The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

Step into the world of cybersecurity with industry luminary Terry Ziemniak, as he shares a wealth of knowledge that transcends the typical hacker narrative and delves into the strategic dimension of cybersecurity in business. Terry's tale is not your average story of coding and firewalls; it's an odyssey from the front lines of white hat hacking to the boardrooms where the language of risk is spoken fluently. Our conversation navigates the transformation of the Chief Information Security Officer role and zeroes in on the fine art of aligning tech defenses with business objectives. Terry's insights are a beacon for understanding cyber threats not just as IT issues, but as critical business risks, teaching us how to articulate these dangers in the language of C-suite executives. As we unravel the complex tapestry of cybersecurity, we uncover the real-world impact of flouting regulations like HIPAA, SOC 2, and GDPR - it goes beyond government penalties to the heart of trust and business partnerships. Terry and I tackle the notion of resilience, stressing the need for companies to not only weather cyber storms but to sail smoothly through them. We probe the evolving landscape of phishing scams, where generative AI ushers in an era of sophisticated trickery, challenging even the most robust email filters. The discussion is rounded out with sage advice for the guardians of our digital world, from startups safeguarding their innovations to veterans steering the ship of enterprise security through the choppy waters of data risk management. About Terry: Terry has over 25 years of experience in the information security field, with work ranging from technical, compliance, and executive leadership. His most recent positions include 10 years as Information Security Officer for multi-billion dollar healthcare organizations across the United States, including working as VP of Cybersecurity at Atrium Health. Terry has achieved the CISSP and FACHE certifications and earned a Master's degree in Information Security from DePaul University. https://www.northwonders.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryziemniak 01:06 Guest's Journey into Cybersecurity 01:56 Transition into Healthcare Cybersecurity 03:05 The Role of Cybersecurity in Business 04:28 The Evolution of the CISO Role 05:09 Understanding Cybersecurity as a Business Risk 11:31 The Importance of Cybersecurity Compliance 13:45 The Challenges of Data Protection and Privacy 40:42 The Future of Cybersecurity and Career Advice 43:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

Embark on a voyage of entrepreneurial wisdom as Hakob Sharabkhanyan, a visionary leader who crafted his tech empire from Armenian roots to the dynamic MENA market, sits down with me, Mehmet. Uncover the secrets behind transforming a tech-savvy mind into a CEO's strategic outlook, and why the early investment in a CTO or product manager can catapult a startup to stardom. Let Hakob's tale of nurturing a fledgling idea into an industry titan, with a team 80-strong serving elite clients, inspire your own path to business triumph. His insight into not just supplying talent but embedding crucial processes and frameworks into growing enterprises is a masterclass in building a startup with staying power. Plus, we dissect the common traps of SaaS development through the lens of Hakob's own roller coaster of successes and stumbles. As AI revolutionizes our world, likened to the dawn of electricity, we explore its transformative role across the tech spectrum with our guest. Instead of a faceless threat, AI emerges as a partner, reshaping tasks from coding to quality assurance and unlocking potentials in product management through profound user data analysis. Get a glimpse of the future with AI-powered voice tools and the necessity of anti-AI measures to safeguard against a new wave of misinformation. This discussion isn't just about tech trends; it's a window into a future where AI and human creativity merge, crafting a professional realm redefined by this powerful synergy. Join us for a session that's at the forefront of technological evolution and the human touch that shapes its course. About Hakob: Hakob Sharabkhanyan is a young entrepreneur from Armenia. He started his first company, HackTech LLC at the age of 19 and grew it to a team of 80 people with $3M revenue as of now. He likes the gym, swimming, skiing, reading, and traveling. https://www.linkedin.com/in/hakobsharabkhanyan

Have you ever wondered how a leap of faith from agency life to the stock market can redefine success? Sean Tepper joins me, Mehmet, to share precisely that—a journey marked by resilience and a keen understanding of value investing, akin to the philosophies of Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. As we traverse Sean's path, we unlock the Excel system that catapulted him to consistent market outperformance, leading to the birth of a SaaS platform that's reshaping how investors interact with the stock market. The art of the subscription model is no small feat, and together, Sean and I unpack the intricacies behind free trials, optimal duration, and the contentious credit card info requirement. We delve into the customer mindset, especially when it comes to testing the waters without financial commitment. Furthermore, Sean's platform stands as a testament to the significance of high-quality service that naturally guides users from free trials to loyal subscribers. It's a dance between psychology and strategy, and we're here to teach you the steps. In our final act, we explore the vast landscape of stock investing, contrasted sharply with the high-stakes world of trading. Through the clear lens of Tykr's AI-infused analysis and the inspiring tale of a janitor who grew an $8 million fortune, we emphasize that investing, not trading, is the true path to wealth. Our discussion extends an invitation to beginners and seasoned investors alike to embrace the market with confidence and start the journey to financial freedom today. Join us for this enlightening conversation that could be the catalyst for your next financial milestone. More about Sean: Sean is the founder and CEO of Tykr, a stock screener and education platform all-in-one that helps you manage your own investments with confidence. https://tykr.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/seantepper 00:45 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:08 Sean Tepper's Journey and Early Career 02:31 Transition into Investing and Stock Market 03:18 Learning from Warren Buffet and Charlie Munger 04:03 Creation of the Excel Sheet and Initial Success 05:26 Turning the Excel Sheet into a Software 05:58 Challenges and Successes in Building the Software 06:48 Discussion on B2C and B2B Models 07:21 Building the Software and Managing Customer Perspective 10:49 Navigating Policies and Regulations in FinTech 15:39 Pricing Strategies and Churn Rates 20:31 Utilizing AI in Ticker 22:10 Introduction to the Four M's of Investing 22:20 Understanding the Margin of Safety 22:54 The Importance of Business Model 23:08 The Role of Moat and Management in Investing 23:29 How Ticker Simplifies Stock Analysis 24:22 The Global Reach of Ticker 24:59 The Challenges and Successes of Global Expansion 26:07 The Decision to Focus on Education over Brokerage 27:34 The Power of Value Investing 28:19 The Difference between Stock Investing and Stock Trading 33:59 The Power of Passive Income through Covered Calls 38:26 The Future of Ticker: New Features and Expansion 41:29 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Investors

Unlock the secrets of entrepreneurial finesse with Jodi Hume, as she guides us through the labyrinth of leadership and decision-making strategies that have defined her journey from engineering to psychology, and ultimately, to business betterment. Our in-depth conversation with Jodi is an expedition across the terrain of business growth, where we uncover the strategic use of one's innate superpowers and the art of delegation. As we traverse this path, Jodi spotlights the parallels between IT troubleshooting and business challenges, emphasizing the importance of isolating variables to craft effective solutions. Embarking on an entrepreneurial venture is no stroll in the park, and this episode lays bare the often unspoken trials of such an undertaking. Jodi and I delve into the transformative phase of ‘business puberty,’ a time rife with growth pains yet critical for maturation. We dissect the essence of emotional and energetic stewardship to ward off cognitive depletion, framing self-care not just as a luxury, but as a strategic imperative for peak performance. Jodi's acumen shines as she decodes the symptoms of burnout and prescribes the necessary reflection and recalibration, underscoring the power of aligning work with passion to sustain momentum. As we round off this episode, Jodi imparts her wisdom on the nuanced dance of decision-making in businesses, balancing conviction with humility and adaptability. Leadership emerges as a central theme, with Jodi advocating for transparency and collective problem-solving, over the myth of the all-knowing founder. The cruciality of a robust support network, or 'village', is illuminated, as we discuss the right timing for seeking guidance and the benefits of an on-call coaching model. Through Jodi's eyes, we see the entrepreneurial odyssey as one of continuous learning and adaptation, where endurance and resilience are paramount for navigating the ever-evolving challenges that lie ahead. More about Jodi: After a 15-year career as COO of a growing architecture firm, Jodi Hume shifted gears and made a name for herself over the last decade providing on-call decision support and facilitated leadership conversations for startup founders and entrepreneurs throughout North America, Europe and Australia. While Jodi works 1:1 with a small number of clients, she also convenes roundtable conversations for entrepreneurs & founders https://atthecore.com 00:45 Introduction and Guest Background 02:25 Jody's Journey from Architecture to Leadership Facilitation 04:54 The Importance of Energy and Passion in Entrepreneurship 08:13 The Challenges of First-Time Founders 12:20 The Role of Emotional and Energetic Regulation in Business 14:48 Overcoming Indecision and Burnout 24:40 The Importance of Clarity, Confidence, and Courage in Decision Making 31:27 The Art of Business and Decision Making 31:57 The Importance of Sticking to Your Vision 32:50 The Dangers of Ignoring Evidence and Data 33:56 The Art of Course Correction in Entrepreneurship 34:36 The Challenges of Delegation and Micromanagement 36:13 The Importance of Being Open to New Data 37:12 The Role of Leadership in Startups 39:00 The Importance of Involving Your Team in Decision Making 44:35 The Challenges of Building a Strong Team 51:33 The Importance of Continuous Learning in Entrepreneurship

Join the ranks of savvy startup founders as Silicon Valley's own Bao Tran, a patent attorney with a trove of knowledge from engineering to IPOs, graces our podcast with his wisdom on the strategic mastery of intellectual property. Bao's narrative, seasoned with anecdotes from tech behemoths and emerging innovators like Invisalign, is a treasure map for entrepreneurs looking to shield their creative genius and amplify their company's valuation. Through his expert lens, we uncover the pivotal moments for startups to lay claim to their inventions, and why doing so can be the linchpin in captivating investor interest—even before you unveil your pitch. In a digital era where AI is reshaping every industry corner, our discussion with Bao takes an intriguing turn towards the future of patent law. Entrepreneurs take heed as we probe into the ways artificial intelligence is slashing costs and streamlining processes, from conceptualizing patents to fending off legal challenges. Bao's strategic insights also navigate the global landscape of IP, offering a compass for where and why startups should plant their patent flags. This episode is a masterclass for founders aiming to fortify their ventures and for visionaries eager to understand the nuances of IP that could make or break their success story in the ever-evolving market. More about Bao: With over 16 years of experience as a patent attorney and over 2.5 years as the founder and CEO of PowerPatent, Inc., he is passionate about developing and applying cutting-edge technologies to improve the patent process. PowerPatent is a company that provides tools that help patent lawyers, agents, and inventors in their quest to obtain great IP protection for inventions. Our automation techniques enable IP practitioners to regain valuable time to enjoy life and contribute to society. https://www.linkedin.com/in/bao-tran-470939209 00:45 Introduction and Guest Background 02:38 The Importance of Patents for Startups 07:27 How to Identify and Protect Your Intellectual Property 11:56 The Role of Patents in Business Strategy and Market Valuation 27:56 The Impact of Emerging Technologies on Patent Filing and Management 35:12 The Global Perspective on Patents and Intellectual Property 40:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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