Episode 79 – From Wakanda to Silicon Valley
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Stephanie Van Putten
Connect on social:
IG: @svputten
Episode Description:
Stephanie Van Putten, a notable leader in tech and entrepreneurship, shares her journey from PG County, Maryland, to becoming a major force in Silicon Valley. She discusses her experiences at Microsoft and MIT, founding Blendoor, and creating Visible Figures, a platform enhancing visibility for women leaders of the African diaspora. With insights into navigating tech, raising venture capital, and fostering diversity, Van Putten reflects on challenges and the importance of community and networking. Join this enlightening conversation to explore the intersection of human capital, technology, and the push for more inclusive, equitable workplaces.
Key Takeaways:
• Stephanie Van Putten’s unique blend of family influence and professional experiences shaped her successful entrepreneurial journey in the tech sector.
• Blendoor was founded to address bias in the recruitment process and was developed into an influential platform helping companies improve workplace diversity.
• Visible Figures is spearheading efforts to support and amplify the presence and success of women leaders across the African diaspora.
• Stephanie is an advocate for learning through teaching, as she lectures and shares her expertise to help bring about impactful changes in tech and entrepreneurship.
• Community and networking are vital elements of professional success, a theme evident in both Stephanie’s personal journey and her inclusive ventures.
Stephanie’s Bio:-::
Stephanie Van Putten is a serial entrepreneur, investor, lecturer (MIT, HKS, Stanford GSB), and Fortune 40 under 40 award-winning ESG innovator. She has spent her 20-year professional career as a venture-backed founder, CEO, enterprise SaaS developer, data scientist, and internationally acclaimed thought leader on AI, ESG, people analytics, and bias. Stephanie currently serves as Executive Director of Visible Figures and on the board of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. She holds a BS in Management Science & Engineering from Stanford University and an MBA from MIT Sloan.