Hey Trailblazers! Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here with a powerful new episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers." Today, we’re talking all about community, conflict, and what it really means to rise together with our guest, Jessica Uranga, Executive Director of Beautiful Lives. If you’ve ever felt torn between being kind and being competitive, this one’s for you.

Jessica’s story starts with a global lens, from growing up as a missionary kid to leading a team of over 50 women in a space built on trust, growth, and servant leadership. But what really stands out is how she navigates the messy parts. No degree. No straight path. Just a commitment to showing up, learning forward, and creating space for others. “I was created with purpose. I have purpose. And I’m meant to live with great purpose,” she says. And trust us, she means it.

We also get into the real stuff. Workplace conflict. Imposter syndrome. That feeling of “Do I really belong in this room?” Jessica shares how intentional community, celebrating others, and letting go of toxic competition changed the way she leads and lives. “When I build her up, it doesn’t diminish who I am. It builds me up too.”

If you’ve ever felt like you were on the outside looking in or wondering if you’re qualified enough, this conversation will meet you where you are. Jessica’s story reminds us that success isn’t about having the perfect resume; it’s about showing up with integrity, investing in others, and letting your purpose speak louder than your fear.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(3:15) Authenticity living on purpose

(4:53) Petty energy self-awareness

(6:43) Culture core values team connection

(8:43) Making space for new voices

(9:34) Hiring through values

(10:30) Power of being seen

(11:09) Choosing the right circle

(13:22) Leading without a degree

(16:55) Open-handed leadership

(18:41) Taking the first step

(20:55) Growth through generosity

(21:42) Finding the right networks

(23:51) Legacy mindset

So what’s one step you can take today to build others up instead of sizing them up? Tap play, share this episode with someone who needs the reminder, and get ready to shift your mindset. The next version of you might just be one brave “yes” away.

About Jessica Uranga

Jessica Uranga is the Executive Director at Beautiful Lives Thrift Boutique, where she leads a team focused on community and purpose-driven work. She grew up in Mexico and spent years traveling internationally with Youth With A Mission. Jessica and her husband live in Northwest Arkansas with their five children. Outside of work, she enjoys life on their hobby farm growing elderberries and spending time with family.

Connect with Jessica:

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About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! You know when an episode feels more like a movement? That’s exactly what you’re in for today. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are sitting down with La’Ron Louis, a global DEI (Diversity, equity, and inclusion) leader who’s not just doing the work but living it every single day. If you’ve ever felt unseen in your career or wondered what it really takes to drive inclusion beyond the surface, this one’s for you.

La’Ron takes us back to the start. His story isn’t just powerful; it’s deeply personal. La' Ron shared, "And as a black gay man, I often felt. My voice wasn't heard, even in my family, I didn't feel seen, oftentimes. And then when I saw that happening to others, I would use my loud voice and personality to stand up and advocate for those individuals without fear." 

So what did he do? He used that same voice to make sure others could be heard. “I find a way or I make one,” he says. And that mindset launched a career built on advocacy, strategy, and heart.

We get into what corporate America often gets wrong about DEI. Performative efforts, box-checking, and surface-level statements don’t move the needle. La’Ron breaks down how real change happens through inclusive leadership, psychological safety, and using data to tell stories that matter. “It either is or it isn’t. The data doesn’t lie,” he shares.

Of course, we’re talking about mentorship too. But not just the formal kind. La’Ron explains the difference between mentorship and sponsorship and why sometimes the most powerful advocates are the ones speaking your name when you’re not in the room. You’ll walk away thinking differently about how you show up for others and how you build your own support network.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(3:09) Authenticity & showing up unapologetically

(6:09) Overcoming leadership barriers & hearing “no”

(7:17) Manifestation & persistence

(10:32) Rethinking inclusion metrics

(13:18) What makes "DEI" black and white?

(15:46) Living dei in real time

(21:15) Mentorship vs. sponsorship & advocacy

(25:01) Finding your people in the industry

(27:24) Making more deposits or withdrawals?

This episode brings insight, big energy, and conversations that stay with you. Want to know what legacy La’Ron is building and why he thinks every person, not just the DEI leader, is part of the movement? You’ll have to tune in. Subscribe, share, and stay with us for more real talk and trailblazing voices.

About La’Ron Louis

La’Ron Louis is a Global DEI leader with experience leading inclusion strategies across Fortune 500 companies. He has designed programs focused on learning, talent development, and workplace belonging across regions, including AMER, EMEA, and APAC. La’Ron partners with organizations and academic institutions to support DEI education and engagement. He holds certifications from Yale and the University of South Florida and currently resides in Atlanta.

Connect with La’Ron:

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About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! Today’s episode is one you don’t want to miss. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are in conversation with Ambika Saklani Bhardwaj, a powerhouse in data and analytics who’s now diving deep into generative AI. From working in finance operations to leading in retail tech, Ambika’s journey is anything but ordinary.

She walks us through the moment she realized she didn’t want to do repetitive work forever. “I wanted to do something innovative and unique,” she says. That desire led her to data science and then to Walmart, where she’s shaping cutting-edge AI solutions. Her path is a masterclass in pivoting with purpose and trusting your instincts.

We get real about challenges, too. Ambika talks about the learning curve of switching industries and the pressure of proving yourself. Even if she didn’t always feel the sting of bias directly, she knows it exists. “Your skills are your best weapon,” she shares. It’s a reminder that the right knowledge opens doors that bias tries to shut.

Of course, we get into Gen AI. This is her playground now, and she explains how it’s changing the game for everyone, especially women in tech. From productivity boosts to personal learning paths, this tech isn’t just for coders. She also drops a reality check on ethics and privacy that we all need to hear.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(2:14) Protecting your energy in tech

(4:26) Finding the path that actually fits

(6:18) Learning it all from zero

(8:14) Fighting bias with skill

(10:51) Using Gen AI to win time back

(12:29) Data, ethics, and the real risk

(15:15) The people who make your career move

(18:04) Create a legacy that opens doors

(19:09) The smart human era

(19:45) Know AI or fall behind

So what’s the legacy she wants to leave? “It’s not about who you are. It’s about what you do.” This episode is packed with insights on authenticity, upskilling, mentorship, and how to be the smart human AI doesn’t replace. Tune in, share it with someone in transition, and don’t forget to hit subscribe. You’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket.

About Ambika Saklani Bhardwaj

Ambika Saklani Bhardwaj is a Principal Product Manager at Walmart with over 15 years of experience in financial data and analytics. She has worked across banking and retail, focusing on operations, product management, and analytics. Her current work explores the use of generative AI in retail. Ambika is also involved in building strategies, managing teams, and delivering data-driven solutions.

Connect with Ambika: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers, Welcome back to Women in Tech Trailblazers. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here, and today, we’re diving into the power of data, leadership, and career pivots with Tammy Waggoner. She’s spent over 30 years in finance, sales enablement, and now data strategy, proving that no career path is linear. If you've ever wondered how to use data to make smarter career moves, this one’s for you.

Tammy kicks things off with a real talk on authenticity. “The second you drift from who you are, people can tell,” she says. Staying true to yourself isn’t always easy, especially in a world that pushes you in different directions. But for Tammy, self-awareness has been the key to navigating every career shift with confidence.

We get into the realities of gender bias. Tammy shares a moment where she got promoted but at a lower level than her male predecessor. “It was still a promotion, but not the same title,” she points out. Her takeaway: Speak up! Ask the hard questions. If you don’t, no one else will.

Of course, we can’t talk about career growth without data. Tammy explains how using data can remove emotion from decisions and give you an edge. “Strategy without data is just guessing,” she says. Whether it's tracking industry trends or negotiating salary, the numbers don’t lie.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(2:18) Authenticity & self-awareness

(4:08) How a numbers-driven mindset opens doors

(7:40) Rethinking tech careers

(9:20) The future of jobs & automation

(11:11) Gender bias in promotions

(12:22) Speaking up for women in meetings

(14:54) Why are data-driven career choices more powerful?

(16:59) Data vs. emotion in decision-making

(18:58) The do’s and don’ts of LinkedIn engagement

(22:24) Vulnerability & growth

(23:29) Data, decisions & the importance of logic

(25:18) Why leadership is about trust & growth

(26:15) Standing out in a tech-driven world

(27:34) The future of work & role fluidity

This episode is packed with insights on leadership, career strategy, and self-advocacy. How are you using data to shape your next move Tune in, share, and let’s keep breaking barriers. See you next time, Trailblazers.

About Tammy Waggoner

Tammy Waggoner is the VP of CPG & Retail at Nousot, Inc., where she leads strategy, business development, and data analytics initiatives. With over 30 years of experience in finance, program management, and sales enablement, she has worked with companies like Tyson, Hillshire Brands, and Sara Lee. 

Her expertise spans process optimization, large-scale transformations, and data-driven decision-making. She is known for problem-solving, cross-functional collaboration, and mentoring teams in sales, finance, and operations.

Connect with Tammy: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! It’s another episode of Women in Tech Trailblazers, and today, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are talking to someone who’s making serious waves in the tech world. Meet Jewell Callahan, a young future innovator who started her coding journey at 15 and never looked back. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to navigate tech as a woman, this episode is for you.

Jewell breaks down the struggle for authenticity in tech, where women constantly have to prove themselves while walking a fine line. “If you’re too feminine, people underestimate you. If you’re too confident, they think you’re arrogant,” she says. But instead of backing down, she’s carving out space for herself and other women in STEM.

We also get into the power of mentorship. Jewell had a teacher who encouraged her to apply for opportunities she didn’t even think she could win, and that made all the difference. Now, through Girls Who Code, she’s helping other young women find their place in the industry and making sure no one gets left behind.

And, of course, we talk about the biases that still exist in tech. Jewell shares how being the only woman in the room forced her to find her voice and prove her worth. “At some point, you realize staying quiet helps no one,” she says. Whether it’s stepping up in class or leading in the workplace, learning to take up space is key.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(2:31) Authenticity in tech

(3:44) Unrealistic expectations for women

(7:49) Speaking up & proving yourself

(9:36) Overthinking and owning your voice

(11:36) Knowing when to speak up

(14:28) The fear of being alone in tech

(15:48) The truth about learning to code

(17:46) The power of mentorship

(20:00) Finding your community in tech

(23:40) Embracing mistakes & learning from them

This episode is a reminder that the next generation of women in tech isn’t waiting for permission. They’re here, they’re speaking up, and they’re changing the game. Tune in, share, and don’t miss this conversation. See you next time, Trailblazers.

About Jewell Callahan

Jewell Callahan began coding at 15, inspired by her father’s work. Since 16, she has been involved with Girls Who Code, contributing at both national and school levels. She is the social media manager for Girls Who Code and the Computer Science Club at UCA, as well as the treasurer for IEEE’s student branch. At the University of Central Arkansas, she represents the College of Science and Engineering as an academic college representative.

Connect with Jewell: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads Data Governance at Compass Group USA, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across all business units. She is passionate about driving data excellence and advancing women in tech and STEM.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! Today, we’re bringing you a conversation you don’t want to miss. We’re sitting down with Sarah Vogel, an Information Systems student at the University of Arkansas who is redefining what it means to be a woman in tech before even graduating. From finding herself as the only woman in the room to leading initiatives that change the game, Sarah’s story is a masterclass in showing up, speaking up, and lifting others along the way.

Sarah’s tech journey didn’t start in college. Back in high school, she joined an engineering academy and quickly realized something was missing. More women! Instead of backing away, she leaned in. Now, she’s on a mission to make sure the next wave of students has access to the mentorship and community she wished she had. “You don’t need to change who you are to belong. You just have to own your space.”

But let’s talk about the real roadblocks. Gender bias, lack of representation, and the subtle ways women are discouraged from leadership in tech. Sarah shares how she faced them head-on, why she refused to be pushed out, and how she’s using her platform to create new opportunities for women in tech. Whether it’s leading student organizations, securing industry mentors, or just making sure freshmen feel like they have a place, Sarah is proving that real change starts with the people who decide to build it.

We also dive into how universities can step up their game when it comes to supporting women in tech. The solution isn’t just about funding. Sarah breaks down why open-door professors, strong mentorship networks, and visibility in the industry are what really move the needle.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(1:45) Owning your voice & speaking up

(3:51) Creating spaces for women in tech

(5:10) Facing gender bias & breaking through

(7:03) The bigger picture of tech careers

(9:20) What universities need to do better

(10:48) The role of mentors in tech

(12:53) The power of an open mind in college

(13:33) Why most people don’t work in their major

(15:18) Building a legacy & leading from college

Sarah Vogel isn’t waiting until she has a title to lead. She’s already making waves, and trust us, this is only the beginning. Tune in, follow her journey, and start thinking about how you can be part of the movement.

About Sarah Vogel

Sarah Vogel is an Information Systems student at the University of Arkansas, pursuing both her undergraduate and master’s degrees. She will complete her bachelor’s in May 2025 and her master’s in May 2026. She has interned at J.B. Hunt and Arvest Bank and is from Northwest Arkansas. Her studies focus on Business Analytics, with a minor in Supply Chain Management.

Connect with Sarah: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! Buckle up for another thought-provoking episode of Women in Tech Trailblazers. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here, and today, we’re diving into a conversation that will change the way you think about success, creativity, and authenticity in your career. Joining us is Srividya Venkatasubramanya, a powerhouse in the arts and nonprofit world. She’s here to break down how tapping into creativity can transform how we work, lead, and innovate.

Srividya’s story is a wake-up call for anyone stuck in a rigid career mindset. She talks about the pressure to fit into roles that don’t always align with who we are... whether it’s as women, professionals, or creatives. “I wasn’t born a mother, a wife, or a daughter. I was born me,” she shares, and it’s a reminder we all need. In a world that values hustle over balance, how do we reclaim the parts of ourselves that make us truly unique?

We also get into why society undervalues creativity and why that needs to change. Srividya breaks down the real impact of art, music, and culture on problem-solving, stress management, and even career performance. Spoiler: It’s not just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a career booster! Research backs it up; engaging in creative activities can increase focus and innovation by up to 45%. So why aren’t we making more room for it in tech?

Of course, we couldn’t skip the big question. How do you balance creativity with the pressures of professional life? Srividya shares how she built the Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation, a nonprofit that gives artists a platform while proving that community is everything. “Without community, there’s nothing. No support, no growth, no change,” she says. And trust us, her journey of figuring it out as she went is something every entrepreneur and leader needs to hear.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(00:43) Breaking the silence on conversations women avoid

(3:48) Authenticity & breaking free from labels

(9:29) The fear of being judged for your creativity

(10:52) Stop measuring success in just ‘k’s & ‘m’s!

(12:11) The fear of failure & society’s role in holding creatives back

(18:58) The science behind creativity & career success

(25:02) Why artists need each other to succeed

(30:21) Staying true to yourself in a world that tries to change you

Before we wrap up, we explore what it really means to stay true to yourself... even when the world pushes you to conform. Srividya challenges us to listen to our inner voice and never let it fade. “If you suppress it too long? It vanishes,” she warns. And that’s the real takeaway! You are more than your job title, your roles, or your expectations.

So, what’s one way you can bring more creativity into your life? How are you making space for the parts of you that get overlooked? Tune in. Subscribe. Share this episode with someone who needs this message! See you next time, Trailblazers!

About Srividya Venkatasubramanya

Srividya Venkatasubramanya is the founding member and Executive Director of Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation, which she established in 2018 to promote Indian performing arts in Northwest Arkansas. With a background in education, she focuses on increasing opportunities for the next generation to learn Indian music and dance. She has three master’s degrees in foreign languages, teaching, and curriculum design and has taught Spanish for over a decade. 

In addition to running a Kumon franchise since 2010, she mentors artists and administrators, helping them navigate challenges in the arts sector. She also co-founded One Step 2Forward, a mentoring and life coaching initiative supporting minorities and women, particularly from the Asian Indian community. When she’s not working, she enjoys immersing herself in music and dance, keeping the arts at the heart of everything she does.

Connect with Srividya:

Instagram

Linkedin

Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Hey Trailblazers! Get ready for another thrilling episode of Women in Tech Trailblazers. Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here, and today, we’re diving into the inspiring story of Tharuna Niranjan, Senior Director of Payments and Fraud at Walmart Global Tech. From launching iconic platforms like YouTube Premium to empowering women in tech, Tharuna’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

We kick things off with a heartfelt conversation about authenticity. What does it mean to truly own your story? For Tharuna, it’s about “having the courage to live your story” while embracing vulnerability and empowerment. She doesn’t just talk about authenticity; she lives it, creating spaces where others can shine, too.

Then, we tackle one of the biggest challenges in tech: being underestimated. Tharuna shares how she navigated a male-dominated industry by letting her technical expertise speak for itself. “Leave egos at the door,” she says, focusing on what truly matters: solving complex problems and building credibility.

Networking is the heart of this episode. But here’s the twist: Tharuna believes in selective networking. Forget adding endless connections on LinkedIn! She’s all about nurturing relationships that align with your goals and values. Her strategy? “Help your network help you.”

Mentorship and leadership also take center stage. Tharuna’s philosophy of calling out quiet voices in a room and giving them space is a masterclass in servant leadership. It’s not just about rising through the ranks; it’s about lifting others as you climb.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(3:51) What Does Authenticity Look Like?

(4:43) The Power of a Village

(5:46) Strengths, Weaknesses, and Self-Growth

(7:35) Why Ego Doesn’t Belong in Tech 

(9:34) Finding Role Models Who Inspire You

(12:12) Hushing Imposter Syndrome Through Action

(14:47) Selective Networking That Works

(21:11) Why Leadership Is a Shared Responsibility 

(25:53) Why should you avoid big asks early on?

(27:43) How to Beat the Resume Black Hole

(29:11) The Mantra for Grabbing Opportunities 

So, what’s her advice to aspiring leaders? “Say yes first, then say no.” Opportunities don’t come with guarantees, but by staying open and curious, you’ll discover what truly aligns with your path.

What if building a stronger community in tech started with you? What steps will you take to embrace your journey and uplift those around you? Don’t miss this episode.! Tune in, subscribe, and share it with your circle. Together, we can make a difference.

About Tharuna Niranjan

Tharuna Niranjan is the Senior Director of Payments and Fraud Intelligence at Walmart Global Tech, where she leads strategy and engineering initiatives. With over 20 years of experience in tech, she has built and scaled complex systems, including launching products like YouTube Premium during her time at Google and YouTube. She is passionate about mentoring women in technology and actively supports organizations like TechBridge Girls and Girls Who Code.

Connect with Tharuna: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! It’s another day with another amazing guest here on Women in Tech Trailblazers! Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are thrilled to bring you Ashley Cerda—a mental health professional, CEO, and a master at helping people rediscover themselves. Buckle up because we’re diving into what it means to truly prioritize mental wellness.

We start with a conversation about burnout. Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt drained and thought, “Maybe this isn’t for me.” Ashley’s been there and gets it. “I thought I didn’t love being a therapist. Turns out, I just didn’t love it while burned out,” she shares. Her story of stepping back and rediscovering her passion will resonate with anyone who’s ever needed to hit pause.

And let’s talk authenticity—Ashley’s got wisdom for days on this. “Unapologetically, authentically you,” she says, is the ultimate goal. She explains how being yourself can lead to deeper, more meaningful connections with others, and let’s just say we’re here for it!

But it’s not all theory—Ashley shares practical tips for making your mental health a priority. From finding small moments of joy to embracing gratitude and trying new things, her approach is both refreshing and actionable. Oh, and we learned that even writing a to-do list can release as much dopamine as...well, you’ll have to tune in to find out.

Here are the key takeaways: 

(2:00) The secret to unlocking your authentic self 

(3:00) Are you the black sheep, or just in the wrong crowd? 

(5:26) How do you know when you’re burned out? 

(8:14) How do dopamine sparks prevent burnout?

(9:23) What happens when you let go of the “perfect life”?

(10:43) How do you find your core values?

(11:36) The checklist hack that makes goal-setting a breeze 

(12:56) Why women struggle to move beyond relational roles

(16:02) How to get a Dopamine Boost 

(18:36) How do you figure out what really matters in life? 

(19:13) The Power of Boundaries in Building Deeper Connections 

(21:33) Why does finding your tribe matters for mental health?

(23:07) How does self-discovery unlock your full potential?

(23:59) How Tiny Habits Spark Big Mental Health Benefits

Take a moment today to reflect on your own mental health journey. How are you filling your cup? Join us for this powerful conversation and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and spread the word. We’ve got more trailblazing guests on the way!

About Ashley Cerda

Ashley Cerda, PhD, is the Chief Executive Officer at Curated Health and a licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment. She specializes in addiction, eating disorders, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and hypnotherapy. Ashley focuses on helping clients create meaningful changes through a collaborative therapeutic process. She emphasizes the importance of a strong therapist-client connection in fostering growth and healing.

Connect with Ashley: 

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

Hey Trailblazers! Welcome back to Women in Tech Trailblazers with your hosts, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Mark Macioce, Vice President and CIO of Masco Corporation. Mark’s journey spans over two decades in technology, leadership, and mentorship, and he’s here to share what it takes to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

We kick things off with authenticity. For Mark, it’s about consistency: “The person you are in a meeting should be the same person you are at home—transparency builds trust.” His take is refreshingly practical and deeply relatable.

The conversation gets even better as we dive into mentorship. Mark explains why supporting peers is just as important as formal leadership. “Collaboration and trust aren’t top-down—they’re grown among peers,” he says. 

He also highlights the need for leaders to ensure environments where no one feels silenced, especially women. Despite having all the credentials, many feel overshadowed without proper support and actionable platforms. His stories about breaking down biases and amplifying voices will leave you thinking about the role we all play in creating inclusive spaces.

But it doesn’t stop there. Mark shares his insights on the next generation of leaders. Bold, candid, and community-focused, they’re changing the game, and Mark believes it’s time companies caught up. “The young talent is not settling for roles without purpose—they’re asking what we’re doing for the bigger picture.”

Here are the key takeaways: 

(2:55) Are you showing up authentically in every role?

(5:01) How are next-gen leaders challenging entitlement?

(5:59) Why retention is no longer about paychecks.

(8:27) What does cross-interviewing mean for modern hiring?

(10:15) Why does imposter syndrome persist despite credentials?

(11:51) How does bias impact everyday workplace interactions?

(14:27) The power of peer support in workplace culture.

(17:07) What does “paying it forward” mean in professional growth?

(18:52) How toxic leadership destroys even the best workplaces.

(22:37) Why is two-way mentorship more impactful than one-way guidance?

(24:47) The leadership networks that are changing the game.

(27:00) The secret to creating a sustainable leadership impact.

This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a whole lot of heart. Hit play, subscribe, and share this one with someone who’s ready to step up. Let’s keep blazing those trails!

About Mark Macioce

Mark Macioce is the Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Masco Corporation, a global company specializing in home improvement and building products. With over 24 years of experience in technology, he has worked across industries including industrial manufacturing, consumer goods, and media. Mark holds a bachelor’s degree in Management of Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s in Computer Science and Engineering from Gannon University. He also serves on the boards of Civista Bank and Ohio Guidestone.

Connect with Mark:

Linkedin

About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.

Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. For three years, she's been celebrated as a top staffing influencer.

Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should be taken as something other than professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.