248. Q&A Episode: How to Keep Tech Teams On Track Without Micromanaging

Tech for Non-Techies

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

הוסף לפני four שנים

תוכן מסופק על ידי Sophia Matveeva. כל תוכן הפודקאסטים כולל פרקים, גרפיקה ותיאורי פודקאסטים מועלים ומסופקים ישירות על ידי Sophia Matveeva או שותף פלטפורמת הפודקאסט שלהם. אם אתה מאמין שמישהו משתמש ביצירה שלך המוגנת בזכויות יוצרים ללא רשותך, אתה יכול לעקוב אחר התהליך המתואר כאן https://he.player.fm/legal.

Curated Questions: Conversations Celebrating the Power of Questions!

1
How Bridge-Building Questions Cross Divides! | Frank Sesno #58

לפני 5 ימים

הפעל מאוחר יותר

רשימות

לייק

אהבתי

—

"I'm gonna make an appointment with my curiosity." - Frank Sesno Emmy award-winning journalist Frank Sesno shares how curiosity and strategic questioning shaped his four-decade career covering presidents and world leaders as CNN's Washington Bureau Chief and White House correspondent. From a fourth-grade question about astronauts to interviewing five U.S. presidents, Frank reveals the power of deliberate curiosity and active listening. Frank breaks down his approach to preparing for high-stakes interviews, explaining how he blocks conversations into thematic acts while remaining flexible. He introduces the "echo question" technique, which is simply repeating a person's emotionally charged word back to them, that transforms surface answers into more profound truths. Frank emphasizes that the best questioners are the best listeners, focusing on what people say and what they don't say. In "Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change," Frank discusses why bridge-building questions are critical in our polarized moment. He explores how AI makes human curiosity more valuable and shares his practice of "making an appointment with curiosity" to create time to deliberately formulate meaningful questions. This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com . Keep questioning! Episode Notes 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:04 Meet Frank Sesno: A Legendary Journalist 03:05 Early Encounters with the Power of Questions 05:01 Curiosity Encouraged: School Days 05:54 The Art of Interviewing: Following Curiosity 08:37 Touchstone Moments in Journalism 09:35 Holding Power to Account 10:42 The Journey to Asking Tough Questions 12:48 Understanding Human Stories 18:25 Complexity of Human Experience 22:38 Listening: The Key to Great Questions 24:37 Echo Questions: A Powerful Technique 27:29 Preparing for Interviews: A Structured Approach 29:40 Structuring Interview Questions 30:27 The Importance of Flexibility in Interviews 31:16 The Power of Walking and Reflecting 32:01 Lessons from the Galapagos 34:13 Traveling with Curiosity 36:38 Fostering Curiosity in Students 40:46 Question Categories That Are Needed Today 47:04 The Role of AI in Questioning 50:39 The Human Touch in Questioning 52:21 Building Rapport with Interviewees 53:26 The Right Now Question 53:54 Finding Hope in Challenging Times 57:26 Connecting with Frank Sesno 58:51 Summary and Takeaways Resources Mentioned Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change by Frank Sesno The Sesno Series George Washington University Senator Mark Warner George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs Washington Post Shohei Otani Yoshinobu Yamamoto Los Angeles Dodgers Nancy Kanwisher Cal Fussman Plant Forward Storyfest Competition Galapagos Islands Lindblad Expeditions 1882 Morgan Silver Dollar Nancy Pelosi Frank Sesno on LinkedIn Frank Sesno website Producer Ben Ford Beauty Pill…

לפני שנה 15:28

MP3•בית הפרקים

Here are the listener questions Sophia Matveeva answers in this episode:

What should I be asking in product meetings if I don't have a technical background?
I'm leading a digital transformation initiative, but my tech team keeps telling me things take longer than expected. Should I push back? How?
How do I know if I need a technical co-founder, or if I can build my product with an agency or no-code tools?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

FREE download: Anonymous Survey on the Tech–Business Divide
YouTube: How to Work with Developers: A Guide for Non-Technical Leaders

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:29 Navigating Product Meetings Without Technical Background

06:15 Managing Digital Transformation Timelines

10:56 Technical Co-Founder or Agency?

For the transcript, go to: https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/248-q-a-episode-how-to-keep-tech-teams-on-track-without-micromanaging

For more career & tech lessons, subscribe to Tech for Non-Techies on:

FREE COURSE:

5 Tech Concepts Every Business Leader Needs To Know

Growth Through Innovation

If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here.

Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University.

279 פרקים

#Business #Sophia Matveeva #Bigtech #Entrepreneurship #Enty #Investors #Productmanagement #Sophiamatveeva #Techfornontechies #Technology #Technologybusiness #Technologysector #Tfnt #Accelerator #Tech #Entrepreneur #Founders #Startups

248. Q&A Episode: How to Keep Tech Teams On Track Without Micromanaging

Tech for Non-Techies

published לפני שנה

שתפו

MP3•בית הפרקים

Here are the listener questions Sophia Matveeva answers in this episode:

What should I be asking in product meetings if I don't have a technical background?
I'm leading a digital transformation initiative, but my tech team keeps telling me things take longer than expected. Should I push back? How?
How do I know if I need a technical co-founder, or if I can build my product with an agency or no-code tools?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

FREE download: Anonymous Survey on the Tech–Business Divide
YouTube: How to Work with Developers: A Guide for Non-Technical Leaders

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:29 Navigating Product Meetings Without Technical Background

06:15 Managing Digital Transformation Timelines

10:56 Technical Co-Founder or Agency?

For the transcript, go to: https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/248-q-a-episode-how-to-keep-tech-teams-on-track-without-micromanaging

For more career & tech lessons, subscribe to Tech for Non-Techies on:

FREE COURSE:

5 Tech Concepts Every Business Leader Needs To Know

Growth Through Innovation

If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here.

Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University.

279 פרקים

כל הפרקים

1
279: What to Do If You've Already Spent $100K on Developers and Have Nothing to Show for It 26:24

לפני 6 ימים26:24

26:24

Founders assume that if they just hire "good developers," the product will magically take shape. Sadly, that's rarely what happens. Too many non-technical founders burn through $50K … $80K … even $100K, only to end up with half-baked code and zero users. Not because they're careless but because they skip the unsexy, zero-glamour work that actually protects their budget. In this episode of Tech for Non-Techies, Sophia Matveeva breaks down the real reason this problem keeps happening and what to do if you're already deep in the mess. In this episode, you will hear: The hidden trap that causes founders to waste $50K–$100K before they even realise it Why skipping design validation guarantees confusion, rework, and blown budgets What to salvage from a broken build and what to ruthlessly cut The one mindset shift that stops perfectionism from quietly killing your product Resources from this Episode Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/279-what-to-do-if-you-ve-already-spent-100k-on-developers-and-have-nothing-to-show-for-it .…

1
278: The One Success Metric Every Non‑Technical Founder Must Know (Encore) 14:21

לפני 13 ימים14:21

14:21

Many founders think their product's success can be measured in downloads or revenue. But here's the truth: those are business outcomes, not product goals. In this encore episode, Sophia breaks down the one success metric that every non-technical founder must understand before leading a tech team or pitching investors. By the end, you'll know how to lead with clarity, ask sharper questions, and track the metric that matters most — without writing a single line of code. In this episode, you will hear: The one metric that separates product success from business success Why Airbnb's "nights booked" and Facebook's "daily active users" tell investors everything they need to know The mistake most non-technical founders make when they tell teams to "make more money" How to connect product goals to business results without confusing your developers Resources from this Episode Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/278-the-one-success-metric-every-non-technical-founder-must-know-encore…

1
277: Why You Shouldn't Use AI to Build Your Product 34:15

לפני 20 ימים34:15

34:15

Every founder is looking for ways to save time and money. And right now, AI promises both. But here's the catch: while AI can write code, it can't think through your product's logic, security, or scalability. The result? A shiny prototype that collapses under real-world use. In this episode of Tech for Non-Techies, Sophia Matveeva interviews Natalie Kaminski, CEO of JetRockets, with a knack for bridging the gap between non-tech founders and the digital world. With experience spanning multiple countries and roles she brings a hands-on approach to turning ideas into real, successful products. At JetRockets, she leads a global team focused on building high-quality Ruby on Rails platforms that align perfectly with business goals. Sophia and Natalie unpack the limits of AI in product development, why "AI-native" platforms often fail at the fundamentals, and what happens when shortcuts lead to security nightmares. In this episode, you will hear: When to use AI for fast prototyping and when to bring in engineers The "toilet in the living room" test for spotting bad product architecture Why great developers are more valuable than ever in the AI era The red flags that signal a product quote is too cheap to trust Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Resources from this Episode Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here . Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/277-why-you-shouldn-t-use-ai-to-build-your-product…

1
276: How AI is Reshuffling the Rules of Business 38:22

לפני 27 ימים38:22

38:22

How many founders think AI is about faster automation? What if the real opportunity lies in reimagining how entire systems work? Sophia Matveeva sits down with Sangeet Paul Choudary, best-selling author of Platform Revolution and Re/Shuffle: Who Wins When AI Restacks the Knowledge Economy, to explore how AI isn't just speeding up workflows. It's rewriting the rules of business models. From TikTok's behavior-driven growth to Shein's algorithmic supply chain, Sangeet explains how AI coordination is quietly reshaping industries. You'll learn why being a "second mover" might now be an advantage, and how to design your company around AI's strengths instead of bolting it on as a tool. In this episode, you will hear: The difference between using AI for automation and building an AI-first business How Shein's real-time supply chain sensing outpaces Nike's legacy model Why "first mover advantage" is outdated in the age of AI The simple framework Sangeet uses to identify what won't change—no matter how fast tech evolves Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Resources from this Episode Book: Reshuffle: Who wins when AI restacks the knowledge economy https://amzn.to/4n7NgF2 Podcast: listen to the platform series on Tech for Non-Techies: Tech for Non-Techies episode 90: What makes platform businesses SO successful https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/platforms-episode Tech for Non-Techies episode 91. How to launch a platform when you've got no users https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/chicken Tech for Non-Techies episode 92. How to get people to be nice to each other on your platform https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/how-to-get-people-to-be-nice-to-each-other-on-your-platform Tech for Non-Techies episode 94. Learning effects: why getting more users isn't the only key to success https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/learning-effects-why-getting-more-users-isnt-the-only-key-to-success Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/276-how-ai-is-reshuffling-the-rules-of-business…

1
275: 5 Founder Lessons From the JP Morgan Tech Conference 25:08

לפני 5 weeks25:08

25:08

What separates founders who make it from those who stall out? After spending two days surrounded by billion-dollar CEOs and investors at JP Morgan's Tech Investor Conference in London, Sophia Matveeva discovered that the conversations happening in those rooms reveal far more than market gossip. They hold the blueprint for building resilient, fundable tech companies. Whether you're preparing to fundraise, expand internationally, or simply sharpen your strategy, this episode gives you a rare look at how top leaders think and how you can apply those insights to your own company's next move. In this episode, you will hear: Why AI adoption has shifted from hype to hard-nosed cost-cutting and how that affects startup strategy How to lead investors with confidence by defining your own market story What separates founders from hired executives when pitching and performing under pressure The mindset principle that football legend Thierry Henry shared that every founder should apply Resources from this Episode Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/275-5-founder-lessons-from-the-jp-morgan-tech-conference…

1
274: The Non-Technical Founder Mindset: How to Lead When You Can't Code 19:09

לפני 6 weeks19:09

19:09

Many startups collapse not because the idea fails, but because the pressure gets unbearable. Sadly, it's not strategy or funding that takes them out. It's the grind, the chaos, and the sheer mental weight of building something new. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva shares three mindset shifts that every non-technical founder needs to survive the rollercoaster. From moving past imposter syndrome to staying calm when launches stall, these are practical tools to help you think strategically when everyone else panics. Listen in and learn how to turn pressure into your unfair advantage. In this episode, you will hear: How to flip imposter syndrome into your founder superpower Why panic kills good decisions — and the simple reset that keeps you strategic The hidden advantage of owning what you don't know How to turn flops into fuel for innovation instead of founder burnout Resources from this Episode Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/274-the-non-technical-founder-mindset-how-to-lead-when-you-can-t-code…

1
273: What AI Can (and Can't) Do for Non-Technical Founders 16:17

לפני 7 weeks16:17

16:17

Founders love the idea of skipping engineers and letting AI code their dream app. Sadly, that dream falls apart fast. AI can write code, but it also hallucinates, breaks in production, and leaves you with messes you can't fix if you're not a coder. What looks like a shortcut turns into a costly detour. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva shows you where AI really helps founders—and where it doesn't. You'll learn how to use AI to design prototypes, validate features, and impress investors without blowing thousands on guesswork. And you'll hear why scaling, security, and serious launches still require pros. In this episode, you will hear: Why AI won't replace developers — and what it actually does well for founders How to turn an idea into a prototype that impresses users and investors The hidden risks of "vibe coding" every non-technical founder should know When to call in engineers, and how to avoid wasting money before you do Resources from this Episode Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/273-what-ai-can-and-can-t-do-for-non-technical-founders…

1
272: Why This Is the Best Time to Be a Non-Technical Founder 19:09

לפני 8 weeks19:09

19:09

For years, non-technical founders were second class citizens in tech. Not anymore. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva shares five reasons why today is the best time in history to start a tech venture without being a coder — and why, in some cases, non-technical founders actually have the advantage. You'll learn: Why investors are backing non-technical founders more than ever How AI and no-code slash startup costs from $35,000 to $20 Why niche markets are exploding — and how to spot them How global talent and cheaper tools make launching safer and faster Why distribution — not code — decides which products win This episode will leave you inspired and equipped to take your next step as a founder — even if you can't write a single line of code. 🎧 Listen now and see why this is your moment. Free AI Mini-Workshop for Non-Technical Founders Learn how to go from idea to a tested product using AI — in under 30 minutes, plus get a downloadable framework. Get free access here: techfornontechies.co/aiclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/272-why-this-is-the-best-time-to-be-a-non-technical-founder…

1
271: What Big Tech Taught Me About Leading Without Code 25:25

לפני 9 weeks25:25

25:25

Can you really lead a tech company if you're not technical yourself? David Windley has done exactly that. He's the former CHRO at Yahoo, held senior HR roles at Microsoft, Intuit, and Activision, scaled a startup from under $1M to $50M as CEO, and now leads HootRecruit — a recruiting tech company. David has spent his career at the intersection of people, technology, and leadership. Listen to this episode to learn: How non-technical founders blow it when hiring their first developers Why a startup CTO is nothing like a corporate CTO The "Windley Rule" — why engineers must make sure you understand, not the other way around If you've ever felt shut out of the tech conversation because you don't code, this episode will show you how to step up as a leader. Resources from this Episode Tech for Non-Technical Founders course https://www.techfornontechies.co/tech-for-non-technical-founders Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here . Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/271-what-big-tech-taught-me-about-leading-without-code…

1
270: Real People, Real Startups: Lessons from Our Alumni 17:31

לפני 10 weeks17:31

17:31

Most people think you need to be a Silicon Valley insider — or have millions in funding — to start a tech venture. That's just not true. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva shares the journeys of four Tech for Non-Techies alumni who built products and startups without writing a single line of code. You'll learn: How a dentist turned lockdown frustration into a healthtech app (and how you can spot opportunities in your own field). Why a fund manager realised he didn't need to code — and the mindset shift that freed him to start building. How a CFO uses tech knowledge to make smarter investment decisions (lessons every business leader can apply). The simple framework a banker used to launch her startup on the side, while keeping her day job. You'll hear directly from Tech for Non-Techies alumni Dr. Marilyn Sandor, Musi Skosana, Gustavo Juarez, and Zahra Almahoozi — and walk away with practical takeaways you can use to move your own idea forward. If you've ever caught yourself thinking "someone like me couldn't do that," this episode is proof that you can. Resources from this Episode FREE class: Build a Startup WITHOUT Learning to Code https://www.techfornontechies.co/freeclass Tech for Non-Technical Founders course: https://www.techfornontechies.co/tech-for-non-technical-founders Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here . Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/270-real-people-real-startups-lessons-from-our-alumni…

1
269: 4 Non-Technical Founders Who Built Billion-Dollar Tech Empires 18:41

לפני 11 weeks18:41

18:41

Most founders think you need to be technical to build a billion-dollar company. But some of the world's biggest tech giants were started by people who never wrote a single line of code. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva unpacks the journeys of four non-technical founders who rewrote the rules of business. In this episode, you will hear: How Steve Jobs proved that design instincts can beat coding skills Why Jack Ma's 30 job rejections became his unfair advantage in building Alibaba The broke rent payment that sparked Airbnb's $80B global empire What Katrina Lake's Stitch Fix IPO teaches about trusting customers over investors Resources from this Episode https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/how-companies-really-use-ai FREE CLASS: Build a Startup WITHOUT Learning to Code https://www.techfornontechies.co/freeclass Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here. Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/269-4-non-technical-founders-who-built-billion-dollar-tech-empires…

1
268: How to Align Founders and Investors (Before Things Go Wrong) 42:52

לפני 12 weeks42:52

42:52

Most founders think securing investors will solve all their problems. But fundraising often creates a new set of challenges—misaligned expectations, endless reporting requests, and pressure that pulls focus from building the business. The truth is, raising capital isn't just about money. It's about relationships, trust, and knowing when to push back. In this episode, you'll learn from Jeffrey Fidelman, founder and managing director of Fidelman & Company, which is on Inc.'s list of America's fastest-growing companies. Jeffrey has worked at Morgan Stanley, been a partner at a venture fund, and now advises early and mid-stage companies on growth and fundraising strategy. He shares what founders should realistically expect from investors, how to set boundaries without burning bridges, and why today's tools—like AI and no-code—make it possible to show traction before raising a single dollar In this episode, you will hear: Why some investors secretly derail startups — and how to spot them early The hidden risk of over-delivering for your investors (and how to say no) How no-code and AI tools can replace your first $250K in funding The newsletter strategy smart founders use to turn interest into investment Resources from this Episode Free class: Build a startup without learning to code https://www.techfornontechies.co/freeclass Fidelman & Co https://fidelmanco.com/ Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection https://amzn.to/3HPMHRG Financial Times: Being an angel investor is tougher than it looks https://on.ft.com/4oDoQFD Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here. Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/268-how-to-align-founders-and-investors-before-things-go-wrong…

1
267: 7 Startup Lessons from BlackBerry's Rise and Fall 15:50

לפני 13 weeks15:50

15:50

Most non-technical founders dream of building a game-changing tech product—without learning to code. But bridging the gap between vision and execution? That takes more than just a good idea. In this episode, Sophia Matveeva breaks down 7 essential lessons from the rise and fall of BlackBerry, a tech company that revolutionized communication, then lost it all. You'll learn why great engineers aren't enough, how clueless sales pitches kill trust, and why falling in love with your invention might be your biggest risk. Whether you're planning your first app or scaling your second startup, this episode is packed with real talk and timeless wisdom, straight from a founder who's been there. In this episode, you will hear: How BlackBerry went from world-domination to irrelevance — and what every non-technical founder can learn from its rise and fall Why mutual respect and tech fluency between business leaders and engineers is non-negotiable How poor communication between sales and technical teams can sink even the best products The hidden risk of falling in love with your invention — and how to avoid it FREE class: Build a Startup WITHOUT Learning to Code https://www.techfornontechies.co/freeclass Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/267-7-startup-lessons-from-blackberry-s-rise-and-fall…

1
266. Founder-Led vs. Product-Led Growth: how to pick the right path for your startup 36:14

לפני 14 weeks36:14

36:14

Most founders dream of creating a product so good it sells itself. That's the promise of product-led growth: customers discover, share, and adopt your product with little to no sales effort. Sadly that's rarely the reality. In the early stages, almost every founder has to do the hard, unglamorous work of founder-led growth: building trust, making offers and facing rejection. In this episode, you will learn from Vijay Rajendran , author of The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding With Confidence . Vijay previously led portfolio value at 500 Global, a venture capital firm with $2.7 billion under management, where he supported startups in more than 80 countries. Vijay has helped hundreds of founders grow, scale, and raise capital. Listen to learn: The difference between founder-led and product-led growth — and when each approach works best. How design partnerships and pilots can win your first customers (and even get them to fund product development). Why "influence" is a better mindset than "sales" — and how listening to customers creates trust. Stories from Airbnb to enterprise startups that reveal what growth really looks like behind the scenes. Whether you're launching your first product, leading innovation inside a corporate, or backing founders as an investor, this episode is for you. Resources mentioned in this episode: Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, Robert Cialdini Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It, Chris Voss Chapters 05:24 — The seductive dream of product-led growth (and why it rarely works early on) 07:52 — Design partnerships: how customers can fund your product 13:39 — The Airbnb toilet photos story: why every founder must talk to customers 18:55 — Stop pitching, start listening: turning sales into influence 23:23 — Empathy and persuasion: the human skills behind tech success 28:48 — When to move from founder-led growth to a professional sales team FREE Course: 5 Tech Concepts Every Business Leader Needs To Know https://www.techfornontechies.co/freecourse Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here . Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/266-founder-led-vs-product-led-growth-how-to-pick-the-right-path-for-your-startup…

1
265. From vodka shots to Y Combinator: how a non-technical founder built a global tech company 59:09

לפני 15 weeks59:09

59:09

If you're a non-technical founder building your first product, this episode is for you. In today's lesson, Robyn Exton shares the real story of how she went from branding agency employee to founder of a global tech company — without writing a line of code. She didn't raise millions on day one. She learned by doing, made all the early-stage mistakes, and got her first users with vodka shots in nightclubs. Now, her app has millions of users and she's been through Y Combinator. Robyn is the founder of HER, the dating app for queer women. Listen to this episode to learn: How to build a tech product without knowing how to code What to do when your first version fails The difference between product design and graphic design (and why it matters) How to work with developers when you don't speak tech Whether you're dreaming up your first MVP or struggling through version two, this is your honest guide to building in the dark — and making it work. Chapters 00:00 — Vodka shots for downloads: the hustle begins 03:10 — From branding job to building a tech product 10:30 — The wake-up call: "You're doing too many things" 14:00 — Fake research, failed MVP, and what she learned 27:20 — How a non-technical founder led a dev team 33:45 — Hiring a CTO, letting go of ego, and building trust 45:35 — Raising $1M before YC — and why she joined anyway 51:10 — Final audience Q&A: churn, product, and user feedback FREE Course: 5 Tech Concepts Every Business Leader Needs To Know https://www.techfornontechies.co/freecourse Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here . Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University. For the full transcript, go to: https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/265-from-vodka-shots-to-y-combinator-how-a-non-technical-founder-built-a-global-tech-company…

ברוכים הבאים אל Player FM!

Player FM סורק את האינטרנט עבור פודקאסטים באיכות גבוהה בשבילכם כדי שתהנו מהם כרגע. זה יישום הפודקאסט הטוב ביותר והוא עובד על אנדרואיד, iPhone ואינטרנט. הירשמו לסנכרון מנויים במכשירים שונים.

תקשיבו ל-500+ נושאים

דומה לTech for Non-Techies

Crayola Color Wonder Magic Light Brush, Mess Free Painting Station for Kids, Toddler Toys & Activities, Holiday & Christmas Gifts for Kids, Ages 3+

Tubi: Watch Free Movies & TV Shows

Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0, Dual-Textured Facial Toner Pads for Exfoliation and Pore Care with 4.5% AHA Lactic Acid & 0.45% BHA Salicylic Acid, Ideal for All Skin Types, Korean Skin Care (70 units)

פודקאסטים ששווה להאזין

Tech for Non-Techies « » 248. Q&A Episode: How to Keep Tech Teams On Track Without Micromanaging

248. Q&A Episode: How to Keep Tech Teams On Track Without Micromanaging

פודקאסטים ששווה להאזין

ברוכים הבאים אל Player FM!

דומה לTech for Non-Techies

מדריך עזר מהיר

Tech for Non-Techies « »
248. Q&A Episode: How to Keep Tech Teams On Track Without Micromanaging