How to Lead as a Woman with Purpose at the Table

Welcome back, tech trailblazers! In this special International Women's Day celebration episode of the "Women in Tech Trailblazers" podcast, hosts Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin sit down with tech leader Margarita Rivera. If you've ever felt boxed in by the tech world's expectations, this episode is your key to breaking free. As the Global Senior Director of  Information Security at Lowe's Companies, Margarita doesn't just walk the walk; she's paved her own path with a blend of integrity, selflessness, and, you guessed it, authenticity. From her early days inspired by a mentor to her bold pivot into information security, Margarita's story is nothing short of inspiring. But what really makes a leader stand out? According to Margarita, it's about building genuine connections and having a squad of mentors and sponsors to push you forward. She spills the beans on creating a supportive network that's helped her tackle gender biases and lead with confidence. And for those moments when the impostor syndrome creeps in? Margarita shares her secret sauce for authenticity in leadership, proving that being yourself isn't just good for morale – it's a catalyst for success. From navigating complex projects to mentoring the next generation of tech leaders, Margarita's journey is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself. Here are the key takeaways: (4:05) Can being the only woman in the room be your superpower? (7:06)  Why is authentic growth essential for women in tech? (11:54) What happens when a woman says "I am enough" in tech?  (13:37) Mentor vs. sponsor in your career (16:11) How well do you know your professional value? (17:43) Is showing emotion a career setback or strength? (21:58) The underrated power of rest in a hustle-driven world  (22:53) Why should authenticity be your hiring filter?  (28:05) Is making room for others the key to your shine?  (33:10) How will you craft your life authentically? So, are you ready to unleash your authentic self and redefine leadership in tech? Join us for this conversation with Margarita Rivera, and let's transform the tech world, one authentic step at a time. Because here, we're not just talking tech – we're talking about making a real impact. About Margarita Rivera Margarita Rivera has worked in technology and information security for 20 years. She builds programs to protect companies from online threats. Margarita makes rules to keep data safe and reduce risks. She studied at Harvard University and Florida International University. Margarita leads the information security team at Lowe's, focusing on keeping the company and its customers safe. Contact Margarita Rivera at:  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. She's celebrated as a top staffing influencer for three years. Connect with Hosts:  Tiffany’s LinkedIn Jordan’s LinkedIn  Disclaimer This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should not be taken as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.