297: How Women Can Challenge Bias, Claim Their Space, And Thrive In A System Built For Men

We are often told that if we work harder, speak louder, and lean in further, the doors of opportunity will eventually swing open. But for many women, the reality is more complex. It isn't just about the effort—it's about the environment.   Today, Cindy Watson sits down with a powerhouse leader who isn't just looking for a seat—she's redesigning the entire room. Joining us is Kae Kronthaler-Williams, a global software marketing executive who has navigated the highest levels of tech while maintaining a fierce commitment to equity. As a passionate advocate for women's advancement, Kae doesn't just talk about the "broken rung"; she provides the tools to fix it. From confronting unconscious bias to dismantling toxic work cultures, her work through public speaking, coaching, and nonprofit initiatives is centered on one radical mission: ensuring every woman is seen, supported, and empowered to lead.   In this episode, Cindy and Kae dive deep into: How to thrive in a system not designed for you. How to claim your space if gender imbalance is present. Setting boundaries to protect your credibility without apologizing. Finding the right allies in your workplace. Negotiating mentorship and allyship in a male dominated workplace. What are the biggest negotiation traps that women in particular fall into? What are some of the feminine approaches that maybe secret weapons? Practical step to take to negotiate your best life. And many more!   Learn more about Kae Kronthaler-Williams: Website: https://www.kaewilliams.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaekwilliams/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaekronthalerwilliams/ Subtract: https://substack.com/@kaekronthalerwilliams   Get a copy of her book:    Not Made for You: How Women in Tech Can Challenge Bias, Claim Their Space, and Thrive in a System Built for Men   If you're looking to up-level your negotiation skills, I have everything from online to group to my signature one-on-one mastermind & VIP experiences available to help you better leverage your innate power to get more of what you want and deserve in life. Check out our website at www.artofFeminineNegotiation.com if that sounds interesting to you.   Get Cindy's book here: Amazon   https://www.amazon.com/Art-Feminine-Negotiation-Boardroom-Bedroom-ebook/dp/B0B8KPCYZP?inf_contact_key=94d07c699eea186d2adfbddfef6fb9e2&inf_contact_key=013613337189d4d12be8d2bca3c26821680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 EBook   https://www.amazon.com/Art-Feminine-Negotiation-Boardroom-Bedroom-ebook/dp/B0B8KPCYZP?inf_contact_key=94d07c699eea186d2adfbddfef6fb9e2&inf_contact_key=013613337189d4d12be8d2bca3c26821680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 Barnes and Noble   https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-art-of-feminine-negotiation-cindy-watson/1141499614?ean=9781631959776 CONNECT WITH CINDY: Website: www.womenonpurpose.ca Website: www.practicingwithpurpose.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenonpurposecommunity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenonpurposecoaching/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thecindywatson Show: https://www.womenonpurpose.ca/media/podcast-2/ X(Twitter):  https://twitter.com/womenonpurpose1 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@hersuasion Email: [email protected]