The Cyber Savvy Woman

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Gwen Hawver, CEO of Vision Interface, to talk about what it really takes for small businesses to get noticed, attract the right customers, and stay sustainable. Gwen shares her journey from business development into marketing and explains why understanding your ideal customer is one of the most important steps before spending money on marketing. She also discusses the importance of having a clear message and a strong idea that helps a business stand out in a crowded market.
Rachele and Gwen then dive into the changing world of AI, SEO, and digital marketing. Gwen explains how businesses can prepare their websites for AI search, why business listings and consistent information matter, and how AI can help with research, competitor analysis, repetitive tasks, and repurposing existing content. They also discuss her ACT program, which helps businesses work through analysis, customer research, competitor research, keyword research, content creation, and traffic before investing heavily in marketing. Gwen also shares an important reminder about protecting private business information when using free AI tools.
This episode explores how AI is changing the way customers discover businesses and why being visible online now requires more than traditional SEO. Gwen also shares her Interface Intelligence plugin and her perspective on what it means to be cyber savvy.
Connect with Gwen
Website: VisionInterface.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/V.Interface 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwenhawver/
LinkedIn Company Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3063558/admin/notifications/al 
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker speaks with Tarzine Jackson, a creative technologist, inventor, founder, and “block-shaped generalist” with experience in design, engineering, UX research, and product leadership. Tarzine shares how an unexpected college class changed her career path and how art, culture, and different communities influenced the way she understands technology and the world.
They discuss Tarzine’s journey from working in tech to becoming an entrepreneur, including how being laid off twice encouraged her to create her own products. She introduces Desivity, a platform that helps creators bring their portfolios, social content, media kits, and dynamic resumes together in one place. She explains why creators need better ways to show their skills, experience, and work to employers and potential opportunities.
This episode explores creativity, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, privacy, and AI. Tarzine talks about building Desivity with security in mind, using zero-trust principles, labeling AI-generated content, identifying bots, and developing a Safety Suite with privacy as a priority. She also shares how she uses AI agents as a solo founder while continuing to question, check, and learn from the technology. Her story shows that being cyber savvy is not about knowing everything about technology, but understanding its possibilities, limitations, and impact.

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Jeremy Haas, founder of Prefix Ops and a fractional operations leader who helps startups and small businesses build stronger systems, streamline operations, and grow with less chaos. Jeremy shares his journey from defense and sales operations into entrepreneurship and explains how an unexpected career setback ultimately led him to build his own consulting business.
Together, Rachele and Jeremy explore why operational discipline matters so much as businesses grow. They discuss the warning signs that a founder has become the bottleneck, the importance of delegation and documentation, and why business owners need to step out of doing everything themselves so their teams and businesses can operate more effectively.
The conversation also breaks down the difference between a COO and a fractional chief of staff, including how an operations partner can turn an executive's vision into practical systems and make sure new processes and technology are actually adopted. Jeremy explains why he focuses on solving the underlying problem first rather than simply adding another tool, especially at a time when businesses are overwhelmed by the growing number of SaaS and AI solutions available.
Rachele and Jeremy also discuss operational drag, the hidden costs that can quietly reduce efficiency and profitability, and why small expenses and inefficient processes can add up over time. They talk about the importance of continuously refining systems as a business changes, moving away from the "this is how we've always done it" mindset, and making small improvements that create sustainable growth.
The episode also takes a closer look at AI and its role in operations, including where it can genuinely improve efficiency and where businesses may be getting caught up in the hype. Jeremy shares why AI works best when paired with good systems, clear processes, and human judgment.
Whether you're a founder trying to get out of the weeds, a growing business owner overwhelmed by technology and processes, or a leader looking for more sustainable ways to scale, this episode offers practical insights on building better systems, reducing operational chaos, and creating a business that can grow without relying on constant hustle.
Book a call with Jeremy Hass:
https://calendly.com/jeremy-prefixops/30min?month=2026-06
 
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Alison Arnoff, founder of Dare 2 Be: An Unfair Advantage Consulting, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, confidence, influence, and navigating the challenges that come with stepping into senior roles. With a background in aerospace engineering, technology, startups, and executive leadership, Alison brings a unique perspective on what it takes to build a successful career without losing your authentic voice.
Together, Rachele and Alison explore the unwritten rules that can shape how leaders are perceived, why being technically strong isn't always enough to advance, and how women can become more intentional about the way they communicate and show up in the workplace. Alison shares practical insights on building executive presence, developing stronger relationships, speaking with confidence, and understanding the difference between doing good work and being recognized for your impact.
The conversation also dives into Alison's "Invisible Audit," a framework she uses to help leaders identify the expectations, relationships, and behaviors that may be influencing their career progression without them even realizing it. They discuss the transition from execution to strategic leadership, the importance of delegation, and why leaders need to understand the systems and people around them rather than focusing only on their own performance.
Rachele and Alison also discuss AI and how leaders can approach new technology with intention. Alison explains why businesses should start with the problem they want to solve rather than simply looking for ways to use AI, and how the right technology can create meaningful improvements when it is connected to a clear business need.
Whether you're an executive, an emerging leader, or someone looking to have more influence in your career, this episode offers practical insights on finding your voice, building confidence, navigating workplace dynamics, and becoming a more intentional leader.
Connect with Alison Arnoff:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-arnoff/
Website: www.idare2be.com
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Keith Corbin, founder of Evolution Coaching, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, workplace systems, and the realities leaders face in technology and product roles. With a background spanning engineering, product management, partnerships, and leadership in hyper-growth tech companies, Keith brings a perspective that goes beyond traditional leadership advice.
Together, Rachele and Keith explore why leaders often mistake the friction and limitations of their roles for personal failure. Keith explains how organizational structures, competing expectations, and the responsibilities that come with management can create contradictions that leaders need to recognize rather than simply try to eliminate. They discuss why middle managers in particular can feel caught between the needs of their teams and the demands of the organization, and why what worked at one level of leadership may no longer work at the next.
The conversation also looks at Keith's approach to coaching, including his ideas around frames, positions, patterns, and understanding the systems people operate within. He shares why organizational dysfunction can sometimes serve a purpose, how recognizing the underlying reasons for a problem can create new possibilities, and why leadership is not simply about individual traits but also about understanding the larger system.
Rachele and Keith also discuss AI and technology, including the value of keeping some friction in our work rather than automatically removing it. Keith explains how he thinks critically about technology, why human connection still matters in his coaching practice, and how leaders can use technology intentionally instead of simply choosing whatever is easiest.
Whether you're a technology leader, middle manager, emerging executive, or someone navigating the complexities of leadership, this episode offers a grounded perspective on working within imperfect systems, understanding the realities of your role, and making more intentional choices about how you lead.
Connect with Keith Corbin:
Website: https://evolutioncoach.org 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjcorbin/
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Sylvia Bargellini, founder of Linicorp, to discuss what happens when emerging technology meets the realities of people, processes, and complex organizations. With 15 years of experience working across emerging technology, healthcare, and consumer tech, Sylvia shares how she helps IT and operations teams approach AI and other new technologies with greater clarity and less risk.
Together, Rachele and Sylvia explore why technology itself is often not the reason an implementation fails. They discuss operational chaos, unclear processes, stakeholder challenges, and the importance of understanding the problem before choosing a technology solution. Sylvia shares real-world examples that show why a tool cannot fix a broken process and why human behavior needs to be considered when designing and implementing new technology.
The conversation also explores Sylvia's known and unknown two-by-two framework, which helps teams identify what they know, what they don't know, their assumptions, and potential risks before moving forward. Rachele and Sylvia discuss AI adoption in healthcare, why some organizations focus on the appearance of AI adoption rather than its actual usefulness, and the risks that can come with shadow workflows, shadow IT, and agent-to-agent AI.As the conversation continues, Sylvia shares practical advice for leaders preparing for an AI rollout, including having a clear problem and outcome, understanding the human workflow, considering regulations, and choosing the right technology rather than simply using whatever tool is already available. At the heart of the discussion is a simple idea: technology only works when it fits the reality of the people and processes using it.
If you're leading a healthcare IT or operations team, planning an AI implementation, or trying to navigate emerging technology without creating more operational chaos, this episode offers practical insights into making technology more usable, responsible, and effect

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Christina Garnett, fractional Chief Customer Officer, author, and internationally recognized expert in customer experience and community building. Christina shares why the strongest brands aren't built through marketing alone, they're built by earning trust, listening to customers, and creating meaningful relationships that last.
Together, Rachele and Christina explore how businesses can move beyond transactions to create genuine customer loyalty. They discuss the importance of understanding customer behavior, building communities that foster connection, and why curiosity and empathy are some of the most valuable skills leaders can develop. Christina also explains how businesses can gather better customer insights by asking the right questions and truly listening to the answers.
The conversation also dives into the role of AI in customer experience, with Christina sharing how businesses can use technology to improve efficiency without sacrificing authenticity or the human touch. She explains why AI should support stronger customer relationships rather than replace them, and how organizations can balance innovation with trust as technology continues to evolve.
Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or looking to create stronger relationships with your customers, this episode offers practical insights on customer experience, community, trust, and the power of putting people at the center of your business.
Connect with Christina Garnett:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinamgarnett/
 
Book – Transforming Customer-Brand Relationships:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1398621323
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Paul Faronbi, founder and CEO of IncrediPaul; a Maxwell Leadership-certified coach and speaker; an engineer; a nonprofit founder; and the host of the IncrediPaul Leadership Podcast. Paul shares his journey from engineering and career development into leadership coaching, speaking, and creating communities that help Gen Z professionals in STEM grow with confidence and purpose.
Together, Rachele and Paul explore what it means to become the best version of yourself without losing the qualities that make you unique. They discuss the differences between management and leadership, why understanding people's strengths matters, and how leaders can create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing honest feedback.
The conversation also looks at some of the challenges Gen Z professionals face in the workplace, including misconceptions about their generation, the importance of meaningful work, building resilience, and developing strong networks. Paul shares why communication and listening skills are essential for STEM professionals, especially when working with people who may not have the same technical background.
Rachele and Paul also discuss the importance of community for people from historically excluded backgrounds in STEM, the role of mentorship and connection in overcoming imposter syndrome, and Paul's work with NALA STEM to support greater representation and opportunity.
Whether you're a Gen Z professional, a STEM leader, or someone looking to become a more effective leader, this episode offers thoughtful insights on communication, resilience, confidence, community, and what it really means to be incredible.
Connect with Paul Faronbi:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-faronbi/
 
IncrediPaul Community: https://incredipaul.org/community
 
More from Paul: https://bio.site/incredipaul
 
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Natalie Spiro, CEO of Drum Cafe North America and founder of Blue Fire Leadership, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, human connection, and the power of rhythm to bring people together.
Natalie shares the remarkable story of moving from South Africa to the United States and turning an unexpected opportunity into a successful business that has brought millions of people together across the world. What began with a few drums and a bold idea grew into a unique approach to corporate events, where rhythm becomes a way to strengthen communication, collaboration, and connection.
Together, Rachele and Natalie explore why experiential learning can create a deeper impact than traditional presentations, how rhythm can help teams break down silos and connect beyond words, and what leaders can learn from simply listening and being present. Natalie also discusses her work with Blue Fire Leadership, the importance of a growth mindset, and why human connection remains essential in a workplace increasingly shaped by AI and technology.
The conversation also looks at how Natalie uses AI and other technology throughout her businesses, from planning and operations to creative development, while keeping the human experience at the center of everything she does. She shares advice for entrepreneurs building purpose-driven businesses and explains why having a big-picture vision, the right mindset, and a strong support team can make all the difference.
If you're interested in leadership, team connection, entrepreneurship, or finding more meaningful ways to bring people together, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to lead, collaborate, and build with purpose.
Connect with Natalie Spiro:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliespiro/
Drum Cafe North America: Interactive Keynote Experience (Drums): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaUnb4CWbQc
 
Drum Cafe North America: Symphony of Rhythm (Boomwhacker): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP5I6PtFVFI
 
Drum Cafe North America: Team-Can-Jam Cajon Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoVqnMuLNhw
 

In this episode of The Cyber Savvy Woman, Rachele Schainker sits down with Sharon Schanzer, founder of What's Your Boulder? and CEO of RLD Group, for an insightful conversation about leadership, resilience, and overcoming the obstacles that can hold businesses and individuals back. Drawing on decades of experience in executive coaching and leadership development, Sharon shares how identifying and addressing your biggest "boulder" can unlock growth, improve performance, and create lasting success.
Together, Rachele and Sharon explore the challenges leaders face when navigating change, building strong teams, and balancing the demands of business with personal well-being. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, effective communication, and creating a culture where people feel supported, empowered, and accountable. The conversation also highlights how technology and AI are reshaping the workplace, and why human connection, emotional intelligence, and adaptability remain essential skills for today's leaders.
Whether you're leading a team, growing a business, or looking to overcome the obstacles standing in your way, this episode offers practical insights on developing resilient leadership, embracing change, and building a stronger foundation for long-term success.
Learn more about Sharon: 
website: www.whatsyourboulder.com
RLD Group: www.rldgroup.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sharonschanzer
Instagram: @sharonschanzer