479: Women in Supply Chain, Lina Castaneda

Lina Castaneda talks about her career journey; being an industry rising star, the importance of staying coachable; & why our differences are our superpowers.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [05.00] Why Lina emigrated from Colombia to Canada, and what the move taught her. "It was a big change, but I saw it as a chance for growth on my own journey. I've always believed that stepping outside of your comfort zone is where real growth happens." [06.35] How Lina found supply chain, and why she fell in love with the industry. "I quickly fell in love with the complexity and the impact of the industry. Supply chain touches every single part of our lives – it's a behind-the-scenes powerhouse that keeps the world moving!" [07.59] Lina's journey moving through operations and customer service, and how each role added a new layer to her expertise and developed her leadership style. "It's been quite a journey. Tons of learning, tons of growth – and a few surprises along the way!" [11.41] Lina's role as Chief Customer Officer at Tai Software. [13.33] Lina's take on why customer experience is harder, but also more important, than ever before, and the challenges of balancing personalization with scalability. "Customers have higher expectations. They're not just comparing us to other companies in the industry, but to the best experiences they've had anywhere. So there's a constant need to raise the bar." [16.04] From technology to collaboration, Lina's biggest takeaways from Manifest in February. "Being surrounded by so many passionate creative minds was really energizing." [18.29] What it means to be a Certified ScrumMaster and Scrum Product Owner, the importance of staying coachable and continuing to learn, and why that mindset has been key to Lina's leadership style and success. "Great leaders are learners forever." [20.58] What being named an industry 'Rising Star' means to Lina, and why awards and recognition for women are so important. "Representation matters. So when women see other women being celebrated for their worth, it reinforces that there is a place for them at the table. It breaks down stereotypes, inspires the next generation, and helps create a more diverse, inclusive industry." [23.06] Why our differences are our superpowers, and how Lina encourages her team to recognize and leverage their own unique superpowers. [26.49] Lina's experience, as a woman and immigrant, moving through the male-dominated worlds of technology and supply chain, and how a sense of purpose was critical to overcoming challenges. "These fields have historically been male-dominated. Being an immigrant meant I often had to overcome not just gender biases but cultural barriers. I had to work harder to prove myself or make my voice heard, but I focused on what I could control – my work ethic, my ability to adapt, my commitment to learning. And I leaned into my differences." [29.50] Lina's advice to those looking to follow in her footsteps. [31.39] The future for Lina.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Lina Castaneda over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more women discussing the immigrant experience, check out 422: Women In Supply Chain, Kiran Mann, 437: Women In Supply Chain, Mercedes Pina, 450: Women In Supply Chain, Jenny Perlitch or 207: Women in supply chain, Shana Zheng.