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:

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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.

Hey Trailblazers! Get ready for another impactful episode of Women in Tech Trailblazers with co-host Tiffany Benitez. Today, we’re thrilled to host Dan Rice, Associate Managing Director of AI Risk and Governance at Kroll. Dan’s career journey, from law school to becoming a leader in AI governance, is packed with wisdom and lessons on inclusive leadership.

We kick things off by diving into Dan’s perspective on authenticity. Spoiler: It’s all about “knowing who you are and who you’re not.” Dan shares how embracing imperfections and understanding team dynamics can unlock the power of diversity. His insights will leave you reflecting on how to show up as your best self in every space.

Of course, we tackle a big one—gender bias in tech. Dan doesn’t shy away from the tough conversations, breaking down challenges like the “confidence problem” and the invisible workload women often carry. His advice? Leaders need to step up by “saying names in rooms they’re not in.” This approach to allyship is a game-changer for creating truly inclusive teams.

We also explore mentorship, sponsorship, and role models. Dan explains how these three roles are interconnected and why “your sponsor’s voice in their network matters as much as their voice in the boardroom.” It’s a perspective that will reshape how you think about professional growth.

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:10) How does authenticity shape leadership in tech?

(6:27) What role do support systems play in tech success?

(9:13) Why is tech no longer just about big machines?

(10:50) What’s holding back women in technology?

(12:18) The importance of saying names in the workplace

(13:17) Why does team care often fall on women?

(14:11) How does the confidence gap hold women back?

(15:44) How risk aversion holds women back

(16:19) The dynamic trio: role models, mentors, and sponsors

(18:20) Why should mentorship be a two-way street?

(20:22) What makes a sponsor more than just a mentor?

(21:49) How can diverse perspectives transform mentorship

What steps will you take to foster inclusivity and build stronger teams? Tune in, share this episode with someone who needs it, and don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories like this one. See you next time, Trailblazers!

About Dan Rice

Dan Rice is the Associate Managing Director of AI Risk and Governance at Kroll, where he develops strategies to help clients deploy AI systems responsibly. With nearly two decades of experience, Dan focuses on governance, compliance, and risk management in emerging technologies. Before joining Kroll, he led Walmart’s AI and emerging tech governance program, overseeing regulatory compliance and risk monitoring for AI systems. Dan also serves on the advisory council for the University of Arkansas Data Science Program and frequently speaks on AI governance and risk. He is a father of four and enjoys spending time outdoors.

Connect with Dan:

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 hosts Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin, who are ready to bring you another dynamic episode. Today, we’re diving into a powerful conversation with Tracy Henry, a trailblazer who’s all about balance, authenticity, and living a “hell yes” life.

Tracy’s journey is a masterclass in resilience. From navigating single motherhood to thriving in a demanding career, she’s learned that living authentically means “following my peace.” For her, this isn’t just a phrase—it’s a practice of leaning into what brings clarity and calm while letting go of what doesn’t.

We explore how Tracy has redefined balance as a leader in financial services and as a mom. She describes balance as an ongoing process, explaining that “when you say no to the things that drain you, you’re making space for the things that matter.” This perspective has shaped her career, where transparency and leaning into strengths have been her compass.

What stood out was Tracy’s approach to networking and navigating male-dominated spaces. By proactively seeking authentic connections, she’s created a support system that fuels her personal and professional growth. Her take? “You’re not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay—it’s about leaning into what fills your cup.”

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:11) Can authenticity be as simple as choosing peace?

(5:28) “Balance” as a top priority for sanity and family

(7:57) Why embracing the “Take it or Leave it” mindset matters

(8:58) The power of owning your reality

(11:14) Not being everyone’s cup of tea

(13:40) Is your time actually reflecting your priorities?

(16:27) How does the 80/20 rule simplify everything?

(17:20) What does a “Hell Yes” life look like?

(18:02) Are you focusing on the right three priorities?

(19:42) How does saying no make your yes more impactful?

(20:46) How does networking with intention change your life?

(23:52) The key to living your "Hell Yes Life"

And, of course, we couldn’t skip over her take on saying no to societal expectations. Tracy shows us how small changes can create big shifts, from ditching unnecessary routines to opting out of unfulfilling commitments. Her practical advice on aligning time with values will leave you rethinking your day-to-day decisions.

So, what will you opt out of to make space for your peace? Tune in, share this episode with someone who needs it, and don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

About Tracy Henry

Tracy Henry is the Senior Manager of Financial Services at Sam’s Club with over 20 years of experience in the Walmart ecosystem. She holds a marketing degree from the University of Arkansas and has worked in various roles within Walmart and as a vendor partner. Tracy is an advocate for inclusion and equity and co-leads an empowerment circle focused on personal and professional growth. She balances her career with family life as a mother and stepmother, while also promoting whole health and mindfulness.

Connect with Tracy:

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 because today on "Women in Tech Trailblazers," Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin dive into a career-changing conversation with Lynn Wong, a powerhouse executive coach and wellness strategist. Lynn’s story takes us from the fast lanes of international supply chain management to a purposeful journey of helping others lead with authenticity.

Lynn kicks things off by redefining “slowing down to speed up.” It’s not just about pausing—it’s a call to action that starts with intentionality. And for Lynn, it’s about showing up with integrity, respect, and the courage to lead authentically in every space.

We dig into Lynn’s “RISE” framework, where she challenges us to recognize what makes us come alive, integrate our strengths, and embody our unique paths. And the best part? She shares simple steps to stay grounded and balanced in a field that often glorifies nonstop hustle.

And let’s talk mentorship—Lynn explains how mentors and coaches have shaped her path and how she’s paying it forward, helping other women find their footing. Want to know how to truly thrive in tech? Lynn’s got you covered.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:12) Why is authenticity a game-changer in professional life?

(3:00) Integrity and self-respect: shifting the focus to you

(3:38) How does “slowing down to speed up” work in real life?

(5:43) How does listening first lead to career wins?

(10:27) Why is saying yes to new opportunities so powerful?

(13:00) What’s the power behind the “rise” framework?

(15:29) How does “access, integrate, release” improve focus?

(18:11) How can a 30-minute pause revitalize your day?

(22:02) Can being your own best friend boost your career?

(22:43) What’s the real difference between mentoring and coaching?

(27:17) What does “unbecoming” mean for career growth

Get ready to rise, slow down, and take your career to new heights. Tune in, share, and let Lynn’s journey inspire your next move!

About Lynn Wong

Lynn Wong is an executive well-being coach and career strategist who helps individuals explore new professional paths and build meaningful careers. With experience in leadership roles at Maersk, Home Depot, Walmart, and the New York Shipping Exchange, Lynn also co-founded hospitality ventures that support inclusive communities. She holds certifications in health and wellness coaching, trauma-informed yoga, and strengths-based development, guiding clients through personal growth and career transitions.

Connect with Lynn:

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! Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin here with another episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers" that you don’t want to miss! Today, we’re joined by Anupriya Sharma, the dynamic force behind technology strategy at Walmart, where she’s tackled everything from mergers and acquisitions to supply chain transformations.

Anupriya starts by diving into her career journey, revealing how she built her path in tech by following her curiosity and embracing complex challenges. Ever wondered what it’s like to pivot from engineering to tech strategy at one of the world’s largest companies? Anupriya takes us through every twist and turn.

And, of course, we get real about authenticity. For Anupriya, it’s all about self-love and being true to yourself—even when the world has expectations. She shares how staying grounded in her values has helped her navigate both tech and corporate landscapes with confidence.

We also talk about mentorship versus sponsorship. Anupriya breaks down the power of each and shares how she’s learned to leverage these relationships to grow and help others do the same.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:24) What role does authenticity play in the age of AI?

(7:27) How does technology act as groundwater in every industry?

(9:04) How are women in tech challenging boundaries?

(12:52) Friend or mentor? understanding the difference

(14:12) Why are sponsors key players in career progress?

(15:27) The unexpected lessons from unlikely mentors

(19:28) Accountability and growth: the mentee’s responsibility

(20:35) How does personal brand influence sponsorship opportunities?

(23:21) What’s the role of networking in landing the perfect job?

(26:51) The ripple effect of being seen and heard

Anupriya Sharma’s story is about resilience, curiosity, and empowerment. Tune in to hear how she’s making a difference in tech and lifting others along the way. So, are you ready to create your own authentic path? Join us, share the episode, and keep blazing trails!

About Anupriya Sharma

Anupriya Sharma is a problem solver and strategist, leading technology operations and strategy for Walmart's U.S. segment. Her career spans roles across mergers, acquisitions, and supply chain strategy, reflecting her focus on transformation and innovation. She values lifelong learning and actively develops leaders within her network. Anupriya enjoys tackling complex challenges with empathy and a focus on impactful change.

Connect with Anupriya:

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 another powerful episode of "Women in Tech Trailblazers." Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are here, and today, we’re diving deep into a topic that matters—emotional intelligence in tech. Our guest, Kasturi Joglekar, also known as KJ, brings a wealth of knowledge from her role as a Product Manager at Walmart and as a certified self-image and confidence coach.

KJ shares her unique journey into tech, a path that wasn’t exactly planned but shaped her career in unexpected ways. From sociology to cybersecurity, Kasturi talks about navigating imposter syndrome and learning to trust her skills, no matter the environment. “Sometimes, life is about saying yes to opportunities,” KJ tells us, reflecting on how confidence in her abilities helped her thrive in spaces where she once felt out of place.

In this episode, we also tackle the hard stuff—biases and the challenges of being a woman in tech. Kasturi opens up about the biases she faced as an immigrant and woman of color and how mentorship played a key role in overcoming those barriers. “Women often get labeled as difficult just for asking questions,” she says, and it’s a reality many of us know too well.

Here are the key takeaways:

(2:02) Can authenticity exist without vulnerability?

(6:50) Why should you bank on your skills in tough situations?

(7:37) How do transferable skills help you stand out?

(8:46) Is self-awareness the skill everyone needs in tech?

(10:02) Can bias be silent but still impact your career?

(10:40) Is being assertive as a woman still seen as “difficult”?

(13:28) How do we talk about bias without making it awkward?

(16:55) How does EQ help build teams that stick together?

(22:43) Is EQ something you’re born with, or can it be taught?

(27:53) Should more women leaders be mentoring men?

(32:51) How can paying it forward create a ripple of change?

Tune in to hear Kasturi’s insightful thoughts on emotional intelligence, building inclusive teams, and the power of paying it forward. Ready to challenge the status quo in your own career? Don’t miss this episode—subscribe, share, and let’s keep the conversation going.

About Kasturi Joglekar

Kasturi Joglekar is a Staff Product Manager at Walmart, working in the tech finance sector. She holds master’s degrees in sociology and advertising and marketing. Kasturi is also an entrepreneur and a certified confidence and self-image coach, helping people overcome limiting beliefs. She lives in Bentonville with her husband, her nine-year-old son, and two fur babies, enjoying her free time with a cup of chai and a good book.

Connect with Kasturi:

Linkedin

Website

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.