This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that celebrates and empowers women navigating the ever-changing landscape of the business world. I'm your host, Sarah Chen, and today we're diving into a topic that's been on everyone's minds lately: women in tech and how they're adapting to the current economic climate.

Let's start with the elephant in the room - the recent tech layoffs and their impact on women in the industry. It's no secret that the tech sector has been hit hard, with major players like Meta, Amazon, and Google announcing significant job cuts. But here's the thing: women are often disproportionately affected by these layoffs. According to recent data, women made up nearly 70% of tech layoffs in 2022, despite only representing about 30% of the tech workforce. It's a sobering statistic, but it's also an opportunity for us to reassess and pivot.

Which brings me to my second point: the importance of upskilling and reskilling in this rapidly evolving industry. With AI and machine learning becoming increasingly prevalent, it's crucial for women in tech to stay ahead of the curve. Companies like IBM and Microsoft are offering free online courses in AI and data science, specifically targeting women and underrepresented groups. It's not just about keeping your job - it's about positioning yourself for the jobs of the future.

Now, let's talk about the funding gap. Despite making up half the population, women-led startups received only 2% of venture capital funding in 2022. It's a staggering disparity, but there's hope on the horizon. Organizations like All Raise and Female Founders Fund are working tirelessly to close this gap, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to capital for women entrepreneurs in tech.

Speaking of networking, that's our fourth point of discussion. In this post-pandemic world, the way we network has fundamentally changed. Virtual networking events and online communities have become the norm, and women in tech are leveraging these platforms to build connections and support systems. Platforms like Elpha and Women Who Code are creating spaces for women to share experiences, seek advice, and find job opportunities.

Lastly, let's address the ongoing push for diversity and inclusion in tech. While progress has been made, there's still a long way to go. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse teams, not just as a moral imperative but as a business advantage. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more innovative and perform better financially. As women in tech, we need to continue advocating for ourselves and for each other, pushing for more inclusive hiring practices, equal pay, and representation in leadership roles.

As we navigate these challenges, it's important to remember that we're not alone. The tech industry may be going through a tumultuous time, but women have always been resilient and adaptable. By staying informed, continuously learning, supporting each other, and advocating for change, we can not only survive but thrive in this ever-changing landscape.

So, to all the women in tech out there: keep pushing boundaries, keep innovating, and keep supporting each other. The future of tech is female, and together, we're going to shape it.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that empowers and inspires women to thrive in the corporate world. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we're diving into the exciting yet challenging landscape of women in the tech industry. As we navigate through 2025, it's clear that the tech sector continues to be a powerhouse of innovation and economic growth. But for women, the journey is often filled with unique hurdles and opportunities. Let's explore five key discussion points that are shaping the experiences of women in tech today.

First up, let's talk about the persistent gender gap in STEM fields. Despite efforts to increase female representation, women still make up only about 28% of the global STEM workforce. This underrepresentation isn't just a numbers game – it's impacting innovation and economic growth. Companies like Global Engineer Girls are making strides by supporting over 1,200 students and providing employment opportunities to hundreds of women across multiple countries. But we need to ask ourselves: how can we accelerate this progress and ensure that women have equal access to STEM education and careers?

Next, let's address the elephant in the room – the gender pay gap. In the tech industry, this gap is particularly glaring. Women in STEM professions are earning nearly $15,000 less annually than their male counterparts. For women of color, the disparity is even more pronounced. It's 2025, and we're still talking about this. What strategies can women employ to advocate for fair compensation, and how can companies be held accountable for pay equity?

Third on our list is the critical issue of leadership representation. While we've seen some progress, women still hold only about 8-9% of senior tech roles like CIO or CTO. The pipeline problem is real – for every 100 men promoted to manager, only 87 women and 82 women of color receive similar promotions. How can we break this cycle and create more opportunities for women to climb the corporate ladder in tech?

Our fourth point focuses on the double-edged sword of artificial intelligence. AI is revolutionizing industries, but it's also perpetuating gender biases. A recent study found that 44% of AI systems showed gender bias. This isn't just a tech problem – it's a societal issue that affects everything from job applications to healthcare decisions. How can we ensure that AI development teams are diverse and that the technology we create is free from gender-based discrimination?

Lastly, let's talk about the power of mentorship and networking. Programs that support women throughout their careers are proving to be game-changers. Companies with networking goals for women have seen a 65% increase in female representation in senior leadership. How can we create more of these supportive ecosystems, and what role can established women in tech play in lifting up the next generation?

As we wrap up, remember that the tech industry needs diverse perspectives to truly innovate and solve global challenges. Women bring unique skills, experiences, and viewpoints that are essential for creating technology that serves everyone. So let's continue to push for progress, support each other, and shape the future of tech. This is Sarah, signing off from Women in Business. Until next time, keep breaking barriers and coding your success!

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business. I'm your host, Sarah Chen, and today we're diving into how women are navigating the current economic landscape, with a special focus on the tech industry.

As a woman who's spent over a decade in Silicon Valley, I've seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities we face. Let's start with the elephant in the room - the ongoing gender gap in tech leadership. Despite making up nearly half the workforce, women hold just 26% of executive roles in tech companies. But here's the good news - that number is slowly but surely increasing.

Which brings me to our first discussion point: the power of mentorship and sponsorship. I cannot overstate how crucial this has been in my own career. Finding a mentor who believes in you and advocates for you behind closed doors can be a game-changer. I still remember when my mentor, Lisa Park at Google, pushed for me to lead a major product launch despite my own self-doubt. That experience gave me the confidence to eventually start my own company.

Speaking of starting companies, let's talk about funding. We've all heard the dismal statistics about female founders receiving just a fraction of venture capital. But there's a silver lining - we're seeing a rise in women-led VC firms and angel investors specifically focused on backing female entrepreneurs. Organizations like All Raise and Female Founders Fund are changing the game.

Now, onto a topic that's been on everyone's minds lately - artificial intelligence. AI is reshaping entire industries, and we need to ensure women are at the forefront of this revolution. Companies like Women in AI are doing incredible work to close the gender gap in this field. But we also need to be vigilant about potential biases being baked into AI systems. As more women enter AI development, we'll see more inclusive and representative technologies.

Fourth on our list is the importance of building strong professional networks. I cannot stress this enough - your network is your net worth. Joining organizations like Women in Tech or attending conferences like the Grace Hopper Celebration can open doors you never knew existed. I met my cofounder at a Women 2.0 pitch competition!

Lastly, let's discuss work-life balance and flexibility. The pandemic has forever changed how we work, and I believe this presents a unique opportunity for women. Remote work and flexible schedules can level the playing field, especially for working mothers. Companies that embrace these changes will have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top female talent.

As we wrap up, I want to leave you with this thought: the challenges we face as women in tech are real, but so are the opportunities. By supporting each other, advocating for change, and continuing to innovate, we can create a more equitable and thriving tech industry for all. Remember, your voice matters, your ideas matter, and together, we can reshape the future of technology.

Thank you for tuning in to Women in Business. Until next time, keep breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that celebrates and empowers female entrepreneurs and leaders. I'm your host, Sarah Chen, and today we're diving into how women are navigating the current economic landscape, with a special focus on the tech industry.

As we kick off 2025, it's clear that women are making incredible strides in business, but we still face unique challenges, especially in male-dominated fields like tech. I recently spoke with Priya Sharma, founder of AI startup Cognify, about her experiences and insights. Priya shared some fascinating perspectives that I think will resonate with many of you.

First up, let's talk about funding. Despite making up half the population, women-led startups still receive only a fraction of venture capital. Priya emphasized how critical it is for female founders to build strong networks and seek out investors who value diversity. She recommended targeting female-led VC firms and angel investors who have a track record of backing women entrepreneurs.

Another key point Priya raised was the importance of mentorship and sponsorship. As she put it, "Having experienced guides who can open doors and advocate for you is invaluable." She suggested actively seeking out both formal and informal mentors, and paying it forward by mentoring other women as you advance in your career.

We also discussed the ongoing challenge of work-life balance, especially as remote and hybrid work models evolve. Priya stressed the need for women to set boundaries and prioritize self-care, noting that burnout is still a major issue in tech. She shared how implementing "no meeting Fridays" at Cognify has boosted productivity and morale.

A fourth area we explored was the power of community. Priya credits much of her success to the support of other women in tech. She's a member of several professional organizations and regularly attends conferences and meetups. "There's strength in numbers," she said. "When we come together, share knowledge, and lift each other up, we're unstoppable."

Lastly, we talked about the importance of continuous learning in the fast-paced tech world. Priya emphasized staying curious and allocating time for professional development, whether that's through online courses, industry certifications, or simply staying on top of the latest trends and innovations.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Priya left us with this empowering thought: "The tech industry needs diverse perspectives to truly innovate and solve global challenges. As women, we bring unique insights and approaches. Don't be afraid to speak up, take risks, and claim your seat at the table."

I hope Priya's insights have inspired you as much as they did me. Remember, we're all in this together, supporting and uplifting one another as we navigate the business world. Until next time, keep dreaming big and breaking barriers. This is Sarah Chen, signing off from Women in Business.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that amplifies the voices of female leaders shaping our economic landscape. I'm your host, Sarah Chen, and today we're diving into the tech industry - a sector where women are making waves despite persistent challenges.

Let's kick things off with a look at the current state of affairs. According to recent data from the Women in Tech Network, women now represent 35% of employees in STEM fields in the US. That's progress, but we're still far from parity. And when it comes to leadership roles, the numbers are even more sobering - just 24% of tech leadership positions are held by women.

But here's the thing - we're not just talking about statistics. We're talking about real opportunities for innovation, growth, and change. Which brings me to our first discussion point: the power of mentorship and sponsorship. I recently spoke with Jocelyne Michel, a senior director at a major tech firm, who shared how critical these relationships have been in her career. "Sometimes, the boldest ideas turn out to be the ones that change the world," she told me. "But you need someone in your corner who believes in you and your vision."

This leads us to our second point: the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. It's not enough to just hire more women - we need to address the systemic biases that hold them back. Emma Seymour, CFO at a workforce management platform, put it perfectly: "We need to embed financial literacy and career development at every level, ensuring our investments in people, technology, and programs are creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and succeed."

Our third discussion point focuses on the role of education and early exposure to tech. Nisha Sharma, a software engineering manager, made a fascinating career pivot from medicine to AI. Her story highlights the need for more accessible pathways into tech, especially for women who might not have considered it as a first career choice.

Fourth on our list: the impact of recent economic shifts on women in tech. With many companies scaling back on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, how can we ensure that progress isn't lost? Simone Mink, a product operations lead, emphasized the importance of accountability: "We must act now to prevent setbacks and ensure gender equality progresses. It's crucial to hold our companies and governments accountable for advancing and safeguarding gender equality."

Finally, let's talk about the future of tech and the incredible opportunities it presents for women. From AI and cloud computing to cybersecurity and beyond, there's no shortage of exciting fields to explore. Stephanie Albertina-Wright, a cybersecurity consultant, shared this inspiring message: "This is a hugely rewarding and interesting career path with plenty of opportunities. Female leaders in this industry, although limited in numbers, are testament to that."

As we wrap up, I want to leave you with this thought: the tech industry needs women's perspectives, innovation, and leadership now more than ever. By supporting each other, demanding change, and seizing opportunities, we can create a more equitable and dynamic tech landscape for all. Until next time, this is Sarah Chen for Women in Business.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that celebrates and empowers female entrepreneurs and leaders. I'm your host, Sarah Chen, and today we're diving into how women are navigating the current economic landscape, with a special focus on the tech industry.

As we enter 2025, the business world continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, presenting both challenges and opportunities for women in tech. From my conversations with industry leaders and my own experiences, I've identified five key discussion points that are shaping the journey for women in this dynamic field.

First up, let's talk about the funding gap. Despite progress, women-led startups are still receiving a disproportionately small slice of venture capital. In 2024, only 2.8% of VC funding went to all-female founding teams. But here's the silver lining: we're seeing a rise in female-led VC firms and angel investors who are actively seeking to support women entrepreneurs. Organizations like AllRaise and Female Founders Fund are making waves, and I've personally witnessed how their support can be a game-changer for women-led startups.

Next, we need to address the ongoing challenge of representation in leadership roles. While we've seen some improvement, with women now holding about 29% of senior management positions in tech globally, there's still a long way to go. Companies like Salesforce and IBM have made public commitments to achieving gender parity in leadership, and it's crucial that we hold them accountable. I've found that mentorship programs and women's leadership initiatives within companies can be powerful catalysts for change.

The third point I want to highlight is the double-edged sword of remote work. The flexibility of working from home has been a boon for many women, allowing for better work-life integration. However, it's also brought new challenges, such as the risk of being overlooked for promotions due to reduced face time with leadership. As we navigate this new normal, it's essential to advocate for equitable remote work policies and ensure that out of sight doesn't mean out of mind for career advancement.

Fourth on our list is the critical importance of upskilling in emerging technologies. With AI and machine learning reshaping industries, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever. I've seen firsthand how programs like Girls Who Code and Women Who Code are empowering women to dive into these cutting-edge fields. It's not just about learning new skills; it's about positioning ourselves at the forefront of innovation.

Lastly, let's talk about the power of community and networks. In my journey, I've found that connecting with other women in tech has been invaluable. Platforms like Elpha and Women in Tech Network are creating spaces for us to share experiences, offer support, and open doors for each other. These communities are more than just networking; they're lifelines in an industry that can often feel isolating for women.

As we navigate these challenges and opportunities, remember that each of us has the power to drive change. Whether it's mentoring a young woman in tech, advocating for equitable policies in your workplace, or supporting women-led businesses, every action counts. Together, we can create a more inclusive and thriving tech industry for all.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, the podcast that empowers and inspires female entrepreneurs and professionals. I'm your host, Sarah, and today we're diving into the world of women in tech and how they're navigating the current economic landscape.

Let's kick things off with our first discussion point: the ongoing challenge of gender diversity in tech leadership roles. Despite progress, women still hold only about 25% of tech jobs and even fewer executive positions. Companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft have made public commitments to improve diversity, but change has been slow. We need to address the systemic barriers that prevent women from advancing in tech careers, including unconscious bias, lack of mentorship, and inflexible work cultures.

This brings us to our second point: the importance of mentorship and sponsorship for women in tech. Having a strong support network can make all the difference in career advancement. Organizations like Women Who Code and Girls Who Code are doing great work in this area, connecting aspiring female tech professionals with experienced mentors. But we need more senior leaders, both men and women, to actively sponsor and advocate for talented women in their organizations.

Our third discussion point focuses on the impact of remote work on women in tech. The pandemic-driven shift to remote work has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's provided more flexibility for women balancing career and family responsibilities. On the other, it's blurred the lines between work and home life, often leading to burnout. As we move forward, companies need to find ways to support work-life balance and ensure that remote work doesn't hinder women's career progression.

Fourth on our list is the funding gap for women-led startups. Despite evidence that diverse teams perform better, female founders received only 2% of venture capital funding in 2022. This needs to change. We're seeing some positive movement with the rise of female-focused VC firms like Female Founders Fund and BBG Ventures, but there's still a long way to go in leveling the playing field for women entrepreneurs in tech.

Finally, let's talk about the skills gap and the need for continuous learning in tech. The rapid pace of technological change means that skills can become outdated quickly. Women in tech need to prioritize ongoing education and upskilling to stay competitive. Platforms like Coursera and Udacity offer great opportunities for learning new skills, but companies also need to invest in their female employees' professional development.

These are just a few of the key issues facing women in tech today. By addressing these challenges head-on and supporting each other, we can create a more inclusive and equitable tech industry for all. Remember, your voice matters, and together, we can drive real change in the business world.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, where we celebrate and empower women navigating the ever-changing economic landscape. Today, we're focusing on the tech industry, a sector where women are making strides but still face significant barriers. Let's dive right in.

Imagine starting your career in tech, full of enthusiasm and potential, only to find yourself facing a myriad of challenges. This is the reality for many women in tech. According to the National Science Foundation, women represent just 21.3% of computer science graduates and 22% of engineering graduates. These educational disparities contribute to the underrepresentation of women in technology[3].

One of the key issues is the hiring and retention gap. Surveys indicate that 65% of tech recruiters recognize bias in their hiring practices, and a staggering 57% of women in the Technology, Media, and Telecom sectors plan to leave their jobs within two years, citing issues such as inadequate work-life balance, limited advancement opportunities, and lack of mentorship[3].

To address these challenges, we need to focus on early education and awareness. Programs like ADVANCE and STEM Like a Girl are crucial in encouraging girls to explore tech from an early age. Additionally, accessible and affordable training programs, such as bootcamps and online courses, can help women acquire in-demand skills like programming, cloud computing, and AI development[1].

Mentorship is another critical factor. Companies should establish formal mentorship programs pairing junior women with senior leaders. Sponsorship, where leaders actively advocate for women’s promotions and opportunities, is equally important. According to Forbes, mentorship programs can improve promotion and retention rates for women from 15% to 38%[1].

The impact of inclusion on technology cannot be overstated. Elevating women in tech could contribute to increasing the global gross domestic product by 3% to 6%. Women tend to purchase more consumer goods than men, and having a woman’s perspective and innovation on how we utilize technology will produce better products and reach wider audiences[1].

In conclusion, as we navigate the current economic landscape, it's essential to recognize the barriers women face in the tech industry and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable ecosystem. By focusing on early education, accessible training, mentorship, and sponsorship, we can empower women to thrive in tech and drive innovation forward. Join us next time on Women in Business as we continue to explore the stories and strategies of women making a difference in the business world.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, where we explore the challenges and triumphs of women navigating the current economic landscape. Today, we're focusing on the tech industry, a field that has long been dominated by men but is slowly seeing a shift towards greater inclusivity.

Let's start with the current state of women in tech. Despite making up nearly half of the workforce, women hold only about 25% of technical positions in major tech companies like Amazon, Facebook, Apple, Google, and Microsoft. This disparity becomes even more pronounced as we move up the corporate ladder, with women holding only 8-9% of positions like CIO, CTO, or IT manager.

One of the key barriers to women's advancement in tech is the lack of access to resources and training. According to the Skillsoft Women in Tech Report 2024, 60% of women in tech have yet to integrate AI into their work, despite recognizing its importance for future job success. This is partly due to the fact that junior women in technical positions often lack access to the networks and discussions where GenAI strategy is formed, making it harder for them to stay ahead of the curve.

However, there are women who are breaking down these barriers and paving the way for others. Take Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, who has dedicated her career to closing the gender gap in technology by providing coding education to young women worldwide. Or Dr. Fei-Fei Li, a leading expert in artificial intelligence who has been instrumental in making AI more accessible and ethical.

Another critical issue facing women in tech is the lack of representation in leadership positions. Women-led startups face significant challenges in obtaining venture capital funding, with only 2.3% of investment in 2022 going towards them. This is why it's crucial for women to support each other, whether through mentorship programs or by investing in women-led businesses.

Finally, let's talk about the role of generative AI in reshaping the tech landscape. According to the Boston Consulting Group, 68% of women in the tech industry use GenAI tools at work more than once a week, compared to 66% of men. This presents a huge opportunity for women to upskill and participate in this burgeoning field. However, it also requires organizations to prioritize AI training and mentorship programs tailored to women, addressing the gap in skills and access to training that currently exists.

In conclusion, while there are still many challenges facing women in the tech industry, there are also many reasons to be hopeful. By supporting each other, advocating for greater inclusivity, and seizing the opportunities presented by emerging technologies like GenAI, women can continue to break down barriers and pave the way for a more equitable future in tech.

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This is your Women in Business podcast.

Welcome to Women in Business, where we explore the challenges and triumphs of women navigating the current economic landscape. Today, we're focusing on the tech industry, an area where women are making significant strides but still face numerous barriers.

Let's dive right in. Our first discussion point is the underrepresentation of women in tech. According to The World Bank, women constitute less than one-third of the workforce in technology-related sectors globally. In the United States, women represent 35% of the STEM workforce, which itself comprises only 25% of the total U.S. labor market. This underrepresentation is not just a matter of numbers; it affects the diversity and innovation that drive business success.

One of the key challenges women face in tech is the lack of mentorship opportunities. Many women lack access to mentors who can guide them through their careers and advocate for their promotions. This is where organizations can step in by establishing formal mentorship programs that pair junior women with senior leaders. For example, companies like Google and Microsoft have implemented such programs, which have shown to improve promotion and retention rates for women.

Another critical issue is the skills gap. Women often cite a lack of technical skills as a barrier to entry and advancement in tech. To address this, accessible and affordable training programs are essential. Bootcamps, online courses, and employer-sponsored upskilling initiatives can help women acquire in-demand skills such as programming, cloud computing, and AI development. Programs like ADVANCE and STEM Like a Girl are excellent examples of how early education and awareness can encourage girls to explore tech.

Our fourth discussion point is the importance of inclusive workplaces. The recruitment process and HR officials are the first voices and faces new talent will meet, so it's critical that the candidate experience is inclusive. Ensuring that businesses offer opportunities from entry-level to senior positions for women in tech will set them apart from other companies. The World Economic Forum states that a world that invests in women in STEM will be a world that innovates faster and solves problems more effectively.

Lastly, let's talk about the economic benefits of elevating women in tech. According to a McKinsey report, companies with female leadership tend to have up to 50% higher profits. Women leaders increase productivity, enhance collaboration, and improve work environments. By prioritizing an inclusive talent acquisition strategy, businesses can not only improve gender parity and diversity but also boost their profitability.

In conclusion, women in tech face numerous challenges, but by addressing these issues, we can create a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem. From early education and mentorship to inclusive workplaces and economic benefits, there are many ways we can elevate women in tech and drive business success. Join us next time on Women in Business as we continue to explore the stories and strategies of women navigating the current economic landscape.

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