Lindsey Shepard, “Rainmaker” at GoldieBlox and Fan of Coffee, Orange is the New Black, and Gloria Steinem
A self-described “renegade nerd,” Lindsey Shepard has the decidedly un-nerdy job of Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the very buzz-y company of GoldieBlox, which has recently been featured everywhere from the New Yorker to The Atlantic and Slate.com. Its goal: to design smart toys and games for girls and thus raise a generation to become enamored of the engineering field – to offer a stealth introduction to STEM, so to speak.
Ms. Shepard, 36, a native of Los Altos, CA, and now living in Oakland, CA, was, as she notes, “raised at the altar of Gloria Steinem,” and despite her current position, did not attend college, but instead has the unorthodox (and astute) belief that you should “own your superpowers — you don’t have to be paid for something to be an expert in it; the most successful people leverage all of their strengths, not just the ones in their job descriptions.” In her current role, she sees herself as “a rainmaker” who makes things happen in the branding arena for her cutting-edge company that aims to broaden horizons and create a whole new crop of brainy women.
Can you tell the readers a little bit about yourself?
I am a Mom, feminist, and renegade nerd.
What was your very first job?
I worked at a florist, picking the throne off of roses — it was miserable!
What and who inspires your work?
I’m inspired by women who want more for their daughters, and by the limitless potential of girls around the world.
How does your culture/background influence your work?
I was raised at the altar of Gloria Steinem; my mother taught me from an early age that women are strong, smart, and capable. I feel that it’s my obligation to further that message.
What has been your biggest obstacle in your career and how did you overcome it?
“Impostor’s syndrome.” Self-doubt is so toxic when you’re building something new. I’ve had to learn to trust my instincts, and to be fearless in trying new things.
What advantages do you see as a woman in the workplace?
Let’s see… in tech, I guess there’s never a huge line for the bathroom. Seriously, though — we have a long way to go.
How do you differentiate yourself from your competitors?
Through authentic human connection.
What advice would you give women starting their career?
Own your superpowers — you don’t have to be paid for something to be an expert in it. The most successful people leverage all of their strengths, not just the ones in their job descriptions.
How many times have you changed your career direction?
Twice.
What are the most important qualities of a good leader?
Self-awareness, a respectful communication style, and a good sense of humor.
What are the first three things you do when you wake up in the morning and the last three things you do before you go to bed
AM: Coffee, Email, Twitter
PM: Water, Email, Twitter
What keeps you energized and motivated at work?
A passion and hunger for girls’ empowerment. And coffee!
What book would you recommend for women just starting their career?
Yes, Please by Amy Poehler.
What is your favorite part about your job?
Connecting with the GoldieBlox community; it’s so empowering to see every day how many people out there want more for their girls.
What does a day in your shoes typically look like?
Depends on the day: see #StartUpLife.
What is your favorite leisure activity after a stressful work week?
Binge-watching Orange is the New Black.
What is your breakfast of choice?
Coffee
What is the biggest piece of advice you can give on how to build a successful brand?
Don’t water things down — your customers can smell it a mile away.
You say you have been hired as “the rainmaker”, can you explain what that means?
I make big things happen. Plus, I cry when I’m happy or excited.
Favorite Quote: “Do or do not — there is no “try.” — Master Yoda
27TAGS: female leaders SharpSavvySignificant