Episode 145: From Tech Rabbit Holes to Genuine Innovations With Jon Santee
Aug 23, 2023
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Jon Santee, Senior Director of Information Technology Operations at iRhythm Technologies, discusses the evolving concept of work-life flow, challenges of security in tech, and transitioning to a leadership role. Highlights include authentic leadership, ownership and humility, and knowing when to pivot.
Authentic leadership is about honesty, constant learning, fostering empathy, and growth within the team.
Ownership, humility, and learning from mistakes enhance resilience and adaptability in leadership.
Deep dives
Passion for Helping Others
John Santee, a senior IT leader at I Rhythm Technologies, discusses his passion for helping others. He explains that the ability to help others in their jobs and lives is what drives him both personally and professionally. While technology allows him to fulfill this passion, it is the act of helping others that truly motivates him.
Work-Life Flow
John shares his perspective on work-life balance and suggests that it is more appropriate to think of it as work-life flow. He acknowledges the shift towards remote and hybrid work models and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced approach. John highlights the need for clear boundaries between work and personal life while still allowing for flexibility and the integration of various responsibilities throughout the day.
Servant Leadership
John discusses the concept of servant leadership and the importance of supporting and empowering his teams. He believes that his role as a leader is to ensure that his team members can excel in their roles. He provides direction, listens to their ideas, and advocates for resources and support. John acknowledges the overuse of the term servant leadership but emphasizes the genuine intent behind supporting and enabling his team members to thrive.
Challenges of Tech Leadership
John reveals two main challenges of tech leadership. The first is the ongoing struggle to stay ahead of security risks and constantly evolving technology. He emphasizes the need to balance operational efficiency, security, privacy, and compliance. The second challenge is helping his teams navigate the ever-changing technology landscape and ensuring their skills and careers remain relevant. John seeks to provide guidance and support, ensuring his teams can adapt and grow amidst technological advancements.
TC Gill welcomed Jon Santee, Senior Director of Information Technology Operations at iRhythm Technologies with a unique journey from computer science studies to a passion-filled career in technology. Jon's approach to leadership is marked by his earnest desire to help others, a guiding principle that's shaped his professional growth.
The conversation covers critical topics such as the evolving concept of work-life flow, the challenges of security in the ever-changing tech landscape, and the often under-discussed transition from an individual contributor to a leadership role. Jon's genuine reflections provide valuable lessons for tech professionals at all stages of their careers. Whether you're navigating the seismic shifts in technology or looking to inspire your team, Jon's perspective offers both inspiration and practical guidance.
Key takeaways from the podcast are:
- The Power of Authentic Leadership - Jon Santee emphasizes honesty and constant learning in leadership, encouraging leaders to strive for their best without seeking perfection, fostering empathy, and growth within the team.
- Ownership and Humility - The conversation underscores the importance of owning decisions, being humble enough to change direction, and learning from mistakes, which enhances resilience and adaptability.
- Knowing When to Pivot - Recognizing when to move away from a failed path and having a supportive organization that encourages innovation and discernment between real opportunities and tech fads are highlighted as essential for success.
Our Guest: Jon Santee
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-santee/
Website: https://www.irhythmtech.com/
Intro and background music: Craig MacArthur - Power Shutoff (www.youtube.com/watch?v=x74iB_jtauw)
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