The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

In this episode of "The CTO Show with Mehmet," we are joined by Jamal Ahmed, a renowned expert in the field of data privacy. Together, we explore the multifaceted challenges of data privacy, the power of storytelling in branding, and the transformative influence of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) on personal development. Jamal shares his experiences as the global privacy and AI expert at Kazient Privacy Experts, the founder of Privacy Pros Academy, and the host of the top-rated Privacy Pros Podcast. He discusses his commitment to enhancing data privacy globally and creating a community of elite privacy professionals. Additionally, we delve into the nuances of privacy compliance for multinational companies and the cultural dimensions essential for effective privacy strategies, particularly in vibrant regions like the UAE. Jamal also emphasizes the critical role of AI in shaping the future of privacy and advocates for responsible innovation backed by robust governmental regulations. More about Jamal: Jamal Ahmed, the "King of Data Protection" as dubbed by the BBC, isn't just the reigning global expert on data privacy - he's a passionate advocate for privacy rights. His commitment to ensuring that organisations treat personal data with the utmost respect and earn the trust of their customers sets him apart as a leader in the field of data privacy and protection. Jamal’s signature "Easy Peasy" style of delivery has made him one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the industry. Jamal and his multi award winning consultancy Kazient Privacy Experts, based in the City of London, is at the forefront of the data privacy industry. He’s earned recognition for excellence including Best Data Protection & GDPR Consultants, Excellence in Enterprise, and Best Data Privacy Training Provider. His podcast, "The Privacy Pros Podcast," is ranked in the top 2.5% globally by ListenNotes and his first book “The Easy Peasy Guide to GDPR” was an instant International Bestseller in 3 countries. Connect with Jamal https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed https://privacypros.captivate.fm https://www.youtube.com/@PrivacyPros https://www.bestgdprbook.com/ 01:18 Jamal Ahmed: A Visionary in Data Privacy 04:31 The Challenges of Data Privacy Compliance 05:56 Staying Ahead in Data Privacy Regulations 09:09 Cultural Challenges and Opportunities in Data Privacy 19:49 AI and Data Privacy: Navigating the Future 32:12 The Power of Storytelling in Personal Branding 36:48 Reframing with NLP: Changing Your Mindset 43:39 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Join us on this enlightening episode of "The CTO Show with Mehmet" as we delve into the transformative world of AI-driven supply chain management with the cofounders of TrueGradient, CEO Ankur Verma and CRO Jasneet Kohli. Discover how True Gradient's self-serve AI platform is revolutionizing demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and price optimization in the CPG and retail sectors. Learn about the challenges and solutions in implementing AI technologies directly from the visionaries behind one of the industry's leading innovations. What You Will Learn: Find More about TrueGradient here: https://truegradient.ai 01:17 Introducing True Gradient: Revolutionizing Supply Chain with AI 02:27 Exploring Self-Serve AI in Supply Chain Planning 04:24 Business Impact: Solving Real-World Problems with AI 09:01 Technical Innovations Behind True Gradient AI 14:26 Quantifying the Benefits: True Gradient AI in Numbers 17:52 Enhancing Decision Making in Supply Chain with AI Technology 24:23 Overcoming Implementation Challenges of AI in Business 31:36 Strategies for Successful AI Adoption and Implementation 38:50 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

Welcome to another episode of "The CTO Show with Mehmet," where we delve into the journeys of successful tech entrepreneurs and leaders. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ryan Matonis, the founder of a leading SaaS startup in the lead generation space. Join us as Ryan shares his transition from a technical expert to a successful entrepreneur. Episode Highlights: About Ryan Matonis: Ryan Matonis is a seasoned computer scientist and data scientist who pivoted to entrepreneurship to escape the confines of traditional employment. His journey through founding and scaling a successful lead generation SaaS company offers valuable insights into the world of tech startups. https://leadforce360.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-matonis 01:08 Ryan's Journey from Tech Expert to Entrepreneur 02:31 The Wake-Up Call: Realizing Corporate Limitations 05:59 The Birth of Lead Engines: A SaaS Success Story 15:53 Marketing Strategies for B2B SaaS Success 21:00 The Future of Lead Generation in the AI Era 30:49 Transitioning from Founder to Part of a Larger Team 33:08 Final Wisdom for B2B SaaS Founders 37:10 Closing Thoughts and Goodbye

Join us on this enlightening episode of "The CTO Show with Mehmet," where we sit down with Jon Gillham, founder of Originality.Ai. From his days as a mechanical engineer to becoming a trailblazer in the digital content arena, Jon shares his unique journey and how AI is reshaping the landscape of content marketing. What You'll Learn: As we wrap up the discussion with Jon, he emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the digital age, urging content creators to embrace AI as a tool for growth while staying vigilant about the authenticity of their creations. More about Jon: An early generative AI content adopter for SEO purposes at scale, Jon understood the wave that was coming which ChatGPT and GPT-4 have fully unleashed. Jon's work has garnered attention from renowned publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Axios. His expertise in AI content detection is shaping the narrative of the digital era. https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/sep/01/mushroom-pickers-urged-to-avoid-foraging-books-on-amazon-that-appear-to-be-written-by-ai https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-gillham-80912a14a/ Episode Highlights:

In this episode of "The CTO Show with Mehmet," Sue Mysko, founder of Hire A Fractional and a seasoned fractional CMO, dives deep into the evolving world of fractional executives. Discover how part-time C-suite roles are reshaping business landscapes and enabling companies to adapt, innovate, and grow in today’s dynamic market. What You'll Learn: More about Sue: Sue is the visionary behind Hire A Fractional, a dynamic bootstrapped startup revolutionizing how fractional executives connect with scaling companies. With over 25 years of marketing expertise and strategic partnerships with industry giants like Deloitte and Accenture, Sue brings unparalleled innovation to the table. Her knack for uncovering hidden opportunities and driving transformative marketing initiatives sets her apart as a trailblazer in the field. https://www.linkedin.com/in/b2bfractionalcmo https://hireafractional.com/ Episode Highlights: Don’t forget to subscribe, share with your peers, and leave a review if you enjoyed the insights shared in today’s episode. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable perspectives to the tech and startup community.

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into the fascinating intersection of technology and culinary arts with Fisayo Olawadiya, the visionary founder of OKAO Inc. Discover how her passion for food writing and AI led to the creation of Resactly, a game-changing AI and ML platform that personalizes dining experiences like never before. Join us as Fisayo shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of tech innovation in the food industry, and a peek into the future of food tech. What You'll Learn: - How AI and ML are transforming restaurant recommendations and menu planning. - The personal journey from tech enthusiast to food tech innovator. - The challenges and triumphs of introducing technology into traditional industries. - Insights into the future of personalized dining experiences. Featured Guest: Fisayo Olawadiya, Founder of OKAO Inc. A leader at the forefront of the food-meets-tech space, she’s the founder of Resactly, the only AI tool that matches foodies and travelers to personalized dining experiences. Fisayo is an accomplished Principal Engineer who’s led teams at Nordstrom and MLB as well as a long-time food blogger, the intersection of Fisayo’s skill and passion was the recipe for the future of food discovery. Resactly pairs users with personalized dining experiences based on their favorite cuisines, dietary restrictions, favorite social media pages, and more. Groups can even link profiles to find recommendations everyone will enjoy. Connect with Fisayo https://www.resactly.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/olufisayooluwadiya Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] - Fisayo introduces herself and her company, OKAO Inc. [00:05:00] - The inception story of Resactly and its mission. [00:10:00] - Deep dive into the technology behind personalized dining recommendations. [00:15:00] - The challenges of validating a new tech product in the food industry. [00:20:00] - Fisayo's vision for the future of food tech and expansion plans. [00:25:00] - Discussion on leveraging blockchain for transparency in the food supply chain. [00:30:00] - The importance of resilience and passion in entrepreneurship. [00:35:00] - Advice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities.

In this episode of the CTO show with host Mehmet, Dean Croshere shares his unique professional journey, underscoring the importance of assertiveness and emotional awareness in leadership and business. From starting his career through a Facebook ad to running a factory in Thailand and eventually pivoting his career towards business and leadership consultancy, Dean's story highlights the significance of asking effective questions, both of oneself and others, to achieve success. The discussion delves into the five core fears that can hinder startups and how entrepreneurs can navigate these challenges, emphasizing product simplicity, testing, and the willingness to ask for help. Dean and Mehmet further explore the concept of leading from desire, the impact of attachment theory in business, and maintaining flexibility in a company's value systems. Dean concludes with advice for entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of understanding one's desires and ambitions. The episode also touches on Dean's current venture in carbon credit validation and his interest in discussing the interplay between emotions, assertiveness, and business theories. More about Dean: Dean Croshere is an established leader having worked predominantly in the start-up and entrepreneurial space with a career that spans various industries. Dean is now the COO for Geocene, a company which recently made a massive pivot to addressing not only the world’s biggest health crisis but also climate change. They want a world where everyone has access to clean and affordable cookstoves. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-croshere http://www.geocene.com 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show with Special Guest Dean 01:10 Dean's Unique Journey from Business to Assertiveness 04:30 Navigating the Challenges of Startups and Entrepreneurship 05:35 The Five Core Fears in Business and Overcoming Them 14:59 Assertiveness, Communication, and Leading with Desire 24:42 Attachment Theory in Business Relationships 29:00 Maintaining Culture and Values in Startups 32:40 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs 33:59 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with Dean

This episode of the CTO Show With Mehmet features a fascinating discussion with Kirk Penn, CEO and Principal Advisor at Service Management Specialists, from Sydney, Australia. Kirk chronicles his journey and expertise in IT Service Management (ITSM) and IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) practices, detailing how his company helps organizations streamline their IT processes. He shares insights into the challenges and successes of ITSM implementation, highlighting a case study with a commercial real estate company. Furthermore, Kirk explores the significance of operational excellence, the impact of digital transformation on ITSM, and the future role of AI in service management. He also outlines a three-layered innovation platform designed to aid businesses in enhancing their technological capabilities. The episode concludes with advice for IT executives on staying abreast of emerging trends and the importance of aligning IT services with business objectives. More about Kirk: Kirk Penn is a recognized expert in technology and digital transformations, regularly sought after by senior IT leaders across various regions. He has been shortlisted for notable recognitions like "Top 50 Most Admired Tech Companies in APAC 2019" and "Top 10 ITSM Consulting/Service Companies 2020" by APAC CIOoutlook. Despite these accolades, he values most his role in simplifying client complexities. As an ITIL v3 certified expert and the Founder, CEO, and Principal Advisory Consultant at Service Management Specialists, Kirk helps organizations adopt modern service management practices to accelerate their digital initiatives. https://www.servicemanagementspecialists.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkpenn 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: Introducing Kirk Penn 01:12 Kirk Penn's Journey in ITSM and Founding Service Management Specialists 03:49 Transforming IT Service Management: A Real-World Success Story 07:06 The Challenges and Solutions in Digital Transformation 09:33 Building a Digital Business: The Three Layers of Capability 16:05 The Importance of Operational Excellence in IT 20:30 Modern Service Management: Adapting to Digital Transformation 23:12 The Future of Service Management in the Age of AI 31:21 Advice for Technology Executives: Staying Ahead in a Fast-Paced World 33:08 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Kirk

In this episode of the CTO Show, host Mehmet is joined by Michael Becker, a marketing technology expert and entrepreneur based in Dubai as part of the Antler Cohort. Michael shares insights from his decade-long career in content and marketing, his journey into launching a startup in Dubai's Antler Accelerator program, and the upcoming release of his book 'Content Capitalist'. The conversation covers the transition from traditional to content-centric marketing models, the importance of video and immersive technologies in modern marketing, and leveraging AI tools for efficiency while maintaining human touch. Michael also introduces his startup, NeoCore, which aims to revolutionize content personalization through non-invasive brain-computer interfaces, capturing the attention of an evolving tech-minded audience. Additionally, the duo discusses strategies for startup founders, especially those in the tech field, emphasizing the blend of technology with human elements for impactful marketing and the significant potential of content in shaping the future of businesses. More about Michael: Michael is the author of CONTENT CAPITALIST and co-founder at neocore. In his 10-year career, Michael has worked with billion-dollar brands including Teradata Corporation, Publicis and SAP, helping lead to four corporate acquisitions including Emarsys’ $500M sale in 2019 where he was instrumental in building the commercial organization. Michael is a contributing author on Content Marketing Institute, CustomerThink, and others. He’s the creator of New Earth Knowledge™ which he grew to 60k followers before selling in 2023. As fractional CMO, Michael has consulted over 50 solopreneurs, software companies and agencies. He shares insights about the creator economy on Instagram, @officialmbecker. He holds a BA in Journalism from Butler University and is currently entrepreneur-in-residence at Antler Dubai. https://michaelbecker.org https://linkedin.com/in/mjbecker 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: A Special Guest from Dubai 01:07 Introducing Michael Becker: A Journey from Marketing to Startup Founder 02:32 Diving Deep into 'Content Capitalist': Revolutionizing Marketing Strategies 02:50 The Evolution of Marketing: From Traditional Techniques to Content Centric Models 05:02 Embracing New Marketing Paradigms: Decentralization and Attraction 08:17 The Role of Outreach in Modern Marketing and Sales Strategies 20:32 Leveraging AI in Marketing: Enhancing Human Connection 28:07 Neuro-Emotional Techniques: The Future of Engaging Content 34:34 Introducing NeoCore: A Startup Revolutionizing Content Consumption 38:46 Final Thoughts: The Convergence of Technology and Content 44:09 Closing Remarks and How to Connect

In this episode of the CTO Show, host Mehmet interviews Roman Axelrod, Managing Partner and co-founder of XPANCEO. Roman shares his journey of building and selling technology companies and discusses his latest venture into developing a next-generation computing solution. With a vision to overcome the limitations of current gadgets, Roman and his team at XPANCEO are creating a soft contact lens capable of providing an extended reality (XR) experience, including image rendering, biological parameter measurement, and night vision. The project, backed by top optics labs and research awards, aims for human trials by 2026 with hopes of commercial availability by 2027-2029. The episode delves into the technology behind these revolutionary contact lenses, the challenges of creating atomic-thin materials for electronics, and the potential applications ranging from security to health monitoring. Roman also discusses why Dubai was chosen as XPANCEO's headquarters and shares insights on funding and the importance of purpose in deep tech entrepreneurship. About Roman Axelrod and XPANCEO: - XPANCEO is one of the most well-funded early-stage companies in the Middle East in 2023 - In the Top 5 optics laboratories in the world (by BCG) and Top 10 Research Institutions by Nature Index - 3 exits in the past, $40M raised to back XPANCEO 4th prototype development - Its co-founder is Dr. Valentyn Volkov, an h-index 38; 8000+ citations; partnerships with Nobel laureates - The first to use 2D materials such as graphene to place electronic schemes the size of an atom on lenses as thin as medical ones, aka ultrathin XR glasses. https://www.xpanceo.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/romanaxelrod 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: Introducing Roman Axelrod 01:08 Roman's Vision: The Future of Computing and XPANCEO's Mission 04:45 The Revolutionary Contact Lens: Merging Technology with Vision 06:03 Exploring the Prototype: A Glimpse into the Future 07:19 Addressing Concerns and the Potential of Contact Lens Technology 24:58 The Power of AI and the Future of Interface Technology 30:22 Choosing Dubai: A Strategic Move for XPANCEO 34:59 Funding and the Ecosystem in Dubai for Deep Tech Startups 43:31 The Deep Tech Journey: Challenges, Purpose, and Impact 50:18 Staying Updated: How to Follow XPANCEO's Progress 51:11 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of the CTO show, host Mehmet is joined by Habiba, CTO and co-founder of Metric, who shares her rich background in AI and machine learning, transitioning from academia to the tech industry, and her current role at Metric.app. Habiba discusses her commitment to leveraging AI for providing personalized financial management solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. With a vast experience spanning research in dynamic networks, postdoctoral work in historical trade routes, and roles in various countries and sectors including retail and government, Habiba emphasizes the importance of customer feedback in shaping Metric. The conversation touches on the challenges of scaling in different geographic regions, potential of generative AI in FinTech, and Habiba's advice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs and professionals in the AI sphere. More About Habiba: Habiba is an applied machine learning and deep learning engineer with extensive experience across various sectors. Currently, she serves as a Data Scientist at the Department of Education in NSW, focusing on applying Large Language Models in the education space. Previously, she was an AI Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, enhancing customer adoption of machine learning through Azure services. She is also the CTO of Metric, a fintech startup designed to simplify financial management for SMEs and startups through technology-enabled accounting and insights into financial health. https://www.linkedin.com/in/habibah Special Promo Code For Our Audience: Get 50% off on any Metric plan for 3 months Promo code: CTO50 https://metricapp.ai 02:03 Habiba's Journey: From Academia to CTO of Metric 05:40 The Evolution of Metric: Empowering SMEs with AI 10:37 Customer Insights: Shaping Metric's Development 16:51 The Future of FinTech and AI: A Deep Dive with Habiba 21:05 Advice for Aspiring Data Scientists and Tech Entrepreneurs 30:42 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More About Metric

In this episode of 'The CTO Show with Mehmet', Abdul Rahman Janoo, co-founder of Tericsoft, shares his journey from product manager to tech entrepreneur, offering insights into the challenges and victories of startup life. Abdul Rahman recounts his multiple startup experiences, emphasizing the transition from failing ventures to successful ones, particularly highlighting his work in waste management and the pivot towards AI and tech services. He discusses the importance of strategic partnerships, sustainability, and the role of AI in reshaping industries like healthcare and finance. Additionally, Abdul Rahman provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on embracing failure, focusing on the process, and the significance of passion, purpose, and perseverance in the entrepreneurial journey. The conversation also delves into the future of AI and its applications, underscoring Abdul Rahman's optimism and caution about its rapid advancement and impact on society. More about Abdul Rahman: As a former Product Manager at Waste Ventures India, he steered the technology and product development teams to monumental successes. His leadership was instrumental in deploying their innovative tech product to over 20,000 households, alongside forging strategic partnerships with industry giants like Google, Infosys, Uber, CA Technologies, Coca-Cola, HUL, and Dr. Reddy's. Transitioning to entrepreneurship, he co-founded Studio Torque, a design and product development startup based in Hyderabad, India. His journey there was filled with challenges and triumphs, contributing significantly to its growth and prominence in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdulrahmanjanoo https://www.tericsoft.com 01:10 The Genesis of Tericsoft: A CTO Service for Entrepreneurs 02:01 From Product Management to Entrepreneurship: Abdul Rahman's Journey 07:06 The Importance of Strategic Partnerships for Startups 10:07 Building Impactful Solutions: The Tericsoft Approach 18:24 Navigating the Startup Landscape: Insights and Strategies 23:25 The Future of AI: Services, Impact, and Industry Predictions 32:45 Staying Ahead: Learning and Growth Strategies 34:48 Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of the CTO Show, host Mehmet is joined by Steve Tafaro, who shares his extensive experience in the business world, emphasizing the evolution of selling strategies from hardware and software to Software as a Service (SaaS). With a background in teaching, IBM, Oracle, and founding Associates in 1990, Steve discusses the shift towards value-based selling and the importance of customer-centric cultures in SaaS companies. He highlights the critical role of marketing in generating leads and nurturing customer relationships for sustainable growth. The discussion covers practical strategies for SaaS businesses, including sales processes, customer success teams, and the utilization of AI for competitive advantage. Steve also previews his upcoming book, 'Winning at SaaS', a playbook for CEOs and CROs, aimed at guiding early-stage SaaS companies towards success. About Steve: Steve has amassed over forty-five years of executive management, sales, marketing, and leadership experience in technology and service-related businesses. His career includes executive positions at IBM Corporation, Oracle Corporation, Software Plus, and Cybershift, Inc. In 1990, he founded Tafaro & Associates, which provided business advisory and interim executive management services to small and emerging companies as well as divisions of larger organizations in need of sales growth and/or restructuring to meet revenue and profit objectives, or to prepare the business for sale. During his extensive career, he also served as VP of Bell Atlantic's Systems Integration business, president of Bell Atlantic Software Systems, president of IVAX Industry's Institutional Products Group, president of Fuller Brush Corporation's Institutional Products Group, VP of Sales and Marketing at Xspand, Inc., and SVP of Sales & Marketing at Financial Technologies (Investran) Inc. From 2013 to 2021, he chaired a CEO Peer Advisory Board, in conjunction with Vistage International, focusing on leadership development and organizational performance. https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephentafaro 01:16 Steve Tafaro's Journey: From Teaching to Tech Titan 04:44 The Evolution of Business Growth Strategies 11:32 SaaS vs Traditional Software: A Deep Dive 18:38 The Art of Value Selling in the SaaS World 24:21 Leveraging Marketing and Sales for SaaS Success 25:10 Building a Healthy Power Plant for Startups 25:37 The Integral Role of Marketing in Business Success 26:36 The Pre-Sales Organization:Bridging Sales and Marketing 28:08 Emotional Engagement: The Key to Winning Customers 30:13 The Complexities of Sales Processes in SaaS Companies 35:19 The Importance of Customer Success in SaaS Businesses 42:15 Leveraging AI for Competitive Advantage in SaaS 44:06 Announcing a New Resource: Winning at SaaS 47:49 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgements

In this episode of the CTO Show, Mehmet hosts Dan Balcauski, the founder of Product Tranquility, a consulting firm that assists B2B SaaS CEOs with pricing and packaging strategies. Dan discusses common misconceptions about pricing, emphasizing the importance of focusing more on whom and how you charge rather than on the price itself. He introduces a pricing model comprising four components: Segments, Value, Competition, and Strategy (SVCS), explaining how each plays a crucial role in determining successful pricing strategies. With examples like Apple's approach to maintaining high profits despite a smaller market share, Dan illustrates the necessity of aligning pricing strategy with overall business strategy. He emphasizes the importance of customer value and advises on regularly revisiting pricing to ensure it aligns with company goals and market changes. Dan also highlights the significance of understanding costs, competition, and customer value, suggesting a balanced approach to pricing that includes all these elements. The episode concludes with Dan encouraging businesses to treat pricing as an ongoing process and welcoming further discussions on this critical yet often overlooked topic. More about Dan: Dan Balcauski is the founder and Chief Pricing Officer at Product Tranquility, based in Austin, TX. He focuses on helping high-volume B2B SaaS CEOs define pricing and packaging for new products. Over his career, he has worked in both B2C and B2B companies ranging from startups to publicly traded enterprises. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/balcauski Website: https://www.producttranquility.com 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: Introducing Dan 01:10 Dan Balkowski: The Man Behind Product Tranquility 01:37 Diving Deep into the World of SaaS Pricing 04:41 Unveiling the SVC&S Model for SaaS Pricing 11:24 The Three C's of Pricing: A Comprehensive Guide 22:37 Navigating the Complexities of Pricing Strategies 32:50 The Importance of Regular Pricing Reviews and Adjustments 41:17 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Insights

In this episode, Mehmet interviews entrepreneur Colin Hirdman, who shares his journey from a fresh college graduate to a seasoned entrepreneur. Colin discusses the initial challenge of diving into entrepreneurship without a formal business education, emphasizing the creative and rewarding aspects of building businesses from scratch. He also touches upon the importance of embracing risks and failures as part of the entrepreneurial path. The conversation then shifts towards the role of education in fostering entrepreneurial skills, with Colin advocating for more practical, entrepreneurship-focused content in educational systems. He shares his experiences of contributing to this cause through guest lectures and emphasizes the responsibility of current entrepreneurs to guide the next generation. Additionally, Colin elaborates on the rise of non-technical entrepreneurs enabled by no-code/low-code tools and AI, highlighting his ventures and the lessons learned from them, such as the significance of validation and iteration in product development. The episode also covers the concept of shared success agreements as an alternative funding model, aimed at fostering win-win scenarios between developers and entrepreneurs. Colin concludes with advice for entrepreneurs at various stages, advocating for partnerships, passion-driven ventures, leveraging personal strengths, and the potential of building SaaS products for scalability. About Colin: Colin Hirdman started his first company a week after graduating from college, and has been an entrepreneur ever since. He's building businesses through Monkey Island Ventures a company he co-founded with two of his best friends. Monkey Island Ventures is named after a park they played at when they were kids (since they were 5 years old). Over the years the trio has built over a dozen software and service businesses and want to help create as many successful entrepreneurs as they can by sharing what they know. https://www.monkeyislandventures.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinhirdman https://www.cloudburststudio.com 00:00 Welcome to the CTO Show: Meet Colin 01:19 Colin's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 02:10 The Lure of Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Rewards 05:33 Education and Entrepreneurship: Bridging the Gap 08:52 The Rise of the Non-Technical Entrepreneur 16:28 Exploring No-Code Tools: Empowering Entrepreneurs 24:49 Validating Your Startup Idea: Strategies and Insights 32:23 Innovative Funding: The Shared Success Agreement 42:26 Final Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs 47:39 Connecting with Colin: Final Thoughts

Unlock the secrets to business transformation as Geert van Vlijmen AKA G, a trained legal eagle turned entrepreneurial guru, joins me, Mehmet, for a candid conversation on the daring shift from legal to the boardroom. Together, we dissect the essence of business success and the metamorphosis required in leadership roles for those who dare to venture into the world of innovation and risk. G’s narrative is a treasure trove of insights, highlighting the need for self-awareness, the strategic advantage of pacing oneself, and the pivotal role emotional intelligence plays in steering decisions. Feel the thrill of the race toward business excellence as we draw inspiration from the high-octane world of Formula 1, comparing the meticulous strategies of teams like Max Verstappen's Red Bull to the fine-tuning necessary for business growth. Our conversation takes you through the gears of crafting resilient growth engines, emphasizing the significance of systems, processes, and the continuous refinement of business models. We spotlight the importance of customer acquisition and evolving alongside the market, alerting you to the perilous turns of following the pack without a tailored road map for your own business journey. Embrace the discomfort that comes with personal and professional development, and join us as we champion the growth mindset that fuels progress. G and I reflect on the incremental steps that forge the path to achievement, viewing setbacks as invaluable lessons rather than roadblocks. Prepare to be inspired to set actionable goals, cultivate a supportive leadership environment, and understand that success manifests in various dimensions, tailored to each visionary's unique aspirations. So, buckle in and let's accelerate towards a future brimming with potential, as we navigate the twists and turns of entrepreneurial growth with G as our co-pilot. More about G: G is an international business and high-performance strategist. He supports business owners and their management teams to manage and grow their businesses. He supports them in creating a machine that helps them to move away from being "operators", so that they gain more freedom and business growth. https://www.imagejo.com 02:40 G's Journey: From Law to Leadership 04:38 The Startup Adventure: Lessons from Roy's Garden Tips 05:41 Mentoring Startups and the Power of Networking 07:38 Growth Strategies and Keeping Teams Motivated 11:23 Leadership Evolution: From Startup to Scale-up 14:37 Embracing Change and Making Tough Decisions 18:11 The Impact for Growth System: Tuning Up the Engine 22:16 Navigating Business Models for Startup Success 24:28 Unlocking Business Model Innovation: A Guide to Success 26:32 The Pitfalls of Copying Business Models Without Adaptation 26:55 Embracing Creativity in Business Models for Competitive Advantage 29:40 Navigating Uncertainty: Strategies for Business Leaders 31:41 The Power of Personal Development in Leadership 34:50 Small Steps to Big Success: The Incremental Approach 40:16 Looking Ahead: The Future of Business and Entrepreneurship 42:16 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Join us as Christian Hammer, the innovative mind behind Vala-AI, peels back the layers of technical debt and exposes the transformative role AI plays in reshaping software management. Christian's journey from childhood programmer to tech CEO is not just inspiring—it's a roadmap for how we handle the increasingly complex digital landscape. Our discussion ranges from the untangling of legacy systems that anchor major sectors like banking to the ways AI can streamline and simplify the often convoluted tasks facing today's professionals. Venture with us into the bustling intersection of AI and business innovation, where Christian and I unravel the intricate dance of technology and creativity that propels industries forward. We're talking about an era where the mundane is automated, giving rise to rapid innovation and freeing up human genius for greater challenges. Cultural agility, the art of marrying technical expertise with out-of-the-box thinking, emerges as a non-negotiable for companies aiming to not just survive but thrive in this new landscape. From the digital innovation labs of Nike to the cautious halls of banking institutions, we dissect how big players are (or aren't) leveraging AI to stay ahead of the curve. Finally, let's cast our eyes toward the horizon and ponder the future where AI is more than a tool—it's a collaborator. Imagine AI agents operating like a savvy product development team, or a world where your personal AI assistant knows your schedule better than you do. That future is rapidly unfolding, and we're here to navigate it with you. From the upheaval of advertising paradigms to the breakneck speed of technological breakthroughs reshaping our concepts of value and exchange, this episode is a time capsule of today's tech evolution, capturing the relentless pace at which our world is changing. More about Christian: Christian Hammer: Lifelong Artist, Trailblazing Entrepreneur, and Visionary Technology Executive with an illustrious 30-year career. From orchestrating digital transformations to founding Direct to Consumer businesses, Christian's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark at industry giants like Nike, AppNexus, and Wayfair. Currently at the helm as the Chief Executive Officer for Vala-AI, Christian's dynamic leadership extends beyond tech, with impactful roles on nonprofit boards and as a vital force behind deep tech startups on their Board of Directors. https://vala-ai.com

Unlock the secrets to elevating your startup's narrative with the help of marketing maven Danielle R. Harris, who stopped by to share her sage advice on authentic storytelling. Transform your marketing approach as we discuss the undeniable impact a powerful story can have on captivating investors and enchanting customers. With Danielle's insights, learn how to weave the essence of your brand into a story that sticks, carving out a place for your startup in the bustling market, all while staying true to your vision. Tech co-founders, especially those of the introverted persuasion, often find the spotlight daunting, but fear not! This podcast is your guide to overcoming those communication hurdles with aplomb. We'll help you find the medium that feels like home, whether it's writing, podcasting, or presenting, and we'll navigate the global landscape of cultural sensitivity together, so your message resonates with audiences far and wide. Join us as we reveal how your unique perspective can become your greatest asset in crafting messages that strike a chord across cultural divides. Lastly, we roll up our sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of marketing strategies that don't break the bank but break through the noise instead. Discover how to demystify tech jargon and position yourself as a thought leader, all while experimenting with a mix of marketing strategies that keep your startup agile. Whether it's through speaking at conferences or creating engaging online content, we share a trove of practical tips that will help you pivot when necessary and make your startup's story heard. Tune in and equip yourself with the tools to chart a course for marketing success. More about Danielle: Danielle R. Harris is a marketing & messaging consultant who teaches coaches and service providers how to attract and sign dream clients by sharing their unique stories in their messaging. She has worked in marketing for over 10 years and believes that for most business owners, their story is their most underutilized asset. Danielle is based in Metro Detroit, where she was born and raised. Danielle is known for her love of chocolate, travel, and the K-Pop group BTS. https://drharrisconsulting.com 01:11 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 03:16 Why Storytelling is Essential for Tech Startups 06:07 Crafting Authentic Stories and Overcoming Challenges 09:19 The Importance of Personal Branding in Business Growth 13:11 Navigating Communication Challenges as Introverts 17:40 Cultural Sensitivity in Global Storytelling 21:22 Busting Myths: Tech Jargon vs. Storytelling 25:31 Effective Marketing Strategies for Tech Startups 30:13 Evaluating Marketing Success and Final Thoughts

Embark on a journey through the AI revolution with Silicon Valley's very own Manish Patel, as he unveils the cutting-edge developments poised to reshape our world in 2024. As co-founder of Nava Ventures and an early innovator at Google, Manish's narrative weaves through his ground-breaking work on AdWords and Maps to his current mentorship role at Stanford. Our conversation goes beyond the buzz, breaking down the real promise of AI technology and its readiness to deliver substantial returns across diverse sectors, transforming consumer experiences, and enhancing enterprise productivity. Manish guides us through the labyrinth of AI infrastructure, where the seamless integration of human-centered design with robust tech layers emerges as the linchpin for corporate triumph. This podcast peels back the curtain on the critical layers of AI, from intuitive user interfaces down to the bedrock of hardware and compute power, revealing how each stratum is meticulously crafted to propel businesses towards a competitive vanguard. Our probing dialogue challenges the status quo, suggesting a future where software and user habits could eclipse the longstanding hardware hegemony. Closing the loop, our guest shares his seasoned perspectives on the craft of venture capitalism and the burgeoning field of AI observability. Manish imparts a masterclass on the art of startup investment, highlighting the magnetic draw of founder-market fit and the compelling saga of storytelling in the startup landscape. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights that beckon to entrepreneurs and technophiles alike, revealing a horizon where the interplay of data, user adaptability, and the human spirit of innovation are the true harbingers of the next tech vanguard. About Manish: Manish Patel is the visionary founder of Nava Ventures, a pioneering venture capital firm headquartered in the heart of Silicon Valley. With a career spanning dozens of years at the forefront of technological innovation, Manish is renowned as a Silicon Valley Veteran with a knack for solving complex problems at the intersection of business, technology, and human experience. Throughout his career, Manish has worn many hats – from operational maven and inventive trailblazer to astute venture capitalist. His deep-seated expertise in global business and product development, coupled with an unwavering passion for transformative technologies, positions him as a driving force behind Nava Ventures' success. https://www.nava.vc 01:23 The Venture Capitalist's Perspective: Investing in Silicon Valley's Future 04:25 AI's Big Leap: Evaluating the Impact and ROI in 2024 16:24 The AI Infrastructure Deep Dive: Building for Productivity and Innovation 21:34 Human-Centric Design in the Age of AI: Balancing Technology and Humanity 26:10 Navigating the AI Startup Landscape: Strategies for Success 27:29 Leveraging Strengths and Understanding the Market 28:20 Historical Lessons and the Power of Consumer Focus 30:43 The Agility of Startups vs. The Bureaucracy of Big Companies 31:11 Investment Perspectives in the AI Space 34:47 Evaluating Startups: The Role of AI and Human Insight 37:37 Traits VCs Look for in Founders 42:25 Advice for First-Time Founders: Reaching Out to VCs 45:29 Emerging Technologies Beyond AI 48:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Entrepreneurs

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