TaraTalks: Critical Conversations with Leaders Who Inspire

Dr. Chloe Lim was always interested in science and was fascinated with studying the human body. Ultimately, she wanted to make a difference in people's lives. But one thing tended to hold her back from living her whole self—speaking up. As a young child growing up in Malaysia, she was influenced by cultural norms... ...

Neela Paul discovered the field of food science during her collegiate years and has had a phenomenal career for over 25 years in global research & development at Fortune 500 companies like The Kraft Heinz Company, Mars, Wrigley, and the Panda Restaurant Group. And, yes, she was often the only one who looked like her on her teams. But, instead of 'humbling out' or overcompensating, Neela Paul learned how to excel and rise to the top levels in her field. Join us on Thursday, May 4, at 8:00 am PT, to learn how Neela builds trust and develops relationships in men-dominated industries. ...

Dr. Denise Gaskin was the COO at a legal firm when a colleague's statement hit her square in the jaw, "Denise, why are you talking about introverts who are leaders... ...

Global Chief Human Resources Officer Michael Alicea joined Trellix in 2021 and works closely with CEO Bryan Palma to bring purpose and soulfulness to work. Their vision, each team member can contribute to business performance while experiencing deep personal fulfillment each working day. Sound too esoteric? Well, not when you hear Michael talk about the specific actions Trellix is taking and the tangible results they are producing. Join us on March 23 at 11:00 am PT to learn how Michael combines stellar HR and business leadership and how you, too, can benefit. ...

Marie Lalleman wanted an international career since she started working in her family’s restaurant at age nine. So she studied business and international management and began to pursue her dream career. She landed dream jobs and traveled the world working for various organizations, including Nielsen Market Research. ...

Charlotte Schriner has always loved mathematics. Earlier in her education, she loved the structure and the patterns and "geeked out" on how following an equation would always lead to results (we get it!). And Charlotte was a great student because she followed the structure. Then, in her early career, Charlotte followed the rules and focused on pleasing others until she had her epiphany while working at a startup company. As she describes it, "a new part of my brain switched on". ...

Karen is currently the co-Founder of E2B Coach. E2B Coach was born from her most recent teaching experience and the desire to help STEM and minority students build professional careers. Karen is an investor, board member, advisor, innovation expert, entrepreneur, and mentor. ...

Natalie Steck was born and raised in Australia and, early in her career, found her passion for technical sales and problem-solving. She courageously continued to take on different roles, including the head of sales and marketing in tech companies, CEO of two startups, and now the Director of Silicon Valley Bank. ...

Ifeyinwa Arinze grew up in Nigeria in a large family with a robust educational background and the motivation to be the best she could be. But when she traveled outside of Nigeria to pursue an international Career in STEM, she faced challenges on multiple levels. ...

Leslie Sheridan never thought she would wind up in technology. After all, she spent most of her career in HR, Marketing and Sales roles. That is, until Leslie felt compelled to do something big to address climate change and sustainability. ...

Dr. Oris Sanjur grew up in Panama under the tutelage of parents who were both teachers. Oris knew early on that she wanted to study biology and her parents encouraged her to do what she loved. She did face barriers to pursuing her education, including financial and social stigmas. She heard, for example, "Why would a smart woman like you choose biology? Why not be a banker or a doctor?" But Oris knew what she wanted and went for it! She obtained a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and has participated in significant DNA sequencing research. And in the process, Oris uncovered the keys to being an authentic leader. Join us on October 27 at 8:00 am CDT to learn from Oris' keys to leadership. ...

Scott Brown understood the importance of allyship for women in STEM+ while talking with his wife after work each day (BTW, his wife is in a senior finance role--the first female at this level in her organization). After several stories, he understood that his work experience and his wife's work experience differed dramatically. ...