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

Insights into AI and Beyond with Mourad Zerroug

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

Join Etienne in this episode as he interviews Allan Stewart, the lead engineer at SynkedUP, a groundbreaking startup focused on bridging the technological gaps in today’s digital world. Together, they unravel the threads of storytelling in The Lord of the Rings, explore the implications of Conway’s Law on organizational design and software development, and discuss coding challenges that leave even seasoned developers hesitant.

Allan touches upon his lifelong journey with Tolkien's work, showcasing how the tales have influenced his personal and professional life, and his unique perspective illuminates the profound impact of literature on technological creativity and problem-solving. The conversation also dissects Conway's Law and its profound influence on the architecture of software systems, mirroring the communication patterns within organizations.

Etienne and Allan also delve into a common dilemma in the tech world: the fear of modifying legacy code. Allan recounts tales from the trenches, revealing strategies to address the untouchable parts of a codebase that developers dread to alter. Their discussion serves as a critical reminder of the importance of fostering a culture that encourages innovation, transparency, and resilience in the face of technological challenges.

Allan’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the relationship between team dynamics and code quality, shedding light on how team structure can shape the final product, for better or worse. Whether you're a fan of Middle Earth, an aspiring engineer, and/or a seasoned CTO, this episode promises a treasure trove of wisdom and intriguing discussions that run the gamut of software development and beyond.



Time Stamps:

[1:43] - Allan discusses his love for The Lord of the Rings.

[3:45] - Allan explores Middle-earth's history through Christopher Tolkien's posthumous works, finding it rewarding.

[6:34] - Allan's reading habits are sporadic, recently focusing on the fifth volume of The History of Middle Earth.

[8:45] - Conway's Law suggests team dynamics shape software, stressing the importance of communication in development.

[10:58] - Software mirrors its development context, with team practices and incentives affecting the codebase's quality.

[12:22] - Etienne argues that hasty incentives can lead to poor coding practices and duplicated work to meet deadlines.

[14:07] - Financial motives of offshore teams often overlook comprehensive codebase care, highlighting the importance of aligning team incentives with quality goals.

[16:58] - Allan values trust in software audits and reiterates the importance of aligning developer incentives with principal goals.

[18:44] - Allan highlights how attitudes towards automated testing mirror Conway's Law, impacting developer confidence and code quality.

[20:50] - Allan critiques the dynamics between QA and developers, leading to defensive coding and diminished collaboration.

[24:39] - Understanding software complexity is challenging; relying on trusted opinions and monitoring development are important.

[27:12] - Etienne observes prolonged development times, suggesting collaborative code reading sessions for improved quality.

[29:14] - Allan emphasizes collaboration through pair and mob programming, involving all teams for active participation.

[31:42] - Hear why Allan prioritizes principles such as collaboration and automated testing over vague "best practices."

[33:46] - In large developer meetings, Allan points out, some may not speak up due to overcrowding, hindering valuable input.

[35:50] - Effective collaboration doesn't require everyone to do the same tasks simultaneously but involves coordination and acknowledgment of specialties.

[39:04] - Addressing fear and context changes requires transparency, incentives, and adaptable code stru

Crafting Code and Conquering Fear: A Journey Through Middle-Earth and Conway's Law

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 [https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Code-Handbook-Software-Craftsmanship/dp/0132350882/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RX3DXDJY5Y4C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eUeDq4BPqNYI52SOU-OcJ3C2KDn8vVIU9hv6jH6zzhubdV2DE0pPBkvkNes_9mX00bwFAdrWX4QvnuOBAKOK7kIDt7hVzxfwiovABJw4ttyHTXB9Qy8bpR6QuCq4F_J15-XlAJqDogr7amd9bF-5e46IidL5SsjIenfZyettJSI7OupyNwFfbq98ecZ-Nk9217dUHKodmC_wc5NODHAuKP2zei0UfnIGOcniommW6ss.WspR_RGSLaR-BKtqtP_JnR_0-xsCtiz6dm1lzQnZZUc&dib_tag=se&keywords=clean+code&qid=1711150837&s=books&sprefix=clean+code%2Cstripbooks%2C95&sr=1-1] 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

From Code to Cattle: Parallels Between Technology and Farming with Jennifer Cwagenberg

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 [https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Software-Engineering-Discipline-Development/dp/0137314914/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Fj7nnfynP6xBKp43hvnqZNgNlF4tUNouXyCL0s8NPXsk-PNnZdOm9hMayLvcALKUKSjW9lX9ztTs0eLZLxdxvA.u9lxpy8Pwxd74x6axfDsSQIxF7huaRvCsr0e-FDzKJU&qid=1710873672&sr=1-2] 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Software-Engineering-Discipline-Development/dp/0137314914/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Fj7nnfynP6xBKp43hvnqZNgNlF4tUNouXyCL0s8NPXsk-PNnZdOm9hMayLvcALKUKSjW9lX9ztTs0eLZLxdxvA.u9lxpy8Pwxd74x6axfDsSQIxF7huaRvCsr0e-FDzKJU&qid=1710873672&sr=1-2]

The Realities of Fundraising with Sean Nam

Etienne is thrilled to sit down with Tracie Hlavka, former CTO of Flyhomes, to discuss the tumultuous journey of rapid scale and the poignant process of winding down a company. Tracie reflects on her experience navigating the job market amidst layoffs and shifting funding landscapes, shedding light on the challenges of finding the right fit in a tough market.

Tracie and Etienne also delve into the complexities of managing a tech team during rapid growth and downsizing, highlighting the delicate balance between building scalable systems and adapting to changing circumstances. Tracie shares insights into the intricacies of hiring and team organization, emphasizing the importance of aligning technology with business objectives and fostering a culture of resilience.

The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of layoffs and the significance of empathetic leadership in times of transition. As Tracie explores her journey of self-discovery and career exploration, she also reflects on the lessons learned from the book Designing Your Life [https://www.amazon.com/Designing-Your-Life-Well-Lived-Joyful/dp/1101875321/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QxCsh0-mkd76Quzh0NkJQ6jBNzoUIB5nbGdvE03EzEC-Lizyn76S2w8gF-cLPqBbiMCGIrkR2y6z4ZDT5b6-GsOsxuBam4LF6a42fXv1issCPiP5RyATjZku02L8OAmTe0hLUOnbRW-X6l3qvSpABfu664TeLQR1F33KpGmnqUR331OlKb3ouoVn2_kzBGTtBPVB8LsvA4y2Q4jyMA-8ZuluosGlGxzv4YwNlB-YVaw.hQunhfFrWDSUXq8tKXl6bb3TnPgcIPZJ6lLMN42Eu_s&qid=1710379845&sr=1-1] and the value of embracing possibility amidst uncertainty. Join Etienne and Tracie as they navigate the highs and lows of the tech industry, offering valuable insights for CTOs and aspiring leaders alike.



Time Stamps:

[1:59] - Tracie finds the current market tough, especially for series B/C startups and consumer-facing ventures.

[3:44] - Tracie sees a challenging cycle in rapid scaling, grappling with evolving processes and clinging to past achievements.

[6:21] - Hear how Tracie finds rapid scaling exhilarating, despite its challenges, embracing the process of hiring and growth.

[8:21] - Tracie relishes the challenge of building systems and teams to support rapid company growth.

[10:59] - For each hire, Tracie conducts around ten interviews, with approximately 100 applicants for consideration.

[13:30] - Tracie argues that hiring can initially be inefficient, requiring time for new hires to integrate and become productive.

[16:57] - Tracie advocates for yearly adjustments in team structure to match business needs, balancing deep expertise with innovation.

[20:02] - Managing code boundaries and team dynamics becomes challenging when splitting teams to match organizational growth.

[23:40] - Tracie points out that educating about realistic technology expectations involves managing the desire to scale prototypes instantly.

[24:44] - Tracie argues for the importance of handling layoffs with empathy.

[26:24] - Adapting to rapid changes requires adjusting systems.

[29:35] - Tracie shares that she found solace in taking time off and exploring the book Designing Your Life to navigate career choices.

[30:49] - Exploring alternative scenarios and milestones through exercises fosters openness to new possibilities and insights.



Resources and Links Mentioned:

Navigating the Rollercoaster: From Rapid Growth to Unwinding with Tracie Hlavka

Etienne is very happy to be sitting down with Matt Van Itallie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvi/], founder of Sema [https://www.semasoftware.com/], a company that develops software to help engineering leaders manage AI in software development. As they delve into their shared experiences of learning to code on vintage machines, they explore Matt's journey from studying philosophy to founding Sema.

The conversation takes a philosophical turn, discussing pragmatism in decision-making and the importance of clarifying outcomes, and Etienne and Matt also dissect the complexities of C-suite dynamics and the challenges of resolving conflicts within leadership teams. Matt shares insights on the significance of developer retention and the metrics that matter most on a CTO dashboard, and the discussion touches on the art of listening, empathy, and the power of effective communication within organizations.

As they plan a session on pivot tables, Matt also emphasizes the value of community, highlighting the support and inspiration found in groups like 7CTOs. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, problem-solving, and the human side of technology!



Time Stamps:

[2:09] - Learn how Matt [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvi/]’s academic journey expanded with a focus on law's evolution and late 19th-century pragmatism.

[4:56] - Matt argues that our brains seek to make sense of things.

[7:24] - Etienne reflects on navigating conflicting perspectives among C-Suite members, highlighting the challenge of coherence.

[10:23] - Focus on critical outcomes, not just outputs.

[12:25] - Matt emphasizes fostering understanding through clarifying outcomes and promoting inclusive dialogue and contributions.

[15:58] - Matt suggests identifying underlying causes of communication issues and resolving conflicts promptly for organizational success.

[16:40] - Hear how Matt prioritizes organizational goals over personal interests, advocating for a values-based decision-making approach.

[18:46] - Matt explains how Sema [https://www.semasoftware.com/] goes about making decisions pragmatically.

[21:07] - The opposite of pragmatism might be scrutiny, but pragmatism focuses on moving forward effectively.

[24:45] - Mastering pivot tables symbolizes problem-solving prowess, transforming decision-making with raw data access.

[28:03] - Discover how pivotal moments led to Sema's inception in 2015, spurred by tech challenges and leadership insights.

[30:50] - Matt explains how, inspired by a Bloomberg article, he delved into tech research in 2015, seeking innovation.

[32:25] - Matt pursued tech research, seeking licenses from 250 professors; one acceptance birthed Sema.

[34:40] - Matt discusses developer retention, a pivotal metric, and how it holds 25 points on Sema's 100-point scale.

[37:40] - Etienne shares a story in which a key developer's silence flagged a possible departure, highlighting the important role of product vision clarity.

[39:16] - Matt asserts that effective people management discerns subtle shifts in participation, vital for organizational success and cohesion.

[41:49] - Matt encourages us to prioritize listening qualitatively to one's team before relying solely on data-driven tools.

[43:44] - Etienne agrees, adding that mastering listening is as complex as it is crucial, often underestimated despite its profound impact.



We have 200+ CTOs in peer groups: Quick Testimonials Video [https://vimeo.com/735813265/ef29b60d2e]

Contact Etienne:

From Pragmatism to Pivot Tables: Navigating Leadership, Philosophy, and Data Mastery with Matt Van Itallie

Etienne sits down with Krijn van der Raadt [https://www.leadcto.com/], a seasoned CTO with a rich history of steering both startups and established tech giants toward successful exits. Krijn, now a fractional CTO and advisor to startups, shares insights gained and collaborative problem-solving experiences with fellow CTOs. They explore the challenges of transitioning from a technical role to a leadership position and the common pitfalls faced by startups when scaling their engineering teams.

Dive into the conversation as Krijn reflects on his journey from Great Call to Health App Folio, discussing leadership styles, organizational structures, and the Goldilocks rate of growth. The episode unfolds with a fascinating discussion on managing budgets in different scenarios, exploring the nuances of constrained vs. surplus spending and the impact on team motivation.

Krijn also sheds light on his passion for preparedness and frugality, drawing parallels between his Dutch background and his approach to leadership. Etienne and Krijn delve into the significance of scarcity as an inspiration for quality work, touching on the dynamics of team motivation and purpose.

The episode takes a turn into the realm of simulations and imagination, where Krijn recommends Jane McGonigal's Imaginable [https://www.amazon.com/Imaginable-Create-Hopeful-Future_in-Community/dp/1954118333/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ukyDD7ZnhH-P3xKS215Mcv3fXWFRphLJ65Fjwe8Wa5QTCgUq-tsiigUyn6G4skbWVkfLy_jQgzB7O2IvjJ26iEg4rmbxqDg2YAuEuF0VU06AwIYUQhLyAYrjC_Pjz4zpPvvNL3Zpc54zApD93l1mWOBgDoxl0x7BL6CVYJ-SJbFCgCwLKkdN7PT-nhsqMePH-v1PWJ33Jo4ekezmnCfQIw.velIGnjucvC9YWqA-e9zabQBJeAY9go-iEWcuL6rdLA&qid=1709616721&sr=1-1]. Discover how the lessons from simulations can transform leadership approaches, enhance team collaboration, and prepare for unforeseen challenges.

Krijn wraps up with insights into tools like ChatGPT and Jupyter notebooks, offering practical tips for effective utilization. Tune in to explore the multifaceted world of leadership, technology, and the human element with Krijn and Etienne in this engaging and insightful episode.



Time Stamps:

[2:57] - Krijn [https://www.leadcto.com/] highlights the challenges of evolving from a founding engineer to an effective CTO in startups.

[4:33] - Etienne and Krijn discuss the fascination of transitioning from a technical role to a leadership position.

[6:46] - Krijn shares his experiences with constrained spending and the motivation it provides for quality work.

[9:11] - The discussion turns to the impact of excessive funds on team motivation and product success.

[11:37] - Krijn relates his passion for preparedness, fiscal responsibility, and strategic planning.

[13:19] - Krijn reflects on Jane McGonigal's Imaginable [https://www.amazon.com/Imaginable-Create-Hopeful-Future_in-Community/dp/1954118333/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ukyDD7ZnhH-P3xKS215Mcv3fXWFRphLJ65Fjwe8Wa5QTCgUq-tsiigUyn6G4skbWVkfLy_jQgzB7O2IvjJ26iEg4rmbxqDg2YAuEuF0VU06AwIYUQhLyAYrjC_Pjz4zpPvvNL3Zpc54zApD93l1mWOBgDoxl0x7BL6CVYJ-SJbFCgCwLKkdN7PT-nhsqMePH-v1PWJ33Jo4ekezmnCfQIw.velIGnjucvC9YWqA-e9zabQBJeAY9go-iEWcuL6rdLA&qid=1709616721&sr=1-1] and its influence on leadership and team collaboration.

[17:39] - Etienne delves into the importance of bringing stakeholders along through scenario painting.

[20:53] - Listen as Krijn highlights the value of ChatGPT and AI tools in enhancing productivity and problem-solving.

[23:19] - Krijn advocates for the widespread adoption of tools like Copilot and ChatGPT for increased produc

CTO Leadership: Navigating Startup Realities and Inspiring Teams with Krijn Van der Raadt

Kevin Goldsmith, a seasoned CTO, mentor, and principal at Nimble Autonomy, joins the conversation today as we discuss Kevin's journey in technology leadership across the US, Sweden, and the UK, touching on his experiences and the release of his new book, It Depends: Writing on Technology Leadership 2012 to 2022 [https://itdependsbook.net/].

The discussion covers technology adoption, with a focus on ChatGPT and its recent Teams product. Kevin reveals how his team embraced ChatGPT, its role in policy creation, and the advantages of the Teams program for collaborative work. The conversation unfolds into a deeper exploration of the evolving role of CTOs, the future landscape for aspiring leaders, and the potential impact of advanced tools on development processes.

Kevin, in addition, sheds light on the creation of his book, sharing insights into the inspiration behind the title It Depends and the unique approach that he took in preserving the original context of his blog posts. He touches on the audiobook creation process and the decision to self-release, emphasizing accessibility and convenience for readers.

Kevin also offers us a glimpse into his vision for the future, both in terms of technology leadership and the evolving capabilities of generative text generators like ChatGPT. The candid and insightful conversation provides listeners with a multifaceted view of technology, leadership, and the intricate balance between innovation and the human touch, and you won't want to miss this conversation.



Time Stamps:

[00:33] - Kevin Goldsmith joins us today!

[03:42] - Kevin candidly shares that after years of struggling to quit smoking, he successfully quit when his child was conceived.

[04:45] - Armed with a PhD in neuroscience, Kevin quit smoking cold turkey after moving to Europe.

[07:38] - Having faced the challenge of using smoking breaks to clear his mind, Kevin now copes differently.

[09:27] - Reflecting on sixteen years without smoking, Kevin recalls a unique experience at Microsoft leveraging smokers' restlessness.

[11:32] - Kevin admits that, even in his pre-smoking days, he sometimes consciously chose to smoke influenced by the band scene that he was part of.

[13:05] - Eager to explore new technologies, Kevin's team embraced ChatGPT, finding it to be a valuable and helpful tool.

[15:42] - Kevin shares how ChatGPT has been a valuable tool for writing policies, streamlining their creation.

[17:44] - Opting for efficiency in creating his book [https://itdependsbook.net/]'s index, Kevin used ChatGPT to automate the process.

[19:03] - Kevin reflects on his role as a CTO, valuing his longevity.

[20:29] - Kevin finds the diverse career paths of CTOs fascinating, noting the changed landscape enabling quicker advancements.

[23:39] - Reflecting on the evolution of the CTO role, Kevin sees a richer learning landscape today.

[27:42] - Kevin likens tools like ChatGPT to skilled interns, adept at routine tasks, but not for inventive or complex challenges.

[29:57] - Despite excitement and venture capitalist interest, some ideas have never materialized or panned out.

[32:57] - Kevin discusses how the new product, akin to ChatGPT+, offers additional features like admin interface, privacy settings, and team chat sharing.

[35:09] - Kevin encourages using ChatGPT to seek code suggestions and streamline tasks, emphasizing its value despite initial skepticism.

[39:29] - Preserving the original context of blog posts, Kevin's book, It Depends, explores timeless tech leadership themes.

[41:01] - The book's title reflects Kevin's philosophy on nuanced technology leadership, emphasizing decision-making that depends on context.

[43:42] - Kevin s

Leadership, Technology, and the “It Depends” Philosophy: Insights from Kevin Goldsmith

Join us this week as we have David Heinemeier Hansson on the show to explore various aspects of his experiences and philosophies. The episode covers a wide range of topics, from time management strategies to dealing with criticism and engagement in open-source communities. David shares insights into his daily routine, emphasizing the importance of adapting it based on the nature of the work. The concept of "buckets of time" and using tools like "Reply Later" for efficient email processing are highlighted.



The conversation takes a dive into the significance of embracing boredom for creativity and the value of managing one's time in distinct buckets, whether weekly, monthly, or yearly. David shares with us his approach to handling criticism, with stoicism as his mental operating system, and the evolution of his engagement in the Rails [https://rubyonrails.org/] community.



The focus also shifts to the development of Hey.com, the challenges of achieving feature parity, and the importance of building new products with a revolutionary feel rather than replicating existing solutions. The hosts inquire about David's decision-making process, which he describes as primarily intuitive, relying on gut feelings derived from experience, rather than scientific.



We explore the concept of compatibility in business partnerships and offer insights into recognizing and addressing compatibility issues early on. We also discuss Basecamp's exit from the cloud, with David elaborating on the decision-making process and the cost considerations. You won't want to miss this conversation, as it provides a glimpse into David's mindset, experiences, and lessons learned over the years, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs and enthusiasts alike!



Time Stamps:

[00:33] - We are joined by David Heinemeier Hansson in this episode!

[04:03] - David explains how he manages his time, using what he calls “buckets of time.”

[07:06] - Using a “Reply Later” feature with email helps David manage emails in bulk.

[09:41] - We learn a little bit about David’s daily routine.

[12:40] - According to David, boredom is a powerful conduit for creativity.

[15:40] - David considers Ruby on Rails [https://rubyonrails.org/] to be a creative outlet for him.

[17:53] - Dealing with feedback and criticism involves perceiving it through a Stoic mindset, allowing intentional detachment.

[20:39] - David argues that wishing to change the world is futile; Stoicism guides focusing on controllable aspects for productivity.

[24:40] - Etienne shifts the conversation toward panel gaps.

[28:22] - David's decision-making relies almost entirely on intuition, embracing possibilities, avoiding exhaustive analysis, and prioritizing creativity over conventional metrics.

[32:09] - David advises against squandering crucial years and to engage with the world with strength and integrity.

[35:48] - David discusses his business partnership with Jason Fried.

[39:29] - Spending decades with an incompatible partner is challenging; finding compatibility early is crucial for success.

[43:13] - Choosing collaborators involves a simple rule: work with those you vibe with, making collaboration smoother.

[44:43] - David adds that choosing partners, whether in business or romance, involves chemistry; connection matters more than checkboxes.

[46:36] - Reflecting on his growth as a writer, David appreciates past phases.

[50:03] - David explains why Basecamp exited the Cloud.

[53:15] - Migrating from cloud to in-house infrastructure saves costs which is crucial for business sustainability.

[56:10] - The challenges lie in the unpredictability of lucrative credits, sudden soaring costs, and managing profit

Time Buckets and Stoic Operating Systems: Insights with David Heinemeier Hansson

If you are a Chief Technology Officer of a startup or you hope to be one then
this podcast is for you! Every week we talk about time management, hiring
strategies and better leadership in the C-Suite. We talk to world class CTO
Coaches as well as top technologists in spaces like Crypto, AI, Web3 and scaling
tech companies. Etienne de Bruin is the founder of 7CTOs which offers peer
groups for technology executives that meet on a monthly basis. These groups are
lead by our hand picked coaches to help the CTO get unstuck faster, have a
sounding board for ideas and share important resources to meet goals more
effectively. Check us out 7ctos.com.

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