• Generative AI for Everyone with Andrew Ng

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

In episode #101 of the 2B Bolder Podcas, Raechel Frick tells it like it is.  Raechel is a leader in the tech industry, currently at Amazon Web Services as the Head of Storage and Observability Partner Marketing. Raechel has an impressive track record, from her time at Intel Corporation, building and launching the Cross Portfolio Competitive Marketing Office, to her strategic role in partner marketing with Microsoft. Raechel's career is a blueprint of innovation and strategic growth in tech. Her journey, from her educational roots in Computer Science at UC Santa Barbara to her current leadership role, reflects a deep commitment to tech innovation and customer-centric strategies.

Raechel covers her career journey, exploring her current role at AWS, her experiences across major tech giants, and her insights into partner marketing.  We'll dive into the non-negotiables that guide her career choices, the complexities of working with partners while serving a larger corporation, and the invaluable advice she's gathered along the way.  What 2B Bolder means to her and the advice she would give her twenty-year-old self.  

For anyone looking to navigate the tech industry, Raechel's story is a great example of how to innovate, live in the moment, and leverage self-awareness to become a successful leader. Whether you're a woman aiming for a leadership role, a working mom balancing career and family, or someone curious about what it's like to be in partner marketing, this episode is for you.

Join us as we explore Raechel's journey, the lessons learned, and her advice for those looking to carve out their path in tech. It's an episode packed with wisdom, strategies, and a deep dive into what it means to be bold in the tech industry. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Raechel Frick right here on the 2B Bolder Podcast.

Resources:

• Raechel Frick on LinkedIn
• Working Backwards 
• Books by Patrick Lencioni

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

🎉 A milestone in the making - ENJOY listening to the 100th episode of the 2B Bolder Podcast featuring Alaina Percival, Co-founder of Women Who Code. Under Alaina's
 leadership as CEO,  Women Who Code went from being an idea to serving over 343,000 members in 147 countries. Alaina is a pioneer in the industry and an advocate for women in tech globally. She has been published in Forbes, Huffington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. As an accomplished tech speaker, she has spoken on various topics, from development and retention models to intersectional diversity and equity-centered decision-making in data strategy for the United Nations to Social Justice and Advocacy in STEM at Harvard University.
 
 Alaina is also an angel investor, a venture partner at Valor Ventures, and a scout for Picus Capital. In 2022, she taught "Women Lead in Technology" at Georgia State University.   

In this episode, Alaina shares her journey from the early days of her career to becoming a co-founder and the driving force behind Women Who Code. We delve into the heart of the organization's mission, its evolution, and how it stands out among women-focused groups. Alaina offers her invaluable insights on:

• The importance of community for growth and support in tech.
• Strategies for women to position themselves in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
• The critical role of transparency in addressing pay inequity.
• Maintaining the momentum for diversity, equity, and inclusion in challenging times.
• Personal motivations and the power of networking for career advancement.
• Essential skills for women in tech today and how to develop leadership qualities.
• Balancing a high-powered career with motherhood.

And much more, including what "2B Bolder" means to a pioneer like Alaina.

Don't miss this inspiring episode as Alaina Percival shares her wisdom, challenges, and triumphs, offering a roadmap for anyone looking to make their mark in technology. Whether just starting your tech journey or seeking to elevate your career, this episode is filled with actionable advice and encouragement to be bolder.

🎧Tune in to the 2B Bolder Podcast's 100th episode for a conversation that will inspire, educate, and empower.🌟 

• Alaina Percival on LinkedIn
• womenwhocode.com (Company)
• valor. vc (Company)

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

On episode #99 of the 2B Bolder Podcast, I dive deep into B2B influencer marketing with Lucinda Henry. Lucinda is an award-winning, industry-recognized marketing strategist and a long-time supporter of this podcast; she brings her wealth of experience and creative prowess to our show.

Topics covered include:
- Demystifying B2B Influence: Lucinda breaks down what it means to be a B2B Influencer and the intricacies of working as a B2B Influencer Engagement Strategist.

- Insider Insights: Discover the untapped opportunities and overlooked aspects of influencer marketing.

- Strategic Wisdom: Lucinda shares invaluable advice for companies navigating the complex world of influencer partnerships.

- Success Toolkit: Learn the essential skills needed to excel in this dynamic field.

- Future Forecast: Get a glimpse into the evolution of B2B influencer marketing in the coming years.

- A Journey Through Adobe: Lucinda reflects on her experiences at Adobe and her love of data.

- Empowering Advice: Lucinda addresses self-confidence challenges and risk-taking for women building their careers.

- Wisdom for the Younger Self: Lucinda shares what she would tell her 20-year-old self.

- The Essence of 2B Bolder: Lucinda's take on what 2B Bolder truly means.

Tune in to be inspired by Lucinda's journey, innovative strategies, and down-to-earth wisdom. Whether you're a budding influencer, a marketing professional, or someone passionate about the power of storytelling and influence, this episode is full of insights and inspiration.

Resources:

Lucinda Henry on LinkedIn

Two Shallow Pockets on Pinterest

Two Shallow Pockets website

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

Welcome to another empowering episode of the 2B Bolder Podcast! On episode #98, we were fortunate to have Camille Mercier, the CEO of Spirit Mountain Casino, on the show. As a trailblazer in the casino industry, she takes us on her journey from her early days at Spirit Mountain Casino in 1996 to her current role as CEO.

In this episode, Camille shares her unique insights into the casino industry, her deep connection to her tribal heritage, and how she has seamlessly integrated her passion for her profession with her commitment to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. We dive into the challenges and triumphs of her career, her innovative leadership style, and her devotion to cultural and diversity awareness.

Key discussion points in this episode include:

• Camille's inspiration to enter the casino industry.
• Career advice for those aspiring to follow in her footsteps.
• Camille's journey to becoming CEO and her career strategy.
• The impact of diverse experiences across different states on her leadership.
• Her unique approach to innovative leadership.
• Role models and mentors in her career.
• What Camille loves most about her job.
• Strategies for resilience and avoiding burnout.
• The legacy she aspires to leave in her professional journey.

Get to know Camille with fun questions like waffles or pancakes, comedy or drama, and more!

Tune in to this episode of the 2B Bolder Podcast for an inspiring conversation to motivate and enlighten anyone interested in leadership, cultural diversity, and personal growth within the dynamic casino industry.

Resources: 

·       Camille Mercier on LinkedIn

·       Careers at Spirit Mountain Casino

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

Join us on episode #97, an enlightening journey with Colette Stallbaumer, the General Manager of Future of Work and Microsoft 365, as she delves into the evolving landscape of work and technology. In this episode, Colette shares her remarkable career journey, from opening her own boutique to her pivotal role at Microsoft, where she leads a team driving some of the most revolutionary technology since the internet – artificial intelligence. Colette's team empowers customers to work in new ways with Copilot for Microsoft 365 and drives groundbreaking research through the Microsoft Work Trend Index and WorkLab. 

Discover Colette's unique insights on:

• Her Career Pathway: Learn about Colette's journey to a Fortune 100 company and how her leadership impacts our daily work lives.
• Her 'A to Z' Superpower: Uncover the secrets behind her ability to drive progress and recognize the value in her strengths.
• Preparatory Roles: Explore whether specific roles or a blend of experiences shaped her current success.
• Surprises and Lessons: Gain insights into unexpected aspects of her role and early-career wisdom.
• Overcoming Resistance: Tips for fostering collaboration and enthusiasm in large organizations.
• Passion for Work: What fuels Colette's dedication to her field?
• Hybrid Work Leadership: Best practices and strategies from Microsoft's approach to hybrid work.
• AI in Business and Careers: Advice for women to leverage AI for career advancement and business impact.
• AI Excitement: What aspects of AI technology enthuse Colette the most?
• Speaking with Presence: Tips for women to communicate effectively and confidently.
• Demonstrating Leadership: Strategies to showcase leadership qualities effectively.
• The Meaning of Being Bolder: Colette's interpretation of bold success.
• Advocacy for Women in Tech: Collective actions to improve women's retention in tech.
• Advice to Younger Self: Wisdom Colette would share with her 20-year-old self.
• Avoiding Burnout: Personal strategies for maintaining balance and well-being.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from a leading voice in technology and work culture. Tune in for a blend of professional wisdom, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, all aimed at empowering you to navigate the future of work with confidence, clarity, and boldness.

Resources:
Colette Stallbaumer on LinkedIn

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

In episode #96 of the 2B Bolder podcast, joined by two trailblazing women in the world of public relations and social media. Join me as we sit down with Carey Balogh and Lauren Genest, the dynamic duo behind Brand Groupies, a powerhouse agency revolutionizing the PR landscape.

In this episode, Carey, the founder and CEO, and Lauren, the Partner & President of Brand Groupies, share their unique career journeys, insights, and innovative strategies that have positioned their agency at the forefront of the industry. Since its inception in 2015, Brand Groupies has been a beacon for B2B companies and visionary leaders in sectors like architecture, engineering, construction, design, and real estate, helping them to amplify their brands with a distinctive blend of social media and public relations.

Dive into the world of "SOPR," a term coined by our guests that symbolizes the seamless integration of social media and PR. Discover how Carey and Lauren make their clients the rock stars of their industries and gain valuable insights into the evolving landscapes of PR and social media.

Episode Highlights:

1. Career Insights: Carey and Lauren recount their professional backgrounds and the pivotal moments that led to their success with Brand Groupies.
2. The Evolution of PR: Lauren discusses the transformation of PR in the past five years and her predictions for the future.
3. Social Media Strategies: Carey delves into the evolution of social media for B2B brands and key priorities in the current landscape.
4. Passion for PR and Podcasts: Lauren shares what she loves most about PR and podcast management.
5. Client Collaboration: Lauren reveals her approach to working with new clients, blending strategy and creativity.
6. Advice for Aspiring Professionals: Carey offers guidance for women starting in PR or social media.
7. Agency vs. Client Experience: Lauren weighs in on the benefits of agency-side versus client-side experience in PR and social.
8. Hiring the Best: Carey discusses the qualities and skills she looks for in candidates.
9. Entrepreneurial Insights: Carey shares lessons and advice for those aspiring to start their own business.
10. Female Leadership Strengths: Lauren reflects on the strengths that have contributed to their business success.
11. The Meaning of 2B Bolder: Both guests share their personal interpretations of what it means to be bolder.
12. Building a Personal Brand: Carey offers advice on the critical aspects of developing a strong personal brand.
13. Resilience in PR and Social Media: Lauren talks about maintaining resilience and avoiding burnout in a demanding industry.
14. Reflective Advice: Both guests share what advice they would give to their younger selves.

Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with practical wisdom, career advice, and inspiring stories. Tune in to learn how Carey and Lauren are redefining the PR industry and encouraging others to be bolder in their careers.

Resources:

• Visit Brand Groupies for more information.
• Connect with Brand Groupies on LinkedIn.
• Follow Carey Balogh on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Lauren Genest on

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

In this episode #95 of the 2B Bolder Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Stephanie Brown, the  founder of Creative Career Level Up. Stephanie's impressive resume includes roles at industry leaders like Nike and Apple. She is the author fo the book, 'Fired: Why Losing Your Job is the Best Thing That Can Happen to You'.

Stephanie shared her transformative journey from being a Brand Director to facing unemployment, and then achieving her dream role, emphasizing that setbacks can be setups for comebacks. She shed light on the unique cultures of Nike and Apple and discussed the importance of job clarity. For the introverts out there, Stephanie offered invaluable networking advice.

We also delved into her specialized programs, from 'Total Clarity' to 'Pitch + Position', and discussed her book 'Fired', which serves as inspiration not just for those who've lost jobs but for anyone seeking career inspiration or career advice.

 Stephanie shares insights on career promotions, salary negotiations, and her top skill recommendation for a standout career. Plus, a fun rapid-fire round revealed her personal preferences, from waffles over pancakes to her love for comedy and tea! Don't miss out on this fun and inspiring conversation!

Resources:

Connect with Stephanie Brown on LinkedIn
Creative Career Lab
Stephanie Brown on Tik Tok

The 2B Bolder Podcast provides first-hand access to some amazing women. Guests will include women from leading enterprise companies to startups, women execs, coders, account execs, engineers, doctors, and innovators.

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

In episode #94 of the 2B Bolder Podcast,  I had the best time interviewing a woman who inspired me to start my podcast journey.   Espree Devora is a force in the podcasting world, being the host of over 1,000 shows on the topic of Women in Tech.

She's the brain behind WeAreLATech, a platform that's been a beacon for the LA tech community. Espree doesn't just champion tech in LA; she's been a global advocate for Women in Tech. And if you're into the live audio creator community, you might recognize her as a founding member of the Audio Collective.

Espree's been spotlighted by Forbes, Entrepreneur, Harper’s Bazaar, Inc, and the list goes on. Inc Magazine even listed her as one of the top 30 Women in Tech to follow. And if you're on Clubhouse, you might've seen her face as one of the app icons!

Her entrepreneurial spirit sparked in college, leading her to found ZexSports, an action sports media network. And if you're a startup looking for software recommendations, Espree's blog, SaveBusinessTime.com, is a goldmine.

In this episode, we dive deep into Espree's remarkable journey, exploring a wide range of topics that will leave you inspired and motivated:

1. Discover what "2B Bolder" means to Espree, a driven and humble individual who has achieved remarkable success.
2. Learn how Espree started her first company during college and how this early dive into entrepreneurship shaped her college experience.
3. Gain insights into the unique challenges faced by women in the tech industry and how Espree is advocating for their empowerment and success.
4. Explore the transformative lessons Espree has learned from her extensive podcasting experience, with over 1000 episodes under her belt.
5. Find out what sets Espree's podcast apart and who has inspired her in the world of podcasting.

Tune in to the 2B Bolder podcast for these insights and so much more. It's a candid and insightful conversation with Espree Devora. Let her wisdom and experiences inspire you to be bolder in your own journey.

 Resources:

• Espree Desvora Website
• WeAreLATech
• The WomenInTech Podcast 
• The Steven Barlett podcast
• The Alex Cooper Podcast
• The Danny Miranda Podcast
• Justin Welsh

The 2B Bolder Podcast provides first-hand access to some amazing women. Guests will include women from leading enterprise companies to startups, women execs, coders, account execs, engineers, doctors, and innovators.

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉

In episode #93 of the 2B Bolder Podcast,  it was an honor to feature a guest who has redefined leadership and introduced us to the transformative concept of the 'mirrored door' - Ellen Taaffe.

Ellen's illustrious career spans leadership roles in Fortune 500 giants to shaping future leaders at the Kellogg School of Management. With a rich tapestry of experiences, she's a beacon of inspiration for many.

About Ellen Taaffe:

• Clinical Associate Professor at the Kellogg School of Management
• TEDx Speaker and Brand Specialist
• Leadership roles at PepsiCo, Royal Caribbean, and Whirlpool Corporation
• Leadership Advisory Consultant, Speaker, and Coach
• Author of the upcoming book, 'The Mirrored Door'

Join us as we delve into:

• Ellen's transition from the corporate world to academia.
• The essence of the 'mirrored door' and its impact on women's careers.
• Strategies that can both empower and sideline women.
• The significance of feedback and self-promotion.
• Overcoming the inner antagonist and setting boundaries.
• The role of personal branding in breaking barriers.
• Key insights from the Women’s Leadership Program at Kellogg.

Rapid Fire Round: Dive into Ellen's personal preferences and get to know the woman behind the accolades.

Whether you're a budding professional, a seasoned leader, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge, insights, and actionable advice.

Tune in to the 2B Bolder Podcast and let Ellen Taaffe guide you through the mirrored door towards a brighter, bolder future.

Resources:

• Taking Center Stage Can Change Your Life.
• The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier that Locks Successful Women in Place
• Ellen Connelly Taaffe on LinkedIn
• Northwestern Kellogg

The 2B Bolder Podcast provides first-hand access to some amazing women. Guests will include women from leading enterprise companies to startups, women execs, coders, account execs, engineers, doctors, and innovators.

When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses. 🎉