CTO Confessions Brought to you by IT Labs

What happens when deep technical knowledge meets real-world domain expertise? In this episode, TC Gill is joined by James Long, CTO at Palomar, to explore what it takes to lead with clarity in a high-stakes environment. From modeling risk to building strong, cross-functional teams, this conversation is packed with practical insights for tech leaders. If you're looking to sharpen your leadership edge, this episode delivers.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Finnegan, Chief Technology Officer at Cognosos, to rethink what’s possible with RTLS (Real-Time Location Services) in the AI era. Michael shares how he’s achieving more with less data, offering a fresh perspective on crafting smarter, scalable tech solutions. From reimagining product development to embracing real-time insights, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for tech leaders. Tune in now and discover how to flip the script on traditional tech thinking.

What makes great software truly customer-centric? In this week’s episode, Chris Huff, former CTO at Rent Group, joins TC Gill to break down the real secret behind building products that actually serve users. Spoiler: it’s not about adding more features.

From cinematography to the C-suite? Yes, you read that right. In this episode, TC Gill talks with Chris Geiser, CTO at DCG ONE, about an unconventional leadership journey that blends creativity, marketing, and tech strategy. If you’re into leadership lessons with a personal twist, this one’s for you.

What happens when a company grows through acquisitions but wants to keep the startup spirit alive? In this episode, TC Gill sits down with Ed Frederici, CTO at Appfire, to explore how to build harmony in a scaling tech company, without crushing innovation. From preserving entrepreneurial culture to building strong, autonomous teams, this one’s packed with insight.

This week, TC Gill is joined by Oleg Korenfeld, CTO at CMI Media Group, to unpack how technology transforms health and wellness marketing. From traditional media to data-driven strategies, Oleg shares insights on building scalable solutions that deliver real campaign value. Expect stories on innovation, strategic tech adoption, and the evolving role of marketing tech leaders.

What makes great tech solutions truly effective? It’s not features, it’s outcomes. In this episode, TC Gill speaks with Drew Morrell, Head of Engineering at Workiva, about why user-centered design, agile thinking, and purposeful product development matter more than feature counts. Tune in for insights that cut through the noise and get to the core of what product teams should focus on.

In this episode, Eric Levin shares his journey to becoming CTO and how taking calculated risks shaped his leadership style, one that's purpose-driven and people-focused. Key takeaways: - Why calculated risks are essential for growth - How transparency can strengthen team dynamics - Why embracing hard, boring tasks matters for leadership Tune in for an honest look at leadership in action. Important Risk Information: GCM Grosvenor (NASDAQ: GCMG) is a global alternative asset management solutions provider across private equity, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and absolute return investment strategies. Investments in alternatives are speculative and involve substantial risk, including market risks, credit risks, macroeconomic risks, liquidity risks, manager risks, counterparty risks, interest rate risks, and operational risks, and may result in the possible loss of your entire investment. No assurance can be given that any investment will achieve its objectives or avoid losses. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The views expressed are for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a forecast, a guarantee of future results, investment recommendations or an offer to buy or sell securities by GCM Grosvenor. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic, or political conditions. GCM Grosvenor® and Grosvenor® are trademarks of GCM Grosvenor and its affiliated entities. ©2025 GCM Grosvenor L.P. All rights reserved. Our Guest: Eric Levin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levin-eric/ Website: http://www.gcmgrosvenor.com Intro and background music: Craig MacArthur - Power Shutoff (www.youtube.com/watch?v=x74iB_jtauw)

In this episode, Joe Hsy shares his approach to leading with innovation while balancing the benefits and risks of emerging tech—especially AI and data privacy. From scaling teams without micromanaging to aligning technology with real business value, Joe offers thoughtful insights for every tech leader. Key takeaways: - Ethical use of data and building trust - Balancing AI’s potential with its risks - Leading without micromanaging - Using tech to enhance in-location customer experiences Our Guest: Joe Hsy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joehsy/ Website: https://inbound.raydiant.com/ Intro and background music: Craig MacArthur - Power Shutoff (www.youtube.com/watch?v=x74iB_jtauw)

How do tech leaders build scalable, sustainable systems without descending into chaos? Rob Molchon, CTO of Vestwell, shares his insights on structuring order in fast-moving tech environments. We also take a quick trip down memory lane to see just how far tech has come. Key takeaways from the podcast are: – Clear ownership ensures tasks get done without constant oversight. – Strong foundations start with the right team in the right positions. – Change is inevitable; managing it wisely is key. Our Guest: Rob Molcon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-molchon-2160652/ Website: https://www.vestwell.com/ Intro and background music: Craig MacArthur - Power Shutoff (www.youtube.com/watch?v=x74iB_jtauw)