The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly excel in the world of product management? Join us as we sit down with Tami Reiss, a product management maestro with over fifteen years in the trenches. Her journey from fundraising to coaching product leaders is a testament to the transformative power of relentless customer focus and astute problem-solving. In our latest episode, Tami unveils her pivotal three-question framework that every product manager should keep top of mind. We dissect the essence of product management, revealing the critical balance between tactical execution and strategic foresight that can make or break a product's journey. As the conversation intensifies, we tackle the nuanced dance of communication and conflict resolution within the halls of corporate power. Product managers, often caught in a web of varying stakeholder interests, must be adept at wielding influence with both grace and precision. Tami and I pull back the curtain on the soft skills that forge effective product leaders – from the crucial blend of confidence with humility to the artful practice of prioritization. We also share invaluable insights on how to fine-tune communication skills to not only direct your product's path but also to align it with your company's overarching mission. As we peer into the crystal ball of product and technology leadership, the convergence of CTO and CPO roles into the hybrid CPTO emerges as a major trend. We dissect what's driving this shift and the implications it has on decision-making within organizations. With Tami's rich experience guiding us, we examine the art of saying "no," the synergy between product managers and their customers, and the pivotal decisions that shape the future of companies. Thank you for joining us on this thought-provoking expedition into the heart of product management and leadership. We're grateful for your listenership and can't wait to bring you along for more compelling conversations. More about Tami: https://productleadercoach.com 00:46 Introduction and Guest Presentation 02:07 Tami's Journey into Product Management 03:52 The Art of Asking Questions in Product Management 06:51 Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals 11:25 The Role of Authority in Product Management 16:33 Enhancing Communication Skills for Product Managers 19:22 Conflict Management and Decision Making in Product Management 28:31 The Importance of Adaptability and Team Success 28:53 The Role of a Product Manager 29:17 The Power of Storytelling in Product Management 31:51 Transitioning to a Product Leader Role 32:19 The Core Skills of a Chief Product Officer 35:52 The Importance of Financial Acumen in Product Leadership 41:43 The Intersection of Product and Technology Leadership 47:09 The Role of Decision Making in Product Management 48:22 Connecting with Tami 50:22 The Impact of the CTO Show

Ever wondered why, despite being armed with knowledge, we still fall prey to cyber threats? Join me as I sit down with Yuri Dvoinos, Chief Innovation Officer at Aura and a tech visionary at Figleaf, who peels back the layers on cybersecurity's persistent challenges. Our conversation spans from Yuri's early days securing Apple computers to his latest endeavors, where he ingeniously intertwines human-centric design with digital safeguarding. Discover the gaps in our digital armor and learn how, even before the world was shaken by scandals like Cambridge Analytica, Yuri was already navigating the treacherous waters of privacy concerns. As the digital landscape morphs with each technological leap, we're left to question the reliability of what we see and hear online. This episode dives into the murky depths of AI's influence on cybersecurity, where advancements such as deepfakes threaten to erode our online trust. Yuri and I dissect the necessity for businesses to deploy inventive strategies like gamification and vulnerability assessments to steel themselves against these sophisticated cyber risks. You'll gain a unique perspective on the paradox of AI: a tool that can be a beacon of progress or a weapon in the wrong hands. Finally, we turn our gaze to the shimmering horizons of Dubai, where innovation and security walk hand in hand. We explore how this city could pioneer a standard for cybersecurity, bridging the gap between proactive initiatives and collaboration across consumers, corporations, and government entities. Plus, Yuri imparts his seasoned advice on entrepreneurship in the tech space, weighing the merits of bootstrapping against the allure of venture capital. His candid tales of navigating through failures to success offer a treasure trove of insights for anyone with aspirations to make their mark in the dynamic realm of technology and cybersecurity. More about Yuri: Yuri Dvoinos, a tech and AI entrepreneur. He built the innovation department at Aura, a multi-million-dollar cybersecurity company, and founded Clario, an antivirus company with multi-million-dollar revenue and 50 million downloads. He has launched 15+ products of his own. Yuri have worked hands-on with and for numerous leading companies in the tech world, learned and grown from the cycle of product development as a serial tech founder, and passionately spoken to audiences all over the world. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvoinos 00:46 Introduction and Guest Presentation 02:16 Journey into Cybersecurity and AI 07:26 The Challenge of Cybersecurity Awareness 14:42 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity 25:55 The Future of Cybersecurity in a Tech-Driven City 32:52 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Bootstrapping vs Fundraising 39:57 Final Thoughts and Advice

Embark on a technological expedition with Praveen Kalamegham, the visionary CTO of Workrise, who joins us to unravel his journey from an inquisitive child playing with embedded systems to a master orchestrator of innovation in the energy sector. Praveen's tale is infused with inspiration, tracing back to the influence of his father, and spans a career marked by strategic decision-making and a commitment to impactful work. As we converse, we uncover the intricate layers of vendor management, the challenges of updating supplier databases for project efficiency, and the undeniable import of fostering trust through digital transformations. The narrative then shifts to the expansive terrain of the energy industry, where tradition meets technology in a dance of disruption and adaptation. We dissect the fine balance between tried-and-true practices and audacious 'moonshot' projects, emphasizing the importance of systemic thinking and the transformative role of AI and ML in structuring the unstructured. This segues into a deep exploration of the unbroken digital chain concept, a paradigm shift poised to revolutionize procurement, payment processes, and operational transparency, ultimately solidifying trust-based relationships between companies and contractors. As our conversation reaches its zenith, we pivot to the intersection of sustainability and technology, where Praveen outlines how Workrise is equipping energy companies for a greener future. We also zoom in on the evolving role of a CTO, blending technology acumen with a shrewd business sense, and the critical importance of cross-functional collaboration within executive teams. The episode is a mosaic of insights, from the repurposing of oil and gas expertise for renewable energy innovations to the team-building acumen necessary for any tech leader looking to make an indelible impact on the industry. Join us to capture the essence of a CTO's journey and the seismic shifts shaping the energy sector's future. More about Praveen: https://www.workrise.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkalamegham 00:46 Introduction and Guest Background 01:09 Praveen's Journey in Technology 02:30 The Shift from Technical to Leadership Roles 02:48 The Evolution of Praveen's Career and WorkRise 04:33 The Attraction to Software Development and Innovation 05:02 The Influence of Praveen's Father on His Career 07:57 The Journey from Hardware to Software 09:55 The Role of WorkRise in the Energy Sector 10:51 The Challenges in the Energy Sector and WorkRise's Mission 22:31 The Role of Innovation in the Energy Sector 29:50 The Concept of Digital System of Record 31:02 Understanding the Supply Chain Challenge 31:48 The Status Quo and Its Problems 35:11 The Unbroken Digital Chain: A Solution 37:36 The Impact of Transparency and Trust 40:53 The Future of Energy Sector and Sustainability 46:19 The Role of a CTO in a Business 56:12 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Unlock the transformative power of AI with our esteemed guest Robert Plotkin, the sharp-witted patent attorney who's once again gracing our studio with his insight on the latest AI upheavals. This episode sails through the emergence of chat GPT and its role in the democratization of AI, making powerful tools like natural language processing accessible to the masses. We dissect the daily advancements in AI, showcasing how these technologies arm professionals from myriad fields with capabilities that were once the stuff of sci-fi dreams. As the conversation progresses, we navigate the intricate dance between AI bots' burgeoning autonomy and the crucial need for human oversight. Robert and I tackle the evolution of AI interaction, addressing the challenge of "AI drift" and the vital role of human-guided management—a concept as intrinsic to AI as it is to traditional business practices. We also confront the misconceptions about AI, separating hype from reality in an effort to understand the actual scope of AI's capabilities and the measured approach needed to harness its full power responsibly. Wrapping up, we venture into the practicalities of AI implementation, weighing the perils of both overestimating and underestimating its potential. By drawing parallels to the utilization of junior lawyers in legal practices, we advocate for valuing practical utility over the quest for human-like reasoning. We also examine the 'jagged frontier' of AI—the unevenly trained athlete of technology—and emphasize the importance of error checking and refinement to exploit the speed and efficiency of AI, all while keeping inaccuracies at bay. Join us for this illuminating session that promises to broaden your perspectives on AI as a valuable ally in the modern professional landscape. More about Robert: Robert leads innovators, creatives, and professionals in leveraging AI to boost their skills, effectiveness, and productivity to the next level. Robert brings an optimism and excitement to his work that are the perfect antidote to the fear of being replaced by AI. https://robertplotkin.com 00:45 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction 03:37 Discussing the Rapid Advancements in AI 08:44 The Role of Humans in the AI Era 14:50 The Future of AI: Opportunities and Threats 22:21 Understanding the Capabilities of AI 30:27 Understanding the Functionality of Large Language Models 32:16 The Role of Reasoning in AI 33:39 The Imperfections of Human and Machine Outputs 34:47 Exploring the Transformer Paper Behind GPT 36:39 The Concept of Reasoning in AI 38:34 Addressing the Accuracy of LLM Output 39:02 The Evolution of AI Tools and Their Applications 41:18 The Challenges of Trusting AI Outputs 49:04 Learning from the History of Technological Advancements 56:07 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Ever wondered what fuels the rapid growth of startups in the heart of Dubai's bustling market? This episode pulls back the curtain, as we sit down with iACCEl Gulf Business Incubator CEO & co-foudner Deepak Ahuja, an ex-banker turned investor, who navigated the shift from high finance to high stake investments with an eye on nurturing future unicorns. Deepak brings to the table an unfiltered look into an ecosystem that's evolving at an astronomical pace, tackling unemployment with a surge of entrepreneurial spirit, and attracting serious investment from those with a knack for spotting potential. The journey of a startup is fraught with twists and turns, and this conversation doesn't shy away from the gritty realities. From the importance of choosing partners who share your long-term vision to the timing and strategy behind funding – we unfold the blueprint for startup success. Deepak's insights are a treasure trove for founders, revealing how mentorship from angel investors can be instrumental in bridging the gap to venture capital, and why smart money is about much more than just opening your wallet. In our final act, we explore the symbiotic relationship between startups and government entities like Dubai SME. We reveal what it takes to catch an investor's eye – hint: a full-time commitment and a love affair with problem-solving top the list. The episode wraps up by highlighting the impact of regulatory changes post-COVID, and the role of government support in sculpting an ecosystem where entrepreneurs not only survive but thrive. Join us as we dissect the mechanics of success in the startup world and the collective push towards innovation that's reshaping Dubai's economic horizon. More about Deepak: Deepak Ahuja, CEO and Co-Founder of iACCEL Gulf Business Incubator in partnership with India Accelerator and under the patronage of Dubai SME, Deepak has significantly contributed to the startup ecosystems in India and the UAE. Serving as an Advisor and mentor to numerous companies and being on the Board of the largest Asset Management company in DIFC, he is recognized as a thought leader, fostering a robust startup culture in the UAE and the wider MENA region. About iAccel Gulf Business Incubator: iAccel Gulf Business Incubator LLC was launched in 2023 under the Hamdan Incubation program. Located in the Business Village building and spread across 3200 sq. ft., the incubator is a full-service ecosystem offering market access, access to funding, business advisory, mentorship, networking, and fundraising opportunities. The approach is built on the principles of thought leadership, advisory, and mentorship networks, which are essential to fostering success. https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepak-ahuja-bb5441a 00:46 Introduction and Guest Background 01:26 Deepak's Journey into the Startup Ecosystem 02:48 Deepak's Role in the Dubai Government Initiative 03:37 Discussion on the Evolution of the Startup Ecosystem 04:19 The Impact of Startups on Society 06:59 The Growth of the Startup Scene in Dubai 07:53 The Inspiration Behind IAccel Gulf Business Incubator 17:19 The Role of Angel Investors and VCs in Startups 20:36 The Importance of Smart Money in Startups 25:38 The Challenges of Raising Startup Capital in the UAE 26:22 The Importance of Startup Exits for Angel Investors 27:13 The Role of Education in the Startup Ecosystem 27:39 The Risk-Averse Nature of the UAE Market 28:09 The Competition for Investment in the UAE 29:21 The Importance of Startup Success Stories 30:26 What Investors Look for in Startups 35:34 The Role of Government in Supporting Startups 41:31 The Future of the Startup Ecosystem in the UAE 46:43 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Unlock the secrets of blockchain's transformative power and peer into the future of decentralized AI with Roberto Capodieci, a pioneer in the tech landscape. This episode takes you on a journey through the ever-evolving world of digital uniqueness and asset tokenization, where the usual suspects like cryptocurrencies are just the tip of the iceberg. As Roberto and I dissect the complex cultural challenges and common misconceptions of adopting these technologies, you'll gain a fresh perspective on the cautious, yet optimistic path we must tread as society adjusts to these groundbreaking shifts. Step into a realm where artificial intelligence is not the domain of any one entity, but a democratized force spanning across nodes, thanks to the power of decentralization. With Roberto's expert insight, we chart the course of peer-to-peer networks that have revolutionized industries from finance to entertainment, and how this principle of shared control can shape a fair and unbiased AI. This conversation is an eye-opener for anyone interested in how decentralization is the key to safeguarding our future against the monopolization of AI decision-making. Finally, brace yourself for a candid exploration of AI's impact on the job market and what it means for our careers. I reflect on how, akin to a child's developing mind, AI needs time to mature, and we discuss potential societal adjustments such as universal basic income to weather the significant shifts on the horizon. Roberto's expertise will leave you empowered, ready to harness these formidable tools wisely, and prepared to adapt to the inevitable changes AI will bring to our professional lives. Join us for this enlightening episode that promises to reshape your understanding of technology's role in our future. More about Roberto: With a career spanning over three decades in emerging technologies, Roberto Capodieci stands as a vanguard in the field of blockchain and decentralized systems. An Italian national, he has crafted a life that blends deep technological expertise with an unwavering passion for digital innovation. Roberto's journey commenced in Italy, grew in the vibrant tech scenes of Florida, USA, and later flourished in Asia, particularly in Singapore and Bali, where he currently enjoys a harmonious balance of work and life. https://linktr.ee/capodieci 00:45 Introduction and Guest Background 02:07 Understanding Blockchain and its Evolution 04:06 The Impact of Blockchain on Digital Content 05:48 The Future of Blockchain and Web3 09:42 Investing in Blockchain Technology 17:52 Decentralizing Artificial Intelligence 26:58 The Future of Work in the Age of AI 33:08 Balancing Business and Technology Roles 35:44 Blockchain Book and Final Thoughts

Unlock the secrets to magnetic presence and powerhouse communication with our Scottish charisma coach, Sebastian Walls, as he demystifies the concept of charisma in the professional landscape. Charisma isn't the exclusive domain of extroverts; it's a craftable skill set that can significantly amplify your influence in business and tech spaces. This episode is a goldmine for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of building rapport, with our discussion on active listening and the importance of genuinely engaging with your audience moving well beyond the confines of mere small talk. Imagine transforming every interaction into an opportunity to leave a lasting impression. We delve into the mechanics of charm, exploring its potent effects on personal branding and leadership. Charisma turns out to be a resource for ethically connecting with others and advancing careers, rather than a tool for manipulation. Our anecdotes and expert advice will guide you in constructing a personal brand that resonates with your core values while standing out in a crowded market. Finally, we're bringing the elusive art of charisma into the digital age, examining its role in social media and personal branding. From the infectious energy of Dwayne Johnson to Gary Vaynerchuk's heartfelt hustle, we scrutinize how public figures harness this quality to captivate their online audiences. This episode is brimming with insights on how to authentically craft your online persona and engage with your community. Tune in for a treasure trove of strategies that promise to elevate your digital charisma to new heights. More about Sebastian: Sebastian is a renowned expert in the field of office communication, charisma, and leadership. With over a decade of experience as a communication strategist and executive coach, Sebastian has helped countless individuals and organizations enhance their communication skills, develop their charismatic presence, and become effective leaders in the workplace. As a guest on various podcasts and a sought-after keynote speaker, Sebastian brings a unique blend of expertise and practical insights to his discussions. His passion lies in demystifying the art of effective office communication, making it accessible and applicable to professionals at all levels. He has also ammased a following of over 15,000 followers across Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/artofcharisma 00:45 Introduction and Guest Presentation 02:33 Understanding Charisma: Definition and Importance 03:36 Can Charisma be Taught or Acquired? 05:00 Identifying Charismatic Traits 07:38 Charisma in Business and Tech World 10:00 Charisma and Leadership: Strategies for Clear and Impactful Communication 10:17 Charisma in Remote and Hybrid Work Settings 10:48 The Role of Charisma in Career Progression 13:01 The Art of Storytelling in Building Charisma 27:04 The Good and Evil Sides of Charisma 33:53 Charisma and Personal Branding in the Digital Age 42:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us as we sit down with Jake Moshenko, the dynamic CEO of AuthZed and co-founder of Quay, and chart his impressive journey from Michigan's engineering halls to the cutting edge of tech entrepreneurship. As we dissect his early career at Boeing and subsequent roles at Amazon and Google, Jake gives us an insider's glimpse into the genesis of his groundbreaking projects. The stories of developing Quay, the pioneering private Docker registry, and its evolution through acquisitions by CoreOS, Red Hat, and IBM, are testament to the power of engineering-driven solutions to real-world problems. In the ever-changing realm of software deployment, Jake brings to light the transformation from manual server management to the marvels of Kubernetes, revealing how such advances have fundamentally altered the global tech landscape. This episode is not just about deployment; it's an in-depth look at the challenges of scalable authorization, particularly through the lens of Jake's latest venture, AuthZed. Listeners will find Jake's insights into balancing security with scalability invaluable, especially those navigating the fintech sector or handling sensitive data. As our conversation ventures into the entrepreneurial spirit that propels innovators like Jake, we discuss the roles of risk tolerance, perseverance, and adaptability in the startup ecosystem. Looking to the horizon, we then probe the potential impact of AI on cloud-native technologies, differentiating between buzzword automation and genuine machine learning advancements. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone curious about the future of tech, the journey of a serial entrepreneur, and the intricate dance of innovation and customer satisfaction that shapes successful ventures. About Jake: Jake Moshenko has been an innovator in the cloud-native ecosystem for over 15 years. After engineering roles at Amazon and Google, Jake founded Quay, the first private Docker registry, which was acquired by CoreOS. Jake then became an engineering leader at CoreOS, which was acquired by Red Hat (and then IBM). He is now the co-founder and CEO of AuthZed, the company commercializing SpiceDB, the industry-leading cloud-native permissions database. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-moshenko-381161b https://authzed.com 00:46 Introduction and Guest Background 01:19 Jake's Journey from Michigan to Boeing 02:36 Transition into the Tech World: Amazon and Google 03:57 Venturing into Entrepreneurship: DevTable and Quay 04:38 The CoreOS Experience and Acquisition by Red Hat 05:17 From Red Hat to IBM and the Decision to Start Again 08:36 The Birth of AuthZed: Solving Authorization Challenges 12:14 The Role of AI and Future Trends in Cloud Native Ecosystems 20:00 The Journey from Engineer to Leader 25:58 The Art of Building and Scaling High Tech Startups 36:05 The Future of AuthZed and Final Thoughts

When Katherine Lewis decided to trade her lesson plans for lines of code, she wasn't just shifting careers; she was redefining what it means to pursue a dream. On our latest podcast, the former teacher and current software engineer at LinkedIn shares the intricate tapestry of her journey, weaving through the challenges she faced while grasping the nuances of front-end development and the paramount importance of user experience. Her unwavering commitment to making technology accessible is a beacon of inspiration, as she talks about her advocacy for universal design and her embrace of the empowering term "people of determination." With Katherine's story as a springboard, we navigate the often turbulent waters of the tech industry, particularly for women forging their paths within it. Her insights serve as a guiding star for those yearning to make their mark in tech, underscoring the importance of finding a nurturing company culture and the fortitude to push boundaries. We also unravel the delicate threads of empathetic leadership in the digital realm, where Katherine's personal tribulations have sculpted a leader who champions empathy, clear communication, and a service-driven mindset. Join us as we celebrate not only the technical mastery of software engineering but also the profound impact of personal growth, resilience, and leading with heart in the unrelenting pace of the tech world. More about Katherine: Katherine Lewis is host of the Opportunity Made podcast and runs The Leon Foundation of Excellence, a program that helps youth heal intergenerational patterns of trauma. She also has experience as a teacher, software engineer, accessibility advocate, and employee resource group leader. https://www.leonfe.org 00:45 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:47 Catherine's Journey from Teaching to Software Engineering 04:44 Challenges and Insights from Front-End Engineering 07:27 The Importance of Accessibility in Tech 17:00 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Leadership 20:09 The Leon Foundation of Excellence and Non-Profit Work 23:59 Opportunity Made: Catherine's Podcast 27:46 The Role of Personal Challenges in Leadership Style 33:02 Future Goals and Ambitions in Tech

Unlock the potential of your small business with the invaluable insights from Pete Romano, a trailblazer transitioning from the beats of music production to the rhythms of software development. Our discussion with Pete offers a unique convergence of experience and passion, where the melodies of process and mindset meet the harmonies of marketing and operations. His story reveals a tenacious quest to fill the void in CRM solutions, giving rise to a platform that not only challenges the status quo but champions the digital empowerment of small and medium enterprises. Step onto the path of crafting distinct customer journeys and understand the importance of data sovereignty in this digital age. We navigate the nuances of customer interaction, from the initial ad exposure to post-sale engagement, underscoring the necessity for businesses to house their data internally. Our conversation with Pete dissects how to optimize these experiences and why sole reliance on external platforms like Facebook or TikTok can be a precarious strategy for customer information management. The episode crescendoes with an exploration of automation's role in crafting personalized customer experiences and how a robust approach to customer data fosters resilience and growth. We share practical advice on leveraging technology to streamline operations, debunk myths surrounding overnight success, and emphasize the significance of authenticity in today's entrepreneurial landscape. Tune in for an enriching session that harmonizes the art of business with the science of digital tools, ensuring your small business not only survives but thrives in an ever-evolving marketplace. More about Pete: Pete’s journey in the tech industry is as inspiring as his commitment to his craft. He is the founder of Segwik, a company born out of the need to simplify and streamline the way small businesses operate in today’s digital age. Segwik is not just a CRM platform; it’s a vision that Pete brought to life, offering businesses a unified solution that is easy to adopt, implement, and grow with. Through Segwik, Pete has provided countless businesses the clarity and tools they need to run efficiently, turning leads into loyal customers, and visions into tangible success. At Trial Lawyers College, Pete’s expertise has been instrumental in creating a digital platform that reflects the college’s commitment to training and supporting lawyers dedicated to representing and obtaining justice for individuals. Under his technical guidance, the college’s new website is not only visually appealing but also user-friendly and informative, providing easy access to a wealth of resources, courses, and community support that the college offers. https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-romano http://www.segwik.com 00:48 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:59 Guest's Background and Journey 02:45 Transition from Music and Film to Technology 05:51 Insights on Small Business Operations and Challenges 07:54 The Power of Digital Empowerment for SMBs 08:46 The Importance of Streamlining Business Processes 18:04 The Role of Data Collection in Business 23:13 Overcoming Resistance to Change in Business 36:40 The Future of SMBs and Technology 46:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts