How to Become a CTO: Lessons on Leadership, Resilience & Neurodiversity from Meri Williams

What if your career path isn’t broken, it’s just different?Many ambitious tech leaders believe there’s only one “right” way to grow: climb the ladder fast, take on bigger teams, and never slow down.But what if true leadership involves taking a different path, one that respects your values, prioritizes your wellbeing, and celebrates your unique perspective?In this episode of From a Woman to a Leader, I sit down with Meri Williams, an accomplished CTO, tech advisor, CTO coach, and Chair of The Lead Developer conference, for one of the most authentic and inspiring conversations I’ve ever had.Meri shares their nonlinear journey from software engineering to executive leadership, growing teams from 30 to 300, managing burnout, discovering their neurodiversity, and leading with authenticity and compassion. Their story reminds us that success isn’t about fitting the mold, but about building a career that fits you.🎧 In this deeply human and eye-opening conversation, you’ll learn:💡 Why career growth isn’t linear, and how to redefine success on your own terms🔥 What scaling too fast taught Meri about burnout, boundaries, and balance💬 The multiple paths to becoming a CTO, and how to find the one that suits your strengths🚀 How domain expertise, curiosity, and integrity shape great leadership🌱 Why management isn’t the only way to grow, and how technical excellence can be just as fulfilling💫 How to thrive as a neurodiverse leader and build a sustainable, values-aligned careerIf you’ve ever questioned whether you’re on the “right” path, struggled with burnout, or wondered if leadership can coexist with authenticity, this episode will change how you see your own growth.You’ll walk away knowing that your differences are your strengths, your detours are part of the plan, and your success doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.👩‍💻 Want more support to grow as a leader?📥 Download my free guide: https://limorbergman.com/careersteps/📰 Get weekly leadership insights: https://limorbergman.com/newsletter/📬 Read my more personal notes on Substack: https://limorbergman.substack.com/🎯 Ready to get promoted without burnout?👉 Join the waitlist for the Strategic Influence & Executive Presence Accelerator: https://limorbergman.com/accelerator📲 Stay Connected🌐 Podcast hub: https://limorbergman.com/podcast🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/limorbergman📸 Instagram: @limorbergman▶️ YouTube: @LimorBergmanMeri Williams is an experienced CTO and leader of technology organizations, currently leading technology teams and advising companies as a CTO coach through their micro-consultancy, ChromeRose.They have led teams ranging from 30 to 300 across organizations including Procter & Gamble, the Government Digital Service, award-winning online print company MOO, mobile-first bank Monzo, and AI-driven drug discovery company Healx.A published author and international speaker, Meri chairs The Lead Developer conference and serves as a tech advisor for Kindred Capital. Together with their wife, they run micro-charity One Goes Up to help young women and enby folks pursue STEM education and careers.💼 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meriwilliams/