Managing Tech Millions

Episode 37: Tech Career Development in 2024: Navigating AI Challenges and OpportunitiesReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Career Development: Test and invest in skills is about compounding the skills learned in one's career, applying them, learning from them, and then refining them through each new experience. The key to this approach is that there is no limit to how much one can learn and grow, but it is dependent on the risk they are willing to take and what excites them about their job or opportunity.In this episode, podcast host Christopher Nelson continues his conversation with Bart Finelli, the founder of Skillibrium . They discuss the importance of investing in and testing the skills you've learned in your career to build expertise. Bart shares his journey from working in sales enablement to starting his own company, and emphasizes the value of building a personal brand and telling your story. They also touch on the role of generative AI in the workplace and the importance of emotional intelligence in career success. Bart encourages tech employees to punch above their weight class, immerse themselves in learning, and be bold in advocating for themselves. He also shares his love for music as a way to recharge. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and advice for tech professionals looking to grow their careers and build their own businesses.Learn how to turn your skills into expertise and start your own business in the tech industry. Check out our latest podcast episode!In this episode, we talk about:Compounding skills over timeApplying, learning, refining through experienceExcitement about job roles and opportunitiesFinancially focused technology employeesEquity, career, money strategies, tacticsGrowing wealth and achieving lifestyle goalsWorking for other companies, continuous learning, and growthInflection point in building a companyStories from Bart's experience, including SplunkConcept, discipline, skill, expertise in starting a companyFounder's background in technical reading and creatingLearning and value selling in the careerEpisode Timeline:[00:00:00] Test and invest is compounding.[00:02:45] Founders and skill development.[00:06:13] Cataloging ideas and progressions.[00:09:57] The core go-to-market engine.[00:14:06] Business-focused technology roles.[00:17:46] The evolution of Skillibrium .[00:20:35] Creating to Give[00:26:07] Relationships and Learning from Others.[00:29:08] Telling your story and personal brand promotion.[00:31:30] Continuous learning and career growth.[00:35:39] The concept of retirement.[00:38:43] Punching above your weight.[00:43:29] Emotional intelligence or awareness.Connect with Bart Fanellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bartfanelli/https://www.Skillibrium.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 36: Trading for Equity: A Case Study in Leveraging Skills for Success or Quantifiable ResultsReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Trading for Equity: Investing in building skills to the level of expertise can set you apart in your career, leading to promotions and higher wages. In this podcast episode, the host interviews Bart Fanelli, the founder and CEO of Skillibrium, a skill-building platform for SaaS sales teams. Bart shares his journey of developing expertise in selling complex SaaS software and how he transitioned from being a successful salesperson to teaching others to sell. He discusses the importance of investing in oneself and building a set of skills to the level of expertise, which can set individuals apart in the technology industry. Bart also highlights the value of collaboration and surrounding oneself with great people.By creating a unique practice and expertise in value selling, they have been able to build a successful business and write a book. They emphasize that regardless of your role, it is crucial to have measurable metrics and be able to articulate the outcomes and value of your work. This not only helps in building a personal brand but also in demonstrating the impact you have made in your field. Bart also mentioned that by focusing on revenue generation and running the revenue engine with discipline and an understanding of customer needs, they were able to achieve accelerated growth and success in their company. This highlights the importance of tracking and discussing the results of your work in driving business success.Join host Christopher Nelson as he interviews Bart Fanelli, founder and CEO of Skillibrium, on how he turned his expertise in selling SaaS software into a successful business. Tune in now!In this episode, we talk about:Building expertise in a specific skill is crucial for career advancement, promotions, and increased compensation.The podcast underscores the significance of investing in oneself and continuously learning for professional development.Attaining expertise in a set of skills can differentiate individuals in their careers, leading to promotions, higher wages, and more opportunities.Bart fanelli's personal experience in selling complex SaaS software highlights how dedicating time and effort to skill development can lead to promotions and entrepreneurial opportunities.Developing expertise helps in creating a strong personal brand, resulting in increased recognition, speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, and the potential to build a business around one's skills.Professional development is portrayed as a continuous journey of learning and growth, not a linear path.Education extends beyond formal college education and includes learning from experiences within a company, adapting to different company cultures, and shaping oneself based on those experiences.Progressing in a career involves accumulating inputs and lessons from different companies, acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses, and incorporating these learnings into one's professional identity.The concept of adaptability within a company, adjusting to changes in culture and leadership, is essential for long-term success.Recognizing when a company no longer aligns with one's values is crucial, signaling the need to move on and find an organization that better represents personal values.Episode Timeline:00:00:00 - Introduction and Background00:02:40 - Transition to Interview with Bart fanelli00:03:59 - Value of Building Skills to Expertise00:06:33 - Importance of Learning and Adapting in Different Roles00:10:53 - Transition to Discussing Value Selling at Splunk00:12:57 - Importance of Understanding Company Culture and Values00:15:10 - Success of Value Selling at Splunk00:17:48 - Importance of Alignment and Chameleon-like Adaptability00:19:09 - The Power of Narrating and Advocating for the Company00:20:02 - The Role of Operational Mindset and Coaching in Success00:22:24 - Metrics and Results of Value Selling at Splunk00:23:39 - The Role of Doug May and David Jenkins in Value Selling00:30:43 - Transition to Discussing Value Selling at OutSystems00:31:35 - Importance of Building and Protecting Intellectual Property00:33:36 - Scaling Value Selling at OutSystems00:36:33 - Lessons Learned and ROI of Building an AssetConnect with Bart Fanellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bartfanelli/https://www.Skillibrium.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 35: Navigating the Tech Landscape: Strategies for Leveraging Your ExpertiseReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/In this episode of Managing Tech Millions, host Christopher Nelson discusses the importance of expertise in building a successful career in the technology industry. He emphasizes that employees should focus on developing skills that can be traded for equity in order to build wealth. Building expertise is crucial for technology employees to succeed and achieve their financial goals. This episode emphasizes the constant growth and change within technology companies. In order to demonstrate value and secure opportunities for growth and financial success, employees must be able to articulate their expertise and the results they have achieved. Expertise is described as the foundation of career capital, which includes education, experience, and results. By continuously building and investing in their skills, employees can become known for their expertise and trade it for equity or other financial opportunities.Christopher shares personal experiences and examples of individuals who have leveraged their expertise to achieve financial independence and freedom. He also highlights the need for technology employees to effectively articulate their skills and the results they have achieved in order to demonstrate their value to potential employers. This episode is part one of a two-part series on expertise, with the next episode focusing on how to assess, manage, and communicate expertise effectively.If you're looking to grow your career, build wealth, and reach your financial goals in the technology industry, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and start harnessing the power of expertise.In this episode we talked about:Building expertise is crucial for success and financial goals in the technology industry.Employees need to continuously invest in and build their skills to become known for their expertise.Examples like Frank Slootman (Snowflake CEO) and Darren Murph (Head of Remote at GitLab) highlight leveraging expertise for significant compensation and geographical freedom.Education provides foundational knowledge, while experience involves applying knowledge in real-world settings.Building expertise is an ongoing process involving continuous learning, gaining experiences, and consistently delivering results.Expertise gives leverage in negotiating compensation packages, including competitive salaries, bonuses, and equity.Remote work enables a better work-life balance, travel opportunities, and the freedom to choose a preferred location.Investing in career capital and continuous skill development is crucial for long-term success in the technology industry.Episode Timeline:00:00:00 - Introduction to Presenting Value in Tech Interviews00:01:24 - The Importance of Expertise in Tech Careers00:03:10 - Defining Expertise and Building Career Capital00:06:45 - The Role of Equity in Tech Companies00:08:20 - The Four Pillars: From Equity to Exit Framework00:11:35 - Education, Experience, and Results Triangle00:14:50 - Personal Story: Realizing the Value of Expertise00:18:30 - Leveraging Expertise for Career Advancement00:21:15 - Break and Introduction to Tangible Examples00:22:05 - High-Level Executives and Their Expertise Compensation00:24:40 - Examples of Leveraging Expertise for Freedom and Security00:27:55 - Personal Example: Transitioning to Private Equity00:30:10 - Common Failures in Managing Career Capital00:32:35 - Wake Up Call: You Are the Asset00:34:50 - Preview of Next Episode and Closing Remarks00:36:00 - Contact Information and Subscription Details This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 34: Building Wealth Beyond Tech: An Entrepreneur's Private Equity JourneyReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Investing in private equity is a must for anyone looking to build substantial wealth. In the latest episode of the Managing Tech Millions podcast, host Christopher Nelson and guest Frank Xia dives deep into the world of private equity and how it can be a game-changer for your financial future.Frank is a seasoned investor who shares his personal journey from learning programming skills to navigating the job market. Frank emphasizes the importance of networking and the role it played in his success. He also sheds light on his transition from Uber to Open Door, providing valuable insights into the impact of company culture on career growth and financial opportunities.But the real eye-opener comes when Frank discusses his expertise in private equity real estate investment. He explains why he sees it as a less risky and more predictable investment option compared to the stock market. With his extensive knowledge and experience, Frank dissects the various benefits and potential pitfalls of private equity real estate investing, making it accessible to listeners of all backgrounds.If you're eager to uncover the secrets of wealth generation through private equity, this episode is a must-listen. Expand your financial horizons, gain invaluable insights, and take actionable steps towards building your wealth.Tune in to the Managing Tech Millions podcast's latest episode with Christopher Nelson, Frank Xia, and their captivating conversation on private equity. Don't forget to share this episode with your friends and colleagues who are ready to take control of their financial destinies. And make sure to subscribe to the podcast to stay updated on future episodes that will empower you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving tech and finance industries.In this episode, we talk about:Frank’s experience in the tech industryImportance of building relationships and networking in the industryFrank's decision to choose a tech company over a hedge fund for internships and careerTech equity and its potential upside compared to financeTransition from Uber to Open Door and the reasons behind itFrank's decision to join Open Door and his interest in real estateFrank's belief in private equity real estate as a less risky and more predictable investment compared to the stock marketApproach to investing in real estate and the challenges he facedFrank's real estate investments Advice for those looking to get into real estateResources:Robert Kiyosaki - https://www.richdad.com/Rich Dad's CASHFLOW Quadrant: Rich Dad's Guide to Financial Freedom by Robert Kiyosaki - https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dads-CASHFLOW-Quadrant-Financial/dp/1612680054 Tony Robbins - https://www.tonyrobbins.com/ Warren Buffett - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_Buffett Dave Ramsey - https://www.ramseysolutions.com/Connect with Frank Xia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankthetankcfa/  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 33: Strategic Giving for Long-Term Impact: Guide to Nonprofit SustainabilityReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Nonprofit sustainability is a paramount concern for organizations committed to creating lasting change. In this latest episode of the Managing Tech Millions podcast, hosted by Christopher Nelson, we delve into the long-term impact of strategic giving on nonprofit sustainability. Christopher sits down with James Harrington, the CEO and founder of the Ugandan Water Project, to discuss the critical importance of evaluating nonprofits, strategic giving strategies, and the role of donor-advised funds (DAFs). James provides invaluable insights on vetting nonprofits, highlighting the need to understand their goals, progress, and impact. Furthermore, James sheds light on the benefits of utilizing DAFs, particularly for tech employees with stock options. As they navigate their philanthropic journeys, DAFs offer immense flexibility and tax advantages, ensuring their charitable contributions make a significant difference. Transparency, responsiveness, and alignment between donors and organizations are key ingredients for effective philanthropy, as stressed by James. By fostering an environment of open communication and understanding, philanthropists can truly maximize their impact. James also shares his approach to continuous learning, emphasizing the power of asking great questions. Through curiosity and constant growth, he believes we can refine our philanthropic strategies and amplify their positive effects. Now is the time to take action. Tune in to this episode and gain invaluable insights into nonprofit sustainability, strategic giving, and impactful philanthropy. Don't forget to share this episode with others who are committed to making a difference. And make sure to subscribe to the Managing Tech Millions podcast for more engaging interviews and discussions on navigating the intersection of technology, careers, and finance. Connect with James HarringtonUgandan Water Project - https://ugandanwaterproject.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbharringtonEmail - james@ugandanwaterproject.com  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

LaSean Smith, a tech industry veteran turned entrepreneur, shares his inspiring journey from big tech to launching his own micro company. He emphasizes skill stacking as a game changer for success and the need for agility in today's fast-paced market. LaSean dives into investment strategies focusing on audience engagement and automation for building brands. He also discusses the importance of stoic philosophy in entrepreneurship and prioritizing personal growth over societal validation, revealing how compounding can transform both personal and professional lives.

Episode 31: From PhD to Tech Leader: Unveiling Leadership Tactics in Big TechReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Effective leadership is paramount to success in the competitive world of big tech.Join us as we dive deep into the realm of leadership tactics with our guest, Ritendra Datta. With his expert insights, Ritendra sheds light on the critical transition from a technical role to management and the essential skills required to excel in this dynamic field. In this power-packed episode, Ritendra unravels the secret to effective leadership in big tech – empathetic leadership. Gain a deep understanding of how empathy can transform your team's productivity and fuel a positive work culture. But that's not all – brace yourself for the challenges of managing larger teams as Ritendra shares tactical advice on how to navigate these complex dynamics successfully. Are you bewildered by the intricacies of equity compensation? Fear not! Ritendra demystifies this essential component of your career, empowering you to make informed decisions and maximize your earnings potential. Moreover, we delve into the impact of AI in the workplace, with a captivating focus on generative AI. Find out how AI is reshaping the tech industry and how you can seize the opportunities it presents. From developing a strategic career plan to mastering effective communication and storytelling, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you rise above the competition and accelerate your growth in big tech. Ready to unlock your leadership potential? Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of technology. Tune in to the Managing Tech Millions podcast featuring Ritendra Datta today! Connect with Ritendra DattaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritendradatta Book MentionedThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen Covey - https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/0743269519 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 30: Building an Investing Thesis: Strategies for Successful Seed InvestmentsReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!An investing thesis is the backbone of every successful venture capital portfolio. It not only provides clarity but also enables investors to make informed and well-aligned decisions. With an investment thesis in place, you can outline your investment goals, values, and strategies, laying the foundation for long-term success. In the latest episode of Managing Tech Millions, venture capitalist Claire England takes us on a journey into the world of investing, where having a clear investment thesis reigns supreme. Gain valuable insights as she shares her unique experiences and sheds light on the significance of crafting a strong investment thesis. Claire also passionately emphasizes the value of diversity in the investment world, stressing that diverse teams generate better outcomes. By supporting underrepresented founders, investors can tap into untapped markets, foster innovation, and drive superior returns. Additionally, she sheds light on the evolving tech ecosystem and how investors can stay ahead of the curve. Whether it's understanding the changing landscape of venture investing or the growing trend of private companies trading on secondary markets, she highlights the need for investors to be knowledgeable, adaptable, and open to new possibilities. This episode will be your guide to crafting a solid investing thesis and unlocking the potential for exceptional returns and taking your seed investments to new heights. Remember, a well-crafted investing thesis can lead to remarkable opportunities. Start building yours today and pave the way to financial success in the ever-evolving world of venture capital. Connect with Claire EnglandLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/englandclaire/Green Park & Golf Ventures - https://www.gpgventures.com/ Resources Venture Deals: Be Smarter Than Your Lawyer and Venture Capitalist by Brad Feld and Jason Mendelson - https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Deals-Smarter-Lawyer-Capitalist/dp/1119594820 Venture Deals Course - https://feld.com/archives/2023/02/venture-deals-spring-2023-course/  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 29: Two Generations of Women in Tech LeadershipReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Women in tech face unique challenges, and the Managing Tech Millions podcast is here to address them head-on. In the latest episode, hosted by Christopher Nelson, executive coach Shabnam Golmohammadi shares her personal journey in the tech industry, offering invaluable insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and empowering women in tech. Imposter syndrome is a prevalent issue among professionals, especially women in male-dominated industries like tech. Shabnam dives deep into her own experiences with imposter syndrome, shedding light on the self-doubt and insecurities she battled. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope for women who may sometimes question their worth and abilities in the competitive tech world. Diversity and inclusion are vital for creating a thriving tech industry. Christopher and Shabnam also discuss the challenges women face in this industry and the importance of breaking down barriers to foster equal representation. They highlight the undeniable benefits of cultivating diverse teams that bring fresh perspectives and drive innovation. Through meaningful conversations, they inspire organizations to embrace diversity and truly understand its significance. Furthermore, the episode explores the critical role of leadership in promoting a healthy work-life balance. Shabnam emphasizes the need for leaders who prioritize the well-being of their employees, recognizing that a healthy integration of work and personal life leads to increased productivity and job satisfaction. By advocating for work environments where everyone feels supported and valued, a positive change can be made in the tech industry. Do you face the same challenges as the women in tech? Tune in to the Managing Tech Millions podcast hosted by Christopher Nelson. Gain insights, break through imposter syndrome, and embrace the power of diversity and inclusion in tech. Join the conversation and ignite your passion for success in the tech industry. Listen now to the latest episode of the Managing Tech Millions podcast and step into a world of possibilities. Connect with Shabnam Golmohammadi LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shabnam-golmohammadiInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/my_synchronicity/?hl=enWebsite - https://www.mysynchronicity.co/services  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com

Episode 28: Unveiling Investment Strategies of Family OfficesReady to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at http://www.managingtechmillions.com/!Family offices, established by high-net-worth families, offer a unique approach to managing and investing wealth. They invest in a wide range of asset classes, including public and private equity, real estate, and hedge funds. It’s a very different world from working in tech.  But Marco Quevedo would beg to differ. His career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode, Marco shares how he leveraged his technical background as a software engineer to make a seamless transition into the world of family offices. He delves into the intricacies of single-family offices and their role in investment decision-making. He eloquently explained how these entities operate and the factors that heavily influence their investment strategies. Tune in now to the latest episode of Managing Tech Millions with Christopher Nelson to gain unprecedented insights into family office investment strategies. Uncover the secrets of success, gain a competitive advantage, and position yourself for an exceptional future in the world of finance. Connect with Marco Quevedo on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcoquevedo This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit managingtechmillions.com