Uma Subramanian: How to Build Influence, Authority, and Lasting Impact in STEM Leadership - 072

This episode of "Lunch with Leaders" with Uma Subramanian and Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya explores how professionals—especially women in STEM—can bridge the perception gap to become visible and sought-after leaders. Uma Subramanian shares actionable frameworks for building influence, communicating value, and developing a powerful leadership reputation. Key topics include the SOAR framework, overcoming self-doubt, leveraging failure, and building supportive networks to maximize career impact. Connect with Uma Subramanian Online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uma-subramanian-limitless  https://thelimitlessleaders.com Who Is This For? This episode is primarily for professional women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), especially those in mid-career and senior leadership roles who feel overlooked, undervalued, or are seeking greater visibility and impact at work. About 30% of listeners are men, so the insights are useful for all ambitious professionals aiming to close the "perception gap" and become sought-after leaders. Key Moments & Timestamps 00:00:00: Uma Subramanian shares her background and journey of self-intentional growth. 00:02:20: Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya introduces the goal of the podcast and Uma Subramanian's leadership journey. 00:03:10: The motivation behind founding Limitless Leaders. 00:04:26: Identifying the perception gap in organizations. 00:07:39: Deep dive: what is the perception gap and why it matters for career advancement. 00:08:28: Uma Subramanian shares a formative Microsoft story about misattribution of credit and learning to "own the narrative." 00:16:13: What it means to be a “sought-after leader.” 00:18:19: The difference between great and sought-after leaders. 00:24:03: Introduction to the SOAR framework (Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority, Relationship Mastery). 00:29:00: The importance of inner work, belief, and resilience in leadership. 00:33:38: The concept of a "trusted circle" as vital support for leaders. 00:39:43: Normalizing, reframing, and responding to failure. 00:46:29: Long-term impact: What Uma Subramanian hopes listeners achieve. 00:47:27: Where to find Uma Subramanian and her book. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q: What is the perception gap? A: The gap between the value you truly create and what others see, understand, and trust about your leadership (08:02). Q: Why do women in STEM struggle with visibility and advancement? A: Many are in the minority, often misunderstood or overlooked, and may not communicate their value clearly at work (14:49). Q: What is the SOAR framework? A: Strategic Impact, Outstanding Communication, Authority/Personal Brand, and Relationship Mastery (24:03). Q: How do I become a sought-after leader? A: By thinking beyond your role, building cross-organizational relationships, clear value communication, and developing self-belief and resilience (18:19, 24:19). Q: How should leaders approach failure? A: Normalize and reframe failure as data or feedback, and seek support from a trusted circle (39:43, 34:25). Action Steps Assess Your Perception Gap: Reflect on whether your contributions and reputation match—seek feedback (08:17). Speak for Your Work: Ensure your value is actively communicated, not just assumed (10:44). Expand Relationships: Intentionally build networks and trusted circles for support and advocacy (20:41; 34:25). Develop Your SOAR Skills: Focus on strategic thinking, communication, personal branding, and influence (24:03). Embrace Failure as Feedback: When setbacks occur, reframe them as learning opportunities and seek guidance (40:49). Clarify Your Vision: Define what you truly want in your leadership journey (42:40). Get the Book: Read “The Sought After Leader” for frameworks and practical exercises (47:39); connect with Uma Subramanian on LinkedIn for continued support.