1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a Black female CTO, I have faced numerous challenges in my leadership journey. One of the most significant hurdles stems from systemic racial issues that persist in the IT industry, making the path to leadership more challenging for Black professionals.

Navigating the double bind as a woman leader has been particularly demanding. I am often expected to balance conforming to dominant masculine norms while also meeting white behavioral expectations. This double bind creates added pressure and can be emotionally taxing. Another challenge I've encountered is the lack of support. Compared to the general population, many Black women feel less empowered and supported when it comes to overcoming professional challenges.

This lack of support has hindered my progress at times and made it more difficult to navigate the complexities of leadership. The pressure to succeed is immense, especially for women of color in leadership positions. The weight of expectations have lead to burnout and the fear of failure, as the scrutiny and demands placed upon me were and sometimes are overwhelming. Moreover, the tech industry remains predominantly male-dominated, posing additional challenges for women in leadership roles.

Breaking through biases, shattering glass ceilings, and advocating for equal opportunities requires resilience and perseverance. To overcome these challenges, I have found solace in seeking support from other Black female leaders who understand the unique experiences we face. Building a strong network of like-minded individuals who provide guidance and encouragement has been instrumental in my growth. Advocating for myself and others has also been vital in addressing biases and fostering inclusivity within the industry.

By speaking up and challenging the status quo, we can drive meaningful change. Equally important is prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries. Recognizing the signs of burnout and actively taking steps to maintain my well-being allows me to sustain my effectiveness as a leader and continue making a positive impact. While these challenges are real, I remain steadfast in my commitment to overcoming them. By addressing systemic issues, cultivating support networks, and embracing resilience, I believe we can create a more inclusive and equitable industry for all.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My leadership journey has taken me on a wild ride, where I've not only mastered the art of operations and technology but also delved into the fascinating world of venture capital. Along the way, I've discovered the power of understanding financial statements through the lens of an entrepreneur.

Venture capital has been my secret weapon, enabling me to decode the mysteries of financial statements like a superhero with X-ray vision. By embracing this knowledge, I can spot the hidden gems within the numbers, understanding how they shape the trajectory of a business. It's like having a sixth sense for financial insights! But it doesn't stop there. As a leader, I've also learned the importance of understanding customer acquisition costs. It's like being a marketing guru, deciphering the secret code of customer acquisition and retention.

By grasping these costs, I can fine-tune strategies, optimize marketing efforts, and ensure sustainable growth. And let's not forget about research and development costs aligned to a product roadmap. Think of me as a visionary inventor, mapping out the future of innovation. By aligning research and development costs with a well-defined product roadmap, I can steer the ship towards groundbreaking products that captivate customers and drive success. So, my leadership journey isn't just about operations and technology.

It's about unlocking the financial secrets, understanding customer acquisition costs, and aligning research and development efforts with a strategic product roadmap. It's a thrilling adventure where numbers come to life, and financial insights fuel the path to success. With this unique blend of skills and knowledge, I'm ready to conquer new frontiers and make a lasting impact!

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Ah, the life of an entrepreneurial maverick! Picture this: as the world slowly wakes up, I rise and dive into the day, ready to conquer the business world with enthusiasm and a clear vision. Before immersing myself in the entrepreneurial hustle, I take a moment to center myself. Whether it's through a peaceful morning routine or a brisk walk, I ensure I'm mentally and physically prepared for the day's challenges and opportunities. With a well-prepared mind, I tackle the morning tasks head-on.

I swiftly navigate through emails and calendar appointments, ensuring I'm up to speed with the latest updates and commitments. As the day progresses, I engage in productive calls and meetings, collaborating with partners, clients, and colleagues to bring ideas to life. It's like conducting an orchestra of innovation, harmonizing diverse perspectives and driving projects forward. Lunchtime rolls around, and I fuel my body with a nourishing meal, taking a well-deserved break from the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship.

It's a chance to recharge and refuel for the afternoon ahead. In the afternoon, I dedicate time to strategic planning, business development, and executing important tasks. It's the moment when ideas take shape, and I bring my entrepreneurial spirit to life, making bold decisions and driving growth. As the sun starts to set, I transition into personal time. I cherish moments with loved ones, engage in hobbies that bring me joy, or simply take a moment for self-reflection and gratitude.

Balancing work and personal life is key to maintaining a healthy and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. Before I drift off to sleep, I review the day's accomplishments and set priorities for the next steps. It's a chance to ensure I'm on track and prepared for the exciting challenges that lie ahead. So, fellow entrepreneur, let's embrace each day with a sense of purpose and adventure. With a structured and balanced approach, we can navigate the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship, making our mark and achieving success on our own terms. Let's create a vibrant tapestry of accomplishments, one day at a time!

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that I've been reminded of is the importance of embracing the concept of "fail fast." It serves as a powerful reminder that failure is not something to be feared, but rather an opportunity for growth and learning. In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, the ability to adapt and innovate is crucial. Sometimes, despite our best efforts and intentions, things don't go as planned. When faced with setbacks or unexpected outcomes, it's important to acknowledge them quickly, analyze the situation, and make necessary adjustments.

By embracing the mindset of failing fast, leaders can encourage a culture of experimentation and risk-taking within their teams. This mindset allows us to be agile, test new ideas, and gather valuable insights to refine our strategies. It encourages us to be open to feedback and course corrections, enabling us to find the most effective solutions. Failing fast also teaches us the importance of resilience. It's not about dwelling on failures, but rather about bouncing back stronger and wiser. It encourages us to view setbacks as stepping stones towards success and to keep moving forward with determination and perseverance.

Moreover, failing fast fosters a culture of innovation. It encourages team members to think creatively, take calculated risks, and explore new possibilities. It promotes an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for improvement and where individuals feel empowered to contribute their ideas and experiment without fear of failure. As a leader, I've learned that embracing the concept of failing fast requires creating a safe and supportive environment for experimentation. It means providing clear objectives, offering resources and guidance, and encouraging open and honest communication.

By fostering a culture where failure is seen as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock, we can unlock the full potential of our teams and drive continuous growth and improvement. So, as I continue to lead, I am reminded of the valuable lessons that failing fast brings. It encourages us to push boundaries, learn from mistakes, and embrace a mindset of resilience and innovation. By embracing failure as an essential part of the journey, we can foster a culture of continuous learning, growth, and ultimately, success.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

"The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table" by Minda Harts is a book that has truly resonated with me as a Black female CTO. It offers invaluable insights and actionable advice on navigating the unique challenges we face in the workplace and charting a path to success. Minda Harts eloquently addresses the systemic racism, double bind, and pressure to conform to dominant white behavioral norms that Black women often encounter.

The strategies outlined in the book are a guiding light, showing us how to overcome these hurdles and thrive in our careers. One of the key takeaways for me is the importance of building a strong network and advocating for ourselves. The book highlights the power of connections and offers practical advice on expanding our professional circles. It reminds us that our voices matter and that we have the right to assert our worth and demand the opportunities we deserve. "The Memo" also emphasizes the significance of recognizing our own value and refusing to settle for anything less.

Minda Harts encourages us to take risks, follow our passions, and create our own opportunities. This message resonates deeply with me, as it fuels my drive to pursue excellence and carve out a path that aligns with my aspirations. As a Black female leader in the technology industry, "The Memo" serves as a compass, guiding me through the challenges and empowering me to navigate my career with resilience and confidence. It offers practical strategies and inspiring stories that remind me of the immense potential within me and the power I hold to create meaningful change.

In conclusion, "The Memo" is not just a book; it's a beacon of hope and empowerment for Black women in leadership roles. It equips us with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to overcome obstacles and thrive in our professional journeys. I highly recommend this book to fellow Black women who are navigating the complexities of the workplace and striving for success.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

"The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table" by Minda Harts is a book that has truly resonated with me as a Black female CTO. It offers invaluable insights and actionable advice on navigating the unique challenges we face in the workplace and charting a path to success. Minda Harts eloquently addresses the systemic racism, double bind, and pressure to conform to dominant white behavioral norms that Black women often encounter.

The strategies outlined in the book are a guiding light, showing us how to overcome these hurdles and thrive in our careers. One of the key takeaways for me is the importance of building a strong network and advocating for ourselves. The book highlights the power of connections and offers practical advice on expanding our professional circles. It reminds us that our voices matter and that we have the right to assert our worth and demand the opportunities we deserve. "The Memo" also emphasizes the significance of recognizing our own value and refusing to settle for anything less.

Minda Harts encourages us to take risks, follow our passions, and create our own opportunities. This message resonates deeply with me, as it fuels my drive to pursue excellence and carve out a path that aligns with my aspirations. As a Black female leader in the technology industry, "The Memo" serves as a compass, guiding me through the challenges and empowering me to navigate my career with resilience and confidence. It offers practical strategies and inspiring stories that remind me of the immense potential within me and the power I hold to create meaningful change.

In conclusion, "The Memo" is not just a book; it's a beacon of hope and empowerment for Black women in leadership roles. It equips us with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to overcome obstacles and thrive in our professional journeys. I highly recommend this book to fellow Black women who are navigating the complexities of the workplace and striving for success.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful story that comes to mind from my time as a leader showcases the profound impact of leading with empathy and the importance of recognizing the accomplishments of others. In this particular instance, empathy played a crucial role because it became evident that the individual's own boss had not advocated for them. The story begins with an incredibly talented team member who consistently went above and beyond to deliver exceptional results. Despite their remarkable achievements, their efforts remained unnoticed by their own boss, who did not put their name forward for a well-deserved promotion.

Unbeknownst to this team member, I recognized their outstanding contributions and believed strongly in their potential. In a room where they were not present, I spoke up on their behalf, passionately endorsing their name and showcasing the concrete examples of their exceptional work. When the news of the promotion reached this team member, they were filled with gratitude and excitement. Overwhelmed with appreciation, they approached their boss to express their thanks for advocating on their behalf. To their surprise, their boss revealed that it was not them who had recommended them for the promotion.

This realization shocked them and left them wondering who had actually supported their advancement. In that moment, it became clear that empathy had played a vital role. It was through my belief in their abilities and my determination to recognize their accomplishments that their name had been brought forward in that room. The empathy-driven decision to advocate for this team member had revealed a stark contrast between the lack of support from their own boss and the recognition they deserved. This story highlights the transformative power of empathy in leadership.

It reminds us of the significance of recognizing and uplifting the contributions of others, especially when they may go unnoticed by those who should be championing their success. By leading with empathy, we can create a culture where every team member's achievements are acknowledged and celebrated, regardless of hierarchical boundaries. Furthermore, this story serves as a reminder of the importance of being an advocate for others, even when they are unaware of the support they have received.

It emphasizes the value of fostering an environment where individuals feel seen, appreciated, and empowered to reach their full potential. In conclusion, this story showcases the impact of empathy-driven leadership and the significance of recognizing and advocating for the accomplishments of others. It reinforces my belief in the power of empathy to bring about positive change and serves as a constant reminder to be a voice for those who may not have their own advocates.