Tech Waka Podcast Tech Waka Podcast

In this episode of TechWaka, we explore the transformative power of coaching in technology leadership.


We review Michael Bungay Stanier's "The Coaching Habit," and discuss seven key questions that every tech leader could use to enhance their coaching approach.


This episode is a must-listen for those looking to foster personal development, increase team engagement, and drive continuous improvement within their organizations.


Join us to discover how you can empower your teams and lead more effectively by adopting a coaching mindset.




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In this TechWaka podcast episode, we interview Martin Wildash, who delves into the complexities and responsibilities of a Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Martin shares his journey and insights into the CTO role, discussing various aspects from strategic decision-making to key relationships within a company.



Main Themes:


Strategic Decision-Making: Understanding and managing the risks and impacts of technology decisions within the broader scope of business operations.
Financial Acumen: The necessity for a CTO to comprehend the financial underpinnings of the business, emphasizing the importance of close collaboration with the CFO.
Board Interaction: The dynamics of working with a company's board to align technology strategies with business objectives and manage governance and accountability.
Leadership and Influence: The role of a CTO in leading and influencing both the technology team and broader business strategies, requiring a solid grasp of both technical and business domains.
Career Journey: Martin discusses his own path to becoming a CTO, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities that shaped his career, offering advice to aspiring CTOs.


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In this episode of the Tech Waka podcast, we talk with David Corbett, COO of Timecloud. We discuss David's journey and insights into improving leadership and teamwork.

We cover:


The importance of learning from mistakes and staying curious.
Transitioning from a technical role to a leadership position.
Understanding people's mental models to make better decisions.
Leading by influence, not authority, to guide teams towards success.
The role of asking good questions in understanding and improvement.
Creating a culture where everyone is encouraged to learn and grow.

This conversation is full of advice for anyone looking to lead more effectively and build a stronger, more innovative team.


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In this Tech Waka podcast episode featuring Chardi Taylor, a product leader, we explore several key themes:


Chardi's Path: From childhood curiosity to tech leadership, highlighting her shift from law to technology.
Moving to New Zealand: Adjusting to a new country, building a tech network, and finding similarities in leadership challenges.
Women in Tech Leadership: Addressing barriers like imposter syndrome, the importance of inclusive hiring, and mentorship to support women's advancement in tech.
The Importance of Support: The critical role of having a supportive partner and community for career growth, especially for women in leadership positions.

This episode shines a light on the journey to tech leadership, the challenges faced by women in the field, and the importance of support and inclusivity in the tech industry.


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In this episode with Cara Fonseca-Ensor, we explore key themes around fostering a successful team environment:


The Balance Between Autonomy and Accountability: Cara discusses how autonomy encourages innovation while accountability ensures that innovations are effectively implemented.
The Importance of Visibility and Trust: Insights into how transparency in processes and achievements builds trust within teams and across the organization.
Leadership's Role in Empowering Teams: Cara shares her transition from hands-on problem-solving to enabling her team to tackle challenges, emphasizing leadership's impact on team dynamics.
Effective Communication and Check-ins: The significance of clear, open communication and regular check-ins to maintain alignment and progress.
Cultivating a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Cara touches on creating an environment where continuous learning and improvement are valued and encouraged.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on creating and leading high-performing teams in the tech industry.


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In this episode of the TechWaka podcast, we welcome Wendy Stevenson-Vrame, Engineering Manager at TradeMe.
Our conversation was about:


Career Journey: Wendy discusses her unconventional path from fashion design to tech leadership, including experiences in investment banking, HR, and recruitment, culminating in her role as an Engineering Manager at TradeMe.
Leadership Philosophy: Emphasizes the importance of understanding individual work styles and communication preferences to foster team growth, motivation, and the significance of being a supportive leader who encourages continuous personal and professional development.
Team Dynamics: Shares insights into managing diverse teams, including varying career stages and aspirations, and the importance of creating a cohesive and supportive environment where every team member feels valued and motivated.
Mentorship and Development: Underscoring the importance of nurturing future tech talent and the mutual benefits of internships for both companies and students.
Challenges and Adaptability: Reflects on the challenges of adapting to tech leadership without a traditional tech background and the strategies employed to overcome these, such as partnering with technical experts and focusing on continuous learning.
Personal Growth and Motivation: Wendy's story illustrates the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and the willingness to embrace change, showcasing her journey across different countries, industries, and roles.
Advocacy for Women in Tech: The episode, released in celebration of International Women's Day, serves as an inspiration for women looking to navigate and excel in the tech industry and leadership roles.



If you’d like connect with Wendy, you can find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-stevenson-vrame/


Tech waka is also on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/99464847/

And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tech_waka_podcast/

And X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/TechWakaPodcast


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