CTO Podcast Insights & Strategies for Chief Technology Officers Navigating the C-Suite while Balancing Technical Strategy, Team Management, & Innovation

Etienne is so happy to be sitting down with his good friend Joel Beasley for this episode. Joel is the mastermind behind the Modern CTO Podcast and founder of Pro Series Media, and he is here for an enlightening conversation on the ins and outs of podcasting. With years of experience under his belt, Joel shares invaluable insights on starting, cultivating, managing, and scaling a successful podcast.
From the importance of in-person interviews to the art of crafting compelling questions, Joel breaks down the key elements that make a podcast stand out, emphasizing the significance of building genuine connections with guests and providing valuable content to listeners and stressing that quality engagement is more important than quantity.
Joel's approach to podcasting is refreshingly authentic, focusing on human relationships and meaningful conversations rather than gimmicks or marketing tactics. He shares his journey from focusing solely on technical leaders to exploring groundbreaking ideas shaping humanity, inspired by visionaries like Jordan Peterson.
Listen as Joel offers practical advice for aspiring podcasters, from niche selection and guest outreach to effective interviewing techniques. He emphasizes the value of preparation, genuine curiosity, and caring for both guests and audience members.
Joel also unveils his plans for the upcoming Joel Beasley Show, where he aims to dive deeper into transformative ideas and continue fostering meaningful connections. With Joel's expertise and passion for podcasting, listeners are in for a treat as they embark on their own podcasting journey or simply tune in to enjoy engaging conversations with fascinating individuals!
Time Stamps:
[2:31] - Joel feels that in-person interactions foster deeper connections compared to remote ones, enhancing relationships and responsiveness.[4:39] - Exploring diverse perspectives and groundbreaking ideas drives Joel's new show, inspired by transformative encounters.[7:35] - Joel argues that human connections hinge on shared values and content quality, reflected in his authentic podcast approach.[10:12] - Prioritize genuine connections over high conversion rates; quality relationships yield long-term podcast success.[13:18] - Invites based on episode performance prioritize engaging guests.[15:59] - Etienne and Joel met seven years ago when Etienne launched 7CTOs.[17:08] - Joel reveals that he plans to offer free, high-quality podcast creation content to build trust with businesses.[19:27] - Joel outlines a B2B podcast course focusing on niche identification and audience value delivery.[22:23] - Etienne admires marketing instincts, recognizing simplicity and potential in targeting conference audiences.[23:43] - Joel delegated conference research after obtaining options from a hired research analyst.[26:34] - Joel shares how he discovered a passion for sales, emphasizing value and dedication in podcast production.[29:04] - Joel emphasizes the core of podcasting: serving listeners by aligning audience needs with valuable content.[33:17] - Joel aims to assist creators transitioning to professional podcasting, stressing value, guest validation, and collaboration.[36:55] - Joel finds coaching the host to be rewarding due to their innate curiosity and care, key success traits.[38:31] - Consider turning coaching expertise into a podcast, offering recorded sessions to address common challenges.[40:05] - Joel advocates for hiring a local videographer for professional setup, maximizing quality without breaking the bank.[43:12] - Joel prioritizes audience value in conversations, subtly promoting podcast services and achieving 10% client conversion.[45:02] - Joel reflects on having sent 250 emails nightly, refining the process, highlighting problem-solving abilities.[47:47] - Joel bases his prices on team size, offering packages or individual options.[48:31] - Joel is planning to launch The Joel Beasley Show in early fall.
We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Te

Etienne sits down this episode with Alex Balazs, the CTO of Intuit, for an eye-opening discussion on vulnerability, leadership, and the cutting-edge realm of generative AI. Alex shares insights from his journey, from TurboTax's chief architect to leading technology at Intuit. He delves into the pivotal role vulnerability plays in effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and humanity in fostering collaboration and innovation.
Alex sheds light on the transformative potential of generative AI and its applications in revolutionizing customer experiences. From enhancing email marketing with MailChimp to reimagining tax preparation with TurboTax, Alex reveals how Intuit is leveraging AI to deliver tangible benefits to users.
Alex and Etienne also navigate the challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Alex emphasizes the need for CTOs to dream big, experiment boldly, and prioritize customer impact, and he underscores the power of community and collaboration in driving positive change, urging technologists to harness their skills for the greater good.
Through anecdotes and insights, Alex inspires listeners to embrace vulnerability, seize opportunities, and leverage technology for transformative impact. Join Etienne and Alex in this enlightening conversation about the intersections of leadership, technology, and human connection.
Time Stamps:
[1:09] - Alex discusses how he progressed from Turbotax's chief architect to Intuit's chief technology officer.[3:23] - Vulnerability, often overlooked in leadership, fosters connection and strength, a crucial lesson in leadership.[5:09] - Alex argues that shifting from having answers to asking questions fosters growth and leadership.[8:23] - Being a CTO can feel lonely, but community support humanizes and strengthens leadership.[10:29] - Etienne discusses how the accessibility and humility of influential leaders contrast with those of smaller companies.[12:00] - Mastering scale is crucial for large company CTOs, balancing priorities and fostering efficiency.[15:15] - The rapid progress of generative AI and cutting-edge hardware designs signal groundbreaking technological advancements.[18:32] - Alex points out how the rapid evolution of technology has made home automation mainstream.[19:45] - Alex shares a story of how during a loud event like the Super Bowl halftime show, noise-canceling earbuds offered a safer, clearer experience.[22:03] - Etienne argues that navigating disruptions and commitments as a CTO demands staying informed and strategic.[24:21] - According to Alex, to truly shake things up with tech, it's not about being just slightly better but rather ten times superior.[26:26] - Intuit prioritizes customer impact, aiming for tenfold improvement with AI innovations.[29:19] - Alex discusses how generative AI shifts tech to prioritizing accuracy over human fallibility, which requires education.[31:48] - Tech innovation now surpasses predictions; building adaptable organizations is key to embracing disruption.[34:08] - Alex points out that we should be embracing both practical and groundbreaking cases for innovation.[36:49] - Alex closes by encouraging community support, networking, and dreaming big to leverage technology for positive change.
We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Testimonials Video
Contact Etienne: Website / YouTube / LinkedIn / X / Instagram / The CTO Podcast WebsiteContact Alex: LinkedInSchedule a meeting with Etienne on Calendly


Get full access to CTO Podcast at www.ctopod.com/subscribe

Join Etienne on the latest episode of the CTO Podcast as he dives into the world of RF communication, encryption, and AI with Dell Kronewitter, Director of Technology at Fuze Integration!
Dell provides insights into encryption concepts like red and black sides and how they relate to secure communication. He and Etienne explore the fascinating world of satellite communications and the role of AI in a hybrid, highly regulated environment. From discussing the challenges of maintaining communication integrity amidst atmospheric interference to the intricacies of managing a hybrid engineering team, Dell shares valuable perspectives on navigating complex technological landscapes. Also discover how Fuze Integration leverages innovative solutions like the Virtual Network Testbed and the Tannen's Tactile Airborne Network Simulator to drive advancements in communication technology.
With insights into the evolving role of AI and machine learning in optimizing network performance, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the future of communication technology. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends technical expertise with real-world insights, providing a comprehensive overview of the cutting-edge developments shaping the world of RF communication and beyond!Time Stamps:[2:05] - Using a whiteboard as a crutch can complicate explanations and lose audience focus.[4:38] - At Fuze, Dell strengthens engineering processes, focusing on user-centric design.[5:54] - Dell explains how, in secure communication, Alice and Bob encrypt messages to keep Eve from intercepting.[8:25] - Dell’s work blends commercial and military tech, ensuring secure communication with patented innovations.[11:44] - The Encryptor, certified by the NSA, requires careful key handling for secure communication.[14:26] - Dell reveals that Satcom connections are often commercial; military radios include encryption for secure communication.[16:41] - Dell monitors for jamming and stores cross-layer information for analysis.[19:17] - The Blue Angels' close formations are achieved manually, showcasing remarkable piloting skills and coordination.[20:22] - Does Dell’s technology expand to satellites?[22:46] - Satellites use laser communication for cross-linking, benefiting from space's optimal conditions.[25:19] - Dell reveals how, after a prototype satellite launch, he left the company; Orbcomm launched eight satellites, landing boosters successfully.[28:07] - Dell manages standard configuration processes, integrating new tech and gathering customer input for product enhancement.[29:53] - Dell touches upon how integrating diverse teams presents challenges in product development.[31:23] - Dell employs Virtual Network Testbed for government projects, simulating RF channels for software refinement.[34:03] - Achieving fidelity in flight simulations requires control of multiple variables and data acquisition.[37:52] - Dell reflects on how navigating challenges in team dynamics and processes reveals evolving perspectives and improvements.[39:44] - Dell optimizes networks with machine learning, facing challenges in high-dimensional problems.
We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Testimonials Video
Contact Etienne: Website / YouTube / LinkedIn / X / Instagram / The CTO Podcast WebsiteContact Dell: LinkedInSchedule a meeting with Etienne on Calendly


Get full access to CTO Podcast at www.ctopod.com/subscribe

Etienne is excited to be sitting down with Mourad Zerroug, CTO of Splash, for a captivating conversation about their experiences as immigrants in the United States, diving into their respective backgrounds from Algeria and South Africa.
From there, the two explore Mourad's journey as a technology leader for nearly three decades, spanning various industries such as robotics, e-commerce, and event technology. With a PhD in computer science from the University of Southern California, Mourad shares some great insights into the evolving landscape of AI and its profound impact on developer teams.
Mourad and Etienne also discuss the transformative potential of AI tools like GitHub Copilot, offering a glimpse into how these technologies are reshaping the way engineers work and collaborate. Delving into broader themes of identity and societal change, they reflect on their African heritage and the shifting paradigms of communication in the age of generative AI.
Join Etienne and Mourad as they navigate the intersection of technology, culture, and human ingenuity in this thought-provoking episode.

Time Stamps:
[2:49] - Mourad argues that African identity embodies rich diversity in history, language, and culture, experienced personally and globally.
[4:11] -  Growing up bilingual, Mourad's accent reflects diverse linguistic influences.
[5:59] - Mourad highlights firsthand involvement in mentoring Algerian tech entrepreneurs, emphasizing innovation and problem-solving for economic development.
[8:02] - Mourad reflects on his journey having navigated language barriers and adapting his communication methods.
[9:35] - In his role as a CTO, Mourad navigates deploying innovation, leveraging tech advancements, and embracing AI's transformative power.
[12:16] - Etienne reflects on the profound impact of mobile technology, highlighting the shift towards collective knowledge and the implications of AI models like GPT.
[13:59] - Mourad delves into the transformative impact of AI, evolving beyond mere convenience to augmenting human intelligence.
[16:38] - Etienne marvels at AI's rapid learning curve, contrasting human learning with models' instant replication and comprehension.
[18:10] - Mourad discusses adapting to generative AI, bridging communication gaps.
[20:01] - Coding has changed in that expertise now lies in basic models accessible through natural language.
[23:18] - Mourad points out how professionals embrace AI for innovation, boosting efficiency, satisfying customers, and enhancing operations.
[26:36] - Learn how Mourad leverages enterprise solutions and AI, enhancing communication, messaging, and engagement.
[29:54] - GitHub Copilot's feedback indicates that it won't replace engineers but aids in code generation.
[31:37] - Mourad predicts that code generation tools hint at a future where verbal instructions may replace manual coding.
[34:42] - Emerging frameworks like AWS Bedrock and Hugging Face streamline application development.
[37:24] - Mourad feels that future programming could allow anyone to deploy complex applications using natural language prompts.
[38:59] - Etienne argues that generative AI reshapes our understanding of technology, blurring lines between user and machine interaction.
[41:43] - Mourad agrees, adding that current technology blurs the line between human behavior and technology, fostering an emotional connection.
[44:11] - Books on AI such as AI Superpowers by Kai-Fu Lee explore its global impact and geopolitical implications.



Get full access to CTO Podcast at www.ctopod.com/subscribe

Etienne is very excited to welcome Jennifer Cwagenberg, Head of Engineering at Protopia AI, to the podcast for an engaging discussion spanning technology, farming, and even the intersection of the two. Jennifer shares insights into her unique lifestyle as a technologist and baroness of Texas, where she navigates the balance between rural tranquility and technological challenges.
Their conversation delves into Jennifer's engineering journey, from her telecom beginnings to her diverse roles at companies like Match.com and Toyota, ultimately leading to her current role at Protopia AI. Jennifer provides a fascinating glimpse into Protopia's innovative approach to data protection for AI models, showcasing how their technology enables businesses to retain ownership of their data while still leveraging AI capabilities.
Beyond technology, Jennifer sheds light on the parallels between farming practices and engineering principles, highlighting the importance of efficiency, adaptability, and continuous improvement in both areas. Drawing parallels between optimizing soil health and streamlining code, Jennifer emphasizes the value of making the right practices easy for engineers, thus fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
The conversation also touches on team dynamics, tool preferences, and the importance of enforcing coding standards to ensure maintainability and scalability of projects. Jennifer's dedication to creating unified developer experiences truly highlights her commitment to streamlining processes and maximizing productivity within her team.
Join Etienne and Jennifer as they explore the fascinating intersection of technology, agriculture, and engineering philosophy, offering valuable insights for both seasoned professionals and aspiring technologists alike.


Time Stamps:
[2:07] - Jennifer points out how living in the countryside brings peace but lacks local community and good internet.
[3:35] - Jennifer shares that she transitioned from telecom to startups, experiencing acquisitions and now focuses on AI data protection.
[6:32] - Jennifer highlights the power and satisfaction of technology's immediate impact on society and individuals.
[9:10] - Jennifer thrives on challenges across various domains, including farming, showcasing adaptability and passion for problem-solving in engineering.
[12:48] - For her farm, adhering to no-till practices is crucial due to regulatory requirements and land conditions.
[13:47] - How does Jennifer put her engineering prowess to good use on her farm?
[16:19] - Both technology and farming require balancing effort - investing time wisely for impactful, achievable solutions.
[18:57] - As VP of Engineering, Jennifer manages teams, contributes individually, and fills business needs.
[20:23] - Protopia AI aims to unify developer experiences, leveraging VSCode for powerful collaboration and shared settings.
[22:33] - Reading the book Clean Code impacted Jennifer profoundly, emphasizing best practices for writing maintainable, readable code.
[25:30] - Jennifer points out that, as an engineer, managing various tasks from coding to security is challenging, but setting standards helps.
[28:05] - Jennifer explains that enforcing pre-commit practices improves feedback speed, though it's not universal; CI/CD rules ensure code quality.


Resources and Links Mentioned:
Robert C. Martin - Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftmanship
We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Testimonials Video
Contact Etienne: Website / YouTube / LinkedIn / X / Instagram / The CTO Podcast Website
Contact Jennifer: LinkedIn / Protopia AI Website
Schedule a meeting with Etienne on Calendly
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.


Get full access to CTO Podcast at www.ctopod.com/subscribe

Joining Etienne this week on the podcast is Sean Nam, the CTO of Ivy Energy. Etienne engages in a multifaceted conversation with Sean, and they touch upon the intricacies of supporting founders during fundraising to reflections on technology giants like Apple and Uber.
Sean provides insights into IV Energy's mission to revolutionize shared energy usage through solar platforms, shedding light on the challenges and innovations in the field, and as the conversation delves deeper, Sean and Etienne explore the dynamics of team management, fundraising endeavors, and the evolving role of a CTO. Sean's reflections on American democracy, viewed through the lens of a South African and a Korean immigrant, also add a thought-provoking layer to the discussion.
Sean also offers a candid exploration of the challenges of participating in a democracy amidst distractions and complexities, resonating with both disappointment and a call for collective action. Tune in for a compelling dialogue that blends technical expertise with societal insights, offering a glimpse into the complexities of modern leadership and civic engagement.


Time Stamps:
[1:25] - What are Sean’s thoughts on Apple Vision Pro?
[4:35] - Sean describes Ivy Energy’s mission.
[7:30] - Learn about Sean’s team dynamics.
[9:21] - Sean finds David Farley's insights refreshing, bridging software engineering with other technical disciplines.
[10:42] - Learn how Sean's journey to leadership at Ivy Energy stemmed from seizing unexpected opportunities and challenges.
[12:16] - Sean reflects on some of the lessons that he has been learning.
[13:24] - Reflecting on venture capital dynamics through media like "Super Pumped" informs Sean's approach.
[16:38] - Sean argues that effective collaboration between visionaries and their teams, like Steve Jobs with engineers, shapes success.
[18:04] - Sean touches upon the significance of risk assessment.
[20:01] - Balancing sales and marketing with product development ensures delivering on the promised vision.
[22:51] - Transitioning from software engineer to CTO, Sean has honed communication skills and adapted to delayed feedback in leadership.
[24:49] - Sean explains how giving feedback in a PR setting versus individually has a significant impact on individuals.
[26:01] - Sean recently saw a news story involving a lack of attention leading to bribery in West Virginia.
[28:30] - Etienne discusses how participating in democracy is challenging due to complexities; simpler systems are desired for all.
[30:02] - The flaw in the US voting system lies in its historical complexity and lack of modernization.
[33:10] - Sean asserts that politics becoming a show has led to exhaustion and disengagement and that systemic change requires collective effort.
[36:02] - Sean feels that restricting information and education perpetuates autocracy.


Resources and Links Mentioned:
David Farley - Modern Software Engineering: Doing What Works to Build Better Software Faster
We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Testimonials Video
Contact Etienne: Website / YouTube / LinkedIn / X / Instagram / The CTO Podcast Website
Contact Sean: LinkedIn
Schedule a meeting with Etienne on Calendly
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.


Get full access to CTO Podcast at www.ctopod.com/subscribe