Modern CTO

Geoffrey Huck, a public speaking coach with a background in software engineering, shares his journey from battling social anxiety to helping tech professionals communicate effectively. He discusses overcoming communication barriers and the importance of conveying complex ideas to non-technical audiences. Geoffrey highlights authenticity in speaking, the power of storytelling, and developing personal narratives. He also touches on the emotional aspects of public speaking, encouraging listeners to align their actions with their values and embrace fear as a path to growth.

Mohak Shroff, SVP of Engineering at LinkedIn, shares insights on AI's role in enhancing professional productivity through human-centered design. He discusses LinkedIn’s ambitious vision for a Digital Chief of Staff and how AI agents can transform workflows. There’s a fascinating exploration of gamifying user engagement and the need for authentic human connections as tasks become automated. Shroff also emphasizes the importance of innovation in AI that prioritizes flexibility and joy for engineering leaders navigating these advancements.

In this conversation, Megh Gautam, CPO at Crunchbase, shares insights on balancing flat and siloed team structures. He emphasizes the value of real-world experiences over theory, arguing that getting 'punched in the face' teaches more than reading about it. Megh discusses the integration of AI into data analysis at Crunchbase and the challenges posed by information silos in organizations. He also highlights the importance of flexibility and collaboration across teams to enhance accountability and foster growth in a tech-driven landscape.

In this conversation, Megh Gautam, CPO at Crunchbase, shares insights from his decade-long journey transitioning from engineering to product leadership. He delves into his biggest misstep during this shift and emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs. Megh encourages viewing career transitions as experimental seasons, aligning interests with opportunities, and navigating the rapid changes in tech. He also highlights the significance of maintaining client communication while driving innovation in product management.

James Barrese, SVP of Fintech at Intuit, shares his insights on fostering change agents within organizations. He discusses essential traits like curiosity and effective communication that empower leaders to drive transformation. Barrese also explores emerging megatrends in fintech, including AI and digital identity, which are reshaping user experiences. He highlights innovations in Intuit's payment solutions, emphasizing the importance of seamless transactions and the potential future of cryptocurrency for small businesses.

Jeff Chow, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Miro, shares insights on the platform's transformation from a basic whiteboarding tool to an advanced innovation workspace. He discusses how AI and canvas technology are revolutionizing team collaboration and the importance of user experience in design. Jeff also dives into the benefits of integrating tools like Miro with existing workflows and the significance of balancing remote and in-person teamwork. His emphasis on fostering a culture of curiosity and creativity is both inspiring and practical.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Edwards, author of "Army of Liars", unpacks the controversial Section 230, shedding light on its complexities and implications for free speech in the digital age. He debates the delicate balance between censorship and editorial choice on social media platforms. The conversation also dives into critical cases, the urgent call for reform, and the disconnect between lawmakers and tech innovations, highlighting the pressing need for informed policy-making in tech regulation.

Eric Rice, President at SOVRN Capital, shares his compelling journey from skepticism to becoming a Bitcoin advocate. He discusses the innovative use of waste energy for cost-effective Bitcoin mining and the strategic advantages of investing in mining operations. The conversation sheds light on Bitcoin's potential to act as a universal treasury asset, revolutionizing financial access globally. Rice also emphasizes the necessity of education in navigating this evolving space and highlights investment opportunities in emerging Bitcoin projects.

Dylan Etkin, Founder and CEO of Sleuth, dives into the critical role of engineering metrics and team alignment for CTOs. He reveals how to escape the pitfalls of 'dashboard graveyards' by implementing metrics that drive significant change. The discussion also covers the impact of AI on creativity, the need for effective meeting transformations, and the importance of aligning engineering efforts with business objectives. Dylan shares insights on workflow automation and personal growth, making a compelling case for data-driven leadership.

In this engaging discussion, Mark Porter, CTO at dbt Labs, shares his expertise on attracting and retaining top tech talent. He reveals his unique interview strategies, which some may find controversial, yet effective in identifying the best candidates. The conversation dives into the importance of personal connections and clear role definitions during the hiring process. Mark emphasizes personal branding and strong networking with recruiters as crucial to successful recruitment. He also introduces the idea of 'user manuals' for executives to foster better collaboration.