Badasses in Tech

In this special 6-year anniversary episode, host Summer Mitchell sits down with Jordan Mitchell, founder of Growth Stack Media and producer of Badasses in Tech, for an insightful look at the show's journey and evolution. As both business partners and husband and wife, Summer and Jordan offer a unique perspective on building a successful media company from the ground up.The episode traces their path from East Carolina University's School of Communication to the competitive tech PR landscape of San Francisco, California, where they first recognized the need to share valuable insights from tech leaders with a broader audience. Jordan shares his evolution from video producer to becoming the founder of an integrated communication and content agency, while Summer revisits stories of their early career challenges and victories as PR pros.The conversation offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, including the realities of bootstrapping a business, the importance of having a clear vision while remaining adaptable, as well as how to leverage both traditional and emerging media channels for effective storytelling.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a communication professional, or someone interested in the intersection of technology, storytelling and entertainment, this anniversary episode provides both actionable strategies and inspiring insights from two professionals who have successfully navigated the ever-evolving tech industry landscape.Connect with Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanguymitchellAccess more episodes of Badasses in Tech here: https://www.growthstackmedia.com/badasses-in-tech-podcastReady to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts? Visit ⁠⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠ ⁠⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to:Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgianoInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Badasses in Tech, host Summer Mitchell sits down with Blake Hall, Founder and CEO of ID.me, to explore the frontlines of digital security in an age where deepfakes and generative AI challenge our sense of reality. Blake, a former Army Ranger and Harvard MBA graduate turned tech entrepreneur, brings a wealth of experience from combating threats both digital and physical. Blake reveals the surprising ways AI is being used for both good and ill, from transforming identity verification processes to confronting the dangers of deepfake technology. He also shares eye-opening insights on how ID.me has revolutionized identity protection, dramatically reducing fraud and enhancing access for underserved communities. ID.me allows individuals to create secure, private, and portable digital identities that provide access to a rapidly growing network of commercial and government services. More than 112 million Americans use their ID.me Wallet to easily verify their identity across 31 states, 14 federal agencies and over 500 name-brand retailers within ID.me's secure digital identity network. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the cutting-edge measures being taken to safeguard our digital identities and the future of trust in technology. Learn more at ID.me Visit www.badassesintech.com WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this inspiring episode of Badasses in Tech, host Summer Mitchell welcomes Tammarrian Rogers, a tech industry veteran and the founder of Sarell. Recognized by Forbes as one of the world's top 50 women in tech, Rogers brings 30 years of experience leading engineering teams at industry giants like General Motors, Apple, Microsoft and Snap. Rogers shares her unconventional journey from aspiring construction worker to tech leader, emphasizing the power of curiosity and heart-led decision-making. She discusses her unexpected 23-year tenure at Microsoft, her role as Snap's first inclusive engineering director, and her current venture with Sarell, where she's developing methodologies for global relational healing to create a sustainable future. The conversation delves into Rogers' philosophy on leadership, highlighting the importance of vulnerability, emotional intelligence and creating safe spaces for team members to express themselves. She offers valuable insights on navigating career transitions, embracing uncertainty, and the benefits of leading with one's heart in professional settings. Rogers also discusses her recent experiences as a solo nomad, traveling the world and gaining new perspectives that inform her work with Sarell. She explains her vision for embedding social well-being metrics into customer feedback mechanisms and product development cycles, aiming to create more holistic and human-centered tech solutions. Whether you're a seasoned tech professional, an aspiring leader, or simply interested in the intersection of technology and human well-being, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom on authentic leadership, personal growth, and driving positive change in the tech industry. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that will inspire you to lead with your heart and embrace the power of curiosity in your personal and professional life. Learn more at https://sarell.tech WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this inspiring episode of Badasses in Tech, host Summer Mitchell sits down with Maria Klawe, a renowned mathematician, painter, and trailblazer in STEAM. Currently serving as the President of Math for America, Klawe's illustrious career spans decades of breaking barriers and driving change in STEAM education. As the first female president of Harvey Mudd College, Klawe significantly increased the enrollment of women and people of color in computer science, physics, and engineering. Her leadership journey also includes pivotal roles at Princeton University and the University of British Columbia, cementing her status as a transformative figure in academia and tech. Klawe shares powerful insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of failing "openly and often," and strategies for effective culture change in organizations. She discusses her unique approach to leadership, emphasizing the value of collaboration, active listening, and adapting one's style to meet the needs of the team. The conversation explores Klawe's passion for increasing diversity in STEAM fields, her innovative approaches to strategic planning, and the fascinating intersection of art and technology in her life. Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating career challenges, fostering inclusive environments, and making a lasting impact in their field. Recognized by Forbes as one of the world's top women in tech and featured on PBS NOVA's Secret Life of Scientists and Engineers series, Klawe's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and vision in reshaping the STEAM landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career in tech, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom on leadership, diversity, and innovation. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that will inspire you to embrace challenges, celebrate small wins, and use your voice to create positive change in the STEAM world and beyond. Watch PBS's NOVA documentary, 'Maria Klawe: The Proof Is in the Painting': https://youtu.be/_DXaVwi34B4?si=DNBj3Txr4A0XMoPd WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠ ⁠⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Badasses in Tech, host Summer Mitchell sits down with Michael O'Connor, co-founder and CEO of Mr. Kite. With a fascinating background spanning music, film production, and executive leadership in the gaming industry, Michael shares his journey from aspiring drummer to spearheading innovative projects at major companies like Nintendo and Sports Interactive. The conversation delves into Michael's current venture, Mr. Kite, and their groundbreaking game "Today" which harnesses the power of AI to create deeply engaging, emotionally intelligent non-player characters. Michael provides captivating insights into how AI is revolutionizing the gaming landscape, enabling players to build rich, meaningful relationships with virtual characters in immersive worlds. For those looking to break into the gaming industry, Michael offers invaluable advice on leveraging passion, initiative, and the wealth of modern tools available to aspiring professionals. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, even for beginners, and encourages listeners to fearlessly pursue their dreams in the face of rejection. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the future of gaming, the transformative potential of AI, and the key traits that can help you succeed in this exciting field. Keep the conversation going with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjoc9/ WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠ ⁠⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

This week on Badasses in Tech, Summer Mitchell sits down with Laura Stringer, a seasoned product leader and operational guru. With a wealth of experience spanning startups and corporate behemoths like Merck, Laura shares her invaluable insights on the pivotal role operations play in propelling innovation. As the founder of Ninth Fourth, a strategic consulting firm, Laura offers a unique perspective on roadmapping software products, resolving customer experience challenges, and structuring high-performing product teams. Her stories underscore the profound impact of asking the right questions and fostering a systems-thinking approach. Tune in as Summer and Laura explore the art of operations, and the importance of cultivating a culture that empowers teams to excel.  Keep the conversation going with Laura on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauramstringer/ WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92⁠ Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠ ⁠to schedule a call or email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Welcome to another episode of Badasses in Tech! Join your host, Summer Mitchell, and Christian Hammer, a true powerhouse in the world of technology, entrepreneurship, and fine arts. With a career that boasts influential positions at global giants like Nike, AppNexus, Maersk, and Wayfair, Christian has not only spearheaded digital transformations but also played a pivotal role in pioneering Direct-to-Consumer businesses. He shares his remarkable journey with listeners, exploring the pivotal skills and mindset shifts he underwent to transition from an engineer to a leader, founder, and executive.  As the CEO and Founder of Vala AI, Christian shares his insights on the strategies and approaches that have proven most effective in driving growth for his company. And of course, don't miss Christian's best advice for job seekers, drawn from his extensive experience and success in the industry. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and leadership, providing valuable insights for anyone looking to make their mark in the world of technology. Keep the conversation going with Christian on LinkedIn, and check out his podcast, It’s Techtastic. Like what you hear on Badasses in Tech? Don't forget to like, subscribe or leave a 5 star review on the platform you're tuning into today. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summitchell92 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano⁠ Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts?  Visit ⁠www.growthstackmedia.com⁠ to schedule a call or email ⁠[email protected]⁠.

Feeling a bit stuck lately? Not sure if you're heading in the right direction? Join Summer Mitchell for a candid chat on Badasses in Tech with Lena Reinhard, a Leadership & Executive Coach and true badass when it comes to navigating career twists and turns. In this episode, Lena shares a journey of curiosity, growth, and making a difference, all while keeping it real. We talk about embracing every part of yourself, finding your tribe, and why sometimes, you just have to dive into the deep end to learn to swim. Lena's not just here to talk about it; she's here to coach you through it, messy bits and all. So, if you're ready to take charge of your path, grab your headphones and tune in. Keep the conversation going with Lena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenareinhard/ Check out Lena’s article on dealing with perception at work here: https://www.lenareinhard.com/articles/how-to-get-the-visibility-that-your-work-deserves-understand-why-your-colleagues-may-not-notice-your-work WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram: @summitchell92 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano Ready to scale your business through public relations, video production and podcasts? Visit www.growthstackmedia.com to schedule a call or email [email protected].

New Year, New Goals! But let's get real – have you ever wondered why resolutions fizzle out faster than last year's fireworks? If so, then this episode of Badasses in Tech is for you. Delve deep into the realm of goal achievement as Mike Breeze transcends traditional "S.M.A.R.T." Goals, unveiling his revolutionary approach known as "The G.O.A.T. Method." Brace yourself for a life-altering experience that will positively impact you both professionally and personally. With certifications ranging from Neuro-Linguistic Programming to Maxwell Leadership Coaching, Mike walks us through the four must-do secrets to achieving your goals. It's not just about setting them; it's about knocking them out of the park! Keep the conversation with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/speakermikebreeze Check out his best-selling books on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B01MUYS25U/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=f8314cc5-e82f-47d9-83fb-6895478a809c Enjoying what you hear on Badasses in Tech? Don't forget to like, subscribe, or leave a 5-star review on the platform you're tuning into today. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests, or inquiries to: Instagram: @summitchell92 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano Ready to boost your business with top-notch content, podcasts, videos, or need expert support in public relations and digital marketing? Visit www.growthstackmedia.com to schedule a call or email [email protected].

Embark on a journey into the dynamic world of SaaS with your Badasses in Tech host, Summer Mitchell and startup founder, Michael Kamleitner. Join us in this insightful episode as Michael opens the curtain on his entrepreneurial saga, sharing the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. Key Highlights: Origins of the Odyssey: Dive into the roots of Michael's entrepreneurial ventures, exploring the inception, challenges faced, and pivotal moments that sculpted his journey as a startup founder. Thriving in Constraint: Discover firsthand the strategies and creative approaches Michael employed to fuel startup growth while navigating the challenging terrain of resource constraints. Cracking the SaaS Code: In a fiercely competitive SaaS and marketing technology landscape, Michael shares exclusive advice on carving out a niche and differentiating your product for success. Mind Over Matter: Explore the mental and emotional challenges of bootstrapping, as Michael unveils how he manage stress, uncertainty, and the self-care practices that proved most beneficial in the entrepreneurial journey. Guiding Future Trailblazers: For students, professionals, and aspiring tech entrepreneurs, Michael imparts key lessons and principles on bootstrapping in the SaaS industry, offering actionable insights for their entrepreneurial endeavors. Career Wisdom: Tune in for the best advice Michael has for job seekers today, gaining valuable insights that could shape your career trajectory. Keep the conversation going with Michael and connect with him on LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkamleitner Like what you hear on Badasses in Tech? Don't forget to like, subscribe or leave a 5 star review on the platform you're tuning into today. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your feedback, submit topic requests or inquiries to: Instagram: @summitchell92 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summerfalgiano/ Ready to boost your business with top-notch content, podcasts, videos, or need expert support in public relations and digital marketing? Visit www.growthstackmedia.com to schedule a call or email [email protected]