From Code to Compassion: Rethinking Nonprofits in the Tech Ecosystem

Serving the tech community with nonprofit initiatives demands a departure from traditional approaches. This talk dives into the unique challenges and opportunities inherent to tech-focused philanthropy. We'll explore the distinct needs of tech professionals, the potential for harnessing technology for good, and the nuances of operating within the tech ecosystem. Attendees will gain insights into the evolving landscape of tech-driven altruism and strategies to effectively engage this dynamic community.

The Art of Asking for Help: Why Smart People Struggle with It

In tech, intelligence and problem-solving skills are celebrated—but what happens when we hit a wall? Many of us pride ourselves on our independence and expertise, yet struggle to ask for help when we need it. Why is that? And how does this reluctance impact our careers, teams, and well-being?

In this talk, we’ll explore the psychological and cultural barriers that make asking for help so difficult, especially for high achievers. Through real-world stories (and a few hard-earned lessons), we’ll break down the myths around seeking support and discuss practical ways to foster a more collaborative, help-friendly culture. Whether you’re an engineer, a leader, or just someone who hates feeling “needy,” you’ll walk away with strategies to ask for help with confidence—and make your team stronger in the process.

The Accidental Leader: How to Succeed When You Weren’t Planning to Lead

One day, you’re just doing your job—writing code, managing projects, or contributing to a team—and the next, you’re in charge. Whether it’s by necessity, opportunity, or pure accident, many tech professionals find themselves in leadership roles without formal training or preparation. So, what now?

This talk is for those who never set out to be leaders but suddenly find themselves responsible for teams, projects, or communities. We’ll explore the essential skills that make accidental leaders successful, from navigating imposter syndrome to managing up, down, and across. Through real-world stories, practical strategies, and lessons learned the hard way, you’ll gain the confidence and tools to lead effectively—without losing yourself in the process.

I Hope I'm Not the Smartest Person in the Room

Join us as we explore the transformative potential of diverse perspectives, collaboration, and the wisdom of crowds. In this engaging talk, we'll dive into the benefits of surrounding ourselves with people who possess different skills, experiences, and knowledge. We'll examine how embracing intellectual humility and being open to learning from others can lead to groundbreaking insights and innovative solutions.
By the end of this talk, you'll be inspired to embrace intellectual humility, appreciate the wealth of knowledge that surrounds you, and understand the true power of collaboration in our ever-evolving world.

Slides, 20-45 minute talk
Can be offered with/without audience interaction

You Just Might Find, You Get What You Need: How MS Became My Unlikely Success Story

Join me for an exploration of my personal journey, set to the soundtrack of the Rolling Stones' timeless anthem (I promise I don't sing). In this talk, I'll take you behind the scenes of my life and share how encountering Multiple Sclerosis (MS) became the unexpected turning point in my story of personal success.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as I delve into the highs and lows, peppered with humor, heart, and the unmistakable rhythm of resilience. Together, we'll navigate from the initial "notes" of uncertainty to the powerful "crescendo" of success, uncovering the unique "melody" that MS composed in my life.

This talk is more than just my story; it's a celebration of finding strength in the most unexpected places and turning life's struggles into a success. I invite you to join me on this journey of resilience, as I share how I discovered that sometimes, you just might find that you get what you need.