Tech Careers and Money Talk Christopher Nelson

5 Remote Work Insights for 2024 from Founder and Venture Capitalist
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, host Christopher Nelson introduces Brett Martin, a multi-talented executive involved in Kumo Space and Charge Ventures. Martin discussed the current state of the remote work market and how companies are adapting to the new normal of hybrid work environments.
Brett Martin is the Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Charge Ventures, an NY-based venture fund (70+ portfolio companies), as well as the President & Co-Founder of Kumospace (24M+ from Lightspeed), the leading business communication tool for remote teams. He’s also an Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, where he teaches data analytics and technology strategy.
Connect with Brett Martin: 
https://www.kumospace.com/
https://www.kumospace.com/podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettlucasmartin/
https://twitter.com/brett1211
Remote work is here to stay, and companies that embrace this new way of working will be better positioned to thrive in the future. As technology continues to advance and remote work tools become more sophisticated, the possibilities for remote and hybrid work arrangements are endless. It is an exciting time for companies and employees alike as we navigate this new era of work.
One of the key challenges for companies transitioning to remote work is finding the right tools and technologies to support collaboration and communication among remote teams. This is where companies like Kumo Space come in, providing virtual spaces for remote and hybrid teams to connect and collaborate effectively.
In this episode, we talk about:
Market Insights: We discussed the current venture market in 2024, the impact of AI, and the challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs in the current environment.Remote Work Trends: Explored the evolving landscape of remote work and hybrid companies, especially in the post-pandemic era.Investing in AI: Insights on VC investing in the age of AI, navigating valuation challenges, and making informed decisions in the AI space.Multimodal Executive Life: Delved into the world of being a multimodal executive, balancing roles at Kumo Space and Charge Ventures, and the rewards and challenges of wearing multiple hats.Rest and Unplugging: How do you find time to rest and unplug in a busy schedule? Brett shared his approach to rejuvenation through skiing and mountain climbing.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Venture Market Analysis00:00:37 - Introduction to Tech Careers and Money Talk00:01:09 - Introducing Brett Martin00:02:05 - The State of Remote Work00:03:40 - Customer Demographics for KumoSpace00:04:03 - Success Factors for Remote Work Companies00:05:51 - Traits of Successful Remote Employees00:06:09 - Unstructured Conversations in Remote Work00:07:48 - Remote Work Equity and Visibility00:08:06 - Engaging as a Remote Employee00:09:07 - The Importance of Physical Interaction00:11:02 - The Second Half: VC Investing in AI00:12:57 - Raising Capital in High Interest Rate Environment00:14:42 - Multimodal Executive Lifestyle00:17:29 - The Benefits of Remote Work00:19:01 - The Second Half Continues: AI and VC00:21:30 - Current VC Environment and AI Investments00:24:56 - Filtering AI Companies for Investment00:27:14 - Investment Criteria in Today's Market00:30:42 - Managing Financing Risk in Early-Stage Investing00:32:47 - Being a Multimodal Executive00:37:56 - The Joys and Challenges of Multimodal Work00:41:04 - Legacy and Impact Work00:41:56 - Resting and Unplugging Strategies

When it comes to career planning, it is important to prioritize skills over titles. Titles may seem like the ultimate destination in a career, but they are merely labels that do not necessarily reflect the true capabilities and expertise of an individual. Focusing solely on titles can limit one's growth and potential, as it may lead to a narrow perspective on what success looks like.
On the other hand, skills are the building blocks that enable individuals to achieve their career goals and navigate the challenges that come their way. Skills are tangible and measurable, and they can be developed and honed over time through experience, training, and continuous learning. By focusing on acquiring and improving skills, individuals can adapt to changing circumstances, seize new opportunities, and progress in their careers regardless of the specific titles they hold.
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, host introduces Mark Herschberg, a serial startup and public company CTO and CPO, also known for his book "The Career Toolkit." Mark shares insights on influential leadership and navigating challenges in tech careers. 
Tune in for valuable strategies and tactics to grow your career and build wealth as a technology professional!

In this episode, we talk about:
Influential Leadership: Mark emphasized that true leadership is not about authority but about influencing others to share in your vision, much like Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi did.Career Planning: He compared career planning to project planning, suggesting that we should have short-term, intermediate, and long-term goals, with regular check-ins to adjust our plans as needed. Mark also provided a practical tip: set a recurring calendar event every six months to review and adjust your career plan.Titles vs. Skills: Mark discussed the difference between chasing titles and developing skills. He pointed out that the same title can mean different responsibilities in different contexts, and it's more important to focus on the type of work and responsibilities you want.Soft Skills: He argued that investing in soft skills can provide a better return on investment than focusing solely on technical skills, as they amplify your overall capabilities.Leadership at Any Level: Mark debunked the myth that leadership is reserved for those in high positions, asserting that anyone at any level can exhibit leadership qualities.Ethics in Tech: Mark highlighted the importance of being prepared for ethical dilemmas in tech. He likened ethical preparation to fire drills, where practicing ahead of time can help you make the right decisions under pressure.Career Toolkit: The episode also delved into Mark's book, "The Career Toolkit," which outlines ten essential skills for tech employees, including career planning, leadership, management, communication, networking, negotiation, and ethics.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Influential Leadership
00:00:28 - Introduction to Tech Careers and Financial Planning
00:00:49 - Mark Herschberg's Introduction
00:01:11 - The Career Toolkit Book
00:02:12 - Creating a Career Plan
00:04:49 - Titles vs. Skills in Career Planning
00:07:00 - Skill Development in Career Plans
00:09:49 - Common Mistakes in Career Planning
00:13:09 - Reflecting on Career Progress
00:15:22 - Feedback and Career Progress
00:19:09 - Peer Networking and Career Advancement
00:20:20 - Transitioning to Leadership
00:23:28 - The Career Toolkit Overview.
00:26:02 - Leadership Skills Development
00:29:29 - Transitioning from Individual Contributor to Manager
00:33:08 - Ethics in the Career Toolkit

Connect with Mark Herschberg: 
https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com
https://www.instagram.com/thecareertoolkit/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/

One of the effective mentoring strategies is knowing the importance of the mentor-mentee relationship. It is a shared responsibility. Both parties have a role to play in fostering a successful and meaningful mentorship dynamic. Mentees should approach their mentors with energy, ambition, and clarity about their goals and needs. By being proactive and engaged, mentees can create momentum in the relationship and demonstrate their commitment to growth and development.
Mentors can add value to their mentees by showing empathy, checking in on their well-being, and offering support in return. By demonstrating care and concern for their mentees, mentors can strengthen the bond and create a more reciprocal relationship. This not only benefits the mentee by providing them with emotional support and assistance but also creates a more fulfilling and rewarding mentorship experience for both parties.
In this episode of Tech Career Money Talk, host Christopher welcomes Ritendra Datta back to discuss the important topic of mentorship. Both emphasize the significance of mentees in their own careers and highlight the value of understanding how to be good mentors.
Tune in to gain insights on how to maximize the mentor-mentee relationship for success

In this episode, we talk about:

Selecting a Mentor:Emotional Connection: Choose a mentor who makes you feel good about yourself.Technical vs. Broader Relationships: For technical skills, personality may not be as crucial, but for long-term mentorship, compatibility is key.Mentor's Career Trajectory: Study potential mentors' paths to ensure alignment with your goals.Be a Good Mentee: Position yourself to help your mentor assist you, and don't be afraid to check in on them too.
Being a Good Mentee:Proactivity: Seek out mentors early in your career for faster growth.Clear Asks: Approach mentorship with specific questions and goals.Reciprocity: Find ways to add value to your mentor's life, even if it's just showing empathy.
Being a Good Mentor:Empathy: Listen intently and validate your mentee's feelings.Knowledge: Be honest about the limits of your expertise and avoid giving generic advice.Diversity: Engage with mentees from various backgrounds to enrich your perspective.Energy: Bring enthusiasm to your mentorship sessions to keep the relationship dynamic and effective.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Selecting the Right Mentor00:00:33 - Introduction to Tech Careers and Money Talk00:01:05 - The Importance of Mentorship00:02:11 - Becoming a Good Mentee00:04:06 - Building a Relationship with Mentors00:05:12 - Adding Value to Mentors00:07:43 - Checking in on Mentors00:08:01 - Reciprocity in Mentor-Mentee Relationships00:10:14 - Identifying Suitable Mentors00:13:36 - Mentor-Mentee Dynamics00:16:04 - When Mentees Surpass Mentors00:18:33 - Lifelong Mentor Relationships00:20:34 - Seeking New Mentors with Experience00:23:19 - Learning from Mentees00:25:46 - The Transition from Mentee to Mentor00:28:14 - Part Two: Being a Great Mentor00:29:00 - Common Issues with Mentorship00:31:17 - Empathy in Mentorship00:34:08 - The Value of Being a Mentor00:35:59 - Knowledge and Diversity in Mentorship00:38:58 - Avoiding Generic Advice00:40:31 - The Mentor's Learning Opportunity00:42:05 - The Importance of Diverse Mentorship00:43:27 - Proactive Diversity in Mentorship00:44:06 - Characteristics of a Great Mentor00:47:59 - Keeping Mentorship Engaging and Energetic
Connect with Ritendra Datta on LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritendradatta/

One key aspect of executive branding through storytelling is the idea of being the captain of your own career. Instead of relying on HR or your company to provide you with opportunities, individuals can take charge of their career by sharing their insights, opinions, and experiences online. 
By publishing content on platforms like LinkedIn, individuals can showcase their expertise and establish themselves as authorities in their field. This not only helps to build trust with potential employers or clients but also opens up a world of opportunities for career advancement and growth.
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, host Christopher Nelson welcomes Belen Wagaw back to the show. Belen shares her journey from intern to chief of staff to running her own storytelling company for CEOs and B2B brands. 
Tune in for insights on career growth, wealth-building, and achieving financial and lifestyle goals in the tech industry!

In this episode, we talk about:
The Value of Personal Experience: AI is transforming various tasks, but it cannot replicate individual lived experiences. In a world increasingly influenced by AI, personal stories and insights remain uniquely human and irreplaceable.Storytelling in B2B Marketing: Traditional B2B marketing is faltering due to a lack of storytelling and CEO engagement. Companies that embrace storytelling and personal branding are seeing significant results in creating demand.The Shift to Thought Leadership: CEOs and executives should focus on becoming thought leaders rather than just salespeople. Sharing industry insights and educational content can attract customers and establish authority.Content Strategy for Executives: For executives looking to post online, it's crucial to clarify their goals, identify their audience's pain points, and share their unique perspectives. Contrarian opinions can be particularly engaging.The Role of AI in Content Creation: While AI can generate content, it lacks the personal touch that human experiences bring to storytelling. AI can be a helpful tool for editing and formatting but cannot replace the authenticity of personal narratives.Advice for Aspiring Content Creators: Start by sharing what you know and learn to enjoy the process. Avoid common mistakes like poor formatting, excessive hashtags, and irrelevant tagging. Instead, focus on providing value and lessons learned from your experiences.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Embracing Personal Experiences in AI Era00:00:27 - Introduction to Tech Careers and Money Talk00:00:48 - Belen Wagaw's Career Journey00:01:52 - The Shift in B2B Marketing00:03:07 - Storytelling in B2B Marketing00:04:03 - Platforms for Effective Storytelling00:05:21 - CEOs Missing Out on Storytelling Opportunities00:06:13 - The Role of CEOs in Marketing and Sales00:08:41 - Crafting a Personal Brand as a CEO00:10:36 - Thought Leadership vs. Salesmanship00:12:09 - The Importance of CEO Visibility00:14:21 - New Approaches to B2B Marketing00:16:26 - Leveraging Storytelling for Career Growth00:18:32 - Personal Branding for Mid-Career Executives00:20:39 - The Impact of AI on Personal Branding00:22:21 - Writing Online: First Steps and Feelings00:24:09 - The Role of AI as a Writing Partner00:25:16 - Tips for Starting to Write Online00:27:00 - Belen's Personal Experience with Online Content00:29:23 - The Value of Sharing Knowledge Online00:30:10 - Overcoming the Fear of Online Writing00:31:31 - The Role of AI in Content Creation00:33:51 - AI's Limitations and Human Storytelling00:35:36 - Content Strategy for Mid-Level Executives00:37:27 - AI and Personal Lived Experiences00:39:14 - Fundamental Advice for Writing Online00:41:53 - Content Strategy and Goals00:43:49 - Building a Content Library and Swipe File00:44:50 - Encouragement for New Online Writers
Connect with Belen Wagaw: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/belenwagaw/

One of the key aspects that make the tech careers in Europe stand out is the diversity of locations and opportunities available. From cities like London, Dublin, Switzerland, and Paris, there is a wide range of tech hubs where individuals can pursue their careers in the technology industry. Each city offers its own unique environment and opportunities for growth and development.
For example, Dublin is known for its thriving tech industry, with many multinational companies setting up their European headquarters in the city. London, on the other hand, is a major hub for tech startups and innovation, with a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurs and investors. 
Switzerland is also a key player in the tech scene, with cities like Zurich and Geneva attracting top tech talent from around the world.
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, we had the pleasure of speaking with Amin Neeme, an employee at Google who works in the partnership team for EMEA, focusing on voice AI partnerships through Google Assistant and data partnerships. 
Amin shared his journey from the Middle East to working in big tech in Europe, and how his early career in risk management and equity derivative sales influenced his approach to personal finance.
Tune in to learn about Amin’s experiences and insights on navigating the tech industry and financial world!
In this episode, we talk about:
Career Mobility in Tech: Amin discussed the life-changing realization that comes with gaining skills that open doors to international career opportunities. He emphasized the value of being able to choose where to live based on personal preferences.Tech Scene in Europe: We explored the tech hubs in Europe, such as Dublin, London, and Zurich. Amin highlighted Dublin as a great starting point for early career professionals due to the presence of major tech companies and a diverse environment. However, he also noted the high cost of living and the transient nature of the expat community.Living and Working in Europe: Amin shared insights into the cost of living and the impact of taxes on RSUs in different European countries. He compared the affordability of cities like Zurich to Dublin and discussed the benefits of working in Europe, such as proximity to nature and other continents.Financial Planning: Amin talked about his transition from a complex to a simple and balanced financial plan. He stressed the importance of focusing on the basics, being honest with oneself, and the power of investing in index funds for long-term growth.Equity Compensation: We delved into the topic of equity compensation and its role in building wealth. Amin reflected on his experience with RSUs at Google and the importance of understanding their long-term value.Financial Education: Amin and I discussed the importance of financial education and sharing knowledge with those who are a step behind in their financial journey.
Connect with Amin Neeme: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amin-neeme-600560192/

Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Career Mobility00:00:26 - Welcome to TechCruise and Money Talk00:01:32 - Aman's Background and Career in Tech00:02:10 - Tech Scene in Europe00:03:14 - Comparing Dublin, London, and Zurich00:06:07 - Dublin's Attractiveness for Early Career Professionals00:07:57 - Housing and Cost of Living in Dublin00:09:53 - Aman's Journey to Working in Europe00:11:24 - Equity Compensation in Europe00:13:17 - Taxation and RSUs in Different Countries00:14:14 - Attracting Talent and Language Barriers in Europe00:15:19 - Cultural Experiences and Global Mobility00:16:53 - The Value of Diverse Work Environments00:20:12 - The Benefits of Working in European Tech00:21:44 - The Growth of AI and Startups in Europe00:23:48 - The Global Journey of Tech Employees00:25:13 - Language Skills and International Mobility00:27:13 - Financial Planning and Simplicity00:28:35 - Amin's Simple and Balanced Financial Plan00:29:10 - The Importance of Financial Basics00:30:02 - Investing Strate

Radical Empathy is about taking the time to truly listen and understand the needs and emotions of others. It is about putting yourself in their shoes and seeing the world from their perspective. When we practice radical empathy, we create a space where people feel seen, heard, and valued. This leads to stronger relationships, increased trust, and a more positive work environment.
As Erin mentioned in her own experience, having a leader who practices radical empathy can make a world of difference. Instead of just focusing on climbing the corporate ladder and achieving personal success, empathetic leaders prioritize the well-being and growth of their team members. They show compassion, support, and understanding, creating a culture of care and respect.
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, host Christopher interviews Erin Diehl, the creator of Improve It, a professional development company rooted in improv comedy. 
Erin discusses how improv can help leaders and teams grow through play and experiential learning. She is also the host of the Improve It podcast and author of the Amazon bestseller "I See You." 
Join Christopher and Erin for insights on energizing teams through radical empathy and the power of improv in leadership development!

In this episode, we talk about:
The Importance of Play at Work: Erin emphasized how incorporating play and improv into the workplace can level the playing field between interns and CEOs, leading to magical outcomes.Financially Focused Tech Employees: We discussed the unique challenges tech employees face when it comes to equity and financial planning, and how improv can play a role in navigating these challenges.Radical Empathy: Erin shared her journey and the concept of radical empathy, which involves deeply understanding and connecting with others while also taking care of oneself.Self-Love and Leadership: We delved into the idea that effective leadership starts with self-love and self-care, which then translates into better team management and a more magnetic culture.Improv Exercises: Erin walked us through an improv exercise called "Empathy," which helps develop a deeper understanding of others' perspectives, and shared insights on how improv can be used to enhance various workplace skills.The Ideal Day Exercise: Erin provided a framework for envisioning your ideal day, which can be transformative in understanding and directing your personal and professional life.The Impact of Improv on Tech Teams: We learned about how Erin's company, Improve It, helps tech teams communicate better and build stronger connections through improv based training.The Chicken Dance: Erin shared a fun fact about how the chicken dance is used in her workshops to break down barriers and encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Masks at Work and Leveling the Playing Field00:00:19 - Introduction to the Podcast for Tech Employees00:00:40 - Introducing Erin and Improve It00:01:41 - The Concept of "Improve It" and Professional Development00:02:10 - The Importance of Fun in the Workplace00:02:46 - Defining Radical Empathy00:05:24 - Radical Empathy in Leadership00:08:13 - Empathy Exercise Demonstration00:09:31 - The Impact of the Empathy Exercise00:16:28 - Self-Love and Leadership00:19:13 - The Ideal Day Exercise00:24:21 - The Gap in Self-Awareness and Leadership00:29:35 - Protecting Your Energy and Vibes00:32:52 - The Four-Day Work Week at Improve It00:36:45 - Improve It's Approach to Corporate Training00:41:42 - Effective Communication Workshop Example00:43:51 - The Power of Play in Workshops00:45:54 - The Chicken Dance and Breaking Down Barriers00:47:04 - Fire Round: Quick Personal Questions
Connect with Erin Diehl: 
Website: https://www.itserindiehl.com/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/improve-it-podcast-professional-development-through/id1508450538
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itserindiehl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin