The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

In this episode, Mehmet interviews entrepreneur Colin Hirdman, who shares his journey from a fresh college graduate to a seasoned entrepreneur. Colin discusses the initial challenge of diving into entrepreneurship without a formal business education, emphasizing the creative and rewarding aspects of building businesses from scratch. He also touches upon the importance of embracing risks and failures as part of the entrepreneurial path. The conversation then shifts towards the role of education in fostering entrepreneurial skills, with Colin advocating for more practical, entrepreneurship-focused content in educational systems. He shares his experiences of contributing to this cause through guest lectures and emphasizes the responsibility of current entrepreneurs to guide the next generation. Additionally, Colin elaborates on the rise of non-technical entrepreneurs enabled by no-code/low-code tools and AI, highlighting his ventures and the lessons learned from them, such as the significance of validation and iteration in product development. The episode also covers the concept of shared success agreements as an alternative funding model, aimed at fostering win-win scenarios between developers and entrepreneurs. Colin concludes with advice for entrepreneurs at various stages, advocating for partnerships, passion-driven ventures, leveraging personal strengths, and the potential of building SaaS products for scalability. About Colin: Colin Hirdman started his first company a week after graduating from college, and has been an entrepreneur ever since. He's building businesses through Monkey Island Ventures a company he co-founded with two of his best friends. Monkey Island Ventures is named after a park they played at when they were kids (since they were 5 years old). Over the years the trio has built over a dozen software and service businesses and want to help create as many successful entrepreneurs as they can by sharing what they know. https://www.monkeyislandventures.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinhirdman https://www.cloudburststudio.com 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: Meet Colin 01:19 Colin's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 02:10 The Lure of Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Rewards 05:33 Education and Entrepreneurship: Bridging the Gap 08:52 The Rise of the Non-Technical Entrepreneur 16:28 Exploring No-Code Tools: Empowering Entrepreneurs 24:49 Validating Your Startup Idea: Strategies and Insights 32:23 Innovative Funding: The Shared Success Agreement 42:26 Final Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs 47:39 Connecting with Colin: Final Thoughts

Unlock the secrets to business transformation as Geert van Vlijmen AKA G, a trained legal eagle turned entrepreneurial guru, joins me, Mehmet, for a candid conversation on the daring shift from legal to the boardroom. Together, we dissect the essence of business success and the metamorphosis required in leadership roles for those who dare to venture into the world of innovation and risk. G’s narrative is a treasure trove of insights, highlighting the need for self-awareness, the strategic advantage of pacing oneself, and the pivotal role emotional intelligence plays in steering decisions. Feel the thrill of the race toward business excellence as we draw inspiration from the high-octane world of Formula 1, comparing the meticulous strategies of teams like Max Verstappen's Red Bull to the fine-tuning necessary for business growth. Our conversation takes you through the gears of crafting resilient growth engines, emphasizing the significance of systems, processes, and the continuous refinement of business models. We spotlight the importance of customer acquisition and evolving alongside the market, alerting you to the perilous turns of following the pack without a tailored road map for your own business journey. Embrace the discomfort that comes with personal and professional development, and join us as we champion the growth mindset that fuels progress. G and I reflect on the incremental steps that forge the path to achievement, viewing setbacks as invaluable lessons rather than roadblocks. Prepare to be inspired to set actionable goals, cultivate a supportive leadership environment, and understand that success manifests in various dimensions, tailored to each visionary's unique aspirations. So, buckle in and let's accelerate towards a future brimming with potential, as we navigate the twists and turns of entrepreneurial growth with G as our co-pilot. More about G: G is an international business and high-performance strategist. He supports business owners and their management teams to manage and grow their businesses. He supports them in creating a machine that helps them to move away from being "operators", so that they gain more freedom and business growth. https://www.imagejo.com 02:40 G's Journey: From Law to Leadership 04:38 The Startup Adventure: Lessons from Roy's Garden Tips 05:41 Mentoring Startups and the Power of Networking 07:38 Growth Strategies and Keeping Teams Motivated 11:23 Leadership Evolution: From Startup to Scale-up 14:37 Embracing Change and Making Tough Decisions 18:11 The Impact for Growth System: Tuning Up the Engine 22:16 Navigating Business Models for Startup Success 24:28 Unlocking Business Model Innovation: A Guide to Success 26:32 The Pitfalls of Copying Business Models Without Adaptation 26:55 Embracing Creativity in Business Models for Competitive Advantage 29:40 Navigating Uncertainty: Strategies for Business Leaders 31:41 The Power of Personal Development in Leadership 34:50 Small Steps to Big Success: The Incremental Approach 40:16 Looking Ahead: The Future of Business and Entrepreneurship 42:16 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Join us as Christian Hammer, the innovative mind behind Vala-AI, peels back the layers of technical debt and exposes the transformative role AI plays in reshaping software management. Christian's journey from childhood programmer to tech CEO is not just inspiring—it's a roadmap for how we handle the increasingly complex digital landscape. Our discussion ranges from the untangling of legacy systems that anchor major sectors like banking to the ways AI can streamline and simplify the often convoluted tasks facing today's professionals. Venture with us into the bustling intersection of AI and business innovation, where Christian and I unravel the intricate dance of technology and creativity that propels industries forward. We're talking about an era where the mundane is automated, giving rise to rapid innovation and freeing up human genius for greater challenges. Cultural agility, the art of marrying technical expertise with out-of-the-box thinking, emerges as a non-negotiable for companies aiming to not just survive but thrive in this new landscape. From the digital innovation labs of Nike to the cautious halls of banking institutions, we dissect how big players are (or aren't) leveraging AI to stay ahead of the curve. Finally, let's cast our eyes toward the horizon and ponder the future where AI is more than a tool—it's a collaborator. Imagine AI agents operating like a savvy product development team, or a world where your personal AI assistant knows your schedule better than you do. That future is rapidly unfolding, and we're here to navigate it with you. From the upheaval of advertising paradigms to the breakneck speed of technological breakthroughs reshaping our concepts of value and exchange, this episode is a time capsule of today's tech evolution, capturing the relentless pace at which our world is changing. More about Christian: Christian Hammer: Lifelong Artist, Trailblazing Entrepreneur, and Visionary Technology Executive with an illustrious 30-year career. From orchestrating digital transformations to founding Direct to Consumer businesses, Christian's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark at industry giants like Nike, AppNexus, and Wayfair. Currently at the helm as the Chief Executive Officer for Vala-AI, Christian's dynamic leadership extends beyond tech, with impactful roles on nonprofit boards and as a vital force behind deep tech startups on their Board of Directors. https://vala-ai.com

Unlock the secrets to elevating your startup's narrative with the help of marketing maven Danielle R. Harris, who stopped by to share her sage advice on authentic storytelling. Transform your marketing approach as we discuss the undeniable impact a powerful story can have on captivating investors and enchanting customers. With Danielle's insights, learn how to weave the essence of your brand into a story that sticks, carving out a place for your startup in the bustling market, all while staying true to your vision. Tech co-founders, especially those of the introverted persuasion, often find the spotlight daunting, but fear not! This podcast is your guide to overcoming those communication hurdles with aplomb. We'll help you find the medium that feels like home, whether it's writing, podcasting, or presenting, and we'll navigate the global landscape of cultural sensitivity together, so your message resonates with audiences far and wide. Join us as we reveal how your unique perspective can become your greatest asset in crafting messages that strike a chord across cultural divides. Lastly, we roll up our sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of marketing strategies that don't break the bank but break through the noise instead. Discover how to demystify tech jargon and position yourself as a thought leader, all while experimenting with a mix of marketing strategies that keep your startup agile. Whether it's through speaking at conferences or creating engaging online content, we share a trove of practical tips that will help you pivot when necessary and make your startup's story heard. Tune in and equip yourself with the tools to chart a course for marketing success. More about Danielle: Danielle R. Harris is a marketing & messaging consultant who teaches coaches and service providers how to attract and sign dream clients by sharing their unique stories in their messaging. She has worked in marketing for over 10 years and believes that for most business owners, their story is their most underutilized asset. Danielle is based in Metro Detroit, where she was born and raised. Danielle is known for her love of chocolate, travel, and the K-Pop group BTS. https://drharrisconsulting.com 01:11 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 03:16 Why Storytelling is Essential for Tech Startups 06:07 Crafting Authentic Stories and Overcoming Challenges 09:19 The Importance of Personal Branding in Business Growth 13:11 Navigating Communication Challenges as Introverts 17:40 Cultural Sensitivity in Global Storytelling 21:22 Busting Myths: Tech Jargon vs. Storytelling 25:31 Effective Marketing Strategies for Tech Startups 30:13 Evaluating Marketing Success and Final Thoughts

Embark on a journey through the AI revolution with Silicon Valley's very own Manish Patel, as he unveils the cutting-edge developments poised to reshape our world in 2024. As co-founder of Nava Ventures and an early innovator at Google, Manish's narrative weaves through his ground-breaking work on AdWords and Maps to his current mentorship role at Stanford. Our conversation goes beyond the buzz, breaking down the real promise of AI technology and its readiness to deliver substantial returns across diverse sectors, transforming consumer experiences, and enhancing enterprise productivity. Manish guides us through the labyrinth of AI infrastructure, where the seamless integration of human-centered design with robust tech layers emerges as the linchpin for corporate triumph. This podcast peels back the curtain on the critical layers of AI, from intuitive user interfaces down to the bedrock of hardware and compute power, revealing how each stratum is meticulously crafted to propel businesses towards a competitive vanguard. Our probing dialogue challenges the status quo, suggesting a future where software and user habits could eclipse the longstanding hardware hegemony. Closing the loop, our guest shares his seasoned perspectives on the craft of venture capitalism and the burgeoning field of AI observability. Manish imparts a masterclass on the art of startup investment, highlighting the magnetic draw of founder-market fit and the compelling saga of storytelling in the startup landscape. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights that beckon to entrepreneurs and technophiles alike, revealing a horizon where the interplay of data, user adaptability, and the human spirit of innovation are the true harbingers of the next tech vanguard. About Manish: Manish Patel is the visionary founder of Nava Ventures, a pioneering venture capital firm headquartered in the heart of Silicon Valley. With a career spanning dozens of years at the forefront of technological innovation, Manish is renowned as a Silicon Valley Veteran with a knack for solving complex problems at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience. Throughout his career, Manish has worn many hats – from operational maven and inventive trailblazer to astute venture capitalist. His deep-seated expertise in global business and product development, coupled with an unwavering passion for transformative technologies, positions him as a driving force behind Nava Ventures' success. https://www.nava.vc 01:23 The Venture Capitalist's Perspective: Investing in Silicon Valley's Future 04:25 AI's Big Leap: Evaluating the Impact and ROI in 2024 16:24 The AI Infrastructure Deep Dive: Building for Productivity and Innovation 21:34 Human-Centric Design in the Age of AI: Balancing Technology and Humanity 26:10 Navigating the AI Startup Landscape: Strategies for Success 27:29 Leveraging Strengths and Understanding the Market 28:20 Historical Lessons and the Power of Consumer Focus 30:43 The Agility of Startups vs. The Bureaucracy of Big Companies 31:11 Investment Perspectives in the AI Space 34:47 Evaluating Startups: The Role of AI and Human Insight 37:37 Traits VCs Look for in Founders 42:25 Advice for First-Time Founders: Reaching Out to VCs 45:29 Emerging Technologies Beyond AI 48:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Entrepreneurs

From the vibrant streets of New York City to the cutting-edge forefront of medical technology, Dr. Harvey Castro's story is nothing short of a rollercoaster through adversity and triumph. Imagine being a teenager with the audacity to start a business at 16 and then pioneering the very first medical app; that's the kind of innovative spirit Harvey brought to our latest conversation. We follow Harvey's remarkable trajectory—writing medical guides in med school, launching a vitamin company during his residency, and his eventual development and sale of a network of emergency rooms. His journey, fueled by an unwavering dedication to patient care, showcases the essence of passion meeting purpose. The pulse of our discussion quickens as we explore the vast landscape of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Dr. Castro's insights into AI's role in refining diagnostics are as profound as the technology itself. From interpreting complex medical imagery to breaking down unstructured data such as patient conversations, Harvey sheds light on AI's capacity to transcend language barriers and democratize medical advice. His enthusiasm for pioneering communication tools not only charts a course for future innovation but also paints a vivid picture of a more efficient and inclusive healthcare system. As we peer into the crystal ball of healthcare's future, Dr. Castro and I contemplate the balancing act between AI's promise and the sacred ground of patient confidentiality. We discuss the exciting integration of Apple Vision Pro and Meta glasses into clinical practice, envisioning a world where augmented reality enhances patient outcomes and revolutionizes medical education. Harvey's reflections on the intersection of AI and next-generation technology, including his personal experiences with emergent devices, offer a glimpse into a future where healthcare is not just a science but also an art, seamlessly woven with the threads of cutting-edge tech. Join us for a conversation that's both a heartbeat and a brainwave ahead, illuminating the extraordinary potential that lies at the convergence of medicine and technology. About Harvey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveycastromd https://www.harveycastromd.info 01:35 Harvey Castro: From Humble Beginnings to Healthcare Innovator 02:34 The iPhone Moment: Revolutionizing Healthcare with Apps 03:12 Building a Better Healthcare System: Harvey's Journey 03:47 Embracing AI: ChatGPT and the Future of Healthcare 04:59 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Merging Medicine and Innovation 08:56 AI in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges 14:38 The Importance of Responsible AI Use in Healthcare 19:43 Privacy, Ethics, and the Future of AI in Healthcare 25:22 Exploring AI's Potential in Global Healthcare 26:03 AI's Role in Developing Countries and Future Predictions 28:13 Elevating Healthcare Education Through AI 30:15 Introducing Apple Vision Pro: A Game Changer in Healthcare 31:45 The Future of Extended Reality in Medicine 35:23 Addressing the Challenges of Adopting New Technologies in Healthcare 41:43 Envisioning the Future: Integrating AI with Extended Reality 44:24 Final Thoughts: Embracing Change and Living Fully

Unlock the secrets of AI's role in our future as I welcome back Ken Lonyai, a mastermind in product and design, for a critical examination of trust in artificial intelligence. Touching on the intriguing parallels of AI's growth to that of the internet's surge in the late '90s, we unravel the complexities of bias and human manipulation that challenge our reliance on AI. Ken brings his expertise to the table, showcasing real-world examples where AI has mirrored societal biases and discussing the necessity of clarity in AI data training—a pivotal factor for technology's trustworthiness. As our conversation moves to the business side of AI, skepticism meets open-source optimism. We scrutinize the true intentions behind AI conglomerates and the authenticity of the trust placed in their leadership. The pressing reality of AI's influence on job markets is laid bare, with a focus on genuine concerns over job displacement rather than science fiction. Moreover, we dissect the implications of recent tech blunders, like Google's Gemini, on the fragile trust between public and tech powerhouses, offering insights into how companies might rebound from such setbacks. Finally, we reflect on the broad societal impacts of AI, from the shaping of corporate cultures to the subtle yet significant consequences for tech titans who stick to their guns, citing Apple's recent fine as a poignant example. Ken and I consider the historical context of automation's impact on industries and the protective measures—or lack thereof—available to today's workforce amidst AI's relentless march. We cap off with a forward glance at how conversational AI could revolutionize user experience, dreaming up a future where traditional interfaces are a thing of the past, and conversations with technology become the norm. Join us for this enlightening journey into AI's present and future influence on our lives. More about Ken: http://kenlonyai.com 02:01 The Evolution of AI: Changes and Challenges 05:23 Can We Trust AI? Debunking Myths and Addressing Concerns 09:08 The Influence of Human Bias on AI and Its Implications 12:15 Exploring the Landscape of AI Models and Their Impact 17:54 The Role of Open Source in AI Development and Trust 20:39 Addressing AI's Mistakes and Corporate Agendas 26:08 The Future of Work: AI's Impact on the Workforce 26:40 The Impact of AI on Jobs and the Economy 27:58 The Evolution of Automation and Its Effects 29:39 Universal Basic Income: A Political and Economic Perspective 30:12 The Role of AI in Society and Its Misconceptions 33:22 Human-AI Collaboration: The Future of Work 38:10 The Future of User Experience (UX) and Voice Interfaces 46:29 Final Thoughts on AI and Its Potential

Have you ever wondered why CRM systems, which are supposed to streamline business, often end up collecting virtual dust on the shelf? Michael Hudlow, a maestro of CRM and author, joins us to implode the myth that CRM is just about organizing data. He brings a wealth of frontline experience from the CIO and CRM trenches, sharing why a well-implemented CRM is a game-changer, turning chaos into clarity and action. This episode isn't just a chat; it's an expedition through the crucial mistakes businesses make with CRM and how Michael's practical insights can prevent you from falling into those same traps. Imagine AI and CRM joining forces like superheroes in your workplace, slashing administrative workloads and bringing you real-time insights. In a candid conversation with Michael, we dissect the transformative power of AI-augmented CRM systems and why salespeople should be wielding this power firsthand. He shares the genesis of his book, born from a moment of exasperation, and aims to equip you with the tools for seamless CRM implementation. Michael's stories illuminate the path to harnessing technology for leadership success, ensuring that your CRM isn't just a system, but a strategic ally. Dive into the complexities of marrying AI with CRM without getting lost in the tech glitz. Michael walks us through the decision-making maze of AI integration, balancing innovation with actual ROI. We tackle the potential and pitfalls—from simplifying mundane tasks to risking data integrity with poor AI training. His advice is clear: don't let your CRM be an expensive Rolodex. As Michael elucidates the intricacies of GDPR compliance and data cleanliness, you're in for a masterclass that transcends CRM, offering wisdom applicable to any technological adoption. More about Michael: Michael Hudlow is a highly accomplished book author and industry expert with a deep understanding of CRM systems and their implementation. With the release of the best-selling book, "How Not To F*ck Up A CRM System," Michael has become a sought-after authority on navigating the complexities of CRM implementations to achieve optimal results. Michael's expertise stems from over 20 years of experience in the industry as he has worked for Big 4 consulting firms in numerous international organizations, providing strategic guidance and driving successful technology initiatives. https://www.bitxiacrm.com 01:10 Michael Hudlow's Journey in the CRM Space 02:34 Debunking CRM Myths: A Deep Dive with Michael Hudlow 07:45 Common CRM Implementation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 13:07 The Evolution of CRM Systems and the Role of AI 23:53 Insider Insights: Real-World CRM Challenges and Solutions 37:49 The Future of CRM: AI Integration and Best Practices 49:14 Connecting with Michael Hudlow: Books, Advice, and More 51:07 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation

In this episode of the CTO show hosted by Mehmet, cybersecurity icon Wes Kussmaul shares his extensive experience in IT, starting from his early programming days in the Air Force during the 60s and 70s, to creating the world's first online encyclopedia and eventually venturing into social media. Wes discusses the evolution of his career, including the innovative creation and sale of his first business to Rupert Murdoch's News America Corporation, and his ventures into developing secure and accountable social media. He introduces 'Quiet Enjoyment', a book inspired by his daughter, exploring the concept of bringing accountability back to social media through a global PKI system. Wes elaborates on the issues of digital identity and the challenges of establishing measurably reliable identity verification, underlining the importance of identity attestation by legally liable professionals. He criticizes the modern assumptions about cybersecurity, stressing on the significance of accountability over merely 'catching the bad guys'. Wes advocates for PKI as a superior system for ensuring accountability while maintaining privacy, comparing it unfavorably to blockchain's anonymity that often aids criminal activities. Finally, Wes calls for an educational shift towards understanding digital signatures and PKI and emphasizes rebuilding the internet as a secure space akin to 'indoor' environments with clear accountability, rather than the unprotected 'highway' it currently resembles. More about Wes: Wes Kussmaul creator of the first online encyclopedia, for over 3 decades has been advocating for a safe digital space where there is real accountability, security and privacy. He founded The Authenticity Alliance, which offers an identity-based, human centric, PKI platform where there is real accountability, privacy and security. https://www.linkedin.com/in/weskussmaul https://authentiverse.net 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: A Deep Dive with Wes Kussmaul 01:16 Wes Kussmaul's Journey: From Air Force to IT Icon 01:53 The Birth of Online Encyclopedia and Social Media Ventures 02:50 Championing Accountable Anonymity in Social Media 04:34 The Evolution of PKI and the World eTrust Initiative 06:03 Building a New Global Certification Authority 06:49 Exploring the Challenges of Digital Identity Security 07:44 The Importance of Measurably Reliable Identities 21:16 Addressing the Misconceptions of PKI and Blockchain 35:41 Envisioning a Safer Internet with Accountable Security 39:46 Final Thoughts and the Future of Digital Security

In this episode of the CTO Show with Mehmet, guest G. Kofi Annan, a brand strategist and technologist, shares his insights on improving company visibility, engagement, and revenue through branding. With experience working with large corporations like Puma and Pfizer, as well as emerging companies, Annan emphasizes the importance of storytelling and making meaningful connections with target markets. Drawing from his upbringing in Ghana and Liberia and professional pivot at Saatchi and Saatchi, he discusses the evolution of branding beyond logos and colors to encompass the values, stories, and unique selling propositions of a business. Annan also delves into the significance of understanding cultural nuances for successful international market entry, leveraging AI and technology in branding, and the critical role of customer relationships. The episode highlights practical strategies for startups and established businesses to carve out niches, differentiate themselves, and achieve growth through effective branding and storytelling. Here is the link provided by Kofi: https://thebrandsensei.co/cto More about Kofi: G. Kofi Annan is a Brand Strategist, Technologist, Advisor, and Investor with a 20+ year career spanning over 200 brand-building efforts. Kofi has an impressive track record that includes working with global companies like PUMA, Pfizer, and Mercedes Benz, and innovative startups like Neurocrine and SwatchOn. He distills insights, skills, and tools into actionable strategies to help executives, founders, and entrepreneurs stand out and grow their brands the smarter way. Kofi's ability to blend humor, insights, and thought-provoking stories inspires people into action. https://gkofiannan.com 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Hour: Meet Kofi, the Brand Strategist 02:40 Kofi's Journey: From Ghana to Global Brand Strategist 07:11 The Essence of Branding in Business Success 10:54 Navigating Cultural Nuances in Global Markets 17:44 Leveraging Technology for Authentic Storytelling in Branding 23:27 The Power of Connection: Customer Experience and Technology 24:11 Leveraging Data and Automation in Branding 25:08 The Core Elements of Brand Development 25:41 Understanding Key Branding Metrics: Customer Acquisition and Lifetime Value 26:18 The Power of Storytelling in Reducing Customer Acquisition Costs 31:59 The Role of AI in Enhancing Branding for Startups and Scaleups 36:16 Navigating the Hype Cycle of AI in Branding 44:23 The Importance of Relationship and Personal Touch in Branding 45:21 Final Thoughts and Advice on Branding Success