The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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

Join us on "The CTO Show with Mehmet" as we welcome Brittany Greenfield, CEO of Wabbi, to discuss the evolving challenges of cybersecurity in software development. Brittany shares her journey into the cybersecurity domain, revealing how Wabbi is pioneering the integration of security within the development lifecycle for companies ranging from startups to Fortune 500s. In This Episode, You'll Learn: The Inspiration Behind Wabbi: Discover the inception story of Wabbi and its mission to seamlessly blend security with software development. The State of Cybersecurity: Brittany breaks down the complexities of the cybersecurity industry and highlights the unique approach Wabbi takes to address these challenges. Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Gain insights into Brittany's entrepreneurial path, including the importance of grit, agility, and self-investment. The Role of AI and Future Trends: A look into how AI impacts cybersecurity, the importance of foundational security processes, and predictions for the future of application security. Advice for Aspiring Founders: Brittany shares valuable advice for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for focus, resilience, and balance. Don't miss this insightful episode with Brittany Greenfield as we delve into the critical role of cybersecurity in today's tech landscape and explore the traits essential for entrepreneurial success. More about Brittany: Brittany Greenfield is the Founder & CEO of Wabbi, a Boston-based Continuous Security Platform revolutionizing the integration of security into the software development lifecycle. A Duke University and MIT Sloan MBA alumna, Brittany has honed her expertise in market opportunity identification and strategy execution at leading companies including OpenAir, NetSuite, Kronos, Cisco, and Cybereason. Under her leadership, Wabbi has achieved notable industry acclaim, including being a finalist in the RSA Innovation Sandbox Contest and recognition by Gartner, eSecurity Planet, and BostInno for its pioneering application security solutions. Wabbi's growth is supported by leading investors like Cisco Investments, Mendoza Ventures, and Work-Bench. https://wabbisoft.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanygreenfield 01:08 The Genesis of Wabi: Bridging Security and Development 03:11 Why Cybersecurity? Brittany's Personal Drive and Vision 05:30 The Evolution and Challenges of DevSecOps 13:03 Addressing the Myths: Developers, Security, and Collaboration 17:27 Who Owns Application Security? A Leadership Perspective 18:43 Measuring ROI in Cybersecurity: A New Approach 22:38 Every Company is a Software Company: The Growing Need for Security Solutions 25:09 Gartner Recognition and the Importance of Market Awareness 27:36 Leveraging AI in Cybersecurity: Opportunities and Cautions 29:46 Navigating AI in Development: Opportunities and Risks 31:42 The Philosophy of DevOps: Efficiency Over Speed 32:26 Automation vs. AI: Prioritizing for Productivity 33:31 Guided Decisions: Enhancing Developer and Security Expertise 36:03 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Spotting Opportunities and Capitalizing 39:31 The Importance of Grit and Agility in Entrepreneurship 49:22 Advice for Aspiring Founders: Prioritizing Time and Self-Care 52:49 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More

In this episode of 'The CTO Show with Mehmet', Mehmet interviews Ravi Pratap, the CTO and Co-founder of Uniqode, a company that is at the forefront of QR code technology. Ravi shares his journey as an entrepreneur and the evolution of Uniqode. He discusses the pivotal role QR codes play in bridging the physical and digital world, and how the technology has found widespread application across various industries, especially post-COVID. Ravi further elaborates on the initial challenges, the importance of customer feedback in product development, and the future of QR codes. Moreover, he emphasizes the pivotal role of business acumen for technical co-founders and CTOs in ensuring product success and customer satisfaction. This conversation sheds light on the innovative ways QR codes are being used to enhance business operations and customer experiences globally. More information about Ravi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravipratapm https://www.uniqode.com/ 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show with Guest Ravi from Uniqode 01:07 Ravi's Entrepreneurial Journey and the Genesis of Uniqode 01:47 The Power and Potential of QR Codes Explained 02:43 Innovations and Opportunities in the QR Code Space 03:34 From Bluetooth Beacons to QR Codes: A Technological Pivot 06:35 The Rise of QR Codes: A Market Shift and Uniqode's Strategy 12:35 Customer-Centric Product Development at Uniqode 15:23 The Importance of Direct Customer Engagement 25:38 The Art of the Welcome Email: Building Trust and Connection 45:07 The Future of QR Codes and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the CTO show with Mehmet, Sean Languedoc, the CEO of Outforce.ai from Canada, shares his journey as a tech entrepreneur and how it led him to create a solution for the common challenges faced in outsourcing for tech startups. He delves into the intricacies of outsourcing, including selecting the right team, understanding common pitfalls, and leveraging technology and AI to enhance productivity and quality. Sean also covers the critical role of culture fit, the importance of avoiding technical debt, and the impact of AI in the modern engineering workspace. This comprehensive discussion offers valuable insights for founders on managing outsourcing relationships effectively, ensuring quality, and accelerating their project timelines. More about Sean: With over 25 years of immersion in the tech industry, Sean has navigated the challenging yet exhilarating journey of nurturing ideas into thriving enterprises. As the CEO of Outforce.ai, formerly known as Global Talent Accelerator, his entrepreneurial journey continues in the realm of transforming outsourcing from a daunting task to a strategic asset for venture-backed companies. https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanlanguedoc https://www.outforce.ai/sign-up 01:24 The Genesis of Outforce.ai 02:07 The Journey of a Tech Entrepreneur 02:40 The Art of Identifying Business Opportunities 04:10 The Challenges of Outsourcing 05:40 The Pros and Cons of Outsourcing for Startups 08:12 The Role of Founders in a Startup 11:26 The Dilemma of Outsourcing and Idea Theft 15:32 The Role of Outforce.ai in Outsourcing 20:35 The Importance of Cultural Fit in Outsourcing 24:16 The Emergence of Fractional CTOs27:03 The Role of a Fractional CTO in Scaling Your Business 27:46 Equity Distribution and Building a Support Team 29:45 The Impact of AI on Engineering Productivity 30:29 The Influence of AI on the Engineering Industry 32:27 The Importance of Due Diligence When Outsourcing 39:19 The Role of Geography and Time Zones in Outsourcing45:07 Current Trends in Outsourcing 47:48 Final Thoughts and Advice on Outsourcing

Discover the transformative power of authenticity in tech leadership with Noah Cantor, a seasoned tech leadership coach from New Zealand, who joins us to explore the nuances of guiding teams through challenges and personal growth. Noah brings to light the intimate struggles of tech leaders, recounting his own journey from confronting demotivated teams and technical debt to harnessing the strength of genuine management. Through his candid storytelling, we learn how a leader's journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about strategy and execution. Unpack the psychological and emotional facets of tech leadership as we traverse the compelling story of Anne, a new CTO thrust into a maelstrom of layoffs and the struggle to stay true to her values. Our discussion breaks down the myths surrounding motivation and reveals how aligning management style with core values can not only relieve stress but also invigorate an entire organization. Noah and I dissect the mental shifts required for leaders to transition from the mindset of an individual contributor to an inspiring manager, and the organizational implications of technical debt that go beyond just the tech team. Our conversation rounds out with an earnest endorsement of the often-ignored need for coaching in the tech leadership space. Sharing personal revelations, I highlight the profound impact that coaching has had on identifying my own blind spots and combating the isolation felt in leadership roles. We confront the industry's resistance to coaching, championing its potential to cultivate a healthier work culture and bolster mental health. For tech leaders seeking depth and direction, this episode promises insights into why investing in coaching can lead to transformative benefits for both the individual and the organization at large. More about Noah: https://noahcantor.com 02:38 The Importance of Self-Development in Tech Leadership 03:16 The Journey to Becoming a Tech Leadership Coach 07:45 Challenges and Learnings in Tech Leadership 08:15 The Impact of Personal Values on Leadership 11:39 The Role of Coaching in Tech Leadership 21:40 Addressing Technical Debt and Organizational Culture 37:40 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Tech Leaders 38:35 The Importance of Feedback and Reflection in Leadership

Unlock the transformative secrets of HR technology and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of job seeking with our special guest, Sharanu S. Shirol, the Chief Digital Officer of Buzzwords and Innovations Group. Our enlightening chat in Bangalore takes you through the seismic shifts from conventional job markets to the dynamic internet-driven employment and gig economies, dissecting the challenges like skill mismatches and underscoring the critical role of continuous learning. Discover the ingenious ways AI is reshaping recruitment, with intelligent CV analysis leading to more precise candidate selection and the strategies to enhance communication, ensuring candidates no longer endure the disheartening 'ghosting' phenomenon. Prepare to be captivated by the discussion on the integration of multi-channel workflows in recruitment, as we analyze the power of WhatsApp and other communication tools in streamlining the hiring process. Learn how clear timelines and proactive engagement can elevate the recruitment experience, while also recognizing the cultural variances that influence communication preferences across different regions. Sharanu's seasoned perspective provides a deep dive into the recruitment industry's transformative communication strategies and the crucial role of technology in building more efficient and responsive hiring workflows. As we peer into the crystalline ball of the job market's future, we assess the impact of AI advancements like ChatGPT and its profound effects on customer relations and future skills. The episode wraps up with an exploration of the innovative shift towards microlearning platforms, essential for the upskilling required in tomorrow's job ecosystem. With Gen Z set to assume leadership roles, we spotlight the pivotal changes in learning methods and the ways Innovations Group is dedicated to fostering a global workforce community through their pioneering app and platform. Join us on this journey through the fascinating world of HR tech and gain valuable insights from an industry veteran that could reshape your approach to work and learning. More about Sharanu: Sharanu Shirol brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Innovations Group, propelling the organization into a new era of digital innovation. For a quarter-century, Innovations Group has been a stalwart in the HR & Staffing sector, offering a spectrum of services encompassing recruitment, temporary staffing, HR outsourcing, and payroll outsourcing. In his role as Chief Digital Officer, Shirol assumes a leadership position, integral to the digital evolution. His responsibilities extend beyond the conventional realms of strategy and execution; Shirol is entrusted with positioning the Innovations Group at the forefront of technological advancement, both nationally and globally. https://innovationuae.com 01:53 Exploring the Evolution of the Job Market 06:58 The Impact of Technology on HR and Recruitment 08:09 The Role of AI in Modern Recruitment 11:01 Innovations Group's Approach to HR Tech 21:15 Addressing Communication Challenges in Recruitment 30:37 The Future of Skills and AI's Impact 37:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts