Resilience, Leadership, and Redefining Success with Farnaz Azmoodeh, CTO of Linktree.
In this episode of She Leads, Carly sits down with Farnaz Azmoodeh, the Chief Technology Officer of Linktree. Farnaz shares her remarkable journey, from growing up in Iran to becoming a leader in the tech industry. Her story highlights resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of diverse leadership.
Join us as Farnaz reflects on her childhood, her passion for engineering, and her transition from technical roles to executive leadership. She also shares valuable insights into building a supportive work culture, fostering effective collaboration, and navigating challenges with a positive, gamified mindset.
Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a tech enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and practical advice.
Episode Highlights:
- 00:52 – Introduction
- 02:03 – Farnaz's Early Life and Childhood in Iran
- 05:44 – Academic Journey and Introduction to Coding
- 08:53 – University Experience and Gender Dynamics in Engineering
- 12:18 – Transition to the United States and Cultural Adaptation
- 15:29 – Entering the Tech Industry and Joining Google
- 17:24 – Career Growth and Leadership at Google and Snap
- 23:09 – Reflecting on Tough Times and Resilience
- 25:50 – The Concept of Wartime Leadership
- 26:35 – "Bull in a China Shop": A Unique Leadership Style
- 28:12 – Building Relationships with Kindness
- 29:18 – Transitioning from Engineer to CTO
- 31:09 – Joining Linktree: A New Adventure
- 37:18 – Navigating Challenges with a Gamified Mindset
- 39:03 – Addressing Gender Disparities in Tech
- 42:09 – Redefining Success and Embracing Struggle
- 45:50 – The Art of Loving and Caring
Key Takeaways:
- How resilience shaped Farnaz’s journey from Iran to the U.S.
- The importance of adaptability in career transitions.
- Building strong work cultures and effective executive relationships.
- Addressing gender disparities and fostering diverse leadership styles.
- The evolving definition of success and finding joy in challenges.
Tune in to hear Farnaz’s inspiring story and her advice for aspiring leaders navigating their own unique journeys.
🎙️ Listen now on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | She Leads website
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Past guests include Margaret Wishingrad, Kara Goldin, Brandi Chastain, Julie Foudy, Ann Miura Ko, Linda Avey, Sarah Leary, and many more.
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