In this episode of the Pathfinders Podcast, Linda Stevens, former Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Esri, shares her journey and insights from her extensive career in the GIS industry. Discover how her passion for geography led to groundbreaking work at Esri and beyond. Linda discusses overcoming challenges in a male-dominated tech world, driving innovation, and the power of effective marketing. She also delves into her role in shaping product strategies, securing funding, and revitalizing brands in her work with Spatial Spirits. With expertise spanning product design to business strategy, Linda’s story is a testament to the transformative power of spatial thinking. Tune in now to be inspired and informed!
"If you're gonna do a job, you have to be able to have the power to do the job. You need to be at the table where decisions are made, not just for your benefit, but to truly make an impact and drive change."
Passion
Linda Stevens' passion for geography and GIS shines through her career journey. Initially a communications major, she discovered her love for geography in college, leading her to pivot her studies and career focus. Her enthusiasm for geographic thinking and its applications in solving real-world problems drives her continuous dedication to the field. Linda's passion is evident in her commitment to using GIS technology to understand and improve the world around us.
Action
Linda's career is marked by proactive steps and innovative contributions. At Esri, she didn't wait for opportunities to present themselves; she created her own space and spearheaded significant projects. From pioneering utility mapping solutions to transitioning Esri's focus from services to products, Linda's actions have consistently driven progress. Her initiative in founding groups like Geospatial Innovations further demonstrates her commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the GIS community.
Tenacity
Linda's tenacity is a cornerstone of her success. Facing a male-dominated industry and numerous professional challenges, she persevered and excelled. Teaching herself ArcInfo at night and advocating for her place at Esri's decision-making table are just a few examples of her determination. Linda's refusal to accept the status quo and her relentless pursuit of excellence have not only advanced her career but also contributed significantly to the growth and development of the GIS field.
Humility
Despite her achievements, Linda remains humble and reflective about her journey. She openly discusses the difficulties she faced, including gender bias and the evolving challenges within the tech industry. Her willingness to start over after leaving Esri and her continuous drive to learn and adapt highlight her humility. Linda's focus on the well-being and success of others, whether through mentoring or advocating for better industry practices, underscores her modest and service-oriented approach to leadership.
About Linda
Linda Stevens is a passionate advocate for empowering organizations and individuals to realize their full potential. With extensive expertise in geospatial technology, including GIS, mapping, analysis, and data management, Linda has shaped product strategies, secured funding, revitalized branding, and driven sales growth for numerous businesses. As the former Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Esri, she transformed the company into a market leader, generating over $1 billion in revenue. Her unique approach to business embodies spatial thinking, bringing geospatial concepts to life. Linda collaborates with startups, nonprofits, consultants, and investors, helping them develop strategies that drive growth and innovation in the GIS industry.
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