Lunch with Leaders: Influence Extraordinary Authentic Women in STEM Careers for Empowerment

This episode of "Lunch with Leaders" with Uma Subramanian and Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya explores how professionals—especially women in STEM—can bridge the perception gap to become visible and sought-after leaders.

Uma Subramanian shares actionable frameworks for building influence, communicating value, and developing a powerful leadership reputation.

Key topics include the SOAR framework, overcoming self-doubt, leveraging failure, and building supportive networks to maximize career impact.

Connect with Uma Subramanian Online:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/uma-subramanian-limitless 

https://thelimitlessleaders.com

Who Is This For?

This episode is primarily for professional women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), especially those in mid-career and senior leadership roles who feel overlooked, undervalued, or are seeking greater visibility and impact at work.

About 30% of listeners are men, so the insights are useful for all ambitious professionals aiming to close the "perception gap" and become sought-after leaders.

Key Moments & Timestamps

• 00:00:00: Uma Subramanian shares her background and journey of self-intentional growth.

• 00:02:20: Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya introduces the goal of the podcast and Uma Subramanian's leadership journey.

• 00:03:10: The motivation behind founding Limitless Leaders.

• 00:04:26: Identifying the perception gap in organizations.

• 00:07:39: Deep dive: what is the perception gap and why it matters for career advancement.

• 00:08:28: Uma Subramanian shares a formative Microsoft story about misattribution of credit and learning to "own the narrative."

• 00:16:13: What it means to be a “sought-after leader.”

• 00:18:19: The difference between great and sought-after leaders.

• 00:24:03: Introduction to the SOAR framework (Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority, Relationship Mastery).

• 00:29:00: The importance of inner work, belief, and resilience in leadership.

• 00:33:38: The concept of a "trusted circle" as vital support for leaders.

• 00:39:43: Normalizing, reframing, and responding to failure.

• 00:46:29: Long-term impact: What Uma Subramanian hopes listeners achieve.

• 00:47:27: Where to find Uma Subramanian and her book.
  

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the perception gap?
A: The gap between the value you truly create and what others see, understand, and trust about your leadership (08:02).

Q: Why do women in STEM struggle with visibility and advancement?
A: Many are in the minority, often misunderstood or overlooked, and may not communicate their value clearly at work (14:49).

Q: What is the SOAR framework?
A: Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority/Personal Brand, and Relationship Mastery (24:03).

Q: How do I become a sought-after leader?
A: By thinking beyond your role, building cross-organizational relationships, clear value communication, and developing self-belief and resilience (18:19, 24:19).

Q: How should leaders approach failure?
A: Normalize and reframe failure as data or feedback, and seek support from a trusted circle (39:43, 34:25).

Action Steps

1. Assess Your Perception Gap: Reflect on whether your contributions and reputation match—seek feedback (08:17).

2. Speak for Your Work: Ensure your value is actively communicated, not just assumed (10:44).

3. Expand Relationships: Intentionally build networks and trusted circles for support and advocacy (20:41; 34:25).

4. Develop Your SOAR Skills: Focus on strategic thinking, communication, personal branding, and influence (24:03).

5. Embrace Failure as Feedback: When setbacks occur, reframe them as learning opportunities and seek guidance (40:49).

6. Clarify Your Vision: Define what you truly want in your leadership journey (42:40).

7. Get the Book: Read “The Sought After Leader” for frameworks and practical exercises (47:39); connect with Uma Subramanian on LinkedIn for continued support.

In this powerful episode, faith-driven business leader Peter Snell shares actionable leadership strategies rooted in objectivity, biblical principles, and authentic mentorship.

Listeners learn how to overcome fear of failure, transform anxiety into gratitude, make high-stakes decisions, and build sustainable business models—especially in the oil and gas industry.

Whether you're leading a team, seeking personal growth, or navigating challenges in STEM or energy sectors, Peter Snell’s insights on resilient leadership, intentional rest, and leaving a meaningful legacy make this episode a must-listen.

FAQs

Q: Who is Peter Snell?
A: Peter Snell is the founder and CEO of Petrovybe, a natural gas developer passionate about business growth, biblical stewardship, and mentoring leaders.

Q: What is the main lesson about anxiety?
A: Anxiety is a choice and can be managed by prayer, gratitude, and focusing on the present moment.

Q: How can leaders make better decisions?
A: By being objective, considering the impact on others, and taking a wise, long-term view rather than reacting to comfort or fear.

Q: What sets Petrovybe apart?
A: Their business model leverages compounding growth principles, strategic reinvestment, and financial discipline—seldom seen in oil & gas.

Action Steps

1. Reflect on Personal Mindsets: Assess where fear of failure or anxiety controls your decisions, replacing fear with gratitude and faith.

2. Practice Objective Leadership: In upcoming decisions, list all stakeholders and assess the long-term impact before choosing short-term comfort.

3. Mentor with Questions: Next time you lead, start with empowering questions instead of directives to foster individual growth.

4. Rest Intentionally: Schedule regular breaks, allowing time for reflection and rejuvenation as modeled in the episode.

5. Learn More About Petrovybe: Visit Petrovybe.com or connect with Peter Snell on LinkedIn or Instagram to explore collaborations or investment opportunities.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterasnell/

PetroVybe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/97452844

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterasnell/

Website: https://www.petrovybe.com

In this empowering leadership podcast, Marc & Adaeze sit down with Mark Pittman, founder of Concord Leadership Group and author of "The Surprising Gift of Doubt."

They discuss redefining success, overcoming impostor syndrome, embracing self-doubt as a tool for growth, and the challenges—and privileges—of leadership.

Listeners dive into actionable frameworks like the Four Quadrants of Leadership, learn the importance of self-awareness, pausing, and building systems that support authentic, human-centered leadership.

Featuring insights for entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, and anyone leading or aspiring to lead, this episode is a go-to resource for building resilient, genuine leaders.

Key Moments & Timestamps

• Introduction and Guest Bio: 00:00

• Surprising Your Younger Self: Value evolution, open arms leadership 02:27

• Consistency Without Ossification: Lifelong growth, embracing change 03:56

• Privilege and Risk-Taking: Failure, cultural context of risk, privilege in leadership 05:01

• Defining Success for Yourself: Moving past the “hamster wheel” mentality 09:39

• Leadership, Doubt, and Authenticity: The surprising gift of doubt 15:37

• Organizational Structures and Humanity: Systems not built for humans, roots in inequity 19:00

• Quadrant 3 Leadership: The four quadrants; the journey from imitation to unique self-leadership 22:10

• On Coaching and Leadership Transition: Self-awareness, impostor syndrome, fake it till you make it 26:23

• Navigating Crisis as a Leader: Values as the internal compass during the pandemic 31:41

• The Power of Pausing: Reflection, resolving burnout, and self-renewal 36:15

• Aligning Work and Passion: Building teams, knowing your limits, and delegating for growth 41:26

• Legacy and the Definition of Success: Letting leaders be human, defining “done” 45:24

• Practical Tips for Leaders: Scrum, retrospectives, boundaries for strategic thinking 48:22

• Resources and Marc’s Work: How to connect, further resources 49:58

Who Is This For?

This episode is for leaders, aspiring leaders, professionals in transition, entrepreneurs, nonprofit managers, and anyone seeking growth in their careers or personal leadership. It resonates particularly with those questioning traditional definitions of success, dealing with self-doubt, navigating risk, and striving for authentic leadership.

FAQs

Q: Who is Marc Pittman?
A: Founder of Concord Leadership Group, executive coach, speaker, and author of “The Surprising Gift of Doubt.”

Q: What is the "gift of doubt?"
A: Doubt, often seen as weakness, can trigger self-discovery, deeper authenticity, and stronger leadership when embraced and explored.

Q: How do most people define success—and how can you redefine it?
A: Many chase external markers, but real success is defined internally and should evolve with your values and life stage.

Q: What are the Four Quadrants of Leadership?
A: A framework: 

1. Imitating others 

2. Fixing yourself 

3. Discovering your uniqueness 

4. Leading with confidence and authenticity

Q: How can leaders handle feeling overwhelmed or like imposters?
A: By pausing, seeking peer/community support, and reframing “impostor syndrome” as a sign of authenticity.

Action Steps

1. Pause and Reflect: Schedule regular “pause” moments (even 10–15 min) each week for self-checks.

2. Redefine Success: Clearly define what “enough” and “done” look like for you.

3. Embrace Doubt: Write down questions or feelings of doubt and explore what they reveal about your growth.

4. Build a Supportive Community: Seek or create peer groups for honest, nonjudgmental feedback.

5. Delegate and Collaborate: Identify your dislikes and seek partnerships to fill those gaps.

6. Leverage Resources: Visit concordleadershipgroup.com/leader & fundraisingcoach.com for free tools.

   
   

   Connect with Marc:

   Reach out on LinkedIn (Marc Pittman) for guidance or collaboration.

   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcapitman

   https://www.instagram.com/marcpitman

   https://www.threads.net/@marcpitman 

   https://facebook.com/marcapitman 

   https://concordleadershipgroup.com

African Women in STEM founder ⁠Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠ reflects on August as Black Business Month, celebrating successes and outlining opportunities for women in STEM.

Key programs highlighted include Women in STEM AI Roundtables, the new Restore Wellness Program, and the upcoming Ascension Conference in Atlanta.

This podcast garners top 5% global ranking, offers networking, mentorship, and actionable strategies.

Who Is This For?

This episode is for:

• Women in STEM, particularly African women and women of color

• Mid-career and senior professionals looking to move from expert roles to impactful leadership

• Entrepreneurs, founders, business leaders, and executives interested in community, access, and career growth

• Anyone passionate about supporting Black businesses, Black Business Month, and expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in STEM

• Listeners seeking inspiration, practical strategies, and networks for career advancement

Key Moments and Timestamps

• 00:00:00: Introduction to the podcast and solo reflection format

• 00:01:29: Discovery of August as Black Business Month and celebration of Black businesses

• 00:04:00: Mission of African Women in STEM—bridging the gap between talent and opportunity

• 00:05:26: Celebrating community wins: job offers, compensation negotiations, mentorship, and support

• 00:09:00: Reflections on growth, fail-forward mindset, and programming redesign

• 00:09:35: Launch of Women in STEM Roundtable Series focused on AI and career advancement

• 00:11:14: Emphasis on wellness programming to support sustainable careers

• 00:12:26: Announcement of the Ascension Conference for professional women (November, Atlanta)

• 00:14:00: Growth of the podcast—top 5% ranking globally and community impact

• 00:16:20: How to support/engage: membership, partnerships, attending events, and sharing the podcast

FAQs

Q: What is the main focus of African Women in STEM?
A: To close the gap between talent and opportunity by providing access, mentorship, community, and career advancement for women in STEM.

Q: What special programming is offered this year?
A: Women in STEM AI Roundtables, Restore Wellness Program, and the Ascension Conference focusing on relationships and opportunities.

Q: How can I get involved?
A: Become a member, partner with the organization, attend events, join the email list, and share the podcast.

Q: What are some achievements of the community?
A: Members have landed multiple job offers, negotiated multi-six-figure packages, built strong relationships, and found new leadership roles.

Action Steps

1. Subscribe to the podcast to receive episodes with actionable leadership and career growth advice.

2. Join the African Women in STEM community—membership for mid-career/senior professionals is open.

3. Attend upcoming events: AI Roundtables, wellness workshops, and Ascension Conference.

4. Partner as an organization, investor, or brand aligned with the mission.

5. Share the podcast and community with your network to support and amplify opportunities for women in STEM.

6. Connect with Adaeze Iloeje-Udogalanya on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and build your network.

⁠Leadership Edge Diagnostic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a Strategy Call with ⁠⁠Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow African Women in STEM on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow African Women in STEM on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the African Women in STEM Membership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the African Women in STEM Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TEDX Talk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠ welcomes Mahir Laul, founder and CEO of Velric, to explore future-proof leadership, hiring transformation, and adaptability in the era of AI.

Mahir shares how embracing flexibility, valuing people over place, and focusing on skills (not just credentials) empower both candidates and companies.

The conversation reveals actionable hiring tips, the value of continuous upskilling, and how AI isn’t eliminating jobs but changing the rules for finding and keeping work.

Listeners—especially women in STEM and career changers—will gain inspiration, practical job-seeking strategies, and the mindset needed for success in fast-evolving industries.

This episode is designed for:

• Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) seeking guidance on leadership, career advancement, and breaking barriers.

• Job seekers and professionals navigating modern hiring systems, especially those impacted by AI-driven changes.

• Recruiters and hiring managers wanting to improve hiring, retention, and diversity practices.

• Entrepreneurs, tech founders, and business leaders interested in sustainable business building and adapting to the rapid pace of innovation.

• Anyone interested in leadership, adaptability, and future-of-work conversations.

  Timestamps

  00:01:07: Adaeze introduces the mission: empowering women in STEM for leadership.

  00:05:01: Mahir on adaptability, global citizenship, and finding belonging beyond physical spaces.

• 00:10:56: Mahir discusses misconceptions about startups and the hidden realities behind building a sustainable business.

• 00:17:44: Mahir explains why flexibility and multiple revenue streams matter, especially with AI disruption.

• 00:21:29: Adaeze and Mahir dissect what’s broken in traditional hiring and why Velric exists.

• 00:29:35: Mahir clarifies that AI shifts jobs rather than eliminates them, urging listeners to focus on value creation.

• 00:32:34: Debate on the relevance of degrees versus microcredentialing and adaptation in today’s job market.

• 00:43:03: Tangible career advice: why authenticity and personal outreach matter in getting hired.

• 00:47:06: Action step: Do proactive cold outreach and expect low response rates—but persevere!

Q: Who is Mahir Laul?
A: Mahir Laul is the founder and CEO of Velric, an AI-driven hiring intelligence platform.

Q: What does Velric do?
A: Velric helps organizations hire based on job-specific, merit-based assessments rather than resumes, focusing on proof of skills and critical thinking.

Q: How is AI affecting the hiring process?
A: AI is streamlining hiring but can introduce bias or overlook talent; Velric addresses these by ensuring decisions are based on proven ability, not background.

Q: How can job seekers stand out today?
A: By being authentic, avoiding mass AI applications, personally reaching out to recruiters, and following up with cold calls.

Q: Is a degree still valuable?
A: Mahir Laul argues that skills, adaptability, and micro-credentialing are increasingly more important than traditional degrees for most roles.

For Adaeze:

• Share this episode and invite feedback from women in STEM communities.

• Highlight actionable tips in the AWI STEM newsletter (42:04).

• Use this conversation as a springboard for future topics like micro-credentialing or authentic career-building.

For Mahir:

• Continue organizing networking and hiring events to foster connections (49:12).

• Encourage authentic outreach—respond to DMs from listeners and connect at events.

• Share more insights on adaptability and up-skilling on LinkedIn and at Velric events.

For Listeners:

• Take a proactive approach to job applications: personalize outreach, be authentic, and don’t rely on AI mass applications (43:03).

• Commit to continuous learning: explore micro-credentialing, up-skilling, and adaptability strategies (32:34).

• Attend Velric’s events or similar networking opportunities for real-world connections (49:12).

Explore how Carlotta Berry, PhD, a pioneering Black woman professor in electrical and computer engineering, transforms STEM education and visibility through her leadership, advocacy, and creativity.

In this inspiring conversation with Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya, discover the origins of "Black in Engineering" and "Black in Robotics," strategic insights for combating AI bias, and actionable advice for women and minorities in STEM to own their uniqueness.

Discover how multidisciplinary approaches, mentorship, intentional advocacy, and aligning your mission empower the next generation of diverse engineers and changemakers. Relevant for those seeking to amplify diversity, equity, and inclusion in technical fields.

Social Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlotta-berry-phd/

https://www.instagram.com/drcaberry

https://www.tiktok.com/@drcaberry

https://twitter.com/drcaberry

https://bsky.app/profile/drcaberry.bsky.social

Who Is This For?

This episode is for Black women and other underrepresented groups in STEM, aspiring and established engineers, leaders seeking to expand diversity and inclusion, educators, students, and anyone passionate about making STEM more accessible, visible, and impactful for historically marginalized communities.

FAQs

Who is Carlotta Berry?

A tenured professor and endowed chair in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, founder of Black in Engineering, Black in Robotics, and Noire Stemminist, and an advocate for diversity in STEM 00:02:01.

What are Black in Engineering and Black in Robotics?

Nationwide affinity groups supporting Black engineers and roboticists through mentorship, workshops, funding, and visibility, birthed from the Black in X movement during the pandemic 00:16:04.

How does Carlotta Berry approach combating bias in STEM and AI?

By being visibly present, educating about bias, and intentionally building diverse communities within tech spaces 00:04:49.

What advice do Adaeze and Carlotta give to women in STEM?

Embrace all your unique talents, take action to gain clarity, align your work with your authentic self and mission, and don't undervalue your contributions or do all work for free 00:23:38.

How can I get involved or support the mission?

Join Black in Engineering/Robotics, share your work online for visibility, seek funding opportunities through these organizations, and support diverse leadership in STEM 00:22:21.

Key Moments & Timestamps

• Visibility and Representation in Engineering
  Carlotta on the importance of being seen in academia and the birth of "Black in Engineering" and "Black in Robotics" 00:00:00

• Making STEM Accessible and Fun
  Adeze asks how to balance technical expertise with playfulness in outreach 00:04:12

• Navigating AI, Bias, and Representation
  Carlotta on intentional adoption of AI and the importance of diverse voices in technology 00:04:48

• Embracing Multidisciplinary and Authentic Leadership
  Carlotta reflects on bringing her whole self to her work and the unique challenges Black women face 00:08:35

• Impact and Legacy: Changing the Face of STEM
  Carlotta describes her vision to inspire the next generation and make STEM inclusive of all interests, including art and fashion 00:30:34

In this episode of Lunch with Leaders, Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠ leadership strategist and founder of African Women in STEM, dismantles the myth that hard work alone leads to promotions.

She reveals the hidden mechanisms behind career advancement—why timing, personal branding, visibility, and strategic relationships matter more than annual performance reviews.

Packed with real career stories, actionable advice, and a free Leadership Edge diagnostic tool, this episode is a must-listen for women in STEM and anyone aiming to break through to leadership.

Who is This For?

This episode is for ambitious professionals—especially women in STEM—who want to understand how career advancement and promotions really happen within organizations.

Adaeze speaks directly to those seeking to move from mid-career to leadership roles, who may feel “stuck” or believe hard work alone should guarantee recognition and advancement.

If you want to build strategic influence, visibility, and a powerful personal brand at work, this is for you.

FAQs

Q: Is hard work enough to get promoted?
A: No. According to Adaeze, while hard work is foundational, promotions often depend on visibility, relationships, and personal branding—most decisions happen informally, before formal reviews.

Q: When are promotion and raise decisions really made?
A: Decisions are made long before official performance reviews, often during budget planning or in informal conversations months (or years) in advance.

Q: What’s the PIE Formula?
A: PIE stands for Performance (10%), Influence, and Exposure (90%). The biggest career results come from building influence and exposure, not just doing great work.

Q: How can I assess my own leadership visibility and influence?
A: Take the free Leadership Edge diagnostic tool at link.africanwomeninstem.com/leadership.

Key Moments & Timestamps

• Intro & Purpose

  00:00:00: Adaeze introduces the show and reflects on her own journey 

• The Performance Review Trap

  00:02:13: Realization that promotions are not based on annual performance reviews 

• Timing of Promotion Decisions

  00:04:51: Explains how budget season impacts promotion/raise outcomes 

• The Myth of Meritocracy

  00:08:01: Challenging the idea that working hard equates to advancement 

• How Advancement Really Works

  00:11:16: The real promotion decisions happen informally, long before jobs are posted 

• Invisible Conversations & Informal Power

  00:12:57: Promotion is decided in side conversations, not official meetings 

• The Role of Personal Brand & Relationships

  00:17:26: Why trust and relationships, not just performance, get you shortlisted 

• PIE Formula & Actionable Strategy

  00:21:02: The PIE (Performance, Influence, Exposure) formula for success 

• Leadership Edge Diagnostic Tool Offer

  00:23:40: Go take the free diagnostic to identify your leadership gaps 

• Outro & Call to Action

  00:25:01: Direct listeners to leave a review and connect

Leadership Edge Diagnostic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a Strategy Call with ⁠⁠Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow African Women in STEM on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the African Women in STEM Membership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the African Women in STEM Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TEDX Talk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya hosts Stephanie Georges, a veteran strategist and founder of the Meraki Dignity Project.

They dive into women’s unique challenges during career and life transitions—touching on everything from workplace expectations, caregiving, and identity shifts to the need for dignity, intentionality, and safe, inclusive tech.

The conversation explores how AI and data models marginalize women and why women-focused platforms like Meraki are essential for holistic empowerment.

Listeners discover insights about funding, women’s collective power, and the growing need for communities that value peer support. Learn practical strategies for leadership, transition, and reclaiming personal agency.

Who is this for?

This episode is for women navigating life and career transitions, particularly those in STEM, corporate, or mission-driven environments.

It also resonates with women seeking clarity, purpose, and dignity in the workplace or personal life—especially in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.

Supporters of female leadership, equity, and tech inclusivity, as well as leaders invested in building women-centered platforms or communities, will find value here.

Key Moments with Timestamps

• Stephanie shares the reality that career transitions are rarely “lightning bolt” moments and often build up over time 04:00

• Discussion about the multi-dimensional, interconnected nature of challenges women face during transitions—career, caregiving, finances, health, identity 14:11

• The surprising resonance of the Meraki platform with women in their 30s and 40s, not just 50+ 08:55

• Importance of dignity as a framework for women’s equity and tech design, including how tech and AI can violate or honor dignity 21:15

• The unique need for a safe, non-judgmental, and holistic space for women—where community, peer wisdom, and personalized solutions matter 39:18

• How AI and technology often inadvertently replicate gender biases, from health advice to hiring 27:07

• Discussion of collective economic and social power now in the hands of women and why the moment to act is now 32:16

• Meraki’s mission: helping women make intentional choices and reclaim agency for joy and fulfillment 43:30

Connect with Stephanie on Socials

https://www.linkedin.com/company/merakidignity/ 

https://www.instagram.com/merakidignity/ 

https://www.merakidignity.com/ 

https://themerakidignityproject.substack.com/ 

FAQs

Q: Who is the Meraki Dignity Project for?
A: Women of all ages experiencing major life transitions—career, health, caregiving, and more—who want clarity, safe support, and dignity in decision making. 

Q: How does Meraki differ from other women’s platforms?
A: It’s holistic—addressing all aspects of life simultaneously, not just one. It emphasizes dignity, collective wisdom, and personalized, AI-enabled guidance in a safe space 14:43.

Q: What’s the biggest tech challenge for women today?
A: AI and algorithms still encode gender bias, from health queries to career guidance; Meraki aims to filter and curate woman-informed data 27:07.

Q: Why the focus on dignity?
A: Dignity is universal but easily violated in workplaces and tech; centering it opens up new, more compassionate pathways for women’s equity 21:19.

Action Steps

1. Highlight Community
   Promote and nurture the Meraki community as a supportive, non-judgmental space for holistic growth and clarity 39:18.

2. Amplify the Call to Action
   Encourage listeners to join Meraki at mymeraki.ai or on Substack, and share their stories or feedback 46:09.

3. Educate on Dignity & Tech Bias
   Organize workshops or content around how dignity can be violated by systems (workplace, algorithms) and how to advocate for better solutions 21:45.

4. Leverage Collective Power
   Mobilize and educate the audience on the significance of collective wealth, influence, and leadership among women for driving broader societal and technological change 32:16.

In this insightful podcast episode, Dr. Wanjiru Golly, PhD, founder of Cultural Synergy Solutions, joins Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya to explore cultural synergy, identity, and leadership.

Discover how invisible identities—such as socioeconomic background—shape success, why women in STEM often downplay achievements, and strategies for leveraging your full identity as a strength.

Learn actionable steps for organizations to build inclusion from the top down and the power of authentic storytelling. This episode is a must-listen for women in STEM, leaders, immigrants, and diversity champions seeking practical tools for lasting impact.

Who Is This For?

This episode is for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), organizational leaders, HR professionals, executives, immigrants, and anyone interested in cultural identity, inclusion, and leadership.

Listeners seeking practical insights for amplifying visibility, influence, and impact—especially in multicultural or diverse organizations—will gain particular value.

Key Moments & Timestamps

• Visibility and Identity Challenges
  Dr. Wanjiru discusses hiding her PhD due to societal pressures and gender norms, compared to male colleagues’ confidence in leading with their credentials 00:00:00, 00:20:37, 00:42:09.

• Defining Cultural Synergy
  Explains the concept of "cultural synergy" and how it goes beyond diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to include all facets of identity 00:03:59.

• The Impact of Socioeconomic Identity
  Adeze Iloyeje udo Galanya and Dr. Wanjiru unpack how socioeconomic status shapes opportunities and self-perception, with stories about navigating privilege and system differences 00:09:20.

• From Weakness to Strength
  Both speakers share personal journeys realizing the power of their identities as strengths, not weaknesses, particularly after moving to the US 00:11:14, 00:12:23.

• Barriers to Celebrating Achievements
  Cultural and societal reasons why women in STEM—and especially immigrants—may downplay their achievements 00:17:39.

• Turning Point: Owning Credentials
  Dr. Wanjiru's "aha moment" when she decided to lead with her title and expertise 00:21:57.

• How Cultural Synergy Transforms Organizations
  Outlines her approach: starting with leadership self-awareness, then organizational change, and the importance of individual transformation to shift systems 00:32:00.

• Storytelling and Authenticity
  The power of revising your own story, embracing authenticity, and honoring all parts of your identity 00:40:06.

Action Steps

• Assess Your Identities: Use a cultural identity wheel to reflect on your top identities and what they mean to you 00:41:20.

• Embrace Your Achievements: Practice introducing yourself with your highest credentials—don’t minimize your accomplishments 00:21:57.

• Start with Leadership: If you’re in a leadership role, begin inclusion work with your own self-awareness before addressing organizational change 00:32:00.

• Honor Others’ Stories: Approach colleagues’ and employees’ backgrounds with curiosity and see their unique strengths 00:28:44, 00:40:06.

  Commit to Authenticity: Challenge yourself to show up fully and authentically in professional and personal relationships 00:49:28.

In this episode, globally respected breathwork teacher Annelies Richmond shares her journey from professional ballerina battling burnout to international meditation and leadership trainer.

She discusses the science and power behind breathwork practices like SKY Breath Meditation and Ujjayi breathing to help women in STEM and professionals handle chronic stress, boost career resilience, and reclaim their well-being.

The episode includes actionable tips for noticing hidden stress, resetting your nervous system, and even cultivating your intuition for better decision-making as a leader. Listeners are guided through a calming breathwork exercise they can use immediately for better focus and relaxation.

Connect with Annelies for more resources or to bring programs to your organization.

https://boldjourney.com/meet-annelies-richmond/ 

https://www.instagram.com/anneliesrichmond/ 

https://www.facebook.com/annelies.richmond/ 

Key Moments & Timestamps

• 00:03:58: Annalise Richmond connects ballet burnout to professional burnout and the need for tools to rejuvenate mind and body 

• 00:10:17: Transition from ballet to teaching breathwork after injury and experiencing trauma post-9/11 in New York 

• 00:15:16: How intentional breathwork quickly shifts the body from stress to calm, building resilience 

• 00:19:52: Signs of stress overload: fatigue, headaches, snapping at others, cumulative stress 

• 00:27:29: Cultivating intuition—accessible to all, strengthened by meditation 

• 00:34:14: Scientific research on SKY Breath Meditation's benefits: anxiety and depression reduction, increased social connection, gene expression shifts 

• 00:39:13: Annalise Richmond guides a 5-minute Ujjayi (victory) breathwork exercise 

• 00:52:47: Vision for a future with well-being and ethics at the foundation of business and leadership 

• 00:57:17: How to connect with Annalise Richmond and bring these practices to your team or campus

  
  

Who Is This For?

This episode is ideal for:

• Women in STEM seeking tools for resilience and well-being

• Leaders and professionals under high stress

• Individuals interested in breathwork, meditation, and holistic leadership

• Anyone facing career burnout, pressure, or looking for inspiration to integrate wellness into their work and life

  
  

  Top FAQs

  Q: What is SKY Breath Meditation, and how is it different from simple mindfulness?
  A: SKY Breath Meditation is a structured, evidence-based breathwork technique shown to deeply reduce anxiety, depression, and boost social connection—more so than mindfulness or emotional intelligence programs 00:35:13.

  Q: How do I know if I’m suffering from chronic stress or burnout?
  A: Warning signs include daily exhaustion, headaches, irritability, and emotionally overreacting to small things 00:19:52.

  Q: Can intuition be developed, or is it innate?
  A: Everyone has intuition; meditation and breathwork help you access it more clearly for better decisions 00:27:29.

  Q: Is there scientific evidence for these practices?
  A: Yes, studies show SKY Meditation reduces stress biomarkers, positively influences gene expression, and boosts feel-good hormones 00:34:14.

  Q: How can I connect with Annalise Richmond or access these programs?
  A: Reach her on LinkedIn/Instagram as Annalise Richmond, or visit skycampushappiness.org and artofliving.org 00:57:17.

  
  

  Action Steps for Listeners

  1. Try the guided Ujjayi (Victory) breathwork exercise from 39:13

  2. Notice your personal signs of stress overload and consider integrating daily or semi-daily breathwork

  3. Explore SKY Campus Happiness or Art of Living courses for deeper well-being work 00:57:17

  4. Connect with Annalise Richmond on LinkedIn/Instagram for more tools or to arrange workshops for your workplace/team

  5. Reflect on how regular rejuvenation practices might support your leadership, intuition, and well-being—commit to one new supportive habit this week