Inspiring Path to Chief Product Officer: Sarah Rodrigues on leading innovation at Acre Security: Women in Tech Texas

Guest: Sarah Rodrigues, Chief Product Officer, Acre Security In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Rodrigues, Chief Product Officer at Acre Security, who shares her inspiring journey from growing up in India to leading innovation in the security tech industry in Austin, Texas. Sarah Rodrigues brings a fresh perspective to how diverse experiences, curiosity, grit, and mentorship accelerate women’s careers in technology. With a dynamic background spanning engineering, lighting design, Amazon, and now security hardware and software, Sarah Rodrigues discusses the art of career pivots, building professional allies, learning through doing, and the real role support systems play in achieving personal and professional growth. Key Topics Discussed Redefining what it means to be an engineer in tech 00:00   How Acre Security keeps people and businesses safe globally 01:28   Transitioning from Amazon to a leadership role in an entirely new industry 04:38   The power of curiosity and learning by doing 25:00   Building a board of life “directors” and mentorship networks 19:56   Navigating major career shifts and overcoming obstacles 30:12   Embracing boundaries and self-care for sustainable success 27:37   Advice for women feeling unqualified or intimidated by new challenges 22:24   Notable Takeaways “Everything she has achieved in her life, she has done scared. She’s just gone and done it.” – on lessons from her mother   “If you look back at the journey, you can see you’ve done harder things and you’ll get through it.”   "My career didn't follow a plan. Life circumstances shaped my journey."  “You can combine so many different things, leverage technology—whether it’s art or music. It’s endless.”  Resources & Recommendations Book: Grit by Angela Duckworth 34:00   Productivity Influencer: Ali Abdaal (practical, happiness-oriented productivity) 35:13   App: Headspace (meditation and mindfulness) 36:10   Connect with Sarah Rodrigues LinkedIn: Sarah J. Rodrigues Mission of the Show “If She Can Do It, So Can I.” Inspiring stories and actionable lessons from women accelerating in tech worldwide. Join the Community Connect and celebrate more women in tech globally: womenintechvip.com Follow @WomeninTechShow on all platforms. Thank you for listening! Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who needs a little inspiration to make their next leap in tech. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode of Women in Tech, Jessica McKellar, CEO of Pilot, joins us from San Francisco to share her journey from MIT computer club to serial entrepreneurship. She dives into her mission of democratizing finance and accounting for small businesses, the emotional side of entrepreneurship, finding purpose in work, family-life philosophy, and what keeps her striving for more. This candid conversation is packed with wisdom for women forging their own path in tech, emphasizing the podcast’s mission: “If She Can Do It, So Can I.” Featured Guest Jessica McKellar — CEO of Pilot Key Topics Discussed Entrepreneurship & Personal Growth: Jessica McKellar discusses starting three companies, her long-time business partnership, and why she remains passionate about solving real problems for business owners  The Human Side of Bookkeeping: The emotional and vulnerable journey that clients experience with their finances, including powerful customer stories about overcoming shame and gaining confidence  Career Acceleration: How coming to computer science “late” led Jessica McKellar to push herself, embrace startups, and thrive in leadership despite challenges  Leadership & Team Building: Jessica McKellar's values-driven approach to building and managing teams, emphasizing autonomy, high standards, and staying close to the customer experience  Work, Life, and What “Balance” Really Means: Honest insight into how Jessica McKellar juggles life as a CEO and mom — rejecting prescriptive advice and carving out a deeply fulfilling routine  Resilience & Overcoming Obstacles: Navigating leadership transitions, the emotional labor of managing a growing company, and building the “capacity” to support both teams and family  Fundraising & Profitability: Real talk about inequity in fundraising, embracing sales as a superpower, and the importance of confidence for women founders  Mentorship, Support, and Thick Skin: Building a network of personal and professional support, sustaining motivation, and learning to rise above gendered criticism online  Personal Recommendations: Old-school edutainment games for kids (Math Storm, Reader Rabbit, Number Munchers)   Podcasts: Search Engine, Freakonomics Radio   Tools: Whisper Flow for AI dictation   Notable Takeaways “The times in my life when I have felt burnt out were not related to how long I was working… It was about being in situations where I didn't like the situation that I was in and I couldn't get out of it, where I lacked the autonomy to resolve a thing that was causing stress or pain.”  “Your job is sales. So get ready to love it.”  “My goal in life is to leverage the capabilities that I have in the world to make it a little bit better.”  Resources & Mentions Pilot — https://pilot.com Providing affordable, tech-powered finance and accounting support for small businesses. Episode Highlights Timeline 00:01:18 — Customer stories and the personal side of accounting 00:04:16 — Engineering background, business partnership, and why bookkeeping 00:10:33 — Entering tech and overcoming imposter syndrome 00:14:04 — Leadership style and the importance of detail 00:17:17 — Surviving hard transitions and building capacity 00:23:37 — On work, life, and living without “balance” 00:27:28 — Burnout and agency 00:32:03 — Fundraising tips for founders 00:37:25 — Responding to gendered feedback and building self-trust 00:40:42 — Favorite podcasts 00:43:00 — Old-school educational games for kids Join Us Be inspired by more global stories of women accelerating in tech — because "If She Can Do It, So Can I." Subscribe and connect at womenintechvip.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leading with Courage: Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies on Building Strong Networks : Women in Tech TexasHost: Espree DevoraGuest: Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D TechnologiesEpisode OverviewIn this inspiring episode of the Women in Tech Podcast, Espree Devora sits down with Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies. Laurie Oswald shares her unconventional journey from studying psychology to leading major commercial strategy in the technology and battery industry. She discusses breaking into tech as a technical writer, the power of building credible expertise, and the importance of leveraging networks. Listeners will gain insights into Laurie Oswald’s leadership philosophy, her approach to customer-centric strategy, and the essential role of taking risks in career growth.Key Topics DiscussedIntroduction & Career JourneyLaurie Oswald’s role at C&D Technologies and Trojan BatteryDifferences between C&D Technologies and Trojan, and the unique markets they serveLaurie Oswald’s transition from psychology major to tech industry leaderBreaking into Tech & Building CredibilityHow she landed her first job as a technical writer and built expertise from scratchThe importance of technical competence and staying updated with industry trendsNetworking & MentorshipLeveraging professional groups and industry networks for growthStories of personal mentors and the value of supportive advisorsLeadership & Team BuildingLaurie Oswald’s results-driven, “fail forward” leadership styleBuilding a diverse and high-performing team and empowering othersCustomer-Centric StrategyServing data centers, telecom, utilities, and the motive power market (like golf carts and industrial applications)The importance of listening to customer needs and offering the right technical solution, rather than focusing on “convincing”Personal Stories & AdviceOvercoming setbacks: a personal story of failing to secure a major deal and the leadership lesson it providedAdvice Laurie Oswald would give her younger self: build relationships early, don’t keep your head down, and leverage the power of mentorshipBook & Tool RecommendationsBook: “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg for women in leadershipMust-follow: Simon Sinek (“Start with Why”)Favorite tech tool: Microsoft Copilot for productivity and safe AI-powered workWomen Supporting WomenLaurie Oswald discusses her daughter’s journey in biomedical engineering and the importance of putting your goals or needs out into the communityThe power of speaking up—“If you’re invited to the meeting, you belong there”Memorable Quotes“Credibility isn’t given, it’s earned. The fastest way to earn credibility is through technical excellence.” – Laurie Oswald“Relationships amplify your impact.” – Laurie Oswald“Don’t be afraid to take chances. When you do, it shows leadership and adaptability.” – LaurieOswald“If you’re invited to attend the meeting, you belong there. Don’t hesitate to take your seat at the table.” – Laurie OswaldConnect with the GuestLinkedIn: Laurie OswaldAdditional ResourcesC&D Technologies: Powering critical infrastructure with industrial batteriesTrojan Battery Company: Leading deep-cycle batteries for industrial and utility vehiclesClosingThank you for tuning in to the Women in Tech Podcast with Espree Devora and Laurie Oswald! Make sure to connect with Laurie on LinkedIn and join the Women in Tech community for more empowering stories and career insights.Remember: If she can do it, so can you!Subscribe & Follow:All Platforms: @WomeninTechShowContact Espree Devora: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don't miss out on the next #womenintech podcast episode, get notified by signing up here http://womenintechshow.comBe featured in the Women in Tech Community by creating your profile here http://womenintechvip.com“Somer Baburek of Hera Biotech: Advancing Women’s Health”#womenintech Show is a WeAreTech.fm production.Become a Most Valuable Listener at http://womenintech.loveTo support the Women in Tech podcast go to https://www.patreon.com/womenintechTo be featured on the podcast go to http://womenintechshow.com/featureHost,Espree Devora https://twitter.com/espreedevorahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/espreeGuest, Somer Baburek https://www.linkedin.com/in/somerbaburekIn LA? Here’s some awesome resources for you to become immersed in the LA Tech scene -For a calendar of all LA Startup events go to, http://WeAreLATech.comGet Podcast Listeners, http://getpodcastlisteners.com/Tour Signup, https://tour.wefranch.com/signup/los-angeles-1Los Angeles Tech Community Leader Co Working Day, https://lu.ma/losangelestech_coworkingResources Mentioned:Hera Biotech, https://www.herabiotech.comGeekdom, https://geekdom.comLaunch SA, launched saBetty’s Co, https://bettysco.comCuriedx, https://www.curiedx.comAll In Her Head, https://www.amazon.com/All-Her-Head-Medicine-Matters/dp/0063293013Credits:Produced and Hosted by Espree Devora, http://espreedevora.comStory Produced, Edited and Mastered by Cory Jennings, https://www.coryjennings.comProduction and Voiceover by Adam Carroll, http://www.ariacreative.caTeam support by Janice GeronimoMusic by Jay Huffman, https://soundcloud.com/jayhuffmanShort Title: Somer Baburek Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Women in Tech Podcast - Episode ShownotesEpisode Title: Building Evenigo: Christina Ness on Grit, No-Code, and Connection Host: Espree DevoraGuest: Christina Ness  CEO & Founder of EvenigoEpisode Highlights:In this inspiring episode, Espree Devora chats with Christina Ness, an entrepreneur based in Los Angeles and the founder of Evenigo, a social calendar platform designed to help users connect with their favorite brands, artists, and influencers—without the spam. It makes sure that you don't miss out on your favorite live events by adding key concerts and sporting events directly to your calendar. Christina shares her journey from working at digital agencies and gaming giants like Activision Blizzard to building her own tech startup from scratch.You’ll hear Christina’s candid take on:What Evenigo Is & How It Works: A user-friendly platform where you can discover and subscribe to event and brand calendars, integrate with your Google Calendar, and never miss out on retail sales or live events again.Her Journey Into Tech: From agency life and UI/UX to a stint at Activision Blizzard, Christina explains how the tech world opened up to her and why there’s no one right path.Building Evenigo: The ups and downs, from collaborating with a friend on the original concept to learning no-code tools like Wix, Adalo, and Bubble to launch the product without a traditional coding background.Entrepreneurial Realities: Christina gets real about founder loneliness, overcoming self-doubt, and how persistence, even more than expertise, leads to success.Community & Support: The power of programs like Jason Calacanis’s LAUNCH accelerator in fostering connection and growth for early-stage founders, plus why finding the right cofounder or CTO is often game-changing.Fundraising & Growth: Christina discusses the challenges around traction, fundraising milestones, and her plans to scale Evenigo.Key Takeaways:There’s no single way to build a company—do it your way!You don’t have to be a coder to launch a tech product; resourcefulness and grit matter more.Community, support, and continuous learning are essential for women founders.Christina’s Top Recommendations:Book: I Forgot to Die by Khalil Rafati – an inspiring, honest look at entrepreneurship and personal transformation.Podcast: Earn Your Happy by Lori Harder – uplifting conversations with entrepreneurs and thought leaders.Connect with Evenigo:Discover ways to spice up your calendar and never miss out on events you care about.Website: Evenigo(Integrate with Google Calendar, discover events, and avoid the spam!)Other Resources Mentioned:Jason Calacanis LAUNCH AcceleratorWomen in Tech’s LA Tech WalksJoin the Conversation:If you’re inspired by Christina’s story or want to meet fellow founders, check out Women in Tech’s LA Tech Walks to expand your network—and maybe meet your next co-founder!About Women in Tech Podcast:Hosted by Espree Devora, the show spotlights women in tech around the world, sharing practical advice and real stories so you can see what’s possible: “If She Can Do It, So Can I.”Listen, Subscribe & Share!Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your community. For more inspiring stories, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Women in Tech Podcast: Mariyam Shamshidova Wefranch US tour: https://tour.wefranch.com/signup/los-angeles-2Host: Espree DevoraGuest: Mariyam Shamshidova (Growth & Product Lead, Wefranch)Location: Lighthouse Studio, Venice, CAEpisode Theme: Navigating Entrepreneurship, Franchising, and Building Purposeful Careers in TechKey Topics & HighlightsMariyam’s Journey: From Uzbekistan to Vanderbilt to NYC startup life.What is Wefranch? Making franchising accessible with data-driven tools, and what being the “Zillow of franchising” means.The Power of Franchising: Debunking myths, its accessibility for young founders and creators, and why it’s an untapped lucrative opportunity.Early-Stage Startup Life: The reality of multi-tasking, learning on the go, and finding confidence without a big brand name.Purpose & Success: Redefining success beyond status, and staying connected to your “why.”Women & Belief: The importance of self-belief, especially for women in tech, and breaking mental models that keep women from applying for opportunities.Event Building & Community: Mariyam’s hands-on tactics for event marketing and growth – from local connectors to personalized outreach.Personal Growth: Lessons from Charlie Munger, advice on prioritization, and finding mentorship in unexpected places.Resources & RecommendationsCompany: Wefranch.com – Marketplace for franchising opportunitiesRecommended Book: Poor Charlie’s Almanack by Charlie MungerMust-Follow Thought Leader: Paul Graham (Y Combinator essays)Past Relevant Episode: WeAreLATech podcast with Wefranch founder Gregory Ugwi Favorite Quotes“In order to do anything, you must believe that the thing is possible.”“It’s not about the magazine cover — it’s about how you feel in your body every day.”“If she can do it, so can I.”Connect with UsPodcast VIP Community: womenintechvip.comSocial: @WomenInTechShow on all platformsListen and get inspired by Mariyam’s story — redefining what’s possible for women in tech, one bold step at a time. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don't miss out on the next #womenintech podcast episode, get notified by signing up here http://womenintechshow.comBe featured in the Women in Tech Community by creating your profile here http://womenintechvip.com“Laura Ruiz of Code Flight: Accessibility for Coding”#womenintech Show is a WeAreTech.fm production.Become a Most Valuable Listener at http://womenintech.loveTo support the Women in Tech podcast go to https://www.patreon.com/womenintechTo be featured on the podcast go to http://womenintechshow.com/featureHost,Espree Devora https://twitter.com/espreedevorahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/espreeGuest, Laura Ruizhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraruizroehrsIn LA? Here’s some awesome resources for you to become immersed in the LA Tech scene -For a calendar of all LA Startup events go to, http://WeAreLATech.comGet Podcast Listeners, http://getpodcastlisteners.com/Tour Signup, https://tour.wefranch.com/signup/los-angeles-1Los Angeles Tech Community Leader Co Working Day, https://lu.ma/losangelestech_coworkingResources Mentioned:Code Flight, https://www.codeflight.ioGeekdom, https://geekdom.comLaunch SA, launched saYes Theory, https://yestheory.comRepurpose.io, https://repurpose.ioCapCut, https://www.capcut.comWordle, https://www.nytimes.com/games/wordle/index.htmlGive and Take, https://www.amazon.com/Give-Take-Helping-Others-Success/dp/0143124986Suitcase Coder, https://www.suitcasecoder.comCoolors, https://coolors.coMetricool, https://metricool.comOne Million Cups, https://www.1millioncups.comPeople Mentioned:Tony Hsieh, https://www.instagram.com/downtowntonyCredits:Produced and Hosted by Espree Devora, http://espreedevora.comStory Produced, Edited and Mastered by Cory Jennings, https://www.coryjennings.comProduction and Voiceover by Adam Carroll, http://www.ariacreative.caTeam support by Janice GeronimoMusic by Jay Huffman, https://soundcloud.com/jayhuffmanShort Title: Laura Ruiz Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don't miss out on the next #womenintech podcast episode, get notified by signing up here http://womenintechshow.comBe featured in the Women in Tech Community by creating your profile here http://womenintechvip.com“Molly Landman of PetSafe Brands: Creating Great Moments With Pets”#womenintech Show is a WeAreTech.fm production.Become a Most Valuable Listener at http://womenintech.loveTo support the Women in Tech podcast go to https://www.patreon.com/womenintechTo be featured on the podcast go to http://womenintechshow.com/featureHost,Espree Devora https://twitter.com/espreedevorahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/espreeGuest, Molly Landmanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-landman-bb0b702In LA? Here’s some awesome resources for you to become immersed in the LA Tech scene -For a calendar of all LA Startup events go to, http://WeAreLATech.comGet Podcast Listeners, http://getpodcastlisteners.com/Resources Mentioned:PetSafeBrands, https://petsafebrands.comAura Ring, https://ouraring.comAutoSleep, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/autosleep-track-sleep-on-watch/id1164801111NY Times, https://www.nytimes.comPeople Mentioned:Tony Hsieh, https://www.instagram.com/downtowntonySylvia Plath, https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/sylvia-plathMelissa Wood Health, https://melissawoodhealth.comCredits:Produced and Hosted by Espree Devora, http://espreedevora.comStory Produced, Edited and Mastered by Cory Jennings, https://www.coryjennings.comProduction and Voiceover by Adam Carroll, http://www.ariacreative.caTeam support by Janice GeronimoMusic by Jay Huffman, https://soundcloud.com/jayhuffmanShort Title: Molly Landman Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don't miss out on the next #womenintech podcast episode, get notified by signing up here http://womenintechshow.comBe featured in the Women in Tech Community by creating your profile here http://womenintechvip.com“Alyssa Pollack of Fello: Revolutionizing Peer Support: Women In Tech Chicago”#womenintech Show is a WeAreTech.fm production.Become a Most Valuable Listener at http://womenintech.loveTo support the Women in Tech podcast go to https://www.patreon.com/womenintechTo be featured on the podcast go to http://womenintechshow.com/featureHost,Espree Devora https://twitter.com/espreedevorahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/espreeGuest, Alyssa Pollackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-pollackIn LA? Here’s some awesome resources for you to become immersed in the LA Tech scene -For a calendar of all LA Startup events go to, http://WeAreLATech.comGet Podcast Listeners, http://getpodcastlisteners.com/Resources Mentioned:Fello, https://www.myfello.appUber, https://www.uber.comPeople Mentioned:Tony Hsieh, https://www.instagram.com/downtowntonyCredits:Produced and Hosted by Espree Devora, http://espreedevora.comStory Produced, Edited and Mastered by Cory Jennings, https://www.coryjennings.comProduction and Voiceover by Adam Carroll, http://www.ariacreative.caTeam support by Janice GeronimoMusic by Jay Huffman, https://soundcloud.com/jayhuffmanShort Title: Alyssa Pollack Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don't miss out on the next #womenintech podcast episode, get notified by signing up here http://womenintechshow.comBe featured in the Women in Tech Community by creating your profile here http://womenintechvip.com“Stormy Jackson of Mayo Clinic: Commit To Taking Action”#womenintech Show is a WeAreTech.fm production.Become a Most Valuable Listener at http://womenintech.loveTo support the Women in Tech podcast go to https://www.patreon.com/womenintechTo be featured on the podcast go to http://womenintechshow.com/featureHost,Espree Devora https://twitter.com/espreedevorahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/espreeGuest, Stormy Jacksonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stormydesigns/In LA? Here’s some awesome resources for you to become immersed in the LA Tech scene -For a calendar of all LA Startup events go to, http://WeAreLATech.comGet Podcast Listeners, http://getpodcastlisteners.com/Resources Mentioned:Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/ChatGPT, https://chatgpt.com/TechCrunch, https://techcrunch.com/Morning Brew, https://www.morningbrew.com/Tech Ladies, https://www.facebook.com/groups/techladies/Perplexity, https://www.perplexity.ai/Networth and Chill with Your Rich BFF Podcast, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/networth-and-chill-with-your-rich-bff/id1676999261/The Financial Diet, https://www.youtube.com/thefinancialdiet/tech.LA Fellows, https://www.tech.la/People Mentioned:Andy Bauch, https://www.linkedin.com/in/andybauch/Credits:Produced and Hosted by Espree Devora, http://espreedevora.comStory Produced, Edited and Mastered by Cory Jennings, https://www.coryjennings.comProduction and Voiceover by Adam Carroll, http://www.ariacreative.caTeam support by Janice GeronimoMusic by Jay Huffman, https://soundcloud.com/jayhuffmanShort Title: Stormy Jackson Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.