The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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

Unlock the secrets to thriving as a small or medium-sized business in today's tech-driven landscape, as astutetechnologist.com's CEO, Nick Lorizio, reveals how SMBs can punch above their weight. Battling against industry titans may seem daunting, but with Nick's visionary take on service models, inspired by the likes of DoorDash and Grubhub, these businesses can streamline their operations through standardization and robust cybersecurity measures. Delving into our enlightening discussion, you'll grasp the misconceptions many business owners hold about AI and digital transformation, and why embracing these advancements is not just beneficial, but essential. Artificial intelligence isn't just a buzzword; it's a game changer for how we conduct business. Nick shares his firsthand experiences with AI tools, illustrating how they've redefined everything from customer engagement to strategic planning. We navigate through the ethical minefield AI presents, considering its role in decision-making and the vital cultural shifts needed as we edge closer to an AI-centric world. If you've ever worried about maintaining your company's unique edge in a market where AI levels the playing field, this segment offers strategies to keep creativity and personal relationships at the heart of your competitive strategy. Step into the future with us as we explore the Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing, and how these technologies are revolutionizing industries from the ground up. With an eye on the evolution from Web 1.0 to the uncharted territories of Web 4.0, Nick underscores the urgency for businesses to adapt to rapid tech advancements. But it's not just about staying ahead of the curve; it's also about building a sustainable business model that fosters eco-friendly practices and robust defenses against global threats. As we wrap up, we delve into the importance of securing decentralized workforces and personal devices, ensuring the future of work remains safe, efficient, and cutting-edge. More about Nick: Nicholas Lorizio, the founder of AstuteTechnologists.com, is the visionary force behind the creation of the Astute Advisor platform. His journey in the tech world has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding and shaping the digital landscape. With Astute Advisor, Nick has successfully developed an AI tool that excels in offering expertise in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and software development, with a special emphasis on the integration of AI and IoT technologies. https://linktr.ee/nlorizio 00:46 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:59 The Importance of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses 04:23 The Role of AI and Technology in Business 06:45 The Impact of AI on the Workforce 11:26 The Future of AI and Emerging Technologies 13:58 The Intersection of AI, IoT, and Cybersecurity 27:41 The Role of Edge Computing in Business 31:16 The Future of Work and Business 36:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Child prodigy turned tech magnate, Denzil Eden, graces our airwaves, offering a treasure trove of insights from her remarkable transition to founding Smarty, an AI productivity startup set to revolutionize how we tackle our to-do lists. Our conversation takes us on a whirlwind tour through her academic exploits at MIT, her tenure at giants like Microsoft and Yammer, and even her eclectic endeavors in teaching and politics. Denzil's story is a vivid tapestry, illustrating not just the trajectory of a tech virtuoso, but how a multitude of experiences can foster the innovative mindset that drives the industry forward. Denzil pulls back the curtain on the inception of Smarty, where the frustration of inefficiency sparked the idea for a chatbot that doesn't just schedule, but actively takes the reins on tasks. He unravels the criticality of user feedback in the alchemy of converting a great idea into a user-beloved product, and casts her vision on AI's transformative potential in personalizing and preempting our productivity needs. As we navigate through the contrasts in agility and resource availability between startups and tech behemoths, Denzil's narrative is a masterclass for anyone looking to understand the nuances of innovation within the heart of the industry. For those charting a course through the startup cosmos or toying with the leap, Denzil's pearls of wisdom, distilled from the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, are truly invaluable. He shines a spotlight on the essentiality of passion, the art of storytelling in securing investments, and the virtues of resilience when facing the twin titans of fundraising and gender bias. Tune in for an episode that's as much a roadmap for tech entrepreneurs as it is an enlightening peek into the mindset of one of the industry's luminaries. Join us for a session that's guaranteed to fuel your tech enthusiasm and satiate your curiosity about the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of the tech world. More about Denzil: Denzil Eden built Smarty, an all-in-one AI productivity assistant that plans your best day, every day. A trailblazer as a solo female technical founder, Denzil carved her niche with an AI-focused degree from MIT, an MBA from Harvard, and a distinguished career at Microsoft. Denzil is devoted to making your life smarter with AI — enhancing routines, automating mundane tasks, and maximizing every minute. When she unplugs, Denzil plays the piano, authors fiction and op-eds, and sips teas. https://www.smarty.ai https://www.linkedin.com/in/denzils 00:45 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:10 Guest's Background and Journey into Tech 04:03 Exploring Different Career Paths 06:56 The Birth of Smarty: An AI Productivity Assistant 10:00 The Importance of Idea Validation in Startups 12:44 The Power of AI in Personalized, Predictive, and Proactive Productivity 15:56 Future Trends in SaaS and AI 16:38 The Role of Startups and Big Tech in the AI Space 22:14 The Potential of AI and Bots in Empowering New Startups 24:06 The Importance of Experimentation in Product Development 25:11 The Role of AI in Business and Productivity 26:12 The Integration of AI Tools in Big Tech Companies 27:56 The Journey of Becoming a Founder 28:26 The Importance of Persistence and Listening to Users 28:52 The Lean Startup Model and Its Importance 29:51 The Transition from Software Engineer to CEO 32:46 The Challenges and Successes of Raising Funds 33:40 The Importance of Networking and Persistence in Fundraising 34:34 The Role of Passion and Strategy in Pitching 42:28 The Importance of Patience and Perseverance in Tech Startups 45:01 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Founders

I once believed that the pinnacle of success was a solitary journey, until I met Charles Vogl. His stories of connecting individuals and transforming communities revealed a deeper truth about the power of human bonds. As our special guest, Charles, an esteemed author and expert on leadership, shares his transition from documentary filmmaking to a beacon for community building, he unpacks the critical need for non-transactional relationships in leadership and the often-overlooked societal issue of loneliness. His insights offer a lens through which to view our own interactions, as we consider how to foster authentic connections in our personal and professional lives. Amidst the hum of daily business, we might forget the importance of a simple invitation to connect. Charles provides practical advice on avoiding the pitfalls that prevent meaningful interactions and emphasizes the critical role invitations play in creating a sense of belonging. He introduces the campfire principle from his latest book—how intimate spaces for interaction are crucial for nurturing supportive relationships. Our conversation also covers the imperceptible yet profound influence of sharing personal stories, reinforcing the human element that can strengthen bonds in environments like healthcare and education. In our final segments, we rediscover the healing power of ancient practices and the importance of consistent, technology-free interactions for our communal and personal health. Charles illuminates the beauty of simplicity in connecting with others and the hidden potential of generosity that flourishes with just a spark of an invitation. As we wrap up, we're reminded of the lasting impact of sharing inspiring stories and extend an invitation to listeners worldwide to contribute their own experiences. Join us for this compelling dialogue that celebrates the timeless art of community and the impact of fostering genuine connections in an increasingly isolated world. About Charles: Charles Vogl is an adviser, speaker, and author of three books, including the international bestseller The Art of Community. He works with Google in several capacities, including as a trusted thought leader for the Google School for Leaders, which develops over 20,000 Google managers. His work is used to advise and develop leadership and programs worldwide within organizations including Airbnb, LinkedIn, Twitch, Amazon, ServiceNow, Meetup.com, Wayfair and the US Army. Charles holds an M.Div. from Yale, where he studied spiritual traditions, ethics, and business as a Jesse Ball duPont Foundation scholar. As a young man he served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Sub-Saharan Africa where he worked on justice for human rights abuse and providing rural health care for his host village. Later he created a documentary film company in NYC. His PBS projects won numerous international awards, including the Amnesty International Movies That Matter Award. The experiences taught him the importance of and how to bring people together around shared values and purpose. Website: charlesvogl.com Podcast: https://www.charlesvogl.com/wisdom-podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesvogl

Unlock the secrets of web design seamlessly with Kelsey Gilbert-Kreiling, who brings a tapestry of experiences from international relations to the world of fashion and finally to the art of creating dynamic websites. As the co-founder of Week of the Website and an author, Kelsey's path showcases the power of pivoting and the strategic embrace of Squarespace for its user-friendly yet sophisticated capabilities. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand how to make technology an empowering tool, breaking down the complex task of website creation into something anyone can handle with confidence and creativity. As we weave through the importance of design in digital storytelling, Kelsey highlights that design is more than just pretty pictures—it's a vital component in guiding user behavior and evoking the right emotions. She shares crucial insights on how to ask the right questions to ensure a website doesn't just dazzle but also drives the desired user action. This conversation is a treasure trove for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs who want to learn how to use design to craft compelling narratives that resonate with their audience and align with their evolving business goals. Wrapping up our engaging chat, Kelsey addresses the hot topic of AI's role in creative industries. Far from the doomsday predictions, she illustrates how AI is an asset, augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it. We also tackle the need for more women in technology, sharing both Kelsey's experiences and her successes in navigating a male-dominated field. Her parting wisdom and resources offer not only inspiration but also practical pathways for anyone looking to leave a digital imprint in a way that's uniquely human. More about Kelsey: Kelsey Gilbert Kreiling is a web designer, author, and entrepreneur passionate about transforming digital landscapes. With over 800 Squarespace websites under her belt through her agency, Week of the Website, she's a trailblazer in the tech industry. Kelsey's book, Squarespace from Signup to Launch, makes web design approachable at any stage of understanding. Her unique journey challenges conventional notions of balance as a mother, entrepreneur, and author. http://www.bykelseygk.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseygilbertkreiling 00:46 Introduction and Guest Presentation 02:05 Kelsey's Journey into Web Design 05:47 The Importance of Web Design and User Experience 11:16 The Role of Storytelling in Web Design 17:34 The Impact of AI on Web Design 32:32 Encouraging More Women in Tech 39:56 Where to Find More About Kelsey and Her Work 41:06 Conclusion and Farewell

The unmistakable beep and whir of an MSX computer booting up marked the start of Barry Luijbregts' lifelong dance with code, a passion he shares with us as we traverse the landscape of software development and podcasting. Our conversation glides from his early days of programming to his current endeavor, Podhome FM, a modern podcast hosting platform. Through Barry's eyes, we witness the transformation of technology from the bulky tapes and CRT screens of yesteryear to the sleek digital advancements of today — a journey that reveals the potent magic of Microsoft technologies and the rich history of software development. Barry's narrative doesn't just stay locked in the past; it's a forward march into the realms of teaching, cloud computing with Microsoft Azure, and the conscious decision to back personal interests over traditional industries. He opens up about the motivations behind choosing podcasting as his focus, underscoring the empowering nature of podcasts to spread knowledge and inspiration. As we examine the interplay between technology and content creation, Barry highlights a pivotal truth — it's often the essence of your project that resonates with audiences, not the pursuit of perfection. Wrapping up our journey, we extend a warm invitation to our listeners, both seasoned and newcomers, to become a more integral part of our community. Your input not only enriches our content but also fuels our creativity. So, whether you’re a tech aficionado, a podcasting pro, or simply intrigued by the synergy of technology and storytelling, Barry's insights and our discussions are sure to provide a wellspring of wisdom and encouragement for your own creative ventures. More about Barry: Barry Luijbregts began his career as a software developer, fueling his passion for bringing ideas to life through code. With nearly two decades in the software industry, he has evolved from crafting software to imparting knowledge, spending eight years as an educator in software development through in-person and online courses. Recognized as a thought leader, particularly in Microsoft technology and Microsoft Azure, Barry earned the title of Microsoft Azure MVP for five years and gained prominence as an international speaker. In early 2023, seeking new challenges, Barry contemplated various paths including the healthcare sector, but ultimately decided to leverage his expertise to empower creators. This led to the creation of Podhome, a sophisticated podcasting platform. Launched in November 2023, Podhome offers unique features such as Podhome AI for automated content generation, comprehensive podcasting 2.0 support, and enhanced user engagement tools. Barry's extensive experience and dedication were pivotal in the rapid development of Podhome. He finds joy in supporting his users, helping them enhance productivity and improve their content's quality. https://www.linkedin.com/in/barryluijbregts https://www.podhome.fm 00:46 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:34 Early Experiences and Passion for Software Development 03:11 First Projects and the Magic of Programming 06:49 Transition to Microsoft Technologies and Teaching 12:42 Understanding Business Needs and Technology Solutions 17:16 Choosing Podcasting and Building Podhome 18:53 The Value of Podcasting and Future Plans 26:45 The Importance of Podcast Workflow and Metadata 27:54 The Role of AI in Streamlining Podcast Production 29:22 The Benefits of a Unified Podcasting Platform 29:56 The Challenges and Rewards of Podcast Post-Production 30:57 Feedback and User Experience in Podcasting 33:25 The Future of Podcasting: Modern Features and Monetization 35:01 The Impact of Companies and Advertisements on Podcasting 37:26 The Shift Towards Value for Value Model in Podcasting 43:14 The Journey of a Tech Entrepreneur in Podcasting 43:26 The Role of Focus and Creativity in Podcasting