In this new episode I'm joined by Frances Zelanzny, co-founder and CEO of Anonybit, a company dedicated to redefining privacy and identity security in the digital age.

We delve into Frances's extensive experience in the realms of cybersecurity and digital identity, exploring her unique perspective shaped by her background as a daughter of a Holocaust survivor and her professional encounters that have influenced her courageous leadership.

Throughout our conversation, we illuminate the critical importance of privacy-preserving technologies, particularly in an era where identity theft and fraud are rampant. As we engage with Frances, we gain insights into her journey, the challenges she faces as a woman in a predominantly male industry, and her vision for a future where identity is safeguarded to promote social and economic progress. Ultimately, we emphasize the collective responsibility to enhance identity security and the transformative potential of women-led businesses in addressing these pressing issues.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have an 🌟 Privacy Pioneer🌟 in our midst!  

Frances Zelazny is the Co-Founder & CEO of Anonybit, a pioneering decentralized biometrics company transforming how we protect identity and privacy in the digital age. With over 25 years of experience scaling enterprise SaaS across cybersecurity, fintech, digital identity, and analytics, she has built a reputation for turning complex technologies into market-defining businesses. She has shaped international policy on biometrics, working with governments, multilateral organizations, and the private sector to ensure responsible and impactful adoption.  Recognized on the Women in Fintech Power List 100, SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100, and as one of the 25 Most Influential Women Leaders in Biometric Digital Identity, Frances is a fierce advocate for building innovative, privacy-first technologies that also advance social and economic progress

Takeaways:

• Frances's experience in biometrics positions her as a leader in privacy and identity protection.
• Identity is fundamental to social and economic development, impacting opportunities across all demographics.
• Frances emphasizes the importance of responsible technology deployment to ensure user privacy and security.

Chapters:

00:02 Amplifying Women in Leadership

05:01 Defining Moments of Advocacy and Innovation

10:12 The Importance of Privacy in Digital Identity

20:00 The Evolution of Biometric Technology and Privacy Challenges

31:59 The Impact of Digital Identity on Society

32:41 The Importance of Identity in Economic Development

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What does it truly mean to build “privacy-preserving” technology?

2.How did her father’s Holocaust survival shape her leadership and worldview?

3.Why is digital identity the foundation of social and economic progress?

4.What’s really at stake if we fail to secure digital identity?

5.How can founders design for ethics and responsibility from day one?

Favorite Quotes:

“We must operate under the assumption that all of our personal data is already on the dark web.”

“You can’t have innovation without responsibility.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

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

https://anonybit.io

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

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Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

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