Tech Careers and Money Talk Christopher Nelson

Episode 55: Navigating Equity in Tech Companies with Fred Deworken
Ready to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at https://www.techcareersandmoneynews.com/!
Frederick DeWorken grew up on a 3-acre poor farm in Amarillo, Texas, and would travel to Santa Cruz, California every summer with his grandmother. In 1989 his step-father bought him his first computer. He has been hooked on "high-tech" ever since. 
Connect with Frederick
https://www.linkedin.com/in/data-cloud/
In this episode Fred DeWorkin, founder and CEO of Blue Yeti, who shares his journey from working in the Peace Corps and as a claims adjuster to transitioning into the tech industry. 
Fred discusses the value of storytelling, building relationships, and articulating one's worth in career transitions. 
He highlights the importance of investing in oneself and the foundational role of training in shaping his successful tech career. Join them as they explore strategies for career growth, building wealth, and achieving financial and lifestyle goals in the tech industry.
Fred's experience highlights the importance of self-discovery, belief in oneself, and the willingness to step out of one's comfort zone to pursue new opportunities. His journey serves as a testament to the possibility of successfully transitioning into the tech industry, even without a traditional tech background. Fred's story also underscores the value of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning in navigating a career transition.

In this episode, we talk about:
Belief in Yourself: Fred's journey highlights the importance of believing in your own value and skill set. By investing in himself and having the confidence to pursue opportunities in the tech industry, Fred was able to carve out a successful career path.Focused Approach: Fred's strategic approach to targeting specific companies and industries, such as pre-IPO growth companies in Latin America, showcases the power of focus and determination. By narrowing down his options and honing in on key opportunities, Fred was able to make significant strides in his career.Learning from Experience: Fred's experience working with both Tableau and Snowflake taught him valuable lessons about the dynamics of hyper-growth companies, leadership changes, and the importance of understanding equity and tax implications. His ability to adapt and learn from each experience contributed to his overall success.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Personal Value and Investment in Self00:00:29 - Building a Career Foundation in Sales00:00:47 - Welcome and Podcast Overview00:01:08 - Guest Introduction: Fred DeWorkin00:01:47 - Fred's Career Transition and Value Articulation00:02:12 - Importance of Personal Stories in Career Advancement00:02:53 - Realizing Opportunities in Tech00:04:03 - Decision to Pursue a Tech Career00:04:25 - Job Search and Strategic Focus00:06:57 - Learning from Industry Leaders00:08:20 - Reality Check and Adjusting Expectations00:09:11 - Professional Development through ProLango00:10:07 - Effective Job Search Techniques00:11:37 - Narrowing Down Job Targets00:12:40 - Joining Tableau Software00:13:46 - Leadership and Product Impact at Tableau00:16:15 - Belief in Self and Skill Set00:18:02 - Receiving an Offer and Equity at Tableau00:20:33 - Learning from Tableau's Operational Excellence00:24:10 - Transition to Snowflake and IPO Preparation00:27:36 - Emotional Impact of Career Transitions00:30:46 - Joining Snowflake and Recognizing Opportunity00:32:53 - Equity Strategy and Financial Planning at Snowflake00:36:18 - Observing Leadership Changes and IPO Strategy00:38:44 - Wrap-up and Reflections on Career and Equity

Episode 54: RSU Strategies for Tech Professionals with Landon Loveall
Ready to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at https://www.techcareersandmoneynews.com/
Landon Loveall is a certified financial planner and dedicated advocate for tech professionals to increase their wealth through financial, tax and stock option planning. He is a partner of KB Financial Advisors which has been specializing in maximizing stock options for tech employees since 2014.
Landon regularly shares his thought leadership on the KB Financial Advisors blog about the unique scenarios presented by employee stock options. When he's not assisting clients, Landon enjoys kayaking down the Duck River with his wife Melissa and their three children in Columbia, TN.
Connect with Landon
https://kbfinancialadvisors.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/landonloveall/
In order to maximize the value of RSUs over time, it is important to understand the vesting schedule and how the shares become taxable. Typically, RSUs have a time-based vesting schedule, where a certain percentage of shares vest each year over a four-year period. The key events to pay attention to are the vesting date, when the shares become yours, and the settlement date, when the shares are transferred into your ownership and become taxable.
Before an IPO, RSUs may have a double trigger, where the shares vest based on time and an event trigger, such as the company going public. After an IPO, vesting and settlement typically occur at the same time. It is important to be aware of the tax implications of RSUs, as the value of the shares becomes taxable at the settlement date.
In this episode, we talk about:
Understanding RSU Vesting Schedules: Landon emphasized the importance of not just focusing on the volume of stock you receive but also paying close attention to the vesting schedule. The vesting schedule and what you receive over time are critical aspects that can impact your financial planning significantly. Knowing when your RSUs vest and how they become taxable is crucial for maximizing your returns on time and talent.Pre-IPO RSUs vs. ISOs: We discussed the differences between pre-IPO RSUs and ISOs, shedding light on the tax implications and risks associated with each type of equity compensation. Landon highlighted the complexities of incentive stock options and the importance of understanding the tax implications, especially around an IPO event.Pay Stub Analysis for RSUs: Landon shared valuable insights on how tech professionals should analyze their pay stubs when it comes to equity compensation. Understanding supplemental withholding rates, federal and state taxes, and the implications of RSU settlements on tax liabilities is crucial for effective financial planning and tax management.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Equity Compensation00:01:02 - Guest Introduction: Landon Lovell00:02:06 - Understanding RSUs and Their History00:03:26 - Tax Implications of RSUs00:05:20 - RSUs in Public Companies00:06:55 - Options for Handling RSUs at Vesting00:09:01 - Variations in RSU Packages00:11:31 - Negotiating Equity Compensation00:13:07 - Immediate and Front-Loaded Vesting Trends00:15:05 - Importance of Equity Compensation Strategy00:17:00 - Risks and Rewards of Equity Compensation00:18:04 - Personal Strategy for Managing Equity00:19:12 - Transition from ISOs to RSUs in Private Companies00:22:04 - Pre-IPO RSUs and Tax Considerations00:24:31 - Understanding Pre-IPO Share Values00:29:17 - Pay Stub and Tax Implications for Equity Compensation00:34:23 - Conclusion and Further Resources

Episode 53: 10 Lessons from a A Year of Tech Career & Money Conversations
Ready to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at https://www.techcareersandmoneynews.com/!
Reflecting on the lessons learned from a year of podcasting, it is evident that taking the time to reflect, learn, grow, share, and enjoy is crucial for personal and professional development.
This episode highlights the importance of distilling lessons learned, observing and conversing with others, asking quality questions, being consistent and repetitive, watching the tape, anticipating challenges, embracing vulnerability, sharing experiences, and building a supportive community.
In this episode of "Tech Careers in Money Talk," host Christopher Nelson reflects on one year of podcasting and shares 10 valuable lessons learned. 
While not claiming to be a podcasting expert, he offers insights and takeaways for building skills and expertise in the tech industry. 
As we step into the next year, the focus will be on deepening the discussions around trading time and talent for equity and managing an evergreen portfolio. We are excited to bring more expert insights and practical strategies through upcoming episodes and a detailed newsletter series. Additionally, Christopher is working on a book titled "From No-Do to IPO," which will further explore these themes.
Thank you all for your continued support and engagement. Here's to another year of learning, growth, and community building in Tech Careers and Money Talk. Please share this podcast with others in the tech community and join us as we continue to explore the intersection of technology careers and financial wisdom.
Listeners can gain valuable tips for career growth and financial success. Stay tuned for a sneak preview of what's to come in year two of the podcast!

In this episode, we talk about:
Observation and Conversation: The importance of preparing and understanding your guests or colleagues to enrich interactions.Quality of Questions: Improving the depth of your inquiries to enhance learning and engagement.Consistency and Repetition: The necessity of regular practice to transition skills into expertise.Feedback and Reflection: The value of reviewing your performances and seeking feedback to continuously improve.Low and Slow Growth: Emphasizing steady, persistent efforts over sporadic bursts for sustainable growth.Anticipating Challenges: Being prepared for inevitable obstacles and managing them proactively.Embracing Vulnerability: Using openness about challenges to foster personal growth and resilience.Shared Experiences: Building connections through vulnerability, leading to shared growth and understanding.Enjoying the Process: The importance of finding joy in the journey, not just the outcomes.Community and Support: Leveraging community for mutual support and collective advancement.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Importance of Reflection00:00:31 - Welcome to Tech Careers and Money Talk00:00:54 - Celebrating One Year of Podcasting00:01:25 - Ten Valuable Lessons from Podcasting00:02:07 - Planning for Future Growth and Exit Strategies00:03:01 - The Value of Observation and Conversation00:04:17 - Learning from Guests and Enhancing Interview Skills00:05:30 - Importance of Asking Quality Questions00:06:56 - Consistency and Repetition in Skill Building00:08:01 - Strategic Content Creation and Scheduling00:09:04 - Reflecting on Personal Growth and Feedback00:10:07 - Embracing Slow and Steady Growth00:11:11 - Anticipating and Managing Challenges00:12:57 - Vulnerability and Growth in New Ventures00:14:01 - Building Community and Shared Experiences00:15:50 - Enjoying the Process and Building Connections00:16:34 - Looking Ahead: Plans for Year Two00:18:54 - Recap and Future Directions00:27:04 - Community Engagement and Listener Participation00:29:11 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Connect with Christopher Nelson on LinkedIn: 
https://www

Episode 52:Critical Money Lessons for Tech Employees with Landon Loveall
Ready to explore the latest in tech careers and financial insights? Click here now for an eye-opening journey at https://www.techcareersandmoneynews.com/
In this episode of Tech Careers and Money Talk, host Christopher Nelson speaks with certified financial planner Landon Loveall about managing equity compensation for technology employees.
Landon Loveall is a certified financial planner and dedicated advocate for tech professionals to increase their wealth through financial, tax and stock option planning. He is a partner of KB Financial Advisors which has been specializing in maximizing stock options for tech employees since 2014. 
Landon regularly shares his thought leadership on the KB Financial Advisors blog about the unique scenarios presented by employee stock options. When he's not assisting clients, Landon enjoys kayaking down the Duck River with his wife Melissa and their three children in Columbia, TN.
Connect with Landon Loveall
https://kbfinancialadvisors.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/landonloveall/

Traditionally, employees have been taught to focus on their paycheck as the primary source of income. However, with the rise of equity compensation in the tech industry, it is essential to understand that owning equity in a company is a form of ownership and an opportunity to build wealth. 
Instead of solely relying on a paycheck, tech employees should view their equity compensation as a valuable asset that contributes to their overall financial health.
By shifting from paycheck to balance sheet mindset, tech employees can take a more holistic approach to managing their finances. 
They can focus on growing and nurturing their balance sheet by making strategic decisions about their equity compensation, investments, and financial goals. 
This shift in perspective allows employees to see the bigger picture of their financial situation and make informed decisions that align with their long-term financial objectives.

In this episode, we talk about:
Shift from Paycheck to Balance Sheet: Landon emphasized the importance of moving beyond the bi-weekly paycheck and focusing on building and managing a comprehensive balance sheet. This mindset shift is crucial for tech employees who often receive significant equity compensation.Treat Your Career Like an NFL Contract: Understanding the value of your career and treating it like a professional athlete would handle a sports contract can lead to more strategic financial and career decisions. This involves knowing when to push for more and when to transition.Professional Financial Guidance: As tech professionals advance in their careers, the complexity of financial management increases. Landon advises against a purely DIY approach to financial planning, highlighting the benefits of engaging with professional advisors to avoid costly mistakes and optimize financial growth.Don’t Overprioritize Taxes: While taxes are important, Landon warns against letting them dictate major financial decisions. The focus should first be on the stock price and the number of shares, with taxes coming into consideration afterward.Prepare for Catastrophic Loss: Understanding the impact of significant market drops on personal wealth is crucial. Setting target sell prices for stocks and having a clear action plan can mitigate the risk of emotional decision-making during market downturns.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Financial Management for Tech Employees00:01:23 - Expert Insights with Landon Loveall00:02:07 - Landon's Experience and Client Demographics00:02:39 - Five Critical Money Lessons00:03:08 - Lesson One: Rethinking Financial Priorities00:04:36 - The Impact of Financial Awareness00:06:25 - Managing Wealth Beyond Income00:08:17 - Lesson Two: Career Valuation Like NFL Contracts00:12:17 - Lesson Three: Professional Financial Guidance00:14:46 - Integrating Financial and Tax Planning00:17:36 - Building Trus

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/