TED Talks Daily

Dare to lead as your authentic self | Tracy Young

Jan 22, 2021
Tracy Young, the founder of a startup, shares her powerful journey as a woman in a male-dominated industry. She candidly discusses the challenges of balancing leadership with motherhood, revealing personal stories of resilience. Tracy emphasizes the importance of embracing authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. By navigating societal pressures, she discovered that true strength lies in being her genuine self, advocating for a more inclusive and supportive business culture. Her insights inspire leaders to foster environments that prioritize growth and connection.
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ANECDOTE

Conference vs. Childbirth

  • Tracy Young went into labor the night of her company's user conference, questioning if male CEOs would make the same choice.
  • She prioritized the conference due to societal expectations, working 14 hours while nine months pregnant.
ANECDOTE

Early Return to Work

  • Six weeks postpartum and still physically recovering, Tracy Young returned to work to secure funding.
  • Driven by fear of judgment, she prioritized fundraising despite not being fully ready.
ANECDOTE

Pumping on Sand Hill Road

  • While fundraising, Tracy Young resorted to pumping breast milk in her car on Sand Hill Road.
  • She lacked the courage to request access to mothers' rooms while seeking substantial investments.
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