The Lessons Behind the Pages

In this episode, Vanessa takes a deeper look at the research, contributors and practical ideas behind 404 Women Not Found, exploring what really holds women back in technology and what individuals, leaders and organisations can do about it. Featuring insights from 41 women across technology and business, the book deliberately brings together different generations, careers and lived experiences. The aim is simple: to ensure that women reading it can recognise themselves, their challenges and their ambitions within its pages. At the heart of the conversation are three persistent barriers identified through the Lovelace Report: recognition, career progression and pay inequality. Interestingly, the research also challenges some common assumptions about women’s careers. Only 3% of the women interviewed identified childcare as a significant barrier, highlighting the need to focus more closely on the structural and operational issues within organisations. This episode explores those systems, the role of leaders and allies in changing them, and why individuals also need to make space to actively plan for their own future. Topics we discussed: Why diverse voices matter. The Lovelace Report findings on recognition, progression and pay. Challenging assumptions around childcare and women’s careers. How outdated systems hold women back. What organisations can do to improve opportunity and visibility. The impact of allyship and sponsorship. Navigating workplace politics. Turning insight into action through practical exercises. Future-proofing your career through skills, visibility and networks. Links: This episode is hosted by Dave Savage Host of Pod Tech Talk The guest: Vanessa Vallely - visit her website - https://vanessavallely.com/ Vanessa is the Author of 404 Women Not Found - A new book aimed at helping women in the tech industry thrive and survive Buy the book on Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/404-Women-su... Check it out on Instagram -   / 404womennotfound