Tech Leaders Untold Podcast: Ditch the Tech Career Norms - Vidhya Seran | E02
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In this episode, we sit down with a forward-thinking leader in future technology at Verizon who’s challenging everything you thought you knew about working in tech. From AI innovations and multimodal technology to rethinking career paths, this conversation breaks the mold of what a traditional tech journey looks like.
Vidhya Seran is the Associate Director of Future Technology at Verizon.
We explore how multimodal AI—combining video, audio, and text—is transforming industries like security, telecom, and transportation. Our guest shares use cases and explains how AI is being used not just for productivity, but to enhance real human experiences.
But this episode isn’t just about tech—it’s about breaking industry norms. You’ll hear powerful insights on:
- Why working at startups can accelerate your career
- How to build a meaningful career without chasing titles
- Why having fun at work is more than just a nice-to-have—it's essential
- How failure and risk-taking are underrated superpowers in tech
If you’ve ever felt boxed in by traditional career expectations—or you’re curious about where AI is really headed—this episode will challenge your mindset and inspire you to lead on your own terms.
Connect with Vidhya on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vseran/
Want to build your authority and brand as a tech leader? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates, a free branding guide and 1-hour training for tech professionals: https://techlegacies.ck.page/newsletter
Connect with the podcast host, Fanny Dunagan on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/fannydunagan/
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:51 - Guest Introduction Vidhya Sera
01:18 - Defining Future Technology
02:52 - Multimodal AI Research
04:07 - AI Use Case: Security Cameras
05:35 - AI in the Telecom Industry
07:40 - Vidhya's Background in AI
09:40 - Childhood Influences on Tech
13:33 - Startup Career Path
18:26 - Overcoming Fear of Failure
20:12 - Maintaining Faith in Career Choices
24:46 - Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking
25:21 - Having Fun at Work
29:34 - What kind of legacy you want to leave behind?
32:19 - Conversation Card: Overcoming Fear
34:45 - Tech CXO Excellence Program
36:20 - Outro
32 episodes