After two decades navigating tech, scaling companies, landing in the C-suite, and leading AI initiatives in spaces where I was never “meant” to lead, I’ve learned this: the rules weren’t written for people like me—and I’m not here to play by them.
As a woman, a disabled professional, and a former insider in systems built to keep others out, I built my influence by finding the loopholes, questioning the norms, and rewriting the playbook entirely.
Now, I help others do the same.
Speaker, author, founder, and the last person you'll find asking for permission.
Hi! I'm Lisa!
Honors & Awards
What I Do
Speak
Write
Teach
I’m the author of Go! Reboot Your Career in 90 Days, a book for anyone ready to stop playing small and start building a career (and life) that actually fits.
I speak on stages across the world about power, leadership, and how to stop waiting for permission and start owning your success.
I teach executive education on Responsible AI at the University of Michigan, serve on boards and advisory councils, and work with organizations that are bold enough to build differently.
What I Believe
I believe in leveraging technology as a force for good—especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable communities and building a future where innovation and ethics go hand in hand. My work, whether leading organizations or writing about AI, is rooted in this commitment.
I believe real impact isn’t accidental. It comes from thinking big, acting strategically, and aligning execution with values. Whether I’m designing ethical AI frameworks or mentoring the next generation, I’m always working toward long-term, scalable solutions.
Life has thrown curveballs—serious health challenges that forced me to pause, pivot, and rebuild. But I believe adversity doesn’t define us—how we respond to it does. I choose to respond with clarity, intention, and forward motion.
Systems create change
Resilience is a strategy
Purpose fuels progress
Where I’ve Been
& Why it Matters
If you're ready to stop playing nice and start playing to win—I'm here for it.
I launched my career in tech, working inside global corporations where I quickly learned how to lead complex programs—and how often the rules were built to keep people like me out. I didn’t let that stop me. I learned the system inside and out.
2004 – Breaking In
I stepped into leadership roles managing teams, owning strategy, and driving innovation across billion-dollar businesses. I became the person solving problems no one else wanted to touch—quietly becoming the force behind some very big wins.
2010 – Started Leading the Work That Mattered
I led AI and data-driven work to combat child exploitation online, in partnership with Microsoft, Google, and national law enforcement orgs. It was proof that AI can be a tool for good—if the right people are leading it.
2015 – Used Tech to Tackle Real-World Harm
I launched Minor Guard, an AI safety company focused on protecting people online and in real life. I raised funding, built the team, led product strategy, and proved that innovation can have a conscience—and still scale.
2018 – Founded My Own COmpany
I began speaking publicly about the truth behind leadership, AI, and power—on global stages like TEDx, SXSW, and the Grace Hopper Celebration. I wasn’t just giving talks—I was calling out the status quo and offering real alternatives.
2020 – Took The Stage
I joined the University of Michigan to teach Responsible AI, working directly with professionals and executives to help them lead with confidence, clarity, and integrity in a world that’s changing faster than most companies can keep up.
2022 – Took It to the Classroom
My work today is rooted in everything I’ve learned along the way: how to build real power, how to lead ethically, and how to stop asking for permission to take up space.
I built my career in rooms I was never supposed to walk into—and now I help others rewrite what’s possible.
Now – Helping You Lead Without Apology
DAVID SMITH
"Lisa is a dynamic and engaging speaker who doesn't just hold an audience's attention, but motivates and inspires people with her moving stories and experiences. I found myself on the edge of my seat and really connecting with her message."
Author of "Athena Rising" and "Good Guys"
Erica Dias
"Lisa's ability to connect and deliver to a variety of audiences, from highly technical teams to entrepreneurial visionaries, makes her the absolute top choice in any speaker lineup. Her passion, depth of experience and tactical know-how mean participants will be thanking you and requesting to hear more from her. Take it from me, you’ll be really glad you booked Lisa."
"Lisa's ability to connect and deliver to a variety of audiences, from highly technical teams to entrepreneurial visionaries, makes her the absolute top choice in any speaker lineup. Her passion, depth of experience and tactical know-how mean participants will be thanking you and requesting to hear more from her. Take it from me, you’ll be really glad you booked Lisa."
VP Communications & Strategic Marketing Operations
at SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Kelly Resendez
"Lisa is an extraordinary storyteller and change agent. You can expect her to share strategies and inspiration that will change the way you think and do business. She has a way of motivating an audience into applying whatever she shares. I highly recommend her for your next event!"
EVP of Talent at GoodLeap
