The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

Navigating the stormy seas of tech fundraising, we were fortunate enough to be joined by the insightful Andrew Ryan, the mastermind behind NewChip Accelerator and Astralabs. Andrew, with his extensive experience in startups and AI, opened up about the tremors shaking the investment landscape. He painted a vivid picture of the ongoing downturn in investments and what it means for startups scrambling for capital. We tackled the evolving role of AI in shaping competition and investment outlooks, and the creative strategies founders employ, from bootstrapping to seeking support from angel investors. As Andrew and I sifted through the complex world of venture capital, we uncovered the stark contrasts between the approaches of VCs and angel investors. The conversation took a turn to reflect on the perils of VC investment, focusing on the pitfalls of unsustainable growth and the ballooning of valuations that often accompany it. Through the lens of Pitch.com's bold step away from VC reliance, we discussed the profound effect investment decisions have on a company's trajectory and the intricate dance between investors and founders post-funding. Our dialogue then shifted gears, bringing to light the often-overlooked personal battles faced by CEOs, particularly during global crises like the pandemic. Andrew didn't shy away from sharing his own struggles, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one's health and well-being amid the high-stakes game of leadership. He left us with a powerful reminder that self-care is not just a luxury—it's an essential component of sustained success. Join us for a candid and eye-opening journey into the heartbeat of tech innovation and investment. More about Ryan: https://andrewryan.io/about https://twitter.com/andrewryanatx 00:46 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:10 Andrew's Journey into AI and FinTech 03:56 The State of Fundraising in 2024 05:34 The Impact of Economic Conditions on Startups 06:10 Alternatives to Traditional Fundraising 06:26 The Changing Landscape of Venture Capital 11:48 The Challenges of Working with VCs 12:05 The Shift Towards Profitability and Revenue Generation 20:25 The Role and Impact of Accelerators 24:48 The Need for a Reset in the Tech Industry 29:08 The Rise of Unqualified Tech Analysts 30:17 The Impact of COVID-19 on Tech Industry 30:30 The Decline of Fake Tech Analysts 31:08 The Key Factors for Startup Success 31:41 The Role of Profitability in Startup Success 32:09 The Impact of Crypto on the Tech Industry 33:39 The Shift in Investor Expectations 35:18 The Challenges of Being a CEO in Tech 35:27 The Importance of Experience in Startup Success 35:51 The Impact of the Startup Bubble Burst 36:31 The Story of Silicon Valley Bank 47:58 The Importance of Self-Care for Founders 50:07 The Future of AI in Tech 54:33 The Role of Twitter in Networking

Unlock the secrets to effective leadership within the tech realm as I, Mehmet, join forces with the esteemed executive coach, Vladimir Baranov. Together, we shed light on the pivotal role that coaching plays in aiding tech industry leaders and founders to steer their own ship. As Vladimir eloquently distinguishes coaching from mentoring, consulting, and therapy, he shares how his approach empowers clients to uncover new possibilities through strategic questioning, rather than spoon-feeding them advice. The crux of our conversation reveals when leaders should seek coaching and how to measure its transformative impact on their journey to becoming more effective at the helm. Navigating the terrain of tech startups, we dissect the intricate ballet between maintaining technological innovation and a human-centric approach. As I converse with Vladimir, we underscore the frequently overestimated user engagement with tech solutions and address the friction that can arise between tech-savvy and non-technical co-founders. We provide strategies for preserving the delicate balance between innovation and human-centricity as companies burgeon, all while considering how industry influences sculpt the organizational culture. For tech leaders aiming to scale their enterprises without compromising their core values, these insights are invaluable. Lastly, we cast our gaze upon the future, exploring how technology shapes the coaching industry itself. By recognizing the diversity of each business context, I draw parallels from my company, Human Interfaces, to stress the uniqueness of communication and decision-making processes. We caution tech founders against cookie-cutter strategies, instead encouraging informed decision-making in new and unfamiliar landscapes. With a nod to technology trends influencing startups, our dialogue offers a compass for founders to navigate the ever-changing seas of the tech industry. More about Vladimir: If you feel that a change in your entrepreneurial path is overdue, it’s a signal to stop wasting your precious time and life. Vladimir specializes in converting your signals into aligned outcomes. ✅ Zero-to-MVP Start-up Journey ✅ Team Management ✅ Transitioning from full-time role ✅ C-Suite Relationship with CTOs ✅ Perfect vs Good Decision Making Vladimir offer for the audience : https://www.humaninterfaces.co/mehmet 00:45 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:47 Understanding Executive Coaching 03:17 Differentiating Coaching and Mentoring 04:15 The Role of a Coach in Leadership 05:58 When to Start Having a Coach 06:56 Measuring the Impact of Coaching 09:57 Challenges Tech Leaders Face in Accepting Coaching 18:51 The Interplay of Technology and Organizational Behavior 24:24 Maintaining Culture and Values in Scaling Organizations 41:11 The Future of Personal Development Technology 44:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

Have you ever wondered how technology organizations transform from good to great? Gene Kim, a luminary with 25 years in the trenches of tech innovation, joins us to share the transformative concepts of 'slowification' and simplification. His journey from the early days as CTO at Tripwire to the epicenter of the DevOps movement uncovers the symbiotic relationship between culture, technical practices, and architecture in leading organizations. Gene illuminates how these elements, coupled with a commitment to modular and independent problem-solving, can forge an enterprise that stands resilient in the face of disruption, much like Netflix's triumph over AWS outages with Chaos Monkey. Stepping into the realm of leadership, we navigate the nuanced role of socio-technical maestros, those who must orchestrate the organizational symphony to ensure smooth, independent operations. Gene's insights from the transformations of companies like Amazon through API rearchitecture, expose the essence of amplifying the faintest signals of issues, which pivots organizations towards proactive response and innovation. It's a compelling discussion on the intricacies of managing growing organizations, the value of modularization, and creating a culture that champions thorough planning and preparation. Wrapping up, the conversation ventures into the rapidly evolving intersection of AI development and traditional software practices. Gene contemplates the exhilaration of learning AI's capabilities and its impending impact on technology leadership, while maintaining the importance of human creativity amidst these advancements. The episode wraps with a narrative on the indispensable role of customer feedback and continuous integration, linking engineering processes directly to competitive advantage. Join us for this exploration of complex tech concepts, as we share these insights in a manner that promises to enlighten and engage, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your tech journey. More about Gene: Gene Kim has been studying high-performing technology organizations since 1999 and was the founder and CTO of Tripwire for 13 years. He is the author of six books, The Unicorn Project (2019), and co-author of the Shingo Publication Award-winning Accelerate (2018), The DevOps Handbook (2016), and The Phoenix Project (2013). Here is his recent book: Wiring the Winning Organization https://www.amazon.ca/Wiring-Winning-Organization-Simplification-Slowification/dp/1950508420 https://twitter.com/RealGeneKim https://www.linkedin.com/in/realgenekim 00:45 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:04 Understanding Gene Kim's Journey and Work 03:53 Exploring the Concept of Slowfication 04:35 Real-World Application of Slowfication 10:13 The Importance of Simplification 16:48 The Role of Amplification in Problem Solving 22:23 The Impact of Organizational Size on Implementation 22:54 Practical Steps to Start Implementing the Concepts 28:16 Discussing the Importance of Measuring New Processes 29:10 The Role of Leadership in Overcoming Objections 30:34 The Impact of Organizational Performance on Profitability and Employee Satisfaction 31:28 Addressing Objections and Misconceptions about Processes and Bureaucracy 32:56 Who Should Own the Initiative? The Role of Different Positions 35:44 The Future of AI and Automation in Business Processes 41:52 Reflecting on Past Decisions and Advice for Future Founders 49:41 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your tech team? Let's explore the game-changing perspectives shared by our guest, tech executive advisor Aviv Ben-Yosef. From unearthing the significant role a growth mindset plays in hiring practices to embarking on a mission to weave innovation into the fabric of daily operations, Aviv's insights are a treasure trove for anyone in the tech field. He champions the idea of 'intermissions,' a dedicated time for teams to break away from the routine and delve into creative pursuits, reshaping the way we perceive failure and success within our work culture. Join us as we traverse the landscape of leadership in technology with anecdotes and strategies that are as enlightening as they are actionable. Aviv illustrates the critical transition from just participating in technology to shaping its future through strategic decision-making and leadership. His views on scaling out rather than up offer a fresh perspective on R&D growth, which diverges from traditional venture capitalist tactics. The conversation is peppered with insights that connect engineering prowess with a deep understanding of business implications, a balance that is becoming increasingly essential in the fast-evolving tech industry. Finally, our journey with Aviv reaches a crescendo as we tackle the symbiotic relationship between engineering and product teams. Through a non-adversarial lens, this collaboration is dissected to reveal the importance of a cooperative mindset in handling the minutiae that can make or break a project. Aviv encourages tech leaders to anticipate and integrate innovations like AI into their strategic roadmap proactively. For those aspiring to climb the ranks to roles such as CTO, Aviv offers practical advice, emphasizing the necessity of initiative and a robust business acumen. Prepare to be inspired to embrace the changes of the tech world with confidence and to step into your next role with the wisdom gleaned from a seasoned veteran's journey. https://avivbenyosef.com

Prepare to have your understanding of technology's trajectory fundamentally challenged as UK tech sage Peter Swain joins us to dissect the relentless wave of AI sweeping across industries. With a legacy steeped in the evolution from coding whiz to mobile agency trailblazer, Peter imparts his profound insights on how AI, much like the revolutions of web and mobile before it, is set to redefine efficiency and profitability, particularly for product-centered enterprises. Meanwhile, service sectors may face a starkly different fate, with the potential for drastic employment transformations lying in wait. Our conversation ventures into the labyrinth of challenges AI injects into educational and business spheres, questioning the preparedness of our learning institutions and the adaptability of businesses in the face of this relentless technological tide. Peter provides indispensable strategies for companies eager to harness AI's power, underscoring the danger of enigmatic tools without a strategic underpinning. We peer into the crystal ball of AI's future, from its impact on the creative realms to the legal tangles of AI-generated content. This episode is an essential compass for navigating the seismic shifts AI is unfurling upon our societal fabric. More about Peter: Peter is an international speaker, best selling author and founder of ROAI: an AI consultancy and education company. Prior to his newfound career in helping people and companies decode AI, Peter was a digital marketeer with over 25 years at the forefront of technology disruption. With a tech career that started with developing yelp (before internet explorer was launched!) he has owned and managed agencies involved in over 1,400 projects with market leaders such as Jamie Oliver, Microsoft, Apple, Google and more. Peter's current focus is to use the knowledge and experience gained from being at the epicenter of 2 tech paradigm shifts to help individuals and institutions see what they have, what they need to succeed and how to bridge the two. https://www.roaimastermind.com/freetrial We run an AI mastermind and this link will give listeners a 2 week free trial.

How can the very walls around us become warriors in the fight against climate change? Beth McDaniel, president of Reactive Surfaces, joins me to discuss this question and more, revealing how they're revolutionizing paints and coatings by adding biological molecules. These aren't your average wall dressings; we're talking surfaces that combat viruses like COVID and even help remove CO2 from the atmosphere with the help of algae. Beth's passion is palpable as she delves into the inspiration behind these innovations and the pivotal role they play in our environmental battle. The journey to pioneer carbon removal technologies is fraught with challenges, something Beth knows all too well. Our discussion shifts to the nitty-gritty of developing such groundbreaking solutions – the scrupulous science, the intensive validation, and the elusive quest for investment. We dissect the nuances between mitigating carbon and outright removing it, underscoring just how crucial our work is in the global context. And with the XPRIZE competition in our sights, we ponder the monumental impact a win could have for the planet, and for businesses striving to be a part of the solution. As we wrap up, I'm left reflecting on the synergy that's needed to make strides in carbon sequestration. Beth and I explore the potential for collaboration in an industry where combining forces could be the key to unlocking greater potential, both technologically and financially. Her sage advice to budding entrepreneurs in environmental sustainability – resilience, financial savvy, and an unyielding commitment to your vision – resonates deeply. It's a heartfelt sign-off as I thank our listeners for joining us on this journey and tease the riveting topics we have on the horizon. Stay subscribed, and together, let's continue to tackle the environmental challenges that define our times. https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-mcdaniel-00a9895 https://reactivesurfaces.com

In this episode, we were thrilled to welcome back Shashank Tiwari, CEO of Uno.AI, for his second appearance on the podcast. Shashank provided valuable insights into the ever-changing world of AI and cybersecurity, reflecting on the challenges and developments of 2023 and what we can expect as we move into 2024. Unpack the seismic shifts in AI and cybersecurity, as we reflect on a year that redefined the digital frontier. Get up to speed on how Uno.AI has matured into a powerhouse enterprise product, ready to tackle the cyber threats of tomorrow. Our discussion takes a deep dive into the transformative journey from pandemic-driven innovation highs to a sobering focus on market fundamentals and core values. You'll come away with a renewed understanding of the pivotal moments in AI and cyber defense that have marked the past year and a look ahead at what's on the horizon for 2024. As cybersecurity vaults to the top of corporate agendas, we dissect the layers that comprise the modern approach to safeguards in the digital world. Take a closer look at the incidents, like the MGM breach, that have left an indelible mark, driving home the importance of timely reporting and comprehensive strategies for prevention, detection, and response. Shashank and I navigate the intricacies of staying ahead in this ever-evolving battle, examining the key challenges and pressures CISOs face in their quest to protect their organizations. Rounding out our talk, we explore the implications of AI's double-edged sword in cybersecurity, where the race to enhance security measures goes hand in hand with securing the AI systems themselves. From consumer apps to creative fields, we assess AI's transformative impact since the inception of ChatGPT and anticipate the opportunities and threats that will shape the tech landscape as we approach 2024. Join us for this forward-looking conversation that marries the potential of AI with the critical need for ironclad cyber defenses in a world where digital threats are constantly evolving.

Join me as I sit down with the ever-insightful Bill Raduchel, who makes a triumphant return to the show to reflect on the astonishing developments in generative AI over the past year 2023. We reminisce about technology's historic milestones and draw parallels with the current AI revolution, pondering whether society can keep pace with such rapid advancements. Bill shares his wisdom on the AI landscape, discussing potential legal skirmishes over training data, copyright intricacies, and the rocky road to AI regulation. Our dialogue ventures into the effects of AI 'hallucinations' and the trust we place in these burgeoning technologies. The conversation then shifts to the integral role third-party developers play in the technology ecosystem, harking back to Sun's success with its Solaris environment and paralleling it with OpenAI's strategic moves in the AI arena. We delve into OpenAI's organizational shifts and what they could mean for the future of AI development, and speculate on why tech behemoths like Apple and Google appear subdued in the AI uprising. Wrapping up this segment, we touch on the bold tactics employed by emerging AI entities, which may invite legal challenges that more conservative companies may shy away from. Lastly, listen in as we discuss the profound influence of technology on society, tracing the lineage from the groundbreaking Lotus 1-2-3 to the potential of AI applications that lie ahead. I share a captivating tale of how a narrative video transformed the perception of spreadsheets and consider the future, where storytelling remains crucial for founders engaging with investors, employees, and customers. We round off with a discussion on the intriguing possibilities for mergers and acquisitions in the AI space, questioning the true value in a domain so deeply intertwined with open-source contributions and the critical importance of human expertise. Check Bill's last book here: https://amplifypublishinggroup.com/product/nonfiction/industries/technology/the-bleeding-edge

Unlock the secrets of successful technology consultancy as we sit down with Anupam Singh, the insightful CEO of a Melbourne-based consulting firm, who brings to light the vital role of foundational business processes. Anupam takes us through his inspiring journey, sharing pearls of wisdom on the significance of establishing robust business frameworks before venturing into the technological sphere. His story, etched with the challenges and triumphs of an immigrant forging his own path in the corporate world, serves as a beacon for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike. His expertise underscores the mantra that the glitz of AI and big data should never eclipse the bedrock of sound business practices. Prepare to challenge the hype surrounding artificial intelligence in this transformative discussion that cuts through the noise and focuses on strategic application within the business landscape. Anupam Singh fervently advocates for a disciplined approach to AI, drawing parallels between nurturing intelligent systems and educating young minds. We dissect the folly of AI FOMO and emphasize the necessity of a thoughtful, adaptable strategy that keeps pace with technological and business evolution. This chapter is ripe with revelations to guide businesses in making informed, future-focused decisions that harness AI's true potential. Finally, we confront the dynamic nature of digital transformation and cybersecurity, dispelling the myth that these are mere one-off projects. With Anupam's sage advice, we explore the ongoing journey of adaptation, the importance of specialized roles for managing these processes, and the enduring question of whether certain technological trends have staying power or are merely flashes in the pan. Furthermore, we delve into the art of leadership and team dynamics, revealing Anupam's approach to fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment. This exploration into effective team building culminates in an open invitation for continued conversation on LinkedIn and his website, offering a reservoir of knowledge for the curious mind. Find more about Anupam here: https://www.acuteservices.com.au/contact-us https://www.acuteservices.com.au

When you think of cybersecurity, you probably envision firewalls and code - but how often do you consider the human element? This was the crux of our conversation with Christian Espinosa, cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur, as he walked us through his transition from military service to the helm of Blue Goat Cyber. His knack for embracing risk, seen in his love for adrenaline-pumping activities, parallels the bold moves he's made in the business arena. We unpacked the unique trials of marketing cybersecurity and the critical role of effective communication and empathy, particularly when steering companies through the often murky waters of cyber threats. Christian's discussion on the art of leading in tech resonated deeply, especially his emphasis on a seven-step secure methodology that promises transformation from the inside out for technical leaders. The methodology is more than a guide—it's about fostering growth and influencing change while navigating the complex business landscape. Sharing from his own experiences, Christian also brought to light the challenges and cultural shifts encountered when selling a company, the strategic planning needed to tackle cybersecurity's volatile nature, and the importance of crafting a niche to sharpen your business's focus. In a heart-to-heart, Christian opened up about the essence of his new book, "The In-Between Life in the Micro," exploring how life's fleeting moments can have a monumental impact on our journey toward success. He also provided sage advice for budding entrepreneurs, focusing on the importance of authenticity and clarity in one's mission and business approach. Far from a one-size-fits-all blueprint, Christian's narrative is an invitation to embrace vulnerability and purpose, and to understand the why behind every business pursuit. More About Christian: Christian Espinosa, a renowned thought leader, is most known as the bestselling author of "The Smartest Person in the Room," which explores the limitations of seeking validation through achievement and the desire to be the brightest intellect in any room. With a deep desire to inspire others to harness their innate wisdom, overcome perceived barriers, and summon the courage to tread new paths, Christian authored his latest book, "The In-Between: Life in the Micro." This book chronicles his remarkable transformation—from a "me against the world" mindset cultivated during his tumultuous upbringing to his evolution as a compassionate global citizen committed to uplifting humanity. A dynamic entrepreneur, Christian built and successfully sold Alpine Security, a cybersecurity business. He founded and currently leads Blue Goat Cyber. He also has an array of professional and personal development certifications. His expertise extends beyond the confines of the corporate world: he's a white hat hacker, a captivating keynote speaker, a perceptive real estate investor, and a connoisseur of heavy metal music and fiery cuisines. He’s also spent time in the Mexican jungle with Mayan Shamans, is a C-License skydiver, and is a PADI divemaster. Whatever Christian tries, he tends to master. Beyond his impactful professional pursuits, Christian's zest for life knows no bounds. An adventurer at heart, he fearlessly leaps from planes and balloons, conquers towering peaks, explores the globe, imparts wisdom in outdoor wilderness survival, and even takes on the rigorous challenges of Ironman triathlons. Having completed an impressive 24 Ironman triathlons and scaled two of the renowned Seven Summits, Christian Espinosa epitomizes the spirit of transformative leadership and unyielding exploration. https://christianespinosa.com https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T6QK6FN https://www.amazon.com/Between-Life-Micro-Christian-Espinosa-ebook/dp/B0CP8RYV55 https://programs.christianespinosa.com/the-secure-methodology