Lunch with Leaders: Influence Extraordinary Authentic Women in STEM Careers for Empowerment

This episode of "Lunch with Leaders" with Uma Subramanian and Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya explores how professionals—especially women in STEM—can bridge the perception gap to become visible and sought-after leaders. Uma Subramanian shares actionable frameworks for building influence, communicating value, and developing a powerful leadership reputation.Key topics include the SOAR framework, overcoming self-doubt, leveraging failure, and building supportive networks to maximize career impact.Connect with Uma Subramanian Online:https://www.linkedin.com/in/uma-subramanian-limitless https://thelimitlessleaders.comWho Is This For?This episode is primarily for professional women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), especially those in mid-career and senior leadership roles who feel overlooked, undervalued, or are seeking greater visibility and impact at work.About 30% of listeners are men, so the insights are useful for all ambitious professionals aiming to close the "perception gap" and become sought-after leaders.Key Moments & Timestamps00:00:00: Uma Subramanian shares her background and journey of self-intentional growth.00:02:20: Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya introduces the goal of the podcast and Uma Subramanian's leadership journey.00:03:10: The motivation behind founding Limitless Leaders.00:04:26: Identifying the perception gap in organizations.00:07:39: Deep dive: what is the perception gap and why it matters for career advancement.00:08:28: Uma Subramanian shares a formative Microsoft story about misattribution of credit and learning to "own the narrative."00:16:13: What it means to be a “sought-after leader.”00:18:19: The difference between great and sought-after leaders.00:24:03: Introduction to the SOAR framework (Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority, Relationship Mastery).00:29:00: The importance of inner work, belief, and resilience in leadership.00:33:38: The concept of a "trusted circle" as vital support for leaders.00:39:43: Normalizing, reframing, and responding to failure.00:46:29: Long-term impact: What Uma Subramanian hopes listeners achieve.00:47:27: Where to find Uma Subramanian and her book.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Q: What is the perception gap?A: The gap between the value you truly create and what others see, understand, and trust about your leadership (08:02).Q: Why do women in STEM struggle with visibility and advancement?A: Many are in the minority, often misunderstood or overlooked, and may not communicate their value clearly at work (14:49).Q: What is the SOAR framework?A: Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority/Personal Brand, and Relationship Mastery (24:03).Q: How do I become a sought-after leader?A: By thinking beyond your role, building cross-organizational relationships, clear value communication, and developing self-belief and resilience (18:19, 24:19).Q: How should leaders approach failure?A: Normalize and reframe failure as data or feedback, and seek support from a trusted circle (39:43, 34:25).Action StepsAssess Your Perception Gap: Reflect on whether your contributions and reputation match—seek feedback (08:17).Speak for Your Work: Ensure your value is actively communicated, not just assumed (10:44).Expand Relationships: Intentionally build networks and trusted circles for support and advocacy (20:41; 34:25).Develop Your SOAR Skills: Focus on strategic thinking, communication, personal branding, and influence (24:03).Embrace Failure as Feedback: When setbacks occur, reframe them as learning opportunities and seek guidance (40:49).Clarify Your Vision: Define what you truly want in your leadership journey (42:40).Get the Book: Read “The Sought After Leader” for frameworks and practical exercises (47:39); connect with Uma Subramanian on LinkedIn for continued support.

In this powerful episode, faith-driven business leader Peter Snell shares actionable leadership strategies rooted in objectivity, biblical principles, and authentic mentorship. Listeners learn how to overcome fear of failure, transform anxiety into gratitude, make high-stakes decisions, and build sustainable business models—especially in the oil and gas industry.Whether you're leading a team, seeking personal growth, or navigating challenges in STEM or energy sectors, Peter Snell’s insights on resilient leadership, intentional rest, and leaving a meaningful legacy make this episode a must-listen.FAQsQ: Who is Peter Snell?A: Peter Snell is the founder and CEO of Petrovybe, a natural gas developer passionate about business growth, biblical stewardship, and mentoring leaders.Q: What is the main lesson about anxiety?A: Anxiety is a choice and can be managed by prayer, gratitude, and focusing on the present moment.Q: How can leaders make better decisions?A: By being objective, considering the impact on others, and taking a wise, long-term view rather than reacting to comfort or fear.Q: What sets Petrovybe apart?A: Their business model leverages compounding growth principles, strategic reinvestment, and financial discipline—seldom seen in oil & gas.Action StepsReflect on Personal Mindsets: Assess where fear of failure or anxiety controls your decisions, replacing fear with gratitude and faith.Practice Objective Leadership: In upcoming decisions, list all stakeholders and assess the long-term impact before choosing short-term comfort.Mentor with Questions: Next time you lead, start with empowering questions instead of directives to foster individual growth.Rest Intentionally: Schedule regular breaks, allowing time for reflection and rejuvenation as modeled in the episode.Learn More About Petrovybe: Visit Petrovybe.com or connect with Peter Snell on LinkedIn or Instagram to explore collaborations or investment opportunities.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterasnell/PetroVybe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/97452844Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterasnell/Website: https://www.petrovybe.com

In this empowering leadership podcast, Marc & Adaeze sit down with Mark Pittman, founder of Concord Leadership Group and author of "The Surprising Gift of Doubt." They discuss redefining success, overcoming impostor syndrome, embracing self-doubt as a tool for growth, and the challenges—and privileges—of leadership.Listeners dive into actionable frameworks like the Four Quadrants of Leadership, learn the importance of self-awareness, pausing, and building systems that support authentic, human-centered leadership.Featuring insights for entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, and anyone leading or aspiring to lead, this episode is a go-to resource for building resilient, genuine leaders.Key Moments & TimestampsIntroduction and Guest Bio: 00:00Surprising Your Younger Self: Value evolution, open arms leadership 02:27Consistency Without Ossification: Lifelong growth, embracing change 03:56Privilege and Risk-Taking: Failure, cultural context of risk, privilege in leadership 05:01Defining Success for Yourself: Moving past the “hamster wheel” mentality 09:39Leadership, Doubt, and Authenticity: The surprising gift of doubt 15:37Organizational Structures and Humanity: Systems not built for humans, roots in inequity 19:00Quadrant 3 Leadership: The four quadrants; the journey from imitation to unique self-leadership 22:10On Coaching and Leadership Transition: Self-awareness, impostor syndrome, fake it till you make it 26:23Navigating Crisis as a Leader: Values as the internal compass during the pandemic 31:41The Power of Pausing: Reflection, resolving burnout, and self-renewal 36:15Aligning Work and Passion: Building teams, knowing your limits, and delegating for growth 41:26Legacy and the Definition of Success: Letting leaders be human, defining “done” 45:24Practical Tips for Leaders: Scrum, retrospectives, boundaries for strategic thinking 48:22Resources and Marc’s Work: How to connect, further resources 49:58Who Is This For?This episode is for leaders, aspiring leaders, professionals in transition, entrepreneurs, nonprofit managers, and anyone seeking growth in their careers or personal leadership. It resonates particularly with those questioning traditional definitions of success, dealing with self-doubt, navigating risk, and striving for authentic leadership.FAQsQ: Who is Marc Pittman?A: Founder of Concord Leadership Group, executive coach, speaker, and author of “The Surprising Gift of Doubt.”Q: What is the "gift of doubt?"A: Doubt, often seen as weakness, can trigger self-discovery, deeper authenticity, and stronger leadership when embraced and explored.Q: How do most people define success—and how can you redefine it?A: Many chase external markers, but real success is defined internally and should evolve with your values and life stage.Q: What are the Four Quadrants of Leadership?A: A framework: Imitating others Fixing yourself Discovering your uniqueness Leading with confidence and authenticityQ: How can leaders handle feeling overwhelmed or like imposters?A: By pausing, seeking peer/community support, and reframing “impostor syndrome” as a sign of authenticity.Action StepsPause and Reflect: Schedule regular “pause” moments (even 10–15 min) each week for self-checks.Redefine Success: Clearly define what “enough” and “done” look like for you.Embrace Doubt: Write down questions or feelings of doubt and explore what they reveal about your growth.Build a Supportive Community: Seek or create peer groups for honest, nonjudgmental feedback.Delegate and Collaborate: Identify your dislikes and seek partnerships to fill those gaps.Leverage Resources: Visit concordleadershipgroup.com/leader & fundraisingcoach.com for free tools.Connect with Marc:Reach out on LinkedIn (Marc Pittman) for guidance or collaboration.https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcapitmanhttps://www.instagram.com/marcpitmanhttps://www.threads.net/@marcpitman https://facebook.com/marcapitman https://concordleadershipgroup.com

African Women in STEM founder ⁠Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠ reflects on August as Black Business Month, celebrating successes and outlining opportunities for women in STEM. Key programs highlighted include Women in STEM AI Roundtables, the new Restore Wellness Program, and the upcoming Ascension Conference in Atlanta. This podcast garners top 5% global ranking, offers networking, mentorship, and actionable strategies.Who Is This For?This episode is for:Women in STEM, particularly African women and women of colorMid-career and senior professionals looking to move from expert roles to impactful leadershipEntrepreneurs, founders, business leaders, and executives interested in community, access, and career growthAnyone passionate about supporting Black businesses, Black Business Month, and expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in STEMListeners seeking inspiration, practical strategies, and networks for career advancementKey Moments and Timestamps00:00:00: Introduction to the podcast and solo reflection format00:01:29: Discovery of August as Black Business Month and celebration of Black businesses00:04:00: Mission of African Women in STEM—bridging the gap between talent and opportunity00:05:26: Celebrating community wins: job offers, compensation negotiations, mentorship, and support00:09:00: Reflections on growth, fail-forward mindset, and programming redesign00:09:35: Launch of Women in STEM Roundtable Series focused on AI and career advancement00:11:14: Emphasis on wellness programming to support sustainable careers00:12:26: Announcement of the Ascension Conference for professional women (November, Atlanta)00:14:00: Growth of the podcast—top 5% ranking globally and community impact00:16:20: How to support/engage: membership, partnerships, attending events, and sharing the podcastFAQsQ: What is the main focus of African Women in STEM?A: To close the gap between talent and opportunity by providing access, mentorship, community, and career advancement for women in STEM.Q: What special programming is offered this year?A: Women in STEM AI Roundtables, Restore Wellness Program, and the Ascension Conference focusing on relationships and opportunities.Q: How can I get involved?A: Become a member, partner with the organization, attend events, join the email list, and share the podcast.Q: What are some achievements of the community?A: Members have landed multiple job offers, negotiated multi-six-figure packages, built strong relationships, and found new leadership roles.Action StepsSubscribe to the podcast to receive episodes with actionable leadership and career growth advice.Join the African Women in STEM community—membership for mid-career/senior professionals is open.Attend upcoming events: AI Roundtables, wellness workshops, and Ascension Conference.Partner as an organization, investor, or brand aligned with the mission.Share the podcast and community with your network to support and amplify opportunities for women in STEM.Connect with Adaeze Iloeje-Udogalanya on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and build your network.⁠Leadership Edge Diagnostic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a Strategy Call with ⁠⁠Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow African Women in STEM on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow African Women in STEM on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the African Women in STEM Membership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the African Women in STEM Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TEDX Talk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠ welcomes Mahir Laul, founder and CEO of Velric, to explore future-proof leadership, hiring transformation, and adaptability in the era of AI.Mahir shares how embracing flexibility, valuing people over place, and focusing on skills (not just credentials) empower both candidates and companies.The conversation reveals actionable hiring tips, the value of continuous upskilling, and how AI isn’t eliminating jobs but changing the rules for finding and keeping work. Listeners—especially women in STEM and career changers—will gain inspiration, practical job-seeking strategies, and the mindset needed for success in fast-evolving industries.This episode is designed for:Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) seeking guidance on leadership, career advancement, and breaking barriers.Job seekers and professionals navigating modern hiring systems, especially those impacted by AI-driven changes.Recruiters and hiring managers wanting to improve hiring, retention, and diversity practices.Entrepreneurs, tech founders, and business leaders interested in sustainable business building and adapting to the rapid pace of innovation.Anyone interested in leadership, adaptability, and future-of-work conversations.Timestamps00:01:07: Adaeze introduces the mission: empowering women in STEM for leadership.00:05:01: Mahir on adaptability, global citizenship, and finding belonging beyond physical spaces.00:10:56: Mahir discusses misconceptions about startups and the hidden realities behind building a sustainable business.00:17:44: Mahir explains why flexibility and multiple revenue streams matter, especially with AI disruption.00:21:29: Adaeze and Mahir dissect what’s broken in traditional hiring and why Velric exists.00:29:35: Mahir clarifies that AI shifts jobs rather than eliminates them, urging listeners to focus on value creation.00:32:34: Debate on the relevance of degrees versus microcredentialing and adaptation in today’s job market.00:43:03: Tangible career advice: why authenticity and personal outreach matter in getting hired.00:47:06: Action step: Do proactive cold outreach and expect low response rates—but persevere!Q: Who is Mahir Laul?A: Mahir Laul is the founder and CEO of Velric, an AI-driven hiring intelligence platform.Q: What does Velric do?A: Velric helps organizations hire based on job-specific, merit-based assessments rather than resumes, focusing on proof of skills and critical thinking.Q: How is AI affecting the hiring process?A: AI is streamlining hiring but can introduce bias or overlook talent; Velric addresses these by ensuring decisions are based on proven ability, not background.Q: How can job seekers stand out today?A: By being authentic, avoiding mass AI applications, personally reaching out to recruiters, and following up with cold calls.Q: Is a degree still valuable?A: Mahir Laul argues that skills, adaptability, and micro-credentialing are increasingly more important than traditional degrees for most roles.For Adaeze:Share this episode and invite feedback from women in STEM communities.Highlight actionable tips in the AWI STEM newsletter (42:04).Use this conversation as a springboard for future topics like micro-credentialing or authentic career-building.For Mahir:Continue organizing networking and hiring events to foster connections (49:12).Encourage authentic outreach—respond to DMs from listeners and connect at events.Share more insights on adaptability and up-skilling on LinkedIn and at Velric events.For Listeners:Take a proactive approach to job applications: personalize outreach, be authentic, and don’t rely on AI mass applications (43:03).Commit to continuous learning: explore micro-credentialing, up-skilling, and adaptability strategies (32:34).Attend Velric’s events or similar networking opportunities for real-world connections (49:12).