Cristina Rodriguez: Democratizing Connectivity and Building a More Equitable, Connected World

In this episode, host Sheena Katz sits down with Cristina Rodriguez — Vice President in the Network and Edge Group at Intel and General Manager of NEX, where she leads global business across telecom, enterprise, and connectivity. Cristina shares how her journey from hands-on engineering to global leadership shaped her perspective on technology, why access to connectivity and information is foundational to opportunity, and how the future of networks must be built with equity in mind.From advancing AI-driven infrastructure to ensuring that connectivity reaches even the most remote communities, this conversation highlights the critical role of technology in expanding access to education, resources, and possibility — and the responsibility to design systems that truly serve everyone.About the PodcastWelcome to the World Pulse Podcast, where we explore how women around the world are driving social impact in their communities and across borders through leadership, connection, and collective action.World Pulse is a global social impact network that supports grassroots women leaders advancing gender equity worldwide. We believe progress happens through connection — by building bridges that turn stories into shared understanding and meaningful change.🌍 Learn more or support our work: https://bit.ly/486L4ZK    ---(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:34) Meet Cristina Rodriguez(00:03:02) Cristina’s Journey into Technology(00:05:38) Perspectives in Leadership(00:07:57) Navigating Inclusivity in Tech(00:11:10) Evolving Leadership Philosophy(00:13:59) Empowering Future Leaders (00:16:19) The Role of AI in Networking(00:19:14) Next Generation Connectivity(00:21:03) Education and Access Through Technology(00:23:16) Balancing Innovation with Responsibility (00:26:04) The Importance of Representation (00:28:09) Mentorship and Advocacy(00:30:47) Advice for Emerging Leaders (00:32:57) Democratizing Technology for All