Emily Harden

Join me as we explore the transformative potential of diverse perspectives, collaboration, and the wisdom of crowds. In this engaging talk, we'll dive into the benefits of surrounding ourselves with people who possess different skills, experiences, and knowledge. We'll examine how embracing intellectual humility and being open to learning from others can lead to groundbreaking insights and innovative solutions.

One day, you’re just doing your job—writing code, managing projects, or contributing to a team—and the next, you’re in charge. Whether it’s by necessity, opportunity, or pure accident, many tech professionals find themselves in leadership roles without formal training or preparation. So, what now? This talk is for those who never set out to be leaders but suddenly find themselves responsible for teams, projects, or communities. We’ll explore the essential skills that make accidental leaders successful, from navigating imposter syndrome to managing up, down, and across. Through real-world stories, practical strategies, and lessons learned the hard way, you’ll gain the confidence and tools to lead effectively—without losing yourself in the process.

In tech, intelligence and problem-solving skills are celebrated—but what happens when we hit a wall? Many of us pride ourselves on our independence and expertise, yet struggle to ask for help when we need it. Why is that? And how does this reluctance impact our careers, teams, and well-being? In this talk, we’ll explore the psychological and cultural barriers that make asking for help so difficult, especially for high achievers. Through real-world stories (and a few hard-earned lessons), we’ll break down the myths around seeking support and discuss practical ways to foster a more collaborative, help-friendly culture. Whether you’re an engineer, a leader, or just someone who hates feeling “needy,” you’ll walk away with strategies to ask for help with confidence—and make your team stronger in the process.