Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Breaking into ITWelcome to another episode of "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge." In this episode, we have Terry Kim, the founder of NGT Academy, as our guest. NGT Academy is a vocational training school that offers hands-on training in network engineering, cybersecurity, and other IT fields. Terry shares his insights on the challenges of traditional education, the importance of hands-on training, and the future of the IT industry.The Need for Alternative EducationTerry started NGT Academy in 2016 out of a passion for teaching and a belief that traditional college education is not the only path to a successful career in IT. He saw many colleges charging exorbitant fees for bachelor's degrees in network administration or cybersecurity, only to find graduates struggling to find jobs in the open job market. Terry believes that the fastest way to break into IT is through hands-on training and practical experience."The big idea was that there is an alternative to college. You can work on IT projects, get IT certifications, and work your way up the corporate ladder." - TerryNGT Academy: From Zero to Engineer in MonthsNGT Academy offers a comprehensive training program that takes individuals from zero to engineer in just a few months. The program starts with building a strong foundation in networking fundamentals, such as understanding how packets move throughout the network and learning the OSI model. Once the foundation is established, students are assigned multiple capstone projects where they get to architect, plan, and configure an entire infrastructure."Our training is project-based with mentorship and weekly live coaching. We provide practical, hands-on coaching, mentorship, and a white-glove training experience." - TerryThe program covers both network engineering and cybersecurity, and students have the opportunity to earn up to nine certifications. NGT Academy also provides white-glove career services, including mock interviews, resume and cover letter assistance, and job matching with over 500 employers in their network.Success Rate and Career OpportunitiesNGT Academy boasts an impressive success rate, with an average of 88% to 92% of graduates finding careers in IT. Terry attributes this high success rate to the practical, hands-on nature of their training program. Graduates come out of the program with over 100 real-world skills that they can apply on day one of their job."The fastest way to move up in IT is to learn the technology, learn the devices, learn the configurations, and actually tinker around with these IT gadgets and solutions." - TerryThe Importance of Hands-On TrainingTerry emphasizes the importance of hands-on training and the limitations of traditional education. He recalls encountering job candidates with impressive certifications but lacking practical skills. He believes that true expertise comes from getting your hands dirty and working on real-world projects."The fastest way to level up your skills is to learn the technology, learn the devices, learn the configurations, and actually tinker around with these IT gadgets and solutions." - TerryTraining for the Future: AI and AutomationTerry believes that the future of IT lies in automation and artificial intelligence (AI). He sees AI as a tool to automate mundane tasks and free up time for IT professionals to focus on more creative and innovative work. He predicts that AI will be integrated with container solutions, allowing for faster and more efficient deployments at a wider scale."AI is going to allow a lot more creativity and innovation. It's going to create exponential growth in our technologies." - TerryWhile Terry acknowledges the potential risks and ethical concerns associated with AI, he remains optimistic about its positive impact on the IT industry. He believes that embracing new technologies and staying up to date with the latest trends is crucial for IT professionals to thrive in the evolving landscape.Building a Successful IT TeamTerry offers advice to IT directors and CIOs on how to manage and train their workforce effectively. He emphasizes the importance of providing a clear career progression plan and opportunities for advancement within the organization. By creating an environment that promotes upward mobility and cross-departmental movement, IT leaders can retain and motivate their employees."Give them a career progression plan. Show them that there's upward mobility and advancement that can happen over a career." - TerryTerry also encourages IT professionals to volunteer for projects outside of their immediate roles to gain exposure to different areas of the business. By taking on new challenges and solving complex problems, individuals can demonstrate their value and position themselves for career growth.Conclusion: The Future of ITIn conclusion, the IT industry is rapidly evolving, and traditional education alone may not be sufficient to keep up with the pace of change. Hands-on training, practical experience, and a passion for learning are essential for success in the IT field. As AI and automation continue to shape the industry, IT professionals must embrace new technologies and stay up to date with the latest trends. By fostering a culture of innovation and providing opportunities for career advancement, IT leaders can build successful teams and drive their organizations forward in the digital age.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: An Interview with Atlas AultmanBy Mike, Host of Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWelcome back to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge. Today, we have a special guest, Atlas Aultman, a five-time bestselling author. Atlas has a fascinating background in the military and technology. In this interview, we delve into his experiences and insights, exploring topics such as leadership, team dynamics, stress management, and the future of AI. Let's dive in and gain the technology leadership edge with Atlas Aultman.Background and LeadershipAtlas Aultman's journey began in the Air Force, a decision that surprised his mother, who came from an army background. However, Atlas followed his father's advice and joined the Air Force, where he found great success. He emphasizes the importance of being a leader who can motivate and empower their team, rather than simply telling them what to do. Atlas believes that leaders should focus on understanding their team members' passions and placing them in roles where they can excel. He states, "People are passionate about things, but no one's going to tell you what their passions are unless you ask."The Role of Technology in the MilitaryAtlas Aultman's experience as a technologist in the military provided him with unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of working with technology. He highlights the importance of effective communication and problem-solving skills for tech professionals. Atlas emphasizes the need to go beyond temporary fixes and truly understand the root cause of a problem. He states, "The tech person has to be an excellent communicator to be able to pull it out and figure out what the actual problem is, not band-aid a solution for them."Stress Management and Different Stress ModelsAtlas Aultman discusses the different stress models he encountered throughout his military career. From changing the Air Force promotion system to working in high-pressure situations, Atlas learned the importance of managing stress effectively. He explains that stress can come in various forms, and it is crucial to adapt and develop strategies to handle different stressors. Atlas believes that understanding oneself and knowing one's strengths and weaknesses is essential for effective stress management.The Power of Targets over GoalsAtlas Aultman introduces the concept of targets versus goals. He argues that targets are more effective than goals because they provide a clear focus and allow for adjustments along the way. Atlas draws an analogy to shooting at a target, where hitting the target is the primary objective. He states, "If you give people more than three things, they dump it because it's too much. If you give them one thing done, they can focus on that and move forward."The Rise of AI and Its ImplicationsAtlas Aultman expresses his enthusiasm for AI and its potential to revolutionize various industries. He shares his personal experience of using AI as a personal assistant and highlights its ability to provide valuable insights and recommendations. However, he also emphasizes the importance of human oversight and decision-making. Atlas cautions against blindly trusting AI and encourages individuals to use AI as a tool rather than relying solely on its outputs.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Atlas Aultman's insights provide valuable lessons for technology leaders. Effective leadership, clear communication, stress management, and the integration of AI are all crucial elements in gaining the technology leadership edge. As technology continues to advance, leaders must adapt and embrace new tools and strategies to stay ahead. By understanding the power of targets, fostering a strong team dynamic, and leveraging the potential of AI, technology leaders can navigate the ever-changing landscape and drive innovation.The future holds exciting possibilities for technology leadership, and it is up to leaders to embrace these opportunities and guide their teams towards success. With the right mindset, a focus on continuous learning, and a commitment to empowering their teams, technology leaders can shape the future of their organizations and gain the technology leadership edge.

The Future of Tech Startups: Embracing Change and Empowering TeamsWelcome to another episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge. Today, we have a special guest, Nash Seshan, who will share his insights and experiences in the tech startup world. In this article, we will explore the main themes discussed in our conversation, including the importance of embracing change, empowering teams, and the future of AI. Let's dive in and discover the potential impact of these themes on the tech industry.Embracing Change: The Key to Success in the Tech IndustryNash Seshan, a seasoned professional with 14 years of experience in the tech industry, emphasizes the importance of embracing change. He believes that change is the only constant in the industry and that those who can adapt and evolve will thrive. According to Nash, "The sooner you make peace with this idea, the better it is for you to embrace change."Nash's experience in the startup world has taught him the value of questioning the status quo and constantly seeking improvement. He explains, "I was always asking questions about why are we doing this? Who's going to use this? And is there enough interest and how are they going to use it?" Nash believes that this mindset is crucial for success in the tech industry, as it allows individuals to stay ahead of the curve and identify new opportunities.Empowering Teams: The Key to Effective LeadershipAs a leader, Nash has learned the importance of empowering his team members and giving them the autonomy to make decisions. He believes in a leadership style he calls "constrained autonomy," where individuals are provided with a set of constraints based on their experience and skills, but are given the freedom to make decisions within those boundaries.Nash explains, "You empower and trust your individuals on your team to do the best that they can do because they're there for a reason. It's blind trust. You give it before you receive it from them." This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among team members but also allows them to learn from their mistakes and grow professionally.The Future of AI: Promise and ConcernsWhen discussing the future of AI, Nash highlights its potential to revolutionize various industries, such as medicine and transportation. He mentions the use of AI in diagnosing medical conditions and the development of self-driving cars as promising applications. However, he also expresses concerns about the impact of AI on the art industry.Nash raises the question of who should receive royalties when AI generates music or mimics the work of artists. He says, "If we move into a world where music becomes AI predominantly, folks like me are probably going to lose interest in music, which is a huge part of my life." This raises ethical and legal challenges that need to be addressed as AI continues to advance.Implications and Potential ImpactThe themes discussed in our conversation have significant implications for the tech industry. Embracing change allows individuals and organizations to stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. By questioning the status quo and seeking improvement, tech professionals can identify new opportunities and drive innovation.Empowering teams is crucial for effective leadership. By giving team members autonomy and trust, leaders can foster a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to increased productivity and growth. This leadership style also encourages individuals to learn from their mistakes and take risks, ultimately driving innovation within the organization.The future of AI holds both promise and concerns. While AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries, such as medicine and transportation, ethical and legal challenges need to be addressed. The impact of AI on the art industry raises questions about ownership and royalties, highlighting the need for clear regulations and guidelines.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, the tech industry is constantly evolving, and those who can embrace change and empower their teams will have a competitive edge. The future of AI holds great promise, but it also raises ethical and legal concerns that need to be addressed. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for tech professionals and leaders to stay curious, be aware of new developments, and make informed decisions about their implementation.The future of tech startups lies in the hands of those who can adapt, innovate, and lead with a focus on empowering their teams. By embracing change and leveraging the potential of AI responsibly, the tech industry can continue to drive progress and improve the quality of life for people around the world.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Revenue StrategiesWelcome back to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge." In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mark Osborne, the founder of Modern Revenue Strategies. Mark is a marketing technology trailblazer who has been recognized for his expertise in using data and technology to leverage marketing efforts. In this interview, Mark shares his insights on the importance of automation in marketing, the future of advertising in light of privacy concerns, the struggles with lead generation, and the power of storytelling in attracting the right customers.The Importance of Automation in MarketingMark emphasizes the vital role that automation plays in the marketing process, particularly for early-stage companies. He believes that systems set you free and that automation can enhance efficiency and reliability. However, he cautions against chasing after shiny new tools or growth hacks without a solid foundation and strategic approach. Mark advises companies to focus on building scalable systems and then layering in technology to enhance and automate those systems. He warns against relying too heavily on automation without human oversight, as it can lead to errors and inauthenticity."Systems lend themselves well to automation, but one of the things that we do see companies get distracted by is this sort of idea of chasing a silver bullet or a growth hack or some way to game the algorithm that's going to magically make their business double."The Future of Advertising in the Face of Privacy ConcernsWith the increasing focus on privacy and the limitations placed on tracking by platforms like Apple, Mark discusses the future of advertising. He explains that there are two main approaches being taken: pixel substitutes and permission-based panels. While pixel substitutes can be effective in linking data and optimizing targeting, they often bypass privacy concerns and introduce selection bias. Mark believes that permission-based panels, where individuals expressly give their consent to be tracked, offer a more representative and privacy-conscious solution."These pixel replacement solutions fundamentally skip the privacy mandate and then they also introduce a lot of selection bias... Permission-based panels can provide a much more robust and representative picture of the marketplace."Struggles with Lead GenerationMark highlights the challenges faced by companies in lead generation, particularly in the B2B space. He explains that targeting a niche audience on platforms like Facebook can be difficult due to the algorithm's reliance on large amounts of data. Instead, Mark advises companies to understand their ideal customer profile and buyer personas, and to map out the customer decision journey. By identifying where their target audience seeks information and engaging with them authentically, companies can achieve more efficient and effective advertising."If you really understand that journey and the informational needs they have at each stage of that journey, then you can find where they are and engage with them in a way that's much more authentic and much more powerful."The Power of Storytelling in Attracting the Right CustomersMark emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing and its ability to connect with customers on an emotional level. He explains that storytelling has been a fundamental means of communication throughout human history and taps into our evolutionary instincts. By framing the customer as the hero and positioning the brand as the guide on their journey, companies can create a powerful narrative that resonates with their target audience. Mark advises companies to balance emotion with logic and authenticity, ensuring that their storytelling aligns with their long-term vision and values."You want your customer to be the hero... You want to be the guide that takes them through this journey of transformation... using evidence along the way to show how you've created this transformation for your clients."Working with Modern Revenue StrategiesMark describes the process of working with Modern Revenue Strategies, highlighting their focus on helping companies achieve a 10x return on investment (ROI) within six months. The company begins with a free diagnostic to identify the client's biggest growth opportunities. They then collaborate with the client to develop a 90-day plan that aligns with their long-term objectives. Modern Revenue Strategies takes a hands-on approach, acting as an outsourced marketing executive and providing ongoing support to ensure the client's success."We really see ourselves as different from an agency that just says, 'Spend more money,' or a consultant that says, 'Here's something, good luck.' We take ownership of our customers' success and act as their marketing leadership."In conclusion, Mark Osborne's insights shed light on the importance of automation, the future of advertising, lead generation challenges, and the power of storytelling in marketing. By focusing on building scalable systems, leveraging data and technology, and authentically engaging with their target audience, companies can achieve significant growth and success. Modern Revenue Strategies offers a comprehensive approach to revenue generation, helping companies attract the right opportunities, accelerate sales, and activate existing clients. With their expertise and commitment to delivering results, Modern Revenue Strategies is a valuable partner for companies seeking to gain the technology leadership edge.

The Features and Benefits of Virtual StorefrontsVirtual Storefronts offers a range of features that make it a powerful tool for small businesses. One of the standout features is the ability to easily update and customize the storefront. Business owners have full control over their storefront, allowing them to add or remove keywords, update business descriptions, and even add links to external websites. This flexibility ensures that businesses can keep their online presence up-to-date and relevant.The platform also includes a live feed feature, where businesses can make announcements or share updates with their customers. This feature eliminates the need for businesses to rely on social media platforms or other channels to communicate with their customers. Tobin explains, "We just need to tell shoppers about a weekly announcement. We just need to tell shoppers that we just need a reminder on a bulletin board." By streamlining the communication process, Virtual Storefronts enables businesses to focus on what they do best – serving their customers.The Nationwide Launch and Future OutlookVirtual Storefronts initially conducted a pilot program in western North Carolina to test the viability of its platform. With the success of the pilot, Virtual Storefronts is now gearing up for a nationwide launch. Businesses from all over the country can now sign up and take advantage of this innovative solution. The nationwide feed will showcase businesses from various regions, providing shoppers with a comprehensive view of local offerings.The implications of Virtual Storefronts are far-reaching. By simplifying the process of establishing an online presence, Virtual Storefronts opens up new opportunities for small businesses to thrive in the digital landscape. It empowers local businesses to compete against larger franchises and chain stores, giving them a marketing edge. Additionally, Virtual Storefronts fosters a sense of community by highlighting the unique offerings of local businesses and encouraging shoppers to support their local economy.As technology continues to evolve, Virtual Storefronts is poised to revolutionize the way small businesses approach their online presence. By providing a user-friendly platform and a range of powerful features, Virtual Storefronts is bridging the gap between small businesses and the digital world. With its nationwide launch, Virtual Storefronts is set to transform the way we shop and support local businesses.In conclusion, Virtual Storefronts is a game-changer for small businesses, offering a simplified and comprehensive solution for establishing an online presence. By empowering local businesses and highlighting their unique offerings, Virtual Storefronts is reshaping the digital landscape and fostering a sense of community. With its nationwide launch, Virtual Storefronts is poised to revolutionize the way we shop and support local businesses.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Lessons from an AI StartupWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast where we explore the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Zach Ratner, the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Yembo, a computer vision technology company. Zach has over 15 years of experience in software engineering and has worked on various projects, including scaling a Flashcard studying tool to over 3 million users and serving as a software lead for Qualcomm's internal innovation program. He is also the author of the book "Grow Up Fast," which shares valuable lessons from his experience in the AI startup world.Yembo: Revolutionizing Home Services with AIYembo is a software company that provides computer vision technology to home services industries such as movers and insurance companies. Their software allows these companies to perform visual estimates, streamlining a traditionally labor-intensive and complicated process. By leveraging AI technology, Yembo's software enables movers and insurers to identify and assess items in a customer's home more efficiently, providing a better customer experience and improving overall workflow.Overcoming Challenges in the AI Startup SpaceStarting an AI startup comes with its fair share of challenges. Zach shares that when Yembo shipped its first version of the product, many aspects were still immature, and the industry they were selling into was relatively inexperienced. They had to figure out a lot of things from scratch and iterate constantly. One of the key challenges they faced was the perception of AI among potential clients. Many people have misconceptions about AI, often associating it with negative images from movies like "Terminator" or "2001: A Space Odyssey." Zach emphasizes that AI is not about replacing humans but about making processes faster and easier. It's important to educate clients about the benefits of AI and how it can enhance their work rather than render them obsolete.The Power of Delegation and IterationAs Yembo grew rapidly, Zach realized the importance of delegation and iteration. He recognized that he couldn't do everything himself and that by empowering his team members to take ownership of certain processes, they could achieve more collectively. Delegating tasks and responsibilities allowed Zach to focus on strategic initiatives and new product development. He also encouraged an iterative approach, where team members were given the freedom to experiment, learn from their mistakes, and continuously improve processes. This approach not only fostered a culture of innovation but also provided growth opportunities for employees within the company.Leveraging Time Zones for ProductivityYembo's remote work policy, which was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, presented its own set of challenges. However, Zach and his team turned this challenge into an opportunity by leveraging time zones to their advantage. They divided their workflow into three different buckets, with each bucket assigned to a team in a different time zone. This allowed them to make progress 24 hours a day without burning out any individual team member. By carefully coordinating their work across different time zones, they were able to streamline their processes and achieve faster results.Effective Communication in a Remote Work EnvironmentCommunication became a critical aspect of Yembo's operations in a remote work environment. With team members spread across different locations and time zones, it was essential to establish clear communication channels and protocols. Zach emphasizes the importance of being mindful of time zones when scheduling meetings and involving the right people. He also highlights the need for open and honest feedback, encouraging team members to share their thoughts and ideas freely. By fostering a culture of open communication, Yembo was able to overcome the challenges of remote work and maintain a strong team dynamic.The Impact of Empowering EmployeesEmpowering employees to take ownership of their work and providing growth opportunities has had a significant impact on staff retention at Yembo. By allowing team members to explore different roles and responsibilities within the company, Yembo has created an environment where employees can do their best work and continue to grow professionally. This approach has not only contributed to employee satisfaction but has also resulted in a wealth of institutional knowledge within the company. Employees who have been with Yembo for several years have become experts in their respective areas, making them invaluable assets to the company's continued success."Grow Up Fast": Lessons for AI StartupsZach's book, "Grow Up Fast: Lessons from an AI Startup," encapsulates the key learnings from his experience in the AI startup world. The book covers topics such as finding your first customers, tackling audacious technical projects, managing teams, and dealing with time zones. It aims to debunk the myth that AI is a mystical and unattainable concept, showing that with the right approach and mindset, anyone can leverage AI to drive innovation and success. The book provides practical insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and technology leaders looking to navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Zach Ratner's journey with Yembo highlights the importance of delegation, iteration, effective communication, and empowering employees in the AI startup space. By leveraging AI technology and embracing a growth mindset, Yembo has revolutionized the home services industry and achieved significant growth. The lessons learned from Yembo's experience can serve as a guide for other AI startups and technology leaders looking to gain a competitive edge in their respective industries. As AI continues to evolve and shape the future of technology, the opportunities for innovation and growth are limitless.As we look to the future, it is clear that AI will play an increasingly significant role in various industries. The key lies in understanding the potential of AI, debunking misconceptions, and finding creative ways to leverage its power. With the right approach and a willingness to adapt and iterate, technology leaders can position themselves and their companies at the forefront of the AI revolution. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are well worth it. So, let's embrace the opportunities that AI presents and continue to gain the technology leadership edge.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Creating a Neuro-Inclusive WorkspaceWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategy, and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we dive into the topic of neurodiversity and the unique challenges and perspectives of neurodivergent leaders. Our guest, Shea Belsky, Chief Technology Officer of mentra, shares his experiences and insights on creating a more neuro-inclusive workspace for everyone.Introduction: Embracing Neurodiversity in the WorkplaceNeurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and celebrates the natural variations in human brain function and behavior. It encompasses individuals with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on creating inclusive work environments that value and support neurodivergent employees.In this episode, we explore the unique aspects of working with neurodivergent staff members and the challenges faced by neurodivergent leaders. Shea Belsky, an autistic self-advocate and changemaker, shares his experiences as a neurodivergent leader and offers insights into how companies can be more aware and supportive of their neurodivergent employees.The Unique Perspectives of Neurodivergent LeadersOne of the key differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical leaders is their unique perspective and approach to problem-solving. Neurodivergent individuals often have a different way of looking at the world and can offer fresh insights and innovative solutions. Shea explains:"The uniqueness of a neurodivergent employee comes from their perspective, their history, and how they translate things from their life into work and vice versa."While some neurodivergent individuals may be risk-takers, others may be more cautious. It is important to recognize and understand the individual differences within the neurodivergent community. Shea emphasizes the importance of open communication and creating a "Manual of Me" document that outlines each individual's working style, preferences, and needs:"It has a lot of benefits for everyone, not just neurodivergent people. And that's a huge thing that comes up - how do I help a neurodivergent person succeed without isolating them, ostracizing them, or worse, discriminating against them?"Supporting Neurodivergent LeadersOne of the biggest challenges for neurodivergent leaders is the lack of support and structure to help them grow and succeed in their roles. While there are resources available for neurodivergent individuals entering the workforce, there is a gap when it comes to leadership training and development. Shea shares his personal struggle with conflict resolution and the need for specialized training and support for neurodivergent leaders:"A lot of the support and structure that comes about for neurodivergent employees is really focused on just getting them in at the ground level, getting them into the job for the first time. There isn't a whole lot of support or leadership training or structure to help take them to the next level."To address this challenge, companies need to provide tailored training and support for neurodivergent leaders. A one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective, as each individual has unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. Shea emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creating an environment where neurodivergent leaders are allowed to fail and learn from their mistakes:"It's about creating an environment where people can fail, for people, and that goes for anybody, not just people who are neurodivergent. But with neurodivergent people, that environment where they are allowed to fail or allowed to screw up and learn from their mistakes is extremely important."Neuro-Inclusion Efforts in the WorkplaceMany companies are recognizing the importance of neuro-inclusion and are implementing initiatives to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for neurodivergent employees. Shea highlights the efforts of companies like HubSpot and Wayfair, which have established disability ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) and accessibility working groups to address the specific needs of neurodivergent individuals:"HubSpot and Wayfair made a really big point about creating an environment where disabled and/or neurodivergent people felt like they could talk with people who were like them, socialize, learn from each other, enrich each other, and also create meaningful, lasting change within the organization."These initiatives not only support neurodivergent employees but also contribute to the overall success and diversity of the company. Shea emphasizes the importance of celebrating and championing these efforts to attract and retain neurodivergent talent:"People can have these initiatives, they can have these programs, but not tell anyone. They might feel like they're embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it, but why would they? The point of all these things is to feel proud of it and to feel really thrilled that you're creating an awesome environment for people."Mentra: Empowering Neurodivergent Job Seekers and EmployersShea is the Chief Technology Officer of mentra, a hiring platform for neurodivergent job seekers. Mentra aims to support neurodivergent individuals in finding meaningful employment and help companies create neuro-inclusive work environments. Shea explains the dual focus of mentra:"There's how do we hire more neurodivergent people for the organization, and then how do we create an inclusive and welcoming environment for people who are already there?"Mentra works with job seekers, career coaches, and organizations to bridge the gap between neurodivergent talent and employment opportunities. By providing support, resources, and education, mentra aims to create a more equitable and inclusive job market for neurodivergent individuals.Conclusion: Embracing Neurodiversity for a Brighter FutureAs we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the workplace, it is crucial that we embrace neurodiversity and create inclusive environments that value and support all individuals. The unique perspectives and talents of neurodivergent leaders can drive innovation, creativity, and success within organizations.By providing tailored training, support, and accommodations, companies can empower neurodivergent leaders to thrive in their roles. Open communication, collaboration, and a willingness to learn from one another are key to creating a neuro-inclusive workspace.As Shea Belsky and mentra demonstrate, there is a growing movement to champion neurodiversity and create a brighter future for all individuals in the workforce. By embracing neurodiversity, we can unlock the full potential of every individual and foster a more inclusive and innovative workplace.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Insights from Eric GerardWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Eric Girard, who has over 30 years of experience helping improve the performance of managers and employees. Eric specializes in developing new managers and focuses on their successful transition to new roles and team management skills. He has a passion for helping new managers make a smooth transition and land well in their new positions. In this article, we will delve into the key themes discussed in the podcast and explore the implications and potential impact of these insights. The Importance of Empathy in LeadershipOne of the main themes discussed by Eric Girard is the importance of empathy in leadership. According to Eric, "in 2023, what's needed of managers more than ever is an empathetic mindset." He emphasizes the need for managers to bring empathy to the table and be able to empathize with their employees. This involves actively listening, understanding, and connecting with employees on a deep human level. Eric suggests that managers should strive to create a safe space where employees feel heard and supported."Empathy is all about not just listening to someone and saying, 'Wow, sucks to be you, that's too bad.' But really figuratively walking a mile in somebody's shoes, feeling what they're feeling, and going through what they're going through," explains Eric. He encourages managers to go beyond surface-level sympathy and truly understand the emotions and experiences of their team members. By doing so, managers can build trust, foster stronger relationships, and create a positive work environment. The Transition from Individual Contributor to ManagerAnother significant theme discussed by Eric Girard is the challenging transition from individual contributor to manager. Many new managers struggle because they are promoted based on their exceptional performance as individual contributors, but they lack the necessary skills to lead and manage a team effectively. Eric highlights the need for a mindset shift from being a task-oriented individual contributor to becoming a leader who gets results through people."What got you here won't get you there," says Eric, referencing a book by Marshall Goldsmith. He explains that new managers often make the mistake of continuing to focus on tasks and trying to do everything themselves. However, the key to success as a manager lies in developing the ability to delegate, set goals, establish trust, and provide coaching and feedback to team members. Eric emphasizes the importance of investing time in learning these essential management skills to ensure a successful transition. Building Trust and Setting Clear GoalsTo get their team behind them and onboard with their agenda, new managers need to focus on building trust and setting clear goals. Eric suggests that managers should spend time getting to know their team members on a personal level. By being transparent and vulnerable, managers can create a sense of trust and connection. Eric shares his own experience of sharing his interests and hobbies with his team to establish a deeper connection beyond work-related matters.Once trust is established, setting clear goals becomes crucial. Eric recommends conducting a group exercise to set clear, smart goals or OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). This exercise ensures that everyone on the team knows who is responsible for what, how much, and by when. By setting clear goals, managers provide a sense of direction and purpose to their team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. The Role of Change Management in LeadershipChange management is another important aspect of leadership that Eric Girard highlights. He emphasizes the need for managers to understand the people side of change and not just focus on the technical aspects. Eric explains that change initiatives often fail because organizations neglect the social and emotional impact of change on employees."Dealing with human emotions is difficult and uncomfortable, and so a lot of folks ignore it or downplay it," says Eric. He encourages managers to address the emotional aspects of change by creating a safe space for employees to express their concerns and fears. By involving employees in the change process and addressing their needs, managers can mitigate resistance to change and ensure a smoother transition. Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Eric Girard's insights provide valuable guidance for new managers and technology leaders. The importance of empathy, the mindset shift from individual contributor to manager, building trust, setting clear goals, and embracing change management are all critical elements of effective leadership. By incorporating these principles into their leadership approach, managers can create a positive work environment, foster strong relationships with their team members, and drive successful outcomes.As technology continues to evolve and shape the business landscape, the role of technology leaders becomes increasingly crucial. By staying ahead of the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership, managers can gain a competitive edge and drive innovation within their organizations. It is essential for technology leaders to continuously learn, adapt, and develop their skills to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the technology industry.In the future, we can expect technology leaders to play an even more significant role in driving digital transformation, leveraging emerging technologies, and leading remote and diverse teams. By embracing the principles discussed by Eric Girard and staying abreast of the latest developments in technology leadership, managers can position themselves for success and make a lasting impact in their organizations.To learn more about Eric Girard and his insights on technology leadership, you can connect with him on LinkedIn or visit his website at girardtrainingsolutions.com. Additionally, be sure to check out his book, "Lead Like a Pro: The Essential Guide for New Managers," which provides a comprehensive resource for new managers seeking to enhance their leadership skills.Remember, the key to gaining the technology leadership edge lies in empathy, effective communication, continuous learning, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Stay curious, stay updated, and show them who's boss in the world of technology leadership.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Automation and Personal BrandingWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest strategies and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we have Brian Kelly, an entrepreneur, trainer, author, speaker, certified NLP practitioner, and automation expert. Brian is known as the automation master and helps entrepreneurs and business owners automate their processes to achieve success. Today, we will delve into the world of automation, personal branding, and the power of appearing on podcasts.The Power of AutomationBrian Kelly, an expert in automation, shares his journey from being a software developer to becoming an entrepreneur. He realized the importance of automation early on in his career and how it can save time, money, and improve the quality of work. Brian explains, "When you have repetitive tasks that don't really require a human being, if you're able to digitize it, program it into something, it saves you an inordinate amount of time and the quality of the result is always top-notch.The Transition to EntrepreneurshipBrian's transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was driven by a desire for freedom and the opportunity to be more creative. He found a sense of belonging in the entrepreneurial community, where he could explore his ideas and make a real impact. Brian shares, "I felt very comfortable being there. It was a lot of people who had a can-do attitude, versus where I was coming from, the corporate world, where it was, 'We've always done it this way, so we're not going to change.'"The Benefits of Appearing on PodcastsAs a technology executive, appearing on podcasts can have numerous benefits. Brian highlights the importance of personal connections and relationships that can be established through podcast appearances. He explains, "The connections you make through personal relationships with the host of the show you're being interviewed on are worth more than any amount of money you could put on it." By appearing on podcasts, technology executives can expand their network, gain exposure, and potentially find solutions to challenges they face in their roles.The Power of Video for Personal BrandingBrian emphasizes the significance of video in developing a personal brand. He believes that video allows people to connect with you on a deeper level, even if they haven't met you in person. Brian states, "If they get to see you on video, they see your facial expressions, they hear your voice, and it becomes like they know you." Video enables technology executives to showcase their expertise, build trust, and establish themselves as thought leaders in their field.The Role of Automation in Producing Live Interview ShowsBrian shares his expertise in helping entrepreneurs produce high-quality live interview shows through automation. He explains how he developed an automated system to streamline the process and ensure professionalism. Brian says, "I realized I needed to do something different, and that's when I came up with a done-for-you service." By automating the production process, entrepreneurs can save time, maintain consistency, and focus on delivering valuable content to their audience.The Referral System for Guest AcquisitionBrian reveals his effective referral system for acquiring guests for his live interview shows. By incentivizing guests to refer other potential guests, Brian has created a self-sustaining network of high-quality referrals. He explains, "I give them a really great valuable gift in return for three very valuable referrals." This referral system not only helps in guest acquisition but also strengthens relationships and expands the network of potential clients and collaborators.The Power of Peak Connector CRMBrian introduces Peak Connector, a CRM software that he uses and recommends to his clients. He highlights the importance of having a CRM that integrates with other tools and platforms, such as Zapier. Brian shares his positive experience with Peak Connector, stating, "It does everything. The key is they have the people behind it that can support it." Peak Connector offers a comprehensive suite of features and provides excellent support, making it a valuable tool for automation and customer relationship management.The Rise of TikTok for BusinessBrian briefly touches on the growing popularity of TikTok and its potential for business growth. While he personally does not use TikTok, he acknowledges its power in reaching a wide audience and creating viral content. Brian advises businesses to explore TikTok as a platform for brand exposure and engagement, stating, "It's kind of cringeworthy, but at the same time, it's low-hanging fruit. I should resell it."Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, automation and personal branding are essential for technology executives looking to gain a competitive edge. By leveraging automation tools and strategies, executives can save time, improve efficiency, and deliver high-quality work. Appearing on podcasts and utilizing video platforms allows executives to establish personal connections, showcase their expertise, and expand their network. With the right CRM software, such as Peak Connector, executives can streamline their processes and effectively manage customer relationships. As technology continues to evolve, executives must stay curious, adapt to new trends, and embrace automation and personal branding to stay ahead in the industry.The future outlook for technology executives is promising, with automation and personal branding becoming increasingly important. By embracing these strategies and leveraging the power of technology, executives can position themselves as industry leaders and drive success in their organizations. As the landscape continues to evolve, executives must stay informed, adapt to new technologies, and continue to build personal connections to maintain their leadership edge.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Deep Dive into Virtual SpeechWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Sophie Thompson, the co-founder and CEO of Virtual Speech. Virtual Speech is an award-winning education platform that combines e-learning with practice exercises online and in virtual reality to help people improve their workplace and communication skills. Sophie shares with us the inspiration behind Virtual Speech and how they are leveraging AI and virtual reality to create a more immersive and effective learning experience.Blending E-Learning with Virtual RealityAt Virtual Speech, the focus is on active learning on demand. Sophie explains that they blend e-learning with practice exercises in virtual reality to create a more engaging and immersive learning experience. The use of virtual reality provides a psychologically safe place for individuals to practice and improve their skills, both in terms of competence and confidence. Sophie highlights the benefits of this approach, stating, "You no longer have to wait for the opportunity to practice public speaking, a job interview, sales, and so on. You can now do that in virtual reality."The Accidental JourneyThe journey of Virtual Speech began as a solution to a personal problem. Sophie shares her own experience with severe social anxiety and how she and her co-founder, Dom, discovered that virtual reality could provide a safe space to build confidence. What started as a fun experiment quickly gained traction, with 100,000 downloads within six months. Sophie reflects on this unexpected success, saying, "We thought perhaps this could become a business and actually help a lot more people."AI Integration: Taking Learning to the Next LevelOne of the most exciting aspects of Virtual Speech is their integration of AI. Sophie explains that they use AI in several ways, including providing feedback on delivery and content, as well as facilitating role-play conversations. The use of generative AI allows for more realistic and dynamic interactions, enabling learners to practice difficult conversations, job interviews, and more. Sophie envisions the future of AI in education, stating, "I hope there's a point where we can train AI models to remove biases and ensure inclusive language is used."Utilizing Virtual SpeechVirtual Speech serves both individual consumers and enterprise clients. Individuals can sign up for the platform directly, gaining access to a range of courses on topics such as public speaking, leadership communication, and active listening. On the enterprise side, Virtual Speech works with Fortune 500 companies and universities to help students improve their communication skills and prepare for the workplace. Sophie emphasizes the scalability of e-learning combined with the immersive practice exercises in virtual reality.The Power of VR and AI in Soft Skills DevelopmentSoft skills, such as communication and interpersonal skills, are crucial for success in the workplace. However, they can be challenging to develop and practice effectively. Virtual Speech aims to address this gap by leveraging the power of virtual reality and AI. Sophie highlights the emotional response that VR provides, stating, "You become emotionally connected to the learning material." This emotional connection enhances the learning experience and helps individuals develop their soft skills in a more engaging and impactful way.The Future of LearningAs technology continues to advance, the possibilities for AI and VR in education are endless. Sophie envisions a future where AI and VR are integrated into the classroom, enhancing the learning experience and providing access to top-tier education regardless of location. She emphasizes the importance of being conscious of the potential negative side effects and ensuring that AI and VR are used as tools to complement, rather than replace, human teachers. Sophie concludes, "AI and VR are the next generation of learning, the evolution of learning."In conclusion, Virtual Speech is revolutionizing the way we learn and develop soft skills. By combining e-learning with virtual reality and AI, they are creating a more immersive and effective learning experience. The integration of AI allows for personalized feedback and dynamic interactions, while virtual reality provides a safe space for practice and skill development. As technology continues to advance, the future of learning holds endless possibilities, and Virtual Speech is at the forefront of this exciting journey.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Insights from Coach KitchWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with David Kitchen, also known as Coach Kitch, the founder and president of Edge Leadership Academy. Coach Kitch is a former Division One coach and a PhD candidate with a Master's degree in Sports Psychology. With a decade of experience building leaders, culture, and mindset at the highest levels of sports and business, Coach Kitch is trusted by CEOs, coaches, and high performers to help them lead and win in business, athletics, and life.Lessons from Sports: Translating to Life and BusinessCoach Kitch highlights the parallels between sports, life, and business, emphasizing the importance of building resilience and commitment to a process. He explains that games are not won on game day but rather through the processes and systems developed during practice and preparation. He encourages individuals to adopt a high-definition approach to life, analyzing the processes that lead to desired outcomes. Coach Kitch also emphasizes the value of leadership skills learned through sports, which are transferable to various aspects of life and business.The Three Keys to Peak Performance for ExecutivesWhen asked about the keys to peak performance for executives, Coach Kitch identifies three crucial elements. First and foremost, he emphasizes the importance of character and self-leadership. He encourages individuals to develop a vision, mission, and value statement to guide their actions and decisions. Secondly, Coach Kitch highlights the significance of habits and processes. High performers build systems in their lives that reduce the likelihood of failure by surrounding themselves with the right habits, environments, people, resources, and knowledge. Lastly, he emphasizes the value of lifelong learning, stating that the best leaders are learners. Continuous learning and the ability to challenge one's own beliefs are essential for personal and professional growth.The Least Effective Methods for Peak PerformanceCoach Kitch believes that one of the least effective methods for reaching peak performance is trying to do too much. He warns against falling into the trap of shiny object syndrome, where individuals try to implement numerous strategies and techniques without consistency. Instead, he advises individuals to focus on a few key areas and build a system that reduces the likelihood of failure. Coach Kitch also emphasizes the importance of being a lifelong learner and having a white belt mentality. He encourages individuals to start with the basics, master them, and then move on to higher-level skills and knowledge.The Value of Lifelong LearningCoach Kitch emphasizes the value of lifelong learning in personal and professional development. He believes that continuous learning is the difference between being average and being great. He encourages individuals to seek out knowledge and explore different perspectives, even if they contradict their own beliefs. Coach Kitch highlights the importance of being comfortable with discomfort and challenging one's own thoughts and opinions. He believes that the best leaders are open-minded and willing to learn from others, regardless of their expertise or background.Edge Leadership Academy: Empowering Leaders in Business and AthleticsCoach Kitch founded Edge Leadership Academy to address the lack of leadership development programs and curriculums. The academy offers workshops, curriculums, keynote addresses, executive coaching, and one-on-one mentoring for both corporate clients and athletes. The programs focus on leadership, culture, and high performance, providing individuals with the skills and tools necessary to succeed. Coach Kitch and his team also work with coaches and administrators to help them build strong team cultures and improve performance. The academy's individual work includes one-on-one coaching and group mentorship programs, such as "The Table," which fosters networking and personal growth.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Coach Kitch's insights shed light on the importance of character, habits, and lifelong learning in achieving peak performance. He emphasizes the value of self-leadership, vision, mission, and values in guiding one's actions and decisions. Coach Kitch encourages individuals to focus on a few key areas and build a system that reduces the likelihood of failure. He highlights the significance of being a lifelong learner and challenging one's own beliefs. Through Edge Leadership Academy, Coach Kitch empowers leaders in business and athletics, providing them with the skills and tools necessary to succeed. As the academy continues to grow, Coach Kitch aims to make a lasting impact on individuals and organizations, helping them gain the technology leadership edge.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Conversation with Jeremy NagelWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast that delves into the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Jeremy Nagel, a neurodivergent software developer turned startup founder. Jeremy shares his experiences of building and selling his first startup, Smooth Messenger, and his current venture, Focus Bear, a productivity and work-life balance app for people with ADHD. We explore the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace and discuss strategies for hiring and retaining them. Let's dive into the conversation and gain insights into the world of technology leadership.Building a Startup: From Freelancer to FounderJeremy's journey as an entrepreneur began when he worked as a Zoho consultant, helping small businesses set up their CRM systems and automate processes. He noticed a recurring need among his clients for a solution to distribute inbound leads to their sales teams equitably. Recognizing the demand, Jeremy turned this idea into a product and launched it on Zoho's marketplace. He shares his experience:"I wrote a blog post about the solution, and it became the most popular post on my site. That's when I realized there was a demand for me to turn this into a product. I developed a plugin called Advanced Round Robin, which gained traction and generated consistent monthly revenue. It was intoxicating to see my business grow and generate revenue without much effort on my part."Buoyed by the success of his first plugin, Jeremy identified another opportunity in the market. Businesses were struggling to effectively communicate with their customers via email, leading him to develop Smooth Messenger, an SMS communication plugin. Smooth Messenger gained significant traction, attracting 500 businesses and catching the attention of Message Media, a multinational SMS provider. Jeremy sold Smooth Messenger to Message Media and now works as a product manager at the company. Reflecting on his journey, he says:"Selling my startup was a significant milestone, and now I'm working on my new venture, Focus Bear. It's a productivity and work-life balance app for people with ADHD. I started this app because I experienced work-life balance challenges during the sale of Smooth Messenger. I was working long hours, feeling stressed, and neglecting my mental health. Focus Bear helps me block distractions and stick to positive habits, like meditation and exercise, to start my day feeling refreshed and energized."The Challenges of Neurodivergent Individuals in the WorkplaceJeremy's journey as a neurodivergent individual in the tech industry has not been without its challenges. He shares his experiences of being diagnosed with autism and ADHD and the impact it had on his career:"I got diagnosed with autism last year, and it was a revelation. I realized that I had been using coping strategies that neurotypical individuals don't need. Simple tasks like remembering to take my phone or lunch with me required checklists. I had multiple calendars with constant alarms to avoid being late for meetings. Understanding my neurodivergent traits has been freeing, and I'm learning strategies to navigate the workplace more effectively."Neurodivergent individuals often face difficulties in traditional work environments that are not designed to accommodate their unique needs. Jeremy highlights the importance of compassion and understanding from employers:"Employers need to be compassionate and understand that neurodivergent individuals may require different approaches to work. It's crucial to create an inclusive and supportive environment that allows everyone to thrive. Simple accommodations like providing clear directions, sharing interview questions in advance, and avoiding forced physical contact can make a significant difference."Hiring and Retaining Neurodivergent TalentJeremy emphasizes the need for a universal design approach to recruiting that benefits all candidates, not just neurodivergent individuals. He suggests providing clear information about the interview process, including directions, interview format, and questions:"Transparency in the recruitment process is essential. Candidates should know what to expect, where to go, and who they will meet. This approach benefits everyone and ensures a fair and inclusive process. Additionally, asking candidates to fill out a user manual that outlines their preferences can help create a more collaborative and understanding work environment."Jeremy also discusses the importance of flexible work arrangements and tailored communication styles:"Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, can greatly benefit neurodivergent individuals. It allows them to work in an environment that suits their needs and minimizes distractions. Additionally, understanding individual communication preferences, whether it's through Slack, calls, or in-person meetings, can foster better collaboration and productivity."The Power of Compassion and Empathy in LeadershipReflecting on his own experiences as a leader, Jeremy acknowledges the need for compassion and empathy in managing a team:"I've learned the importance of pausing before responding and being compassionate as a leader. There have been times when I haven't been as understanding as I should have been, and it's something I'm actively working on. Taking time for self-care, such as meditation and breaks, helps me approach situations with more empathy and understanding."Jeremy also highlights the positive impact of creating a supportive work environment that allows individuals to leverage their strengths:"By providing flexibility, focusing on results rather than micromanaging, and creating opportunities for collaboration, I've seen a significant improvement in my team's performance. It's important to recognize that a leader's mood and approach can influence the team's overall mood and productivity."Future Outlook: Focus Bear and Empowering Neurodivergent IndividualsLooking ahead, Jeremy is focused on further developing Focus Bear and empowering neurodivergent individuals to thrive in the workplace:"My goal is to continue refining Focus Bear and expanding its user base. I'm passionate about empowering neurodivergent individuals to achieve better work-life balance and productivity. By leveraging technology and understanding their unique needs, we can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all."In conclusion, Jeremy Nagel's journey as a neurodivergent entrepreneur and advocate sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals in the tech industry. His experiences highlight the importance of compassion, understanding, and tailored support for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. By adopting a universal design approach to recruitment, providing flexible work arrangements, and fostering a supportive environment, organizations can harness the unique strengths of neurodivergent talent and drive innovation. As we move forward, it is crucial for technology leaders to embrace diversity and create inclusive workplaces that empower all individuals to thrive.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Strategies for Building High-Performing Sales TeamsWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast dedicated to helping tech executives succeed and further their career goals. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Jeff Hines, a successful sales executive with over 30 years of experience. Jeff is passionate about helping sales professionals lead and win, and he specializes in helping companies level up their sales teams and eliminate sales mishires.The Challenge of Building High-Performing Sales TeamsJeff begins by addressing the common challenge faced by CEOs, presidents, and CROs of mid-sized companies - sales professionals who consistently fail to meet revenue targets. He emphasizes the importance of identifying the gaps and deficiencies within the sales team that hinder their success. Jeff offers a solution in the form of a sales team evaluation, which provides insights into the team's skill set and identifies areas for improvement.The Importance of Eliminating Sales MishiresIn addition to evaluating existing sales teams, Jeff also focuses on eliminating sales mishires. He highlights the high cost of hiring the wrong person, which can amount to up to $500,000 per role. Jeff's proven hiring process, which boasts a 92% predictive validity, helps companies identify the right sales candidates before they even walk through the door. By assessing 21 sales-specific competencies and 288 data points, Jeff ensures that companies hire sales professionals who possess the necessary will to sell, sales DNA, and competencies.The Three Tiers of Sales SuccessJeff breaks down the components of sales success into three tiers. The first tier is the "will to sell," which encompasses the desire and commitment of the salesperson. Without the drive and dedication to succeed, even the most skilled salesperson will struggle. The second tier is the sales DNA, which includes the behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes that shape a salesperson's approach. Finally, the third tier consists of the sales competencies or skills required for success in the role. Jeff emphasizes the importance of assessing all three tiers to ensure a well-rounded and effective sales team.The Importance of a Structured Hiring ProcessJeff emphasizes the need for a structured and repeatable hiring process to optimize the recruitment of sales professionals. He outlines the key steps in this process, including creating a selling profile, writing a job description, sourcing candidates, and leveraging automation. Jeff also highlights the importance of a team approach, involving multiple stakeholders in the hiring process to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of candidates. He emphasizes the significance of phone interviews to eliminate biases and the importance of scorecards and structured interviews to maintain consistency.Onboarding and the 30-60-90 Day RuleJeff stresses the importance of onboarding in the success of new sales hires. He recommends following the 30-60-90 day rule, which involves providing support and guidance to new hires to help them understand the company values, their role, and the expectations placed upon them. Jeff emphasizes the need for a growth path and clear communication of opportunities for advancement within the company. By setting clear expectations and providing ongoing support, companies can set their sales hires up for success.The Unique Challenges of Hiring SalespeopleJeff acknowledges the unique challenges of hiring salespeople compared to other roles within a company. Salespeople face constant competition, must learn complex products and services, and require resilience to bounce back from rejection. Jeff emphasizes the need for a structured hiring process that evaluates not only skills but also the will to sell and sales DNA. By finding the right fit for each sales role, companies can maximize their sales team's potential and drive revenue growth.The Impact of Compensation Plans on Sales PerformanceJeff acknowledges the impact of compensation plans on sales performance. He highlights the importance of aligning compensation with the company's goals and values to motivate salespeople effectively. By creating a compensation plan that rewards success and provides a clear growth path, companies can attract and retain top sales talent. Jeff also emphasizes the need for ongoing evaluation and adjustment of compensation plans to ensure they remain competitive and aligned with market trends.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, building high-performing sales teams requires a structured and comprehensive approach. By evaluating existing sales teams, identifying gaps, and implementing targeted strategies for improvement, companies can optimize their sales performance. Additionally, by implementing a rigorous hiring process that assesses the will to sell, sales DNA, and competencies, companies can eliminate sales mishires and ensure they hire the right sales professionals. With a focus on onboarding and ongoing support, companies can set their sales hires up for long-term success. By addressing these challenges and implementing best practices, companies can gain the technology leadership edge and drive revenue growth in the ever-evolving tech industry.As the tech industry continues to evolve, the need for high-performing sales teams becomes increasingly crucial. By following the strategies and insights shared by Jeff Hines, companies can overcome the challenges of building and maintaining successful sales teams. With a focus on evaluating existing teams, implementing a structured hiring process, and providing ongoing support, companies can position themselves for long-term success in the competitive tech landscape.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Attracting Top Talent in the Tech IndustryWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast for tech executives. In this episode, we will explore the challenges and strategies involved in attracting top talent in the tech industry. Our guest today is Peter Heyer, an elite certified recruiting expert with over 25 years of experience in helping companies find AI, ML, and IT talent. Peter specializes in finding talent that is not actively looking for job opportunities, and he believes that companies need to focus on promoting their unique value proposition to attract the best candidates.The Importance of Culture and PurposeWhen it comes to attracting top talent, culture is key. Peter emphasizes the importance of creating a company culture that aligns with the values and aspirations of the new generation of employees. He suggests that companies should showcase their culture and purpose through social media platforms, highlighting the cool projects they are working on and the positive impact they are making in the world. Peter states, "I want to work at a company that's doing something important, that's making a difference. And so doing those postings is going to enhance your presence in the marketplace and get you noticed."Leveraging Social Media for Talent AcquisitionPeter recommends using social media as a tool to attract top talent. By sharing success stories, celebrating team achievements, and highlighting the company's values and initiatives, companies can create a strong employer brand that appeals to potential candidates. Peter states, "You're literally wearing your culture on your sleeve, and if you don't do it just randomly, hey, we hit 100 customers or whatever, yeah, ring the bells. That's not it. But if it's a trend that this is a value that our company has and this is why we want to post it on not only our company page, but on all the socials and let people really know, hey, we did something in regards to diversity. We did something in regards to helping out the homeless. We did something. So something that strikes to what the new generation of employee is all about."The Challenge of Finding Tech TalentFinding top tech talent is a challenge in today's competitive market. Peter suggests that companies need to go beyond traditional job postings and actively seek out candidates who are not actively looking for job opportunities. He states, "The tech talent wants to go to the next cool thing. And how are you promoting that? Your company, your software package, your solution is the next cool thing." Peter believes that companies should focus on articulating their unique value proposition and showcasing the exciting projects and opportunities they offer to attract top talent.The Role of Leadership in Talent AcquisitionPeter highlights the importance of leadership in talent acquisition. He advises CEOs and CTOs to focus on their core responsibilities and leave the hiring process to experts. Peter states, "When they're doing that, they're doing a disservice. Go manage your people. Go manage your company. Go take care of your series funding. And so the folks that just gave you the money, know what they're getting. When they gave you the money, they didn't invest in you to come be a recruiter or to come hire somebody." He suggests that companies should hire experts in talent acquisition to ensure they find the best candidates for their organization.The Role of Data Scientists and AI in the Tech IndustryData scientists and AI professionals are in high demand in the tech industry. However, Peter advises companies to carefully assess their needs before hiring a data scientist. He suggests that companies should consider whether they truly need a data scientist or if a team of strong developers and data analysts would suffice. Peter states, "With the exception of a Microsoft or an Amazon or a LinkedIn, nobody has a big enough data set that needs five data scientists. They don't. What's the data? What are we trying to do with it?" He emphasizes the importance of having meaningful work for data scientists to ensure their engagement and retention.The Future of Remote Work in the Tech IndustryRemote work has become increasingly popular in the tech industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Peter believes that remote work will continue to be a desirable option for many tech professionals. However, he suggests that companies may still prefer some level of in-office presence to ensure productivity and collaboration. Peter states, "Companies want people to come into the office a little bit. Unfortunately, they want to kind of watch them, babysit them, make sure they're not just watching Netflix and having Cheetos at home." He advises companies to have clear guidelines and expectations for remote work to avoid any potential issues.Conclusion and Future OutlookAttracting top talent in the tech industry requires a strategic approach that goes beyond traditional job postings. Companies need to focus on promoting their unique value proposition, showcasing their culture and purpose, and leveraging social media to attract the best candidates. It is essential for companies to have a clear understanding of their hiring needs and to hire experts in talent acquisition to ensure they find the right candidates for their organization. As the tech industry continues to evolve, companies will need to adapt their hiring strategies to attract and retain top talent in a competitive market.In conclusion, attracting top talent in the tech industry is a multifaceted process that requires a deep understanding of the industry, effective marketing strategies, and a strong company culture. By focusing on these key areas, companies can position themselves as desirable employers and attract the best candidates in the market. As technology continues to advance and the demand for tech talent grows, companies must stay ahead of the curve and continuously adapt their talent acquisition strategies to remain competitive in the industry.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Insights from Trish PandyaWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we have a special guest, Trish Pandya, a talent acquisition leader and former stand-up comedian and improv actor. Trish has over ten years of experience in the San Francisco startup arena, working for companies that empower minorities and underrepresented communities. She is currently the Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Aluxio, an open-source data orchestration software for enterprise companies. Trish is known for her twisted sense of humor and her views on talent acquisition, diversity, and unbiased hiring.The Challenge of Hiring in the Tech IndustryOne of the biggest challenges in hiring in the tech industry, according to Trish, is the prolonged time it takes to fill a position. She explains that this is often due to hiring managers not being clear about what they want and constantly changing their requirements. Trish emphasizes the importance of having a structured hiring process and involving the entire team in the decision-making process. She also highlights the need for candidates to be clear about what they want and to carefully consider the company culture before applying for a position."The biggest challenge right now is I'm seeing a lot of jobs that have been open for more than three to five months. And I think there's two reasons. One is that ultimately it comes down to leadership and the hiring manager who hasn't figured out what they want. So I've seen this over and over again where they have a job open and then they go through the cycle of interviews, get to the final sample size of candidates and they don't really like them and they haven't figured out why." - Trish PandyaThe Pitfalls of Gut HiringTrish strongly discourages the use of gut hiring, where hiring managers rely on their instincts to make hiring decisions. She explains that this often leads to hiring people who are exactly like them, which hinders diversity and innovation within the company. Trish believes that it is important to hire people who think differently and bring diverse perspectives to the table. She advocates for a structured interview process that focuses on both technical skills and soft skills, ensuring that candidates are a good fit for the company culture and can contribute to its growth."The problem with gut hiring is that people hire somebody who is exactly like them. That's a really simple answer. So I know a lot of people like, I want to hire somebody. I want to hire a salesperson now with somebody who has an East Coast mentality like me, who's going to go right? So you want an aggressive East Coaster who's exactly like you. I've also seen like I want to hire somebody I can have a beer with. You're not hiring your friends. You're hiring somebody who's qualified." - Trish PandyaThe Importance of Diversity and Equity HiringTrish is a strong advocate for diversity and equity hiring. She believes that diversity is not just about checking boxes for race and gender, but about hiring people with different backgrounds and perspectives. Trish emphasizes that diversity is essential for the success of a company, as it brings in new ideas and promotes innovation. She encourages companies to actively engage with diversity hiring resources and support diversity groups to attract a diverse pool of candidates. Trish also highlights the financial benefits of diversity hiring, citing examples of companies that have seen significant growth and success after implementing diversity initiatives."Diversity hiring is not just hiring for race and gender and checking a box. You want to hire people who have different backgrounds, who think differently from you. And it's only been good for the business. I experienced it personally, and I've seen how it works, and it's actually like an amazing team when you hire people who are just thinking very differently than you." - Trish PandyaThe Hiring Process and Candidate ExperienceTrish emphasizes the importance of a structured hiring process that provides a positive candidate experience. She recommends having a clear timeline for the hiring process and involving the entire team in the interview process. Trish also advocates for live whiteboarding interviews for technical roles, as they allow candidates to showcase their problem-solving and collaboration skills. She believes that standardized tests are not effective in assessing a candidate's abilities and can be a turn-off for potential hires. Trish encourages hiring managers to ask targeted questions and provide evidence-based answers to ensure a thorough evaluation of candidates."If you're doing a technical interview, like a software engineering interview, I support doing live whiteboarding with another engineer on the team because they're going to not be able to answer everything. And so you're testing them to see if they can collaborate with you. If somebody's asking a coding question and the interviewer says, I'm not sure about this, can you clarify exactly what you're asking of me? You know, you can work with this person because they're asking questions and bouncing ideas off of you." - Trish PandyaThe Stress and Rewards of Talent AcquisitionTrish acknowledges that talent acquisition can be a stressful job, especially in the fast-paced environment of a startup. However, she finds joy in the opportunity to build and shape teams and influence the growth of a company. Trish believes that having a growth mindset is crucial for success in talent acquisition, as it requires constantly adapting to changing circumstances and finding innovative solutions. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of humor and using it to navigate the challenges of the job."The stress is insane. That's why I have a sense of humor. I literally remember breaking down a couple of weeks ago. I'm like, I don't want to do any of this, but I'm going to do all of this. Let me figure it out. Hold please. And I got back to them at 30 minutes and figured it out. But knowing how to be able to use sense of humor with it is so important because it saved my life." - Trish PandyaConclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Trish Pandya provides valuable insights into the challenges and best practices of talent acquisition in the tech industry. She highlights the importance of a structured hiring process, the pitfalls of gut hiring, and the benefits of diversity and equity hiring. Trish emphasizes the need for companies to actively engage with diversity hiring resources and support diversity groups to attract a diverse pool of candidates. She also encourages hiring managers to provide a positive candidate experience and to focus on evidence-based evaluation during the interview process. Despite the stress of the job, Trish finds fulfillment in shaping teams and contributing to the growth of a company. With her unique blend of humor and expertise, Trish Pandya is a valuable resource for tech executives seeking to gain the technology leadership edge.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Diversity, Equity, and InclusionWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast for tech executives. In this episode, we have Dr. Nelva Lee, the founder and CEO of Midio Technologies, a diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting firm. Dr. Lee shares her insights on the importance of diversity in the workplace and how it can lead to better outcomes for organizations. She emphasizes the need for companies to go beyond just checking the diversity box and truly embrace the principles of equity and inclusion.The Power of Diversity, Equity, and InclusionDr. Lee begins by highlighting the impact of the pandemic on mental health, particularly among young people and early adults. She shares her personal journey of overcoming depression and PTSD, which led her to write the book "Be the Superhero of Your Story: A Personal Responsibility Development Guide." Dr. Lee believes that equipping individuals with the tools to navigate life's challenges is crucial, not only for personal growth but also for creating a cohesive and engaged team in the workplace.She explains that Midio Technologies was founded to address the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training and consulting services. The company initially focused on providing medical interpreting and translating training but has since expanded to include DEI consulting. Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that values diversity and provides equal opportunities for advancement. She believes that a truly diverse and inclusive organization leads to increased creativity, productivity, and ultimately, improved revenue.Moving Beyond Checking the BoxesDr. Lee acknowledges that many companies approach DEI as a checkbox exercise, simply aiming to meet certain diversity quotas. However, she emphasizes that true diversity goes beyond numbers. It requires a commitment to understanding the importance of diversity and its benefits for the organization. Dr. Lee explains that diversity is about having people from different backgrounds and cultures, equity is about ensuring equal opportunities for advancement, and inclusion is about giving everyone a voice and a seat at the table.She cautions against hiring for diversity without considering qualifications and fit for the role. Dr. Lee believes that hiring solely based on meeting diversity quotas can lead to tokenism and undermine the credibility of diverse employees. Instead, she encourages companies to focus on creating a culture that values diversity and fosters an inclusive environment. This involves examining hiring practices, addressing biases, and providing training to increase awareness and understanding of different perspectives.The Role of Emotional IntelligenceDr. Lee emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. She believes that individuals with high EQ are better equipped to navigate different cultures and personalities, leading to stronger teamwork and collaboration. Midio Technologies offers social mapping training to help individuals develop their EQ and understand different diverse groups. Dr. Lee believes that by increasing comfort levels and understanding, companies can create an environment where everyone feels supported and valued.Overcoming Unconscious BiasDr. Lee acknowledges that biases exist, even if we are not aware of them. She believes that companies need to examine their hiring processes and preconceived biases to ensure they are not inadvertently excluding qualified candidates. Midio Technologies provides comprehensive pre-assessments to help organizations identify areas for improvement and develop strategies for creating a truly diverse and inclusive workforce.She shares an example of a company that was specifically looking to hire Indian employees, believing that they were the most qualified for the job. However, by removing identifying information from resumes and conducting blind interviews, they were able to hire a more diverse group of candidates who brought different perspectives and skills to the team. Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of looking beyond preconceived notions and hiring based on qualifications and fit for the role.The Impact of TechnologyDr. Lee highlights the role of technology in perpetuating biases and the need for technology companies to take DEI seriously. She mentions the example of biased algorithms used in probation officer tracking apps, which can disproportionately impact certain communities. Dr. Lee believes that technology companies have a responsibility to ensure their products and services are inclusive and unbiased. This requires hiring diverse teams and considering the perspectives of different end users.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Dr. Nelva Lee emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She encourages companies to move beyond checking the diversity box and truly embrace the principles of equity and inclusion. By creating a culture that values diversity, providing equal opportunities for advancement, and fostering an inclusive environment, organizations can reap the benefits of increased creativity, productivity, and revenue.Dr. Lee highlights the role of emotional intelligence in navigating diverse cultures and personalities. She emphasizes the need for companies to examine their hiring processes and address unconscious biases to ensure they are not excluding qualified candidates. Dr. Lee also emphasizes the responsibility of technology companies to ensure their products and services are inclusive and unbiased.As we move forward, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. By doing so, they can create a workplace that not only attracts top talent but also fosters innovation and success. Dr. Lee's insights and expertise provide a valuable roadmap for organizations seeking to gain the technology leadership edge through diversity, equity, and inclusion.To learn more about Dr. Nelva Lee and Mitio Technologies, visit their website at mitio.org.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Training Your Staff to be LeadersWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in the technology leadership world. In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, developing leadership skills within a tech organization has become extremely vital. As the industry continues to grow and innovate, the need for effective leaders who can navigate complex challenges and inspire teams to achieve their full potential is more critical than ever.In this solo episode, we will discuss the importance of training your staff to be leaders and how it can benefit your organization. We will explore key reasons why developing leadership skills is crucial within tech organizations and the role that tech executives play in fostering a culture of leadership and growth. Let's dive in!Nurturing Innovation"Tech organizations thrive on innovation and cutting-edge solutions. Effective leaders foster an environment that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and out-of-the-box thinking. They inspire their teams to push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and drive innovation, ultimately keeping the organization at the forefront of the industry."By nurturing innovation, leaders create an environment where employees feel empowered to think creatively and take calculated risks. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and drives the organization's ability to stay ahead of the competition.Enhancing Employee Engagement"Strong leaders empower their teams, instilling a sense of purpose and engagement. By investing in leadership development, tech organizations can equip their employees with the skills and confidence to take on challenges, make decisions, and contribute meaningfully to the company's vision."When employees feel empowered and engaged, they are more likely to be motivated, productive, and committed to the organization's success. Leadership development programs provide employees with the tools they need to excel in their roles and contribute to the overall growth of the organization.Building High-Performing Teams"Leadership skills are pivotal in assembling and nurturing high-performing teams. Effective leaders have the ability to identify talent, allocate resources efficiently, and create a collaborative and inclusive culture. They provide guidance, mentorship, and constructive feedback, enabling team members to grow, excel, and deliver exceptional results."By developing leadership skills, organizations can cultivate a workforce that is capable of working together seamlessly, leveraging each other's strengths, and achieving outstanding results. Strong leaders create an environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.Driving Organizational Success"Leadership skills are closely tied to the success of tech organizations. Strong leaders set strategic objectives, establish a clear vision, and align their teams with the organization's goals. They make informed decisions, manage resources effectively, and adapt to changing market dynamics."Effective leaders drive the organization forward by setting a clear direction, making strategic decisions, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. They create a culture of accountability and drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage.Fostering Effective Communication"Effective communication is paramount in tech organizations where collaboration and cross-functional teamwork are crucial. Leaders with strong communication skills create an open and transparent environment, ensuring clear expectations, smooth information flow, and effective problem-solving."Leaders who excel in communication bridge the gap between technical and non-technical teams, facilitating collaboration and maximizing the organization's effectiveness. They create an environment where ideas are shared freely, and everyone feels heard and valued.Cultivating Future Leaders"Developing leadership skills within tech organizations is about the present and preparing for the future. By investing in leadership development programs, organizations can identify and nurture emerging leaders who can successfully guide the organization through future challenges and changes."Investing in leadership development ensures continuity, succession planning, and a strong leadership pipeline. By cultivating future leaders, organizations can position themselves for long-term success and adaptability in the ever-changing tech industry.As tech executives, we play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture of leadership and growth within our organizations. We have the unique opportunity to shape the future of our teams, departments, and even the entire company. Here are some key points that emphasize the crucial role we have in fostering a culture of leadership and growth:Setting the Vision"We are responsible for setting a clear vision for the organization. By articulating a compelling and inspiring vision, we provide a sense of direction and purpose that motivates employees to excel. This vision serves as a guiding light, leading the organization toward growth, innovation, and success."As leaders, we must have a clear vision for the organization and effectively communicate it to our teams. By setting a compelling vision, we inspire our employees to work towards a common goal and drive the organization forward.Leading by Example"Tech executives are not just figureheads but role models for their teams. They can influence and inspire others through their actions, decisions, and behaviors. By embodying leadership qualities such as integrity, accountability, and resilience, they create a positive and aspirational culture where leadership is valued and nurtured."Leading by example is crucial in fostering a culture of leadership. When we demonstrate the qualities and behaviors we expect from our teams, we create an environment where leadership is not only valued but also celebrated.Creating an Empowering Environment"Tech executives have the authority to shape the organizational structure and processes. They can design an environment that empowers employees to take ownership, make decisions, and contribute their unique skills and perspectives. By fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and psychological safety, tech executives enable individuals to embrace leadership opportunities and thrive."Creating an empowering environment is essential for developing leaders within our organizations. When employees feel empowered and trusted, they are more likely to take on leadership roles and contribute to the organization's success.Investing in Leadership Development"Tech executives recognize the importance of continuous learning and growth. They prioritize the development of leadership skills at all levels of the organization. By investing in training programs, mentorship initiatives, and coaching opportunities, they equip employees with the tools and knowledge they need to become effective leaders."Investing in leadership development benefits not only individual employees but also strengthens the organization as a whole. By providing opportunities for growth and development, we foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.Promoting Diversity and Inclusion"Tech executives understand that diverse perspectives and backgrounds drive innovation and creativity. They actively promote diversity and inclusion within their teams, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute."Promoting diversity and inclusion is crucial in developing leaders who can navigate the complexities of the tech industry. By embracing different viewpoints and experiences, we create a culture of inclusivity that fuels growth and enables the organization to adapt to an ever-changing market.Encouraging Risk-Taking and Learning from Failure"Tech executives encourage their teams to take calculated risks and embrace a growth mindset. They understand that failure is an opportunity for learning and improvement. Tech executives create a culture that celebrates innovation, resilience, and continuous improvement by fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to experiment, learn from mistakes, and share their learnings."Encouraging risk-taking and learning from failure is essential in developing leaders who are adaptable and resilient. By creating a culture that embraces innovation and continuous improvement, we foster an environment where employees feel empowered to take risks and learn from their experiences.Providing Support and Recognition"Tech executives understand the importance of supporting and recognizing emerging leaders. They provide mentorship, guidance, and feedback to help individuals develop their leadership potential. By acknowledging and celebrating the achievements and contributions of their employees, tech executives inspire a sense of pride, motivation, and loyalty, fostering a culture where leadership flourishes."Providing support and recognition is crucial in developing leaders who feel valued and motivated. By investing in the growth and development of our employees, we create a culture where leadership is nurtured and celebrated.In conclusion, training your staff to become leaders offers numerous benefits to the organization. It increases productivity, employee retention, and engagement, fosters innovation and creativity, enables succession planning and talent development, improves collaboration and team dynamics, enhances decision-making and problem-solving, and strengthens organizational adaptability and resilience.By aligning leadership development with the organization's overall goals and values, we can drive organizational success, reinforce the organizational culture, create a cohesive leadership team, enhance collaboration, communication, and decision-making, maximize return on investment, and strengthen organizational agility.As tech executives, we have a crucial role in fostering a culture of leadership and growth within our organizations. By setting the vision, leading by example, creating an empowering environment, investing in leadership development, promoting diversity and inclusion, encouraging risk-taking and learning from failure, and providing support and recognition, we can cultivate a workforce that is capable of driving the organization forward and adapting to the ever-changing tech industry.In the dynamic and highly competitive tech industry, developing leadership skills within tech organizations is indispensable for sustained success. Effective leaders foster innovation, enhance employee engagement, build high-performing teams, drive organizational success, enable effective communication, and cultivate future leaders.As we continue on our quest for gaining that all-important technology edge, let us remember the importance of training our staff to be leaders. By investing in their development, we not only empower them to excel but also position our organizations for long-term success in the ever-evolving tech landscape. So let's be curious, stay updated on the latest trends, and show them who's the boss!Until next time, stay ahead of the technology curve and keep gaining that technology leadership edge!

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Tech ConsultingWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast that delves into the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we have John Horner, a seasoned tech consultant with over 20 years of experience in the software and technology consulting industry. John is the founder of Miles It, a full-service business technology consulting firm that specializes in managed services, software development, and digital marketing. He also developed a software-as-a-service product called Striven, which provides accounting, project management, task management, service management, HR, and recruiting solutions.Understanding the Root of Business ChallengesWhen it comes to tech consulting, John emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and root of the business challenges faced by clients. He believes that solving hard problems requires a deep understanding of the underlying issues and constraints. John explains, "If the problems were easy, they wouldn't call us. They would be self-solved. So in order to come in and solve hard problems, you really need to be able to understand what's driving the root of those problems."John's approach involves going beyond the surface-level requests of clients and digging deeper to uncover the true motivations and goals behind their technology needs. He explains, "Nobody wants software, nobody wants a system. They want their business to run better. I will pay for my business to run better. That's why employees pay for company for employees, they pay for equipment because they understand directly how that is contributing to the business."The Pitfalls of Shiny Object SyndromeOne common challenge John faces is clients who are drawn to the latest buzzwords and trends in technology without fully understanding their applicability to their specific business needs. He refers to this as "going around a business with a hammer looking for nails." John explains, "People come and they hear that their competitors are using NetSuite or they hear that NetSuite is on the news. Well, that's what AI is right now. It's the hammer and everything is a nail."To address this issue, John focuses on educating clients about the true value and potential impact of different technologies. He emphasizes the importance of aligning technology solutions with the specific business goals and challenges of each client. John says, "You need to solve the right problem in the best way you can. You really need to connect the business and the technology together."The Power of Automation and AIAutomation and AI have become increasingly important in the business world, offering opportunities for increased efficiency and productivity. John highlights the role of automation in addressing workforce challenges and improving overall business operations. He explains, "Automation is trending up because of the lack of a great workforce that's out there. People are trying to find ways to be more efficient, gain more productivity within their organizations because it's hard to hire outside help."John provides examples of how automation and AI can be leveraged to streamline processes and improve decision-making. He mentions a project where AI was used to automatically detect inappropriate content in user-submitted photos, allowing human reviewers to focus on flagged content. He also discusses the combination of AI tools that can transform a simple wireframe mockup into a full-fidelity prototype, saving time and effort in the design process.The Importance of Demonstrating ValueWhen it comes to implementing technology solutions, John emphasizes the importance of demonstrating value to clients. He believes in starting small and showing tangible results before scaling up. John says, "You need to start somewhere. You need to crawl, then walk, then run. By going in there and coming up with a solution that demonstrates value quickly, you can build on that success and continue to add value."He also acknowledges the skepticism and caution that clients may have due to past negative experiences with technology projects. John advises tech consultants to focus on building trust and providing transparent communication throughout the engagement. He says, "Exceptional management is key. Any kind of distributed team, especially overseas, especially people that are not part of your organization, just layers on difficulty. If that's hidden to your customers and now you're not managing it well, that's where some of those problems can occur."Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, tech consulting requires a deep understanding of the root of business challenges and the ability to align technology solutions with specific goals and needs. John Horner's approach emphasizes the importance of demonstrating value, managing client expectations, and leveraging automation and AI to drive efficiency and productivity.As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for tech consultants to stay updated on the latest trends and tools. However, it is equally important to approach technology solutions with a critical mindset and ensure that they truly address the underlying business challenges. By combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of the business context, tech consultants can help organizations gain the technology leadership edge they need to thrive in today's competitive landscape.The future of tech consulting lies in the ability to effectively integrate technology into business processes, empower employees with the right tools, and drive innovation and growth. As businesses continue to navigate the ever-changing technological landscape, tech consultants will play a vital role in guiding them towards success.So, stay curious, stay updated on the latest trends, and show them who's the boss in the world of technology leadership.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Exploring the Intersection of AI, IQ, and EQWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast that delves into the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Garik Tate, an AI futurist, serial entrepreneur, and product development coach. Garrick's expertise lies at the intersection of AI, IQ, and EQ, allowing him to position his clients for increased impact, growth, and success.The Intersection of AI, IQ, and EQGarik's unique perspective on AI, IQ, and EQ stems from his belief that humans are the most interesting beings on the planet. He recognizes that while humans may be seen as irrational and flawed, we have the ability to solve complex problems and make significant advancements. Garik sees the combination of AI, IQ, and EQ as a powerful force that can drive innovation and success."Things that we think are easy can be very hard for computers. Interfacing with reality is difficult because it's a problem that evolution has spent the longest time solving. We don't give ourselves enough credit. Our EQ is a source of intelligence. We outsource sanity and processing power by talking with each other. Our IQ allows us to process large amounts of information. AI is the most exciting game in town, replicating what makes us human." - Garik TateThe Potential of AI in BusinessAs an entrepreneur with a background in marketing and sales, Garik has witnessed the power of AI in driving business growth. He believes that AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of business, from marketing and sales to product development and customer service. By leveraging AI, companies can automate processes, gain valuable insights, and make data-driven decisions."AI amplifies us. It amplifies what is already inside us. So long as we pair it with the right amount of wisdom, the future looks incredibly optimistic. AI has the potential to solve complex problems and push the boundaries of human knowledge. It can revolutionize material sciences and theoretical physics, leading to a renaissance in scientific advancements." - Garik TateThe Role of AI in Content CreationOne area where AI has made significant strides is in content creation. AI-powered tools can generate blog posts, articles, and even video ideas, saving time and providing valuable insights. However, there are concerns about the quality and authenticity of AI-generated content. Google, for example, may consider dropping rankings for content created by AI."There is an argument for Google to prioritize human-written content. Human attention is scarce, and valuing content created by humans can ensure higher quality and authenticity. However, there is also the challenge of AI-generated content that can mimic human writing. The equilibrium may settle on the side of AI-generated content, leading to a stronger oligarchy of websites that have gained trust and produce high-quality content." - Garik TateThe Amplification of Human PotentialDespite the advancements in AI, Garik emphasizes that humans will not be replaced but rather amplified by AI. AI can handle repetitive tasks, provide insights, and assist in decision-making, but it cannot replicate the creativity, empathy, and problem-solving abilities of humans. The key is to find the right balance between AI and human involvement."AI can amplify humans. It can handle tasks that are repetitive and data-driven, but it cannot replace the unique qualities that make us human. The future lies in the collaboration between AI and humans, where AI assists and enhances human potential. Humans will continue to play a vital role in solving complex problems and driving innovation." - Garik TateThe Future OutlookAs AI continues to advance, it is crucial to approach its integration with wisdom and caution. While AI has the potential to revolutionize various industries, it is essential to consider the ethical implications and ensure that AI is used responsibly. The future of AI lies in its ability to augment human capabilities and push the boundaries of what is possible."The future of AI is optimistic, but it requires us to approach it with wisdom. We must consider the ethical implications and ensure that AI is used responsibly. AI has the potential to amplify human potential and drive innovation. By leveraging AI, we can solve complex problems, push the boundaries of human knowledge, and create a better future." - Garik TateIn conclusion, the intersection of AI, IQ, and EQ presents exciting opportunities for businesses and individuals. AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of business, from marketing and sales to product development and customer service. However, it is crucial to approach AI with wisdom and ensure that it is used responsibly. By leveraging the power of AI while embracing our human qualities, we can drive innovation, solve complex problems, and create a better future.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: An Interview with Steve KellyWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Steve Kelley, the founder of Argentil, a company that focuses on deploying software through automation. Steve shares his experiences and insights on the challenges of software deployment, the importance of reusable scripts, and the potential impact of his company's platform-agnostic approach.The Problem of Software DeploymentSteve Kelley, a technical fellow at Motorola and the founder of Netsolve, noticed a significant problem in the world of cloud computing and digital transformation. He observed that software was often built, paid for, and then had to be rebuilt without any additional compensation. This led him to conclude that there was a need to solve this problem, which became the driving force behind the creation of Argentil. Steve explains, "Argentil is about deploying software, not writing software per se, but deploying software. And deploying software is done with more software. We're about automating that process."Making Scripts ReusableOne of the key issues in software deployment is the lack of reusable scripts. Steve highlights that approximately 100 million hours per year are spent on deployment software using scripts that are considered expendable and not tracked. He states, "We're about making all those scripts that people have already written reusable and findable, and then allowing people to build what we call low code workflows using the pieces that have already been written." By making scripts reusable, Argentil aims to penetrate and improve the significant market of $200 per hour work.Target Customers and Dual-Use TechnologyArgentil has worked extensively with the Air Force, which has allowed them to gain recognition and establish themselves in the market. Steve explains that the Air Force and the military, in general, face similar challenges to enterprises when it comes to software deployment. He says, "Both the military and enterprise have essentially the same problem. The Air Force believes it spends more money on deploying software than it does on writing it." This recognition of the problem has made Argentil's platform appealing to the Air Force, as it offers a solution that can be used in both military and enterprise contexts.Platform-Agnostic ApproachOne of the key differentiators of Argentil is its platform-agnostic approach. Steve highlights that each cloud provider has its own tools and methods for deploying software, which can create challenges when organizations want to switch between providers. He states, "Our approach is something that's platform agnostic and sits above all that so that it's very good for hybrid cloud and it gives you a standard way to deploy on any cloud you want to or any private cloud you want to." This flexibility allows organizations to easily switch between cloud providers based on pricing, features, or other factors.Intellectual Property and Hidden IPArgentil's platform also addresses the issue of intellectual property (IP) in software development. Steve explains that while smaller companies often consider the labor invested in building code as an asset, scripts are often overlooked and not tracked. He states, "We consider that and we're trying. By making that stuff reusable, we're generating a new IP that's basically, in most organizations, a hidden IP." Argentil's tools, Ascot and Adept, help organizations locate and describe scripts, making them reusable and organized.Competitors and DifferentiationWhile there are other automation tools and platforms in the market, Steve believes that Argentil's focus on automating automation sets them apart. He states, "Most of those are kind of manually doing the automation. We would argue that we are automating automation." Argentil's platform allows organizations to automate their deployment processes, saving time and resources. Additionally, their platform-agnostic and language-agnostic approach differentiates them from competitors like GitHub and other automation tools.Targeting CTOs and VP of EngineeringWhen it comes to approaching potential customers, Argentil aims to target CTOs and VP of Engineering. These executives recognize the potential cost savings and efficiency improvements that can be achieved through automation and reusable scripts. However, Steve acknowledges that it is also important to engage with engineers who will be the end-users of the platform. He states, "There's a million engineers that are going to be influencers, and you need to be able to talk kind of a different language with them." Argentil's platform appeals to both executives and engineers, making it a comprehensive solution for organizations.The Importance of Listening and LearningThroughout the interview, Steve emphasizes the importance of listening and learning as a leader. He advises executives to switch from being a problem solver to being a listener and to speak last instead of first. He states, "It's amazing what a difference that makes. Then you can manage your team even if you're not an expert in what they do." By adopting a listening and learning approach, leaders can better understand the challenges their teams face and make informed decisions.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, Argentil's platform offers a solution to the challenges of software deployment by automating the process and making scripts reusable. Their platform-agnostic approach allows organizations to easily switch between cloud providers and deploy on any cloud or private cloud. By addressing the issue of intellectual property and providing tools to locate and describe scripts, Argentil generates hidden IP and improves organizational efficiency. With a focus on engaging both executives and engineers, Argentil aims to revolutionize the way software is deployed and managed.Looking ahead, Argentil has the potential to disrupt the market and become a leader in the field of software deployment. Their platform offers significant cost savings and efficiency improvements, making it an attractive solution for Fortune 2000 companies. As more organizations recognize the benefits of automation and reusable scripts, Argentil's platform is poised to become an essential tool in the technology leadership landscape.In the ever-evolving world of technology, gaining the technology leadership edge requires staying ahead of the competition and embracing innovative solutions. Argentil's platform provides a unique approach to software deployment, offering organizations the opportunity to streamline their processes and achieve greater efficiency. By leveraging automation and reusable scripts, organizations can unlock their full potential and drive success in the digital age.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Digital ParentingWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Jesse Liu, the founder of Digital Parenting Coaching. Jesse is a cybersecurity expert and a mother of four who understands the challenges of raising safe and responsible digital children. She has been helping parents become confident digital parents, empowering them to use electronic devices responsibly and stay safe online. Jesse's expertise in cybersecurity and her personal experience as a parent make her the perfect person to guide us through the world of digital parenting.The Importance of Digital ParentingIn our increasingly digital world, it is crucial for parents to navigate the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven society. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the need for effective digital parenting, as children are spending more time online for education and entertainment. Jesse Liu recognized the dangers of unrestricted technology access and smartphone addiction, leading her to start her journey as a digital parenting coach. She emphasizes the importance of empowering children to use electronic devices responsibly and fostering a trusting relationship with them."I believe in having a closer relationship with them, rather than trying to restrict them. The more we restrict, the more they want and the more they try to find ways to get it." - Jesse LiuSetting Boundaries and Building TrustOne of the key challenges in digital parenting is finding the balance between setting boundaries and building trust with your child. Jesse advises against strict control and instead encourages parents to empower their children to make responsible choices. By involving children in the decision-making process and setting clear expectations, parents can establish a trusting relationship that promotes open communication."You have to really find a way to make sure that your child and you are on the same page so that both of you can actually work together." - Jesse LiuHowever, it is essential to ensure that the boundaries set are realistic and age-appropriate. Parents should consider their child's capabilities and assess whether the expectations are reasonable. By finding a middle ground and compromising, parents can create an environment where children feel heard and understood."You have to assess your child's capability, whether he can actually meet the expectations or not. And sometimes, they can't, and therefore, they just give up." - Jesse LiuNavigating the Dangers of the InternetThe internet poses various risks for children, and it is crucial for parents to educate them about online safety. While the danger of online strangers is often highlighted, Jesse emphasizes the need to go beyond a simple "don't talk to strangers" rule. Instead, parents should teach their children critical thinking skills to assess the credibility of online information and recognize potential dangers."Not all information out there is true, and we need to instill critical thinking in our children to see whether this is for them or not." - Jesse LiuMisinformation is a significant concern in the digital age, and children need to understand the importance of verifying information before accepting it as truth. By instilling critical thinking and mindfulness, parents can help their children navigate the vast amount of information available online and make informed decisions."We need to teach our children how to be discerning and question whether something is in line with their values." - Jesse LiuThe Power of Mindset and Conscious RelationshipsJesse highlights the importance of mindset and conscious relationships in digital parenting. She emphasizes the need for parents to be mindful of their own thoughts and behaviors and to foster a conscious relationship with their children. By being aware of their own values and beliefs, parents can guide their children in developing their own values and making responsible choices."Your mindset is the most powerful thing that you have. The moment you have a child being brainwashed, it's very hard to change that." - Jesse LiuBy promoting mindfulness and critical thinking, parents can help their children develop a strong mindset that enables them to resist negative influences and make informed decisions. This approach not only benefits their digital lives but also prepares them for the challenges they will face in the future.Conclusion and Future OutlookDigital parenting is a complex and ever-evolving field that requires parents to adapt to the changing technological landscape. Jesse Liu's insights and expertise shed light on the importance of empowering children to use electronic devices responsibly and fostering a trusting relationship with them. By setting realistic boundaries, teaching critical thinking skills, and promoting mindfulness, parents can navigate the dangers of the internet and guide their children towards a safe and responsible digital future.As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for parents to stay informed and updated on the latest trends and challenges in digital parenting. Jesse Liu's work as a digital parenting coach provides valuable guidance and support for parents seeking to navigate the digital world with their children. By embracing the principles of digital parenting, parents can ensure that their children develop the necessary skills and mindset to thrive in the digital age.Remember, be curious, stay updated on the latest trends, and show them who's the boss. With the right approach to digital parenting, you can gain the technology leadership edge and empower your children to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Leveraging the Power of Content CreationWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have Raj Goodman Anand, founder of Goodman Lantern, a content marketing agency dedicated to helping businesses grow by leveraging the power of content creation. Raj has a background in engineering and has founded three startups, raising capital and taking one venture from inception to acquisition. He is passionate about promoting gender equality and women's economic empowerment, with over 80% of Goodman Lantern's team being women.In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key themes discussed in the podcast and explore how businesses can leverage the power of content creation to gain a competitive edge. We will cover the importance of content strategy, the challenges of content execution, the role of SEO and social media in content distribution, and the significance of promoting gender equality in the tech industry.Content Strategy: The Foundation for SuccessRaj emphasizes the importance of content strategy in driving business growth. He highlights two key opportunities that effective content creation can provide: thought leadership and visibility through SEO. He states, "Content is a big part of it. It helps you grow your opportunities and differentiate yourself in the market."To successfully leverage the power of content creation, Raj advises businesses to delegate and elevate. He explains, "Content is not meant to be done all in-house. It's meant to be delegated. As a manager or owner, you need to build out the big plans for your team to follow and execute on."Overcoming the Time Barrier: Delegating Content CreationOne common roadblock businesses face when it comes to content creation is the lack of time. Raj acknowledges this challenge and suggests delegating content creation to external resources. He states, "Bringing in the right people, such as agencies or freelancers, to help with content creation is essential. You can't do everything on your own."Delegating content creation not only frees up time for business owners and managers but also ensures that the content is created by experts in the field. Raj emphasizes the importance of finding the right talent and building a team that can execute the content strategy effectively.Goodman Lantern: Empowering Businesses through Content CreationGoodman Lantern specializes in working with high-tech companies, helping them develop and execute their content strategies. Raj explains that their services encompass content strategy, content execution, and content distribution.The first step in working with clients is developing a content strategy that aligns with their brand and marketing goals. Raj emphasizes the importance of creating unique and valuable content that stands out in the market. He states, "The strategy should give you a unique voice and unique insights. It should be something that the algorithms and AI can't catch as a copy-paste job."Once the content strategy is in place, Goodman Lantern's team of writers, editors, animators, and videographers work together to execute the content creation process. Raj highlights the significance of case studies in converting potential customers into paying customers, stating, "Case studies are a gold mine for conversion."In terms of content distribution, Goodman Lantern utilizes various channels, including press releases, social media, SEO, and distribution to industry-specific publications. Raj emphasizes the importance of understanding the client's industry and target audience to effectively distribute the content.The Power of SEO and Social Media in Content DistributionRaj highlights the importance of SEO in content distribution, stating, "SEO is a gift that keeps giving. Once you rank well, it takes a lot of effort for someone else to come and take your ranking away." He advises businesses to invest in SEO as it provides a better return on investment compared to paid advertisements.In terms of social media, Raj explains that each platform has its own nuances and preferences. He mentions that Twitter favors tweet storms, while other platforms may prioritize images or videos. He emphasizes the need for unique and valuable content that captures the attention of the audience and encourages engagement.Raj also mentions the importance of keeping users within the platform by uploading content natively. He states, "Social media platforms want to keep users on their platform, so it's better to upload content directly rather than linking to external websites."Promoting Gender Equality in the Tech IndustryRaj's commitment to promoting gender equality and women's economic empowerment is evident in Goodman Lantern's team composition, with over 80% of team members being women. He explains that this mission was inspired by personal experiences and a desire to create a more inclusive tech industry.Raj acknowledges that some may question whether focusing on gender equality compromises the hiring of the best candidates. He assures that Goodman Lantern follows a fair interview process and hires based on core values and potential for growth. He states, "If they have the right values and want to grow in that role, they will find an opportunity."Implications and Future OutlookThe insights shared by Raj highlight the importance of content strategy, execution, and distribution in driving business growth. Delegating content creation, leveraging SEO and social media, and promoting gender equality are key factors in gaining a technology leadership edge.As technology continues to evolve, businesses must adapt their content strategies to stay ahead of the competition. The future of content creation lies in creating unique and valuable content that resonates with the target audience. By embracing diversity and empowering women in the tech industry, businesses can tap into a wider talent pool and foster innovation.In conclusion, leveraging the power of content creation is essential for businesses looking to gain a technology leadership edge. By developing a comprehensive content strategy, delegating content creation, and utilizing SEO and social media for distribution, businesses can establish themselves as thought leaders and drive growth. Furthermore, promoting gender equality in the tech industry not only fosters inclusivity but also brings diverse perspectives and talent to the forefront. As technology continues to shape the business landscape, businesses must adapt and embrace the power of content creation to stay ahead of the competition and drive success.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Fractional CPO/CTO ServicesWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast dedicated to providing strategies and tactics for tech executives. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ram Prasad, the CEO of Dellen's Fractional CPO CTO Services. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Ram shares his insights into how businesses can leverage fractional CPO/CTO services to scale their operations, improve efficiency, and drive profitability.Understanding Fractional CPO and CTO ServicesRam begins by explaining the concept of fractional CPO (Chief Product Officer) and CTO (Chief Technology Officer) services. He highlights that these services are particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses and startups that may not have the resources or budget to hire a full-time executive. Fractional CPOs and CTOs provide the same level of expertise and leadership as their full-time counterparts but on a part-time basis."A fractional CPO is a fractional Chief Product Officer. My customers are typically small to medium-sized businesses or startups who do not want to or cannot afford a full-time Chief Product Officer or Chief Technology Officer. So they are looking for the same level of expertise, same level of leadership competence, and the same level of trust factor in leadership decisions that they cannot at this point in time engage a full-time resource for." - Ram PrasadRam emphasizes that engaging a fractional CPO or CTO can result in significant cost savings, ranging from 70% to 75%. This flexibility allows businesses to scale up or down based on their needs and only pay for the services they require."The savings is around 70% to 75%. That is the savings that one would incur because you have the flexibility of scaling up or scaling down as the demand warrants... 70% to 75% is the savings that I see that customers can benefit." - Ram PrasadThe Advantages of Fractional CPO/CTO ServicesWhen asked about the top advantages of hiring a fractional CPO or CTO, Ram highlights two key benefits. The first advantage is the wealth of experience and knowledge that these fractional executives bring to the table. They can provide guidance and leadership to steer the company in the right direction and achieve desired outcomes."The first advantage is the experience, the expertise that comes with the CTO versus none... The second is you can scale up or down based on your needs. You can customize the needs." - Ram PrasadThe second advantage is the ability to customize the level of engagement based on the company's needs. Fractional CPOs and CTOs can provide as little as one or two hours a week up to 20 hours a week, depending on the requirements. This flexibility allows businesses to access the expertise they need without the commitment of a full-time hire.Working with Technology-Focused CompaniesRam primarily works with technology-focused companies, specifically enterprise SaaS (Software as a Service) companies across various verticals. His clients range from companies with revenues of $1 million to $20 million and team sizes of three to four engineers to 15 to 20 engineers. While the verticals may differ, the common thread among his clients is their focus on building and delivering software products."My typical customer range is $1 million to $20 million. Maybe a team size of anywhere from three to four engineers to 15 to 20 engineers on the staff. That's the typical customer base." - Ram PrasadRam also mentions that he occasionally mentors startups at no cost through accelerators and incubators, further highlighting his commitment to supporting the growth and success of technology-driven businesses.The Role of Fractional CPO/CTO in Execution and LeadershipRam emphasizes the importance of execution and leadership in his role as a fractional CPO/CTO. He often works with CEOs who have a vision for their company but struggle with execution. By providing guidance and strategies, Ram helps these CEOs align their teams and processes to achieve their goals."The person who typically calls me is the CEO of the company. The CEO of the company has no CTO or CPO on staff. He or she has an execution problem... They are smart folks capable of building excellent products, but with no direction or lack or incorrect direction. So the advantages are to steer the ship in the right direction to achieve the outcomes that should be achieved." - Ram PrasadRam shares an example of a recent engagement where he worked with a CTO who had grown organically within the organization but needed guidance to perform at the CTO level. By meeting with the CTO regularly, providing strategies, and offering tips on leadership decisions, Ram helped groom the individual to exceed expectations and perform at the desired level.The Importance of Clear Communication and VisibilityRam emphasizes the importance of clear communication and visibility within the organization. He believes that transparency and visibility into the process, status, and technical challenges are crucial for the entire team to understand and appreciate the work being done."Visibility to the entire team on the process, on the status, on the accomplishments, on the technical challenges... There should be visibility so that everybody has an insight and an understanding of why certain things are taking longer than expected." - Ram PrasadBy providing visibility and fostering open communication, Ram ensures that everyone is aligned and understands the challenges and progress being made. This helps build trust and collaboration within the team, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective execution.The Power of Crisp and Effective MeetingsWhen discussing the role of meetings, Ram emphasizes the importance of keeping them crisp and effective. He believes that meetings should have a clear agenda and objective, and participants should be prepared to provide updates and contribute to the discussion."Meetings are good as long as they are crisp to the point and the team is prepared to give updates... Any meeting that does not have a fixed agenda and a fixed objective that should materialize from the meeting is a waste of time." - Ram PrasadRam suggests that meetings should be time-bound and cut off if they deviate from the agenda. He also highlights the importance of starting meetings on time, even if only one person is present. This creates a culture of punctuality and respect for everyone's time.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn conclusion, fractional CPO/CTO services offer a cost-effective and flexible solution for businesses looking to leverage the expertise and leadership of experienced executives. By engaging fractional CPOs and CTOs, companies can scale their operations, improve efficiency, and align their technology initiatives with their business goals.The insights shared by Ram Prasad shed light on the benefits of fractional CPO/CTO services and the importance of clear communication, execution, and effective meetings. As technology continues to evolve and businesses face new challenges, fractional CPO/CTO services will play a crucial role in helping companies navigate the ever-changing landscape and stay ahead of the competition.With the guidance and expertise of fractional CPOs and CTOs, businesses can overcome common challenges, achieve success, and gain the technology leadership edge they need to thrive in today's fast-paced digital world.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Modernizing the Insurance IndustryWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In today's episode, we have Eugene Shafronsky, the Head of Strategy at Thinktum, discussing the modernization of the insurance industry through the use of technology. Eugene emphasizes the need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and the importance of providing personalized experiences. He also highlights the role of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in streamlining processes and improving efficiency. Let's dive deeper into these themes and explore their implications for the insurance industry.Personalization and Consumer ExperienceEugene recognizes the shift in consumer behavior and the need for insurance companies to adapt to these changes. He states, "People have a tendency to consume today in a different way than they used to consume 20, 30, 40 years ago." He emphasizes the importance of providing solutions that align with how people prefer to consume today. This means offering online platforms and tools that allow customers to research and choose the way they want to consume insurance products.To achieve this, Eugene suggests leveraging no-code platforms, which enable business experts to create personalized journeys for customers without relying on IT resources. He explains, "No-code technology allows someone who is not necessarily a technology expert to create a very unique and personalized journey for someone else." This empowers business experts to design and optimize the customer experience without the need for extensive IT involvement.Agility and AutomationIn the quest for modernization, agility plays a crucial role. Eugene highlights the importance of agility in the insurance industry, stating, "Agility allows organizations to monitor much more frequently and effectively what they do." By adopting agile methodologies and leveraging automation tools, insurance companies can streamline their processes and respond quickly to changing market demands.Eugene recommends utilizing automation in the underwriting process, which traditionally has been time-consuming and complex. He explains, "Automation of the risk assessment and underwriting is the key because that's the longest process and traditionally, over the history of insurance, that's where it took the longest time." By automating routine tasks and leveraging AI, insurance companies can accelerate the underwriting process, reduce costs, and provide faster service to customers.The Power of Data and AIData and AI are transforming the insurance industry, enabling companies to make more informed decisions and improve risk assessment. Eugene emphasizes the importance of collecting relevant data and using it effectively. He advises insurance companies to focus on the data they need to make the best possible decisions, rather than trying to gather all available data. He states, "You don't need all the data, you only need the data you need."AI plays a significant role in analyzing data and identifying patterns and trends. Eugene explains, "Machine learning and deep learning can allow you to monitor your data instantly and provide alerts, trends, and outliers." By leveraging AI, insurance companies can detect fraud, identify customer preferences, and make accurate predictions. This enables them to personalize their offerings, improve customer satisfaction, and mitigate risks.Implications and Future OutlookThe modernization of the insurance industry through technology has far-reaching implications. By embracing personalization, automation, and AI, insurance companies can enhance the customer experience, increase efficiency, and drive profitability. The shift towards digital platforms and tools allows customers to research and purchase insurance products in a way that suits their preferences. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also enables insurance companies to attract and retain customers in a highly competitive market.Furthermore, automation and AI streamline processes, reducing costs and improving accuracy. Insurance companies can process applications faster, resulting in quicker payouts for agents and a more efficient underwriting process. The ability to analyze vast amounts of data and leverage AI algorithms enables insurance companies to make data-driven decisions, identify risks, and optimize pricing structures.Looking ahead, the insurance industry will continue to evolve as technology advances. The integration of emerging technologies such as blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) will further transform the industry, enabling real-time data collection and enhancing risk assessment. Insurance companies that embrace these technologies and prioritize customer-centric approaches will gain a competitive edge in the market.In conclusion, the modernization of the insurance industry through technology is essential for staying ahead in today's rapidly changing landscape. Personalization, automation, and AI are key drivers of this transformation, enabling insurance companies to provide tailored experiences, streamline processes, and make data-driven decisions. By embracing these technologies, insurance companies can enhance customer satisfaction, increase efficiency, and drive profitability. The future of the insurance industry lies in leveraging technology to meet the evolving needs of customers and adapt to the digital age.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Journey into Passion and InnovationWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast for tech executives. In this episode, we have Jeremy Lasman, the founder and CEO of The Passion Company, as our guest. Jeremy is a visionary entrepreneur who is pioneering a public utility that addresses the universal basic human need for passion. His mission is to use his invention of imagination technology to accelerate the world's conscious evolution to superhuman. With a background in SpaceX and a passion for innovation, Jeremy brings a unique perspective to the table.The Power of Passion as FuelJeremy believes that passion is the fuel of human energy. He sees it as the driving force behind our imagination technology, which encompasses our minds, bodies, and spirits. By understanding passion as a basic human need, Jeremy aims to address the problems that arise when this fuel is not running at its highest performance. He states, "When you look at it in the metaphor or in the story, that is a fuel. You can more precisely address the upgrading, the leveling up of how this fuel is running throughout our whole system."The Birth of The Passion CompanyThe idea for The Passion Company came to Jeremy as he was researching and developing his invention of imagination technology. He wanted to find an area of the world where his invention could have maximum benefit. Inspired by the infrastructure built around basic human needs like water, gas, and electricity, Jeremy envisioned a whole new utility sector for passion. He explains, "What we're doing is creating a whole new utility sector for passion side by side with water, gas, and electricity, not only to support it, but really supplying it."From SpaceX to The Passion CompanyJeremy's time at SpaceX was a formative experience that shaped his thinking and approach to innovation. He joined the company when it was still a startup and had the opportunity to witness the excitement and groundbreaking work happening in the field of space exploration. One of his most memorable projects was working with Elon Musk to create a music video commemorating SpaceX's first successful launch. Jeremy reflects, "Just being part of history... every single mark, even if it was a little delayed, like success, everything got proven wrong."The Challenges of InnovationInnovation often faces resistance and skepticism, especially when it challenges established norms. Jeremy acknowledges that his vision for The Passion Company may seem outlandish to some. However, he believes that the key to overcoming pushback lies in effective communication and marketing. He states, "I've really had to experiment and refine the message... It is an out-there concept, and I've gotten so much better in communication and marketing with the help of my team."The Importance of Teamwork and DelegationAs a visionary entrepreneur, Jeremy understands the importance of surrounding himself with a talented team. He recognizes that he can't do everything on his own and that delegating tasks to others is essential for success. Jeremy shares, "I think that's vitally important, that you surround yourself with other people that are really passionate about the things that you're not passionate about so that you can create something bigger than any one of the individuals, including me."The Culture of PassionCreating a culture of passion within an organization is crucial for fostering innovation and success. Jeremy believes that the internal culture should be a role model for the user experience. He emphasizes the importance of aligning the company's values with the passion it aims to deliver. Jeremy states, "The company culture should be the example of what the user experience is that you're putting out there."The Future of The Passion CompanyLooking ahead, Jeremy envisions The Passion Company expanding its reach into businesses, corporations, and even government sectors. He sees the potential for his invention of imagination technology and the concept of passion as a utility to revolutionize the way we approach human evolution. Jeremy concludes, "The vision is certainly big... we're talking a very big scope of where it can go."In conclusion, Jeremy Lasman's journey from SpaceX to founding The Passion Company is a testament to the power of passion and innovation. By recognizing passion as the fuel of human energy, Jeremy aims to address the challenges and bottlenecks that hinder our personal and collective growth. Through effective communication, teamwork, and a culture of passion, he believes that we can accelerate our conscious evolution to superhuman. The future holds immense potential for The Passion Company and its vision of a world fueled by passion.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Strategies for SuccessWelcome to "Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge," a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Bob Cotton, an experienced technology executive who has led numerous digital transformations and mission-critical programs for his clients. Bob shared his expertise on communication, work-life balance, and the importance of delivering value to customers.Communication: Bridging the Gap between Tech and BusinessOne of the biggest challenges for tech executives is effective communication. As Bob pointed out, tech execs often get caught up in the details of making technology work and forget the bigger picture. They need to put themselves in the shoes of their clients and understand their expectations. Bob emphasized the importance of building trust and strong relationships with clients by clearly articulating the value of the technology solutions being delivered. He highlighted the need for tech execs to step back and think about how they can communicate in a way that helps clients make informed decisions and supports a better working relationship.Bob also stressed the importance of understanding how different stakeholders prefer to be communicated with. He shared his experience of working with a CEO who only wanted to know when things would be done and how much they would cost. By tailoring his communication style to meet the CEO's needs, Bob was able to build a strong working relationship and gain the CEO's trust.Work-Life Balance: Finding Harmony in a Demanding RoleTech executives often face the challenge of achieving work-life balance. The constant connectivity and pressure to deliver results can make it difficult to switch off and recharge. Bob acknowledged the demands of the role and the need to create space for oneself. He encouraged tech executives to find smarter ways of working and to regularly reassess their approach to maintain balance.Setting boundaries is crucial in achieving work-life balance. Bob shared his own experience of setting boundaries, such as not responding to work-related messages during personal time. He emphasized the importance of enforcing these boundaries and not allowing them to be crossed. By doing so, tech executives can create a healthier work-life balance and avoid burnout.Delivering Value: The Key to SuccessDelivering value is at the core of a tech executive's role. Bob highlighted the need for tech executives to focus on the value they bring to their clients and their organizations. This involves understanding the client's expectations and ensuring that the technology solutions being delivered meet those expectations. Bob emphasized the importance of being customer-focused and maintaining a strong customer-centric mindset.In addition to delivering value to clients, tech executives also need to focus on delivering value to their teams. Bob stressed the importance of empowering and trusting team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work. By doing so, tech executives can build resilient and high-performing teams that are motivated to deliver results.Conclusion: The Future of Technology LeadershipIn conclusion, technology leadership is a challenging but rewarding role. Effective communication, work-life balance, and delivering value are key pillars of success for tech executives. By prioritizing these areas, tech executives can build strong relationships with clients, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and drive value for their organizations.Looking ahead, the role of technology leadership will continue to evolve. As technology advances and client expectations change, tech executives will need to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. The ability to communicate effectively, maintain work-life balance, and deliver value will remain crucial in navigating the ever-changing technology landscape.In the fast-paced world of technology, gaining the technology leadership edge requires continuous learning, adaptability, and a focus on building strong relationships. By embracing these principles, tech executives can position themselves for success and stay ahead of the competition.Remember, the key to gaining the technology leadership edge is to be curious, stay updated on the latest trends, and always strive to deliver value. With these strategies in mind, tech executives can lead their organizations to new heights and achieve their career goals.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: Insights from Mark HirschbergWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in the technology leadership world. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mark Herschberg, the CTO of Vodx and author of the book "The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You." Mark shares his expertise on communication, leadership, and networking for technology professionals. Let's dive into the key takeaways from our conversation with Mark.Communication: Tailoring Your Message for Different AudiencesOne of the most important skills for any tech executive is effective communication. Mark emphasizes the need to tailor your message to different audiences, taking into account their communication styles and preferences. He uses the analogy of pitching an idea to two different types of people: a left-brain thinker like Sheldon Cooper from "The Big Bang Theory" and a right-brain thinker. Mark explains that you can't present the same information to everyone in the same way. Instead, you need to adjust your communication style to make it more accessible and relatable to each audience."Imagine you have to pitch an idea to an extreme left-brain person. Think Sheldon Cooper from 'The Big Bang Theory.' How would you pitch the idea to Sheldon? You would write out a detailed plan, walk through step by step, and have a 27-point plan. But if you want to pitch the same idea to an extreme right-brain person, you can't present the same information. You need to use different approaches, such as analogies or putting it into a context they can understand." - Mark HerschbergWhen it comes to training sessions, Mark suggests considering the complexity of the software and the different job functions within the organization. If the software is simple and everyone needs to know the same information, it may be more efficient to train everyone together. However, if the software is complex and requires different tasks for different job functions, it's better to separate the training sessions by job function. This ensures that each group receives the specific information they need to perform their roles effectively.Leadership: Inspiring Others and Making Tough DecisionsMark believes that true leadership goes beyond positional authority. It's about inspiring and getting buy-in from others, regardless of your level of seniority. He highlights the importance of recognizing that leadership is personal and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, he offers two key insights into leadership:There is no one path to leadership: "What makes a great basketball player? It depends. Some are great shooters, some are great rebounders, and some have good court sense. Similarly, there is more than one way to be a good leader. It's a personal journey."True leadership is different from positional authority: "True leadership is about inspiring and getting buy-in from others, rather than commanding through authority. Even the most junior people on your team can exhibit leadership qualities and contribute to the growth of your organization."Mark also shares a personal experience where he had to make a tough decision as a leader. He had a team member who was a perfectionist and constantly butting heads with other engineers. Despite his efforts to explain trade-offs and the need for suboptimal solutions, the team member couldn't let go of his pursuit of perfection. In this situation, Mark had to assert his authority and make a judgment call, which ultimately led to the team member leaving the company. However, he handled the situation with empathy and provided a smooth transition for the team member.Networking: Expanding Horizons and Gaining Different PerspectivesNetworking is crucial for technology professionals to expand their horizons and gain different perspectives. Mark advises tech professionals to go beyond networking with other technologists and connect with people from diverse fields such as education, medicine, law, and finance. By doing so, they can gain insights and perspectives that their fellow technologists may not have considered."Meet people in other areas, not just technology. Connect with individuals from diverse fields such as education, medicine, law, and finance. This will not only lead to new opportunities but also provide you with different perspectives that can enrich your understanding and help you identify risks and opportunities for your organization." - Mark HerschbergMark also emphasizes the importance of networking within your own organization. Building relationships with colleagues from different departments can help you understand their perspectives and collaborate more effectively. It can also open doors to new opportunities within the company.Conclusion and Future OutlookIn this thought-provoking conversation with Mark Herschberg, we explored the essential skills for tech executives, including communication, leadership, and networking. Mark's insights shed light on the importance of tailoring your message to different audiences, inspiring others through true leadership, and expanding your network to gain diverse perspectives. As technology continues to evolve, these skills will be crucial for tech executives to stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation in their organizations.Remember, effective communication is not just about conveying information; it's about understanding your audience and adapting your message to their needs. True leadership goes beyond positional authority and involves inspiring others and making tough decisions. Finally, networking with individuals from diverse fields can provide fresh insights and open doors to new opportunities.As technology leaders, let's continue to develop these essential skills and embrace the ever-changing landscape of the technology industry. By doing so, we can gain the technology leadership edge and drive success in our careers and organizations.

Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Product SuccessWelcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in the technology leadership world. In this episode, we have a special guest, David Fraidin, who is a renowned expert in product management and the author of several books on the subject. David shares his mission to help products succeed and provides valuable insights into the five keys to product success: Strategy, Process, Information, Customer, and Employees.The Importance of Product Market StrategyAccording to David, a solid product market strategy is essential for product success. He emphasizes the need to understand the customer's problem and whether there is a tangible market for the product. David explains, "With that information in hand, you can then figure out the persona of your target customers, do your market research and your competitive research, and write your product positioning statement, which is used then throughout your marketing." He also highlights the importance of considering distribution channels, pricing strategy, and support and service plans in the product market strategy.The Power of a Repeatable ProcessDavid believes that having a repeatable process is crucial for improving product development and increasing product success. He shares an example of a company that failed to have a repeatable process and experienced a culture of blame when their products failed. David suggests a process that involves observing prospective customers, conducting interviews, and sending out surveys to gather information about the target market. He explains, "The combination of observing, interviewing, and then surveying lets you build up what your potential target market size might be from the bottom up."Leveraging Information for Informed DecisionsAccess to the right information is another key factor in product success. David emphasizes the need for companies to subscribe to market research services and have flexibility in the services they choose. He shares an example of a company that had to wait for over a year to access the market research they needed, which hindered their decision-making process. David suggests that companies should ensure their product managers and decision-makers are trained in accessing and analyzing relevant information to make informed decisions.Understanding the Customer's Needs and WantsInnovation plays a crucial role in product success, and understanding the customer's needs and wants is essential for driving innovation. David explains, "It's far better to ask them what is it that they do, why they do it, when they do it, where they do it, and so forth. And from that, you can innovate and come up with a better solution." He emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's desired outcome, the job to be done, and the barriers they face in achieving their goals. By understanding these factors, companies can develop customer personas and tailor their products to meet specific needs.The Competencies of Successful EmployeesDavid believes that employees play a crucial role in product success and need to possess the necessary skill sets for their roles. He highlights the importance of training employees in various competencies related to product management, market research, and customer understanding. David explains, "They need to have the skill sets to be able to go out and observe what people are doing, be able to write and interview and avoid the questions like, when did you stop beating your wife? To be able to write a survey and pick a sample that's representative of the personas that you're targeting."Implications and Future OutlookThe insights shared by David Frayden have significant implications for the technology leadership world. By focusing on product market strategy, implementing a repeatable process, leveraging information, understanding the customer, and developing employee competencies, companies can increase their chances of product success. These strategies can lead to improved customer satisfaction, increased market share, and ultimately, higher profitability.In the future, the role of AI in product management and innovation is expected to grow. However, it is important to remember that AI is limited by the available data and cannot discover unknown unknowns. Companies must continue to rely on human insights and understanding to drive innovation and meet customer needs effectively.In conclusion, product success requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses strategy, process, information, customer understanding, and employee competencies. By following these five keys to product success, companies can stay ahead of the competition and achieve their business goals. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for tech executives to stay informed and adapt their strategies to the changing landscape. With the right mindset and a focus on product success, tech leaders can gain the technology leadership edge they need to thrive in the industry. 

EXEC provides businesses with benefits packages to offer their employees. They focus on executive benefits. Great conversation around the deals space and how technology changed it all.

Today our guest is Ken Coyne from the award-winning outsourced business, OpsTalent. OpsTalent delivers multilingual customer experience and IT development services globally from Poland, one of the leading outsourcing hubs in Europe. He is originally from Ireland and started in finance but ended up in Poland with his brother who met a Polish girl on a blind date many years ago and moved to Poland shortly after. Ken has over 20 years of experience working in tech and is currently the Head of Growth and Technology for Ops Talent, where they have 500 people and growing.

Welcome to gaining the technology leadership edge a podcast for tech executives. We provide strategies and tactics to help executives succeed, and further their career goals. With interviews from industry experts, leaders and innovators, this show will surely get you on the edge of your seats, with thought provoking advice on how to stay ahead of the competition. Welcome to gaining the technology leadership edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies and insects in the technology leadership world, from emerging technologies to digital transformation and beyond. We'll discuss the most important topics and ideas shaping the industry today. Join us to learn all of the juicy secrets of tech leaders their biggest successes and failures on our quest for gaining that all important technology edge. Are you ready? Let's get started. So today, there's no guest. But I'd like to talk to you about stories from a CTOs perspective. And essentially, what I really want to talk to you about today is how you can better communicate things to the other corporate executives, because we all know that in a corporate environment, there's generally an executive team and that executive team makes all of the decisions about where money is spent, how money is spent, how often money is spent, etc. And so one of the problems you have is that corporate executives do not have lots of knowledge about technology. So they don't understand some of the things that go on in the technology world. And therefore, they cannot accurately approve or deny requests that are made from the CTO of the company. So one of the first stories I want to tell you is I used to work for as the CTO for a restaurant delivery service. And they had commissioned a software from another developer. And essentially what they did was they bought his source code. And then for a year for that price, he would modify the code, and then they would take theirs and branch off into their own, he would take his and branch off into his own. And that'd be that. Well, one of the weakest aspects of this program was the fax server. So there was quarters would get faxed to restaurants as they came in. And unfortunately, what was happening was Chinese food was ending up at a hamburger restaurant, hamburger restaurant was ending up a Chinese restaurant, because of the load that was being put on the machine that was running the fax server. So I finally decided it needed to be fixed. And so I had at the time had a contractor working for me. And we sat down and we each spent an entire 40 hours of nothing but coding different pieces of this fax server, he took some parts, I took some parts, and then we put it out on one of the busiest days of the year, Valentine's Day, the dispatch team told us they did not have any faxes go to the wrong places. Fast forward about a week, and that story remains the same. They had not had a single fax go to the wrong place. So on a particular day, above my office was my boss's office, and he called me up along with a contractor. And he wanted to talk about priorities. And I don't remember what exactly occurred. But the contractor got a little annoyed and said, you know, Mike, and I just spent a total of 80 hours on a fax server, and it's perfect. There's not been a single problem, and I haven't heard you once, say thank you for it. And this executive proving their lack of knowledge, I looked at the two of us and pointed at the light switch on the wall and said, Do you see that light switch over there? And we said, yeah, and he said, When I flipped that switch on in the morning, and the lights come on, I don't call the electrician and thank him for it. Well, obviously a very different situation. That light switch had been there forever. Back server was broken. Point being he didn't understand the effort that it took to make that happen. And it's your job as the CTO to educate him on that. Now another example is one day, I CEO came to me and he wants to know why we couldn't voice enable our website. He had seen it on a movie now. Guys, this was in the early 2000s. There was no voice technology that would work for a website, but he wanted this. And so I had to educate him on why that wouldn't work. I had to show him articles that said that voice technology was at least five to 10 years off, et cetera. But the point is, he learned he didn't ask anymore. Then the final big story that I have for you on this issue is the suggestion engine story. So of course, as a restaurant delivery service, we would we would deliver food for various restaurants and its various kinds of food. But it wasn't always you know, we didn't have just one genre of food that we used. But in any event, he saw our CEO saw Amazon's suggestion engine and how accurate it was. And he thought, well, this is a way to boost sales. And so he came to me. And he wanted to know if we could do it. Now, yes, I could do this. But Amazon spent $2 million on the initial investment, and then a million dollars a year after that, to keep it maintained. And so I gave him articles on this. And I explained to him how difficult the process was, and that there really wasn't a way to make a good suggestion engine without spending that money at the time, you have to remember that this was 25 years ago. Well, by educating him, he understood more about what was going on. And so that's the key here, guys, educate your executives, to so that they gain an understanding forward them articles that are about things that you've heard them talk about, speak at meetings on a specific topic, pick a topic like email security, how to avoid viruses, and then talk about it, it gives you great chance to talk about the things you've put in place, what I would do is, I would have a meeting, like during a meeting, I'd get a segment on how to avoid how to handle spam and an email in emails. And then I would talk about our email server and how what kind of software we were running, what its capabilities were, what were some future projects down the road that we were planning on doing related to the email server. And at that point, I'm educating my team, my executive team on the topics that are going to come up. Also, when you when you have tech projects, get your executives involved as testers, let them see the process and how I mean, it's very eye opening for an executive to see the process of how something goes from being an idea to completed project. And I want you to think about that as you as you go through these things. And as you listen to this episode, because executives, they only know what they know. And they don't know what they don't know. And that's an obvious thing, right. So make sure that you're constantly educating them, constantly looking for ways to educate them, invite your team members to come in and talk on a topic that's related to their job, maybe your network security person can come in and talk about security concerns, and what he's doing to protect your company. These are all things that executives are going to appreciate. But they're also going to learn so much from it, that they're going to give you less and less pushback, see people who trust you will listen to you. And that's what you have to do is show them why they can trust you and how they can trust you. So the last part I want to talk to you about is, you know, how to show them things so that they get it. So like we said, a lot of people don't understand the technology process. And so I was I was tasked with speeding up the client server application that we ran at the restaurant delivery service, and it just wasn't going to happen the way they wanted. And so I suggested a complete rewrite into a web based application was going to cost $500,000. And they did not want to spend that they did not see the benefit. They kept saying that technology, people always say that things are going to be better, but then they're not. So what I did was we had a dispatch screen that had all the orders pending dispatch, pending delivery, would constantly refresh because the colors would change to mean different statuses, etc. Well, what I ended up doing to sell them on this idea was I created a new screen, I dropped a web browser control on that screen, and I did this personally. And then I created a dotnet back end that ran the dispatch screen. It cost me about $1,000 to do this. And I showed it to them and I released it and they were like, Oh my God, what did you do to the dispatch screen, it's so much faster. Oh my god, it's so much faster. In the end, we paid the $500,000. And we redid the entire application. Then there's the court in California and source control. So I got brought in to this project to help them with a paperless document reader system. And they weren't using Source Control. They were all going to a shared drive and editing the files right there. And a lot of the times they were having to edit the same file as someone else and overriding things. And so I just had to talk to them about source control and I had to show them how much more efficient source control is. And so I started showing them how when I use source control, nothing ever gets overwritten for me and I don't overriding anything for anyone else. And in the end, they made the switch and they decided to use source control. So, always remember as we get to the end of this really short solo episode, always remember that as the tech executive, it is your job to educate the other executives. Do what you have to do to show them what it is you're up to. Don't be secretive, be transparent, be as transparent as you possibly can. Anyway, that's all I have for you today. So thanks for tuning in to gaining the technology leadership edge and we hope that you've had a great time with us learning everything you need to know to stay ahead of the technology curve. Remember, be curious, be updated on all the latest trends. Show them who's boss. Until next time, we'll be back with plenty more techy tips and tricks so you can stay on top of your game. See ya 

Michael J. Mahony  0:01  Welcome to gaining the technology leadership edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies and insights in the technology leadership world. From emerging technologies to digital transformation and beyond, we will discuss the most important topics and ideas shaping the industry today, join us to learn all of the juicy secrets of tech leaders, their biggest successes and failures on our quest for gaining that all important technology edge. So are you ready? Let's get started. Our guest today is Dave Erickson. Dave has bootstrapped 12 startups, and is currently CEO and co founder of a digital development company and a content marketing company. He is experienced in digital marketing and development. Welcome to the show, Dave. Glad to be here. So tell us about your company. Unknown Speaker  0:50  Well, screen box is focused on digital development. And by that pretty much includes web mobile back end, even just trying to figure out how to use digital technology to solve business problems. That's kind of the core of what screaming box has been for the last 10 years. And we are industry agnostic. We don't care what industry the client is in. And we approach development a little bit differently. And that is, with a lot of the business experiences that I've had. My first question to a client is usually what's your business problem? So a client may come to me and said, I need to do my website, redo my website? And I'll say, Okay, let's have a business conversation. First. You're not just doing your website, because you just woke up and decided you're going to redo your website. There's a reason right there. There's some business challenge you're trying to address. And it's much better to have a business conversation about that. And then we can figure out how do we use technology to solve the business challenge, right? Michael J. Mahony  1:55  Totally makes sense. So what what are some of the typical challenges? Well, okay, like example, you gave an example of someone coming to and saying, hey, I want to redo my website. And they obviously were inspired by something, what's typically something that makes somebody decide that they want to change out their website? Unknown Speaker  2:11  Well, it could be several different things. I've had clients who've come to me and said, literally, we did our website about five years ago, we haven't touched it updated or anything. And so we need to do that. Because it's been five years, not because there's any real business reason, but just It's been five years, and we haven't touched it. So we should update it. And then I usually have the conversational what motivated this? Or was there something in the background, you have some problems? Or maybe you'd like to get more business, you're trying to grow your business? Or what's really that that and I find that by having that conversation? It's much better from us a client service position, because that question is really about helping the client. Whereas a lot of typical agencies are like, Oh, the client thinks they need a new website, great. Let's just give a proposal to build a new website. And they're not really, they don't really care about what the real business challenges, because as far as they're concerned, they already got the guy, they already got someone saying, I want a website. So why go into this other stuff. Let's just give them a proposal for a website. And, you know, I've had clients who've come to me and said, I need a new website, and we go look at their website, we're like, you know, your website's fine. Right? What what's really your problem, right? And what are you really trying to address? Oh, I would like to do this? Well, no, your website doesn't have the ability to capture incoming leads and, and generate stuff from organic traffic. So we can change that. But that's very different than rebuilding your website. Right. But I've also had clients come to me and say, I need to rebuild my website. And what they really needed to do was rebuild their entire back end. Right. Sure. And, and use the website to automate processes, right. But they don't know that when they come to me. Right, they usually are thinking about some other issue. And once we kind of get into what are you really trying to do? What's your business challenge, then that just opens up the conversation to provide a real solution versus what they think they need? Michael J. Mahony  4:19  Yeah, it's like when people come to you, and they say, I need a mobile application. And then you ask them, Well, why do you need a mobile application? What is it you're trying to do? What are you trying to accomplish? Because I think that's the thing that people don't always grasp is that I've heard people say, oh, I need a whole new website, because I'm not getting conversions. Well, you probably don't need a whole new website. There's probably something wrong with your landing page copy or something. But there's other ways to fix it without redoing your entire website. So what you've you've bootstrapped 12 startups, what are some other types of companies that you've started? Unknown Speaker  4:58  Well, I I had a publishing company in Europe for like, eight or nine years, I've had a solar company. I started out in contract electronics manufacturing, I've had a branding and licensing company in the gaming industry ran that for almost 15 years, we developed a gaming eSports brand. And I licensed that to large manufacturers in Asia. And I've had a lot of little startups that, you know, some lasted three months and nothing happened and others lasted a year. And then okay, it's just not going in a direction, that means anything. You know, if half of what you start fails, you're lucky, because that means that you actually learn something, right? Because you don't really learn as much from the successes as you do from the failures. Right? And sure what the businesses that did succeed, they all succeeded on the backs of some failure that I had, right? Some lesson that was learned, and then I was able, Okay, the next business, let's get it right. So for me, the process of starting businesses is really about, you know, finding a business that can fail in a way that I learned something or that succeeds, because it's something I've learned previously, right? Michael J. Mahony  6:20  So what what from those experiences, can you give me the two things you've learned from those experiences that have helped you with screaming box? Unknown Speaker  6:31  Peep people, and the position of trying to help. So in starting a business, the key is really people. And there's two sides of people, there's the people who are working with you or working for you. And then there's the people you're working with. And understanding those people and understanding why they would like to work with you. And knowing who you are. That's kind of the key. In some of the businesses that I've had, that didn't work. One of the major reasons was that some of the people in the business were not the right people, or they didn't treat me well, or I didn't treat them well, or they didn't treat the client, well, the client did treat them well. And, you know, in those situations, you really got to understand it, we approach that with screen box very differently, because we had that impression. We actually developed over the last 10 years a lot of personality testing and analysis. And we basically have like a 10 to 15 minute personality assessment. We don't do it just for our developers, we do it for our clients, and our developers. And we, you know, the biggest problem that we've had in development is, the client may be like a marketing agency who needs you know, some worked on for one of their clients, and the agency is all full of creative types. And that's what a good marketing agency needs to be followed. But those are not really the best type of people to be leading a development project, right. So if you have a bunch of developers who are very detailed oriented, and very, you know, operating, procedure oriented, and they have their way of wanting to work in a certain way, and then you put them with a client, who is all creative and not very organized, and you know, loosey goosey, there's going to be a lot of conflict there. Right. And a lot of there's going to be communication, conflict or workflow conflict. So we found that if we, you know, personality test and assess both sides, then we can kind of find the best people to work together. And it eliminates so many problems on the front end, right. And we have clients, we have team extension, where basically, they're, they're coming to us and say, We really need a developer to work on on a project for full time, and we're going to manage them. Right. And they're amazed that the developer that we find them just starts and is productive from day one. Right. And a lot of that is because we are analyzing the personalities. And you know, it's a little bit more expensive on our side, because, you know, we're not just finding the first developer who's available and giving it to the client, we may have to go through three or four developers so we find a personality match that we know is really going to work well together. Right. And it seems like a lot of effort. It seems like a lot of issues, but I've just learned in business that the right people working with the right people make success. Right. And it really is very important, particularly in a service business, that you're finding good people, that you're working with good people, and you take that extra effort to understand on both sides, right? Michael J. Mahony  10:03  Yeah, I think your people answer is perfect to me. Because, you know, I'm a business coach. And one of the things they look for is patterns. And you, you find that if this problem exists, this pattern probably exists. And a lot of times, it's, you know, too many tech, too many technical people, not enough creative people, or there's so many creative people and not enough technical people. But by knowing those patterns, you can, like you said, you can plug the right developer in with the right client. I mean, it's a big, it's, if you take, because I've done I had a development company for years, and I followed a similar approach to you. And I feel like you're here at entrepreneurship, you got to find the client that wants to work with you, and that you want to work with. All right. Now take that into a bigger development business picture, you're working with a lot of different types of people, but it's how you hook those people up with their resources is going to make you successful, right? Yeah, yeah. And I mean, Unknown Speaker  11:05  and you got to be, you know, you don't necessarily get to choose the clients in a sense, right? Because, you know, you might work with one person to land the client, then you got the client, you're working with somebody else to actually do the work, right. So it there is a flexibility that's needed in the sense that you don't always know who the clients are, you don't always know who the personalities are. And you may not get to see the real person until you've worked with them for a couple of months. And then the pressures and the stresses start falling into deadlines, and then you get to see who the real person is, right. And that's what kind of the second kind of rule is or not rule, but an observation I've had in businesses. And that is, treat everyone with respect, right? Go the extra mile to kind of be respectful, because you don't know what's happening on the other side, right? They may have you know, a wife who is sick. And that's why they're always stressed out. Or they may be, you know, on the verge of bankruptcy, they're just trying to keep the business together, or their client is, you know, treating them in an awful way. And, you know, you got to really treat people with respect not just your people, but the clients. And you got to kind of let things that are said that aren't necessarily kind or nice, go through, you don't take it personally, and then try to build the relationship in a positive way where you can kind of get an understanding of why something was said or why they're approaching you this way. And then you work with that. And you you, I've always been able to come back to a client who either mistreated me or mistreated our developers or whatever and work with them and say, Look, this was not positive. And usually, it's some external issue that they just hung on to, and they didn't realize that they were acting the way they were acting or they, what they said was meaning what it meant. And, you know, I've been able to turn around almost all those relationships into a positive relationship. And that's one of the things I think is really important in business, especially nowadays, that treating people with respect and trying to understand where they're coming from, it just makes for positive business. Right. And I hate doing business where it's stressful, and I don't like the other person, right? And usually that comes from misunderstanding, right? And so making that effort to understand the other person and where they're coming from, it can turn business around and make it really positive. And like I said, I love getting up and feeling good about everyone I work with. And that's, that's, you know, life's too short to be suffering, right? Michael J. Mahony  13:54  Well, yeah. And like, it's something I tell my wife all the time, because she works with a lot of different companies. And she'll say, I'm really surprised, you know, someone so super rude today. And I said, Well, you know, you've got to stop and think about like, what did they go through? What what's I mean, it's not just professionally, but you know, what are they going through personally at the moment, because, generally speaking, if someone's successful, and then you can probably realize they're not super rude people, because if they were, they probably wouldn't be successful. That's not always the case. There's plenty of successful people who are rude, but for the most part, you find that to be the case. And if all of a sudden someone's being rude to you, you kind of have to wonder like, well, what the heck is going on in their life? And I liked that you focus on that, I think, I think having the people touch is something that Miss is missing from a lot of businesses. And I know tech leaders specifically have that problem, because they tend to be more analytical, less capable of carrying on a good conversation. I mean, I've had clients tell me, Oh, you're the most user friendly technologist ever. I love that phrase, user friendly technology. is because it means they understand what the heck I'm saying to them. That's really what it means. And it gets me a lot of business and I get a customer and I keep a customer because of that. But I think one of the things I strive with my clients to do is teach them that like, okay, one of the number one pain points of every CTO is upper management, who doesn't understand technology. And so when you say, Hey, I got to spend $50,000, doing X, they say what? And because they don't understand technology, and you have to, but but it's not their fault, as the tech leader, you've got to inform them as you're going along about what are the problems? Here's how we're going to solve the problem, it's going to cost this much money, here's why it's going to cost this much money. I mean, what if you need a very, very specific type of resource? I know I have a lady that she does a very specific thing with NetSuite. And as a result, she gets like $200 an hour. And other people can't charge that, but she can. And when a client comes to you, and they're like, Can we do this? That's going to be like $200 an hour? They're like, why don't you explain to them why they tend to get it, you know? So so what, what is what, how long have you been in? How long is screaming books been around? This is our 10th year 10th year? And and what was the impetus? Like what started you down this path? Unknown Speaker  16:22  Well, I have another company called Rainmaker, which is more content marketing, digital marketing, I've actually had that since 2000s, has been 22 years or whatever. And, you know, I was starting to get clients who are having me do a lot of social media work and content writing. And they were coming to me with web projects and digital development, hey, we need this. And if I refer them to some agencies, I had a couple where they didn't like the agency, it kind of didn't feel good to me that I referred him to somebody turned out not to be very good. Sure. And then I started trying to work with some developers. But you know, just finding a developer on Upwork, or whatever. And working for them. People think it's really simple and easy. It isn't. So I had three other people that I was working with. And we kind of all were having the same problem write about working with. And we said, look, if we had a development agency, this is how we would want it to be this is our version of what a development agents who be like and so we said, Well, how do we make that? And that's how we that's how we started screen. Awesome. We were focusing more on how do we build an agency that is very flexible, that can handle a wide range and type of work. We didn't want to have a buildings full of people who want to do something virtual. So we've been virtual and remote since the beginning, which when the pandemic came actually put us in a really interesting position, because we have all this experience working with people remotely, right, and keeping them motivated and keeping them organized. And you know, so I actually had clients coming to me saying, Well, how do you do it? Right? And I had some other agencies coming to me saying, I know you guys are all remote because they've used our developers for their agency, how do you guys do it? And so we actually did a whole bunch of training. And we actually earned some decent money, just teaching people this is how to do remote work with developers and how to have a remote team spread over three or four time zones and that type of stuff. So you know, that's kind of how we started screen box. So it all worked out. Well, in that sense. Michael J. Mahony  18:30  That's funny, because I had the exact experience. When the pandemic hit, I had a lot of, you know, I have about 12, remote development teams that I use. And I had clients contacting me saying, we net, we were never in favor of remote work. So we never did the legwork. How do you do it? I'll pay you if you teach me, you know, how do you do it? In some cases, it required like changes to their firewall and things because they had it totally locked down. But but for the most part, it was just a methodology. You know, like, I could tell you a short little story, I worked with a group of guys who were good friends, and they were entrepreneurs. And they started a business. And then one of them broke off and started a similar business. And he was having we were both using the same development team. And I was getting tons of work out of these people. He wasn't getting work done. He'd given an assignment take a week to get it done. So my CEO said, Can you go over there and see what the heck they're doing? Oh, it was a simple fix that what they were doing was, it was five o'clock his time to go home that whip off an email to the team. And then they'd leave. And then of course, the next day, there'd be 10 questions, and they couldn't start the work. And then they answer the questions. And the next day, there'd be five more questions. And then he I said, simple fix, have a meeting with them. Each day, have a stand up, be like, here's a new assignment, who's gonna do got any questions? Great. Now you can start working. And that's all I was doing. But that's the thing people people don't know how to do things. And they think like you said, I love your comment about finding a developer on Upwork. I've heard that so many times, like I'll just Go to Upwork and find somebody good luck with that. I mean, I even made money. I made money years ago, managing offshore teams for people who weren't getting the work done, because they just don't know how, but when you know how it's not that difficult, but finding somebody on Upwork can be I mean, I've had, I've had them lie and tell me they're in France, when they're in Africa, you know, stuff like that. And you wonder sometimes, like, Luffy lied about that, what else are you gonna lie about? Unknown Speaker  20:24  Yeah, but I mean, Upwork, Fiverr, all those networks, they have some advantages. But they have real disadvantages, and that they're, those disadvantages are really starting to come out now, not just for the people, hiring developers or people on Upwork. But for the actual developers, right, I, I have a bunch of developers in the last year who have come to me and said, I was on Upwork, and I was making good money. But, you know, I got stiffed by a bunch of clients, and they go to Upwork. And it's just impossible to get your money and on and on and on. And so they're really disappointed in that. And so they're like, I want to work now, again, as for development, and I understand why you guys get paid, why you do and all that. And I've had clients who've had the same, you know, they hire some developers on Upwork, and it just falls apart. And they don't know why. And so they're like, I want to come to an agency, at least I know, you guys will hold it together and do the finish the project. So, you know, in some ways, it's a boon to development agencies because of how poorly they operate. But some people do really well on not working on some developers find good clients on Upwork. And that sort of stuff. So, you know, that's good and bad. And, you know, it depends on what your level of risk is, right? Yeah, it's Michael J. Mahony  21:37  just another microcosm of society, you're gonna find good, you're gonna find bad, I actually had an experience. When I first started. By seven years ago, I first started my corporation, I had this gentleman working on a project. And thankfully, I kind of sensed that it couldn't really trust him with certain information. And so I had him on like a virtual machine. That was that was clone a cloned environment, what the customer was using, and he had a copy of their database in there, and everything that needed to be encrypted, was encrypted. And then one day, he gave us a price on something, he did it. And then he said, but I'm not giving you the code unless you pay me double. And so you know, I'm like, that's not gonna happen, you know, you're not gonna get double, he started deleting things from the database, which kind of cracks me up, because, dude, you're deleting stuff from from a virtual machine, go for it. But he really thought that he had us over a barrel. And he could have if you hadn't if I hadn't been careful and had had that gut feeling. So you're right, like, you're gonna meet the best people and the worst people there. So like, what? What is your process for finding developers? What do you do? Unknown Speaker  22:46  Well, several things. I mean, we have a network of about 150 developers at this point. And there are people that we have worked with, or have come to us and we have met through other developers that have worked with us. Everything's kind of relationship told me, we're not sitting out there throwing ads up on the various networks and trying to pull developers in, it's usually all by personal reference. Then once when we get somebody into the network, we do a lot of testing, we have homework challenges, find out their tech skills. The personality assessments really let us know a lot about who these people are. And we we've weeded out developers who we could just say, okay, these guys are obviously not very firm, or their personalities are such that they just don't fit our network. Sure. And that takes care of a lot of it, because they're all tend to be known people. And they're coming to our network from people that we trust and have worked with over time. Right. And we have developers, we basically mostly work with developers in Europe, Eastern Europe, but Eastern Europe now most of the developers have left Eastern Europe, they just live in Europe, right? Yeah, actually, a lot of our Hungarian developers are in Spain, or in Yeah, for whatever reason, Michael J. Mahony  24:07  they moved to different places, right? The Eastern European developers, say eight years ago, were top notch like Unknown Speaker  24:17  they are and even there, there's differences in the regions, the education systems and the cultures, make them so that they're different. We like multinational teams, because you get a variety of developers. So if we have to put together like for a project, somebody wants a, you know, a multi platform, mobile and web thing, and we'll do something in React and React Native, right or flutter, right? And we're going to need three or four developers will usually have like one developer in South America, if it's a West Coast client, because they can have calls and meetings and they're usually the point developer and Then we'll have you know, a developer who, who's in Hungary or somewhere and maybe pull in and they approach problems differently. Hungarian developers are very good at problem solving. Polish developers are very good at the technical nuts and bolts and having a team that you kind of have those on them, you can approach to a lot of different solutions and problems. And that that makes working in these kinds of time zones better because the South American developer will be having a lot of calls with the client. And then in his evening, he'll sit there and work with the European developers and do the transfer of information. And then while everyone is sleeping, the European developers will do the work and coding and then the next day, they're often something actually happened, right? And so you don't get a lot of the stalls and a lot of that. So Right. That's usually how we work with it. And the multinational teams are really good. We don't really work with anybody in Asia, the timezones don't work out very well. And, culturally, it's very hard to find, like an Indian developer that just works out, well, we've had a couple, and we have them in our network, but it's not the majority. And we get a lot of clients who are coming from Indian development companies, and it's just like, you know, I've spent $200,000, and my project doesn't work, and it's a mess, and I can't figure it out, and they're hard to work with, and blah, blah. I can't tell you how many clients we've gotten where we've had to clean that up. Right? Isn't it Michael J. Mahony  26:33  interesting that people from different parts of the world present different positives and negatives to the overall equation? What do you think is the biggest struggle you've had with streaming box? Unknown Speaker  26:47  Well, it's gone through different phases. Um, probably one of the biggest struggles we had was we had a partner, that just created a lot of chaos in the business. And that constant flow of chaos, just really created a lot of problems. We ended up having to move on. But you know, emotionally, I'm very loyal to partners. And when you start a business as somebody, it's more like a family kind of thing. And that's just what it is. So it's really hard to have a situation like that. But that was one of the harder things to do. And, you know, the mechanical side of it sometimes will get a little bit overwhelming. You know, you've had different phases. Sometimes it was accounting issues, where it was like, how do we manage the accounting, this client wants something really special? And it just doesn't fit the accounting structure that we have. So how do we deal with that? Now, we got a lot of experience in that and our accounting is is much more flexible and easier to work with. And then, you know, early on, it was, well, how do we deal with the timezone issues? And until we figured that out, and that was an issue, and now it's we have, you know, 10 years of experience with that is not an issue at all. So during the business, there's different phases, which are part of this learning process. Right. Michael J. Mahony  28:13  That, that that right there. The learning aspect is another thing that I think it's why people have problems working with Indian developers or offshore developers, is they're not, they're not learning from their past mistakes on how to how to make make this smoother than next time around. And they just give up. And it's really a big a big issue. So what is if you can say, what, what has been like your favorite project that Unknown Speaker  28:42  you've worked on? Well, I've had a couple, but we have a music company that we're working with. And this is one of those where they came to us and said, We need to update our website. And I literally had, I would say about a month and a half of conversations with the business owner, before we even got into the project. And it was just what do you really need? Right? What are you trying to do? What are the business challenges that you have? And I would start having these business conversations, he had all kinds of issues. He didn't have control of his domain hosting, or his web hosting, a previous developer had it. And so he had to go through a bunch of legal stuff to get control of his website and all that. So I was advising him on a business level. I never, I'd never even got paid for it. It's just, let's just build a relationship I need to help you out. You're really in trouble. I'm just going to help you out. Once the dust is settled and you're in a better position, then let's have a conversation about what we can do for you. And so that's what we did. And I helped him on several levels to gain control of his website to gain control of his business. And then we started having conversations okay, how do you want to approach this and I realized and talking to him about his business challenges that he's like. He had a whole bunch of people in the back end doing a lot of manual stuff that really could be automated. And his back end was working on a old technology flat file database. And so once we he kind of understood the potential. We then brought in a UX team, who really started discussing with every stakeholder in his business. He introduced us to his customers, his licensees, his back end people, we probably spent four months just doing UX work, trying to understand what he wants to grow his business, and what are the tools that we can bring to allow him to do that, and reduce the amount of effort he needs to run his business. And so that was actually the project's first four months was just UX work. And once that was done, we then were able to put together a plan. And we said, look, you were thinking of $100,000 website project. And really, it's a $300,000 back end website business project. His cashflow is such that you can only afford so much a month. And so what we did is we said, Okay, if it takes us a year and a half to do this project, we'll do it. And we put together a team that can burn at that rate, right? So everybody was part time, there's a lot of flexibility in it. And yes, we could have had a full time team and just whip this thing out in four months. But he didn't have the cash flow to pay for that. Yeah, right. So we just manage it that way. And after a year and a half of it, he now has a product is going to revolutionize his business. And he's absolutely excited about it. And he has something that's putting him a significant leap ahead of all of his competitors. And so for us, that's like a great feeling project. And they were such nice people to work with really stellar people. And the team was great for them. And everybody just had a lot of respect for each other. And it was just one of those projects that went well, it had its issues, right, like any technology product, you run into something that you didn't expect. And it was supposed to be easy. And it turned out to be hard. But like I said, everybody treated each other very well. And there was lots of understanding. And they're in from the very beginning, on a very deep level. Everybody in their company knew exactly what we were doing and what they were trying to do. And it just made for a really great project. Michael J. Mahony  32:39  That's a great story. I mean, I like stories where where you can help someone else out. And you did it in a way that it didn't like risk your business didn't risk their business. And I mean, I'm sure, in a sense, you probably have a customer for life at this point, with something like that. But this has been a great conversation. I appreciate you being here. But we're kind of running out of time. So why don't you let people know how they can get in touch with you if they'd like to reach you, you know, etc. Unknown Speaker  33:07  Yeah, probably the easiest way is just to go to our website, screaming box.com. And there's a Contact Us form and on it. I'm in the process of redoing our website. But as you know, any website development company, the last thing they're going to do is build their own website. But yeah, you can contact us through there. You can also find me on LinkedIn, at Dave Erickson one. And we have our podcast as well. Podcast dot screen vox.com. And you can contact us through any of those ways. Michael J. Mahony  33:44  Awesome. Well, I'll make sure these get into the show notes and into the video description. And again, thanks for your time and everybody. Thanks for tuning in to gaining the technology leadership edge. We hope that you've had a great time with us learning everything you need to know to stay ahead of the technology curve. Remember, be curious, be updated on all the latest trends and show them who's boss. Until next time, we back with plenty more techie tips and tricks so you can stay on top of your game. See you then 

Ash Kakish is the founder of smartology.tech, a newsletter that curates the best stories and explains them in simple terms for the reader. Ash discusses his background, AI, and many other important issues facing technology professionals today.

Welcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and insights in the technology leadership world. From emerging technologies to digital transformation and beyond, we'll discuss the most important topics and ideas shaping the industry today. Join us to learn all of the juicy secrets of tech leaders - their biggest successes (and failures) - on our quest for gaining that all-important technology edge. Ready? Let's get started!I’m here all alone in the studio, so I figured we would talk about how to run productive and effective weekly staff meetings that won't waste anyone's time and will keep upper management in the loop.To start, it's important to know why regular staff meetings are important. It can help team members stay informed on what's happening, feel included in decision-making processes, and ultimately create a strong sense of collaboration amongst the staff.Now that we understand the importance of weekly meetings let's dive into how you can ensure they don't waste everyone's time.Setting an agenda ahead of time for a weekly staff meeting is crucial for ensuring it doesn't turn into a waste of everyone's time. Having a clear purpose and plan for the meeting allows everyone to know exactly what topics will be discussed, who will speak on each topic, and how long they have to speak. This provides structure to the meeting and keeps everyone focused on the task. Additionally, sticking to this agenda helps ensure that all relevant topics are discussed promptly and no one feels like their ideas or thoughts were not heard or validated.It is important to focus on actionable items in a weekly staff meeting that are relevant to everyone in attendance. This ensures that everyone can contribute and understand the topics being discussed and how their role affects the team's goals. Additionally, focusing on actionable items can help the team stay motivated and make progress towards reaching their objectives. Doing this also helps avoid non-essential conversations that can take up valuable time and distract from the main goals of the meeting.Keeping a meeting well-structured by having a designated leader and ensuring each person only speaks when they have something relevant to add is important to ensure the meeting stays on track and efficiently. Having one person lead the conversation keeps everyone focused and on task while allowing for meaningful dialogue between participants. Additionally, suppose each person only speaks when they have something relevant to add. In that case, it prevents conversations from getting off track and allows for time for everyone's ideas to be considered.A manager needs to ensure that everyone understands their roles in the meeting by clarifying which tasks need to be completed by whom. Doing this helps keep all participants organized and accountable, as everyone will understand their responsibilities and what needs to be done. Additionally, it shows team members that their contributions are valued, as each of them will have a clear idea of how they can impact the meeting outcome. By doing this, it also helps foster an environment of collaboration and trust between the manager and team members.It is important to record decisions made during the meeting and follow up with an email or slack message later if needed. Doing this will help everyone involved to stay on top of any action items decided in the meeting and provide a reference point for future conversations. It is also useful for clarifying agreed-upon points and ensuring that all participants are aligned. Recording decisions also serves as an effective form of accountability and communication, helping to ensure that tasks are completed promptly.It is important to end each meeting with a recap and summary of action items for the following week. Doing this helps ensure that everyone involved is on the same page and understands what tasks need to be completed and by when. Additionally, it creates an organized tracking of progress and allows team members to be held accountable for their actions. Summarizing action items at the end of each meeting also helps keep teams focused and motivated, allowing them to stay on track with their goals.I recommend using my proprietary system called PACE for meetings. The PACE meeting is a tool used by teams to increase their productivity and help them reach their goals. The acronym stands for Productivity, Accountability, Clarity, and Execution. These four elements provide the framework for effective meetings, helping teams stay on track and achieve their objectives. It also serves as a way to create structure within the team and ensure that tasks are completed on time. By utilizing this tool, teams can maximize productivity while maintaining clear communication throughout the process.Every month, each team member will set monthly goals they want to achieve. These goals are reviewed and assessed at each meeting, allowing the team to track progress and offer support when needed. Bonuses are often awarded based on goal completion percentages, which means that it is important for all team members to agree with the goals set by each individual. Additionally, it helps to create a sense of accountability within the team, as members are held responsible for achieving their agreed-upon goals.A key component of PACE meetings is discussing what is working and what isn't. By doing this, the team can identify any issues that need to be addressed and develop solutions together. After identifying any problems, a task can be assigned, along with a specific stakeholder responsible for completing it. This helps to break down larger tasks into more manageable chunks while keeping all team members accountable for their part. By incorporating PACE meetings into your team's workflow, you can stay organized and ensure everyone is working towards the same goal.This is a very important and effective part of the PACE meeting system. By discussing what is working, you are celebrating the successes of your business. By discussing what is not working, you are staying on top of your organization's problems. This keeps key trouble in the front, so everyone remains aware. The stakeholder will be responsible for sourcing who needs to work on the issue. They are the project manager for the process. This is how you get things fixed quickly and show the rest of your company that you take these things seriously.It is the one thing I used as a CTO that always got results. It enabled my CEO to see exactly what we were working on.The "PACE report to management" recaps the PACE meeting given to upper management. It is an effective communication tool, helping keep the team and upper management on the same page. This report helps the team get support from higher-ups and keeps them in the loop about any big issues or tasks that need to be addressed. It also outlines who is responsible for handling said tasks, ensuring that everyone knows their roles. The PACE report to management encourages collaboration between team members and upper management, allowing effective problem-solving and success.So, that’s all I have for you today. Give these things a try, and you will improve your staff relations as well as your relationship with upper managementThanks for tuning in to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge! We hope you've had a great time with us, learning everything you need to know to stay ahead of the technology curve. Remember: be curious, be updated on all the latest trends, and show them who's boss. Until next time, we'll be back with plenty more techy tips and tricks so you can stay on top of your game. See ya!