‘Not Working in Tech’ is a candid new podcast series hosted by Jess Lattif in which she explores what really happens behind the glossy façade of the tech industry.
After nearly a decade working in some of the biggest names in tech, Jess reflects on her winding journey into — and ultimately out of — the industry.
In this podcast she talks to others like her who have worked in tech, to hear about their experiences, good and bad, and what they have learned from the industry. This podcast is where the real stories of working—and not working—in tech begin.
Josh Jonas, Clinical Director at the Village Institute for Psychotherapy, and podcast host of Punk Rock Therapy, discusses the pervasive issue of burnout in the tech industry. He works with high-performing clients who have extensively communicated the cultural pressure to be busy as a measure of worth, noting an increase in workplace issues due to constant optimization and the impact of COVID-19. Josh emphasizes that burnout often stems from self-imposed hyper-productivity and the need for external validation. He suggests that therapy can help individuals recognize and address these deep-seated beliefs. Jonas also advocates for self-care practices and the importance of finding value outside of work.
22 Apr 2026
Ep.6: A designer and storyteller’s journey through, and out of tech
Tara Kelly, a former UX designer and startup founder, discusses her journey from Italy to Silicon Valley, her burnout experiences, and her transition to writing children's books. She highlights her early career in Italy, where she worked on a 911 call center redesign, and her subsequent move to the US. Tara shares her challenges as a single parent and founder, including the sale of her company and the subsequent burnout she faced. She emphasizes the importance of systems, storytelling, and maintaining relationships post-tech. Tara's story underscores the need for a sustainable work-life balance and the value of proactive career management.
15 Apr 2026
Ep.5: Leading from within
David, a former Vice President at AT&T, shared his journey from humble beginnings in Dallas to leading a billion-dollar program. Raised by a hardworking single mother, David's early experiences instilled a strong work ethic. He joined AT&T without aspirations for the corporate ladder but eventually transitioned to management due to a lack of seniority for technician roles. David emphasized the importance of mentorship, resilience, and positive leadership. He highlighted his innovative strategies during the pandemic, such as banning emails and encouraging team collaboration. Post-AT&T, David continues to mentor youth in STEM and runs a podcast facility leveraging AI.
8 Apr 2026
Ep.4: What tech employees should know about their finances — during their tech careers and beyond
Suhas Joshi, a former engineer and engineering manager at companies like Stripe, Facebook, and Microsoft, shared his career journey and transition from tech to financial advising. He discussed his initial success at Microsoft, his move to Facebook, and the cultural changes and challenges at Stripe, particularly during the pandemic. Suhas emphasized the importance of work-life balance, financial independence, and the need for tech professionals to consider career breaks and job changes to avoid burnout. He highlighted the common financial pitfalls in tech, such as concentration risk and misperception of financial needs, and advised early-career professionals to focus on growth and long-term career sustainability.
1 Apr 2026
Ep.3: A woman at the table
Jane, a former Meta employee, shares her experience of gender discrimination, fear-based management techniques, and the legal battle that ensued. Jane is pushing for meaningful change in the tech industry, and hoping to help others who face similar issues, as a cautionary tale and advocate.
25 Mar 2026
Ep.2: How big tech handles grief
Shimi, a technical writer with 25 years in tech, shared her experiences navigating bereavement leave at Google. She highlighted the company's evolving bereavement policies, from unclear guidelines to a clear one-month leave. Shimi discussed the impact of losing her father and husband during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and understanding one's rights. She also contrasted Google's past humane layoffs with the impersonal 2023 layoffs, which led to her departure in 2024. Shimi advised new tech entrants to know their rights, communicate effectively, and maintain a work-life balance.
18 Mar 2026
Ep.1: We learned at “the crying lunch” what’s Not Working in Tech with Ashley Finlayson
Jessica Lattif hosts the "Not Working in Tech" podcast, sharing stories of the tech industry's challenges.
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