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What does it really mean to thrive in tech? In this episode, I sit down with Sayantika Banik, a founder and data scientist who calls herself a “mixed bag.” From building backend systems to serving on the Django Software Foundation’s Board of Directors, her journey is anything but ordinary.

We dive into:

• The realities of burnout and the power of community support
• Why embracing your whole self—not just technical skills—matters
• Lessons in self-advocacy, resilience, and finding your authentic voice in male-dominated spaces
• Redefining success on your own terms: joy and sustainability over external expectations
• Advice she’d give her younger self about the messy, beautiful tech journey

If you’ve ever wondered how to balance ambition with authenticity—or how to build a career that sustains your joy—this conversation is for you.

✨ Listen now and be reminded that your brilliance in tech is bigger than your job title.

Find us on LinkedIn:

Saya - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayantika-banik/

Dawn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbutler1/

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Looking for mentorship? Let's talk about what you need and how I may be able to help: Mentor Moments Lightning Session

The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are personal and not reflective of any employer.