#72 Navigating the Hype: Mapping Generative AI to Key Business Objectives

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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תוכן מסופק על ידי Mehmet Gonullu. כל תוכן הפודקאסטים כולל פרקים, גרפיקה ותיאורי פודקאסטים מועלים ומסופקים ישירות על ידי Mehmet Gonullu 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.

Before The Chorus

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LIVE: Before the Chorus & Open Folk Present: In These Lines feat. Gaby Moreno, Lily Kershaw & James Spaite 33:58

לפני 17 ימים33:58

הפעל מאוחר יותר

רשימות

לייק

אהבתי

33:58

On June 25th 2025, in collaboration with Open Folk, we presented our first ever live interview event in Los Angeles. As Open Folk put it: "In These Lines is a live event where three artists each bring one song — not just to perform, but to explore. They sit down with Sofia Loporcaro, host of Before The Chorus, to talk about where the song came from, what it meant to write it, and what it still holds. Then they play it. Just the song, and the truth behind it." Find Open Folk on Instagram: @openfolkla Find Gaby on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0K9pSmFx0kWESA9jqx8aCW?si=Wz4RUP88Qlm_RKs7QTLvWQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gaby-moreno/472697737 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaby_moreno/ Find Lily on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p0ksmwMDQlAM24TWKu4Ua?si=Bmdg-uIUTHu-zRUc_dqL3g On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lily-kershaw/526884610 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilykershaw/ Find James on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3u50TPoLvMBXNT1KrLa3iT?si=OoLoq7ZTRZyUiytQcz0FsQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-spaite/905076868 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesspaite/ Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sign up for our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.beforethechorus.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforethechoruspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@soundslikesofia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About the podcast: Welcome to Before the Chorus , where we go beyond the sounds of our favourite songs to hear the stories of the artists who wrote them. Before a song is released, a record is produced, or a chorus is written, the musicians that write them think. A lot. They live. A lot. And they feel. A LOT. Hosted by award-winning interviewer Sofia Loporcaro, Before the Chorus explores the genuine human experiences behind the music. Sofia’s deep knowledge of music and personal journey with mental health help her connect with artists on a meaningful level. This is a space where fans connect with artists, and listeners from all walks of life feel seen through the stories that shape the music we love. About the host: Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning interviewer and radio host who’s spent over 8 years helping musicians share their stories. She’s hosted shows for Amazing Radio, and Transmission Roundhouse. Now on Before the Chorus, she’s had the chance to host guests like Glass Animals, Feist, Madison Cunningham, Mick Jenkins, & Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Shea Couleé. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

לפני שנתיים 13:37

M4A•בית הפרקים

In this episode, we explore how generative AI can be mapped to key business objectives such as driving revenues and growing market share, increasing productivity and customer experience, shortening time-to-market, avoiding high costs, and reducing risks. We discuss the various use cases of generative AI in different industries and how it can be leveraged to drive business success. Join us for an insightful conversation on how to navigate the hype and buzz surrounding generative AI and make informed decisions for your business.

500 פרקים

#Entrepreneur #Business #Mehmet Gonullu

#72 Navigating the Hype: Mapping Generative AI to Key Business Objectives

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

published לפני שנתיים

שתפו

M4A•בית הפרקים

500 פרקים

#Entrepreneur #Business #Mehmet Gonullu

Tüm bölümler

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#501 The Technology of Belonging: Glen Cameron on Identity, Immigration, and Proof of Relationships 49:49

לפני 3 hours49:49

49:49

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Glen Cameron, founder and CEO of Bonded, to explore how technology can validate the most human thing we have: relationships. From immigration barriers to identity verification in a deepfake world, Glen unpacks the inspiration behind Bonded — a startup building proof-of-relationship infrastructure for the AI age. 🎯 Key Takeaways • The problem with traditional identity: it’s static and individual • Immigration systems still rely on analog evidence of relationships • Deepfakes and fraud are making it harder to prove authentic human ties • Bonded’s approach: blending AI, privacy-first design, and blockchain timestamping • The concept of “proof of human relationship” as a new digital primitive • Why self-sovereign identity must extend beyond individuals to relationships • Use cases beyond immigration: from border checks to creative rights and relational passports • Glen’s unique founder journey from global ad exec to protocol builder ⸻ 🎧 What You’ll Learn • How AI and blockchain can work together to solve real-world identity challenges • The unseen complexity behind relationship verification in immigration • Why “relational identity” may be the missing link in Web3 innovation • How Glen is building a platform that’s both deeply technical and radically human 👤 About the Guest Glen Cameron is the founder of Bonded and Together Alone Ventures , with a diverse background spanning global PR, branding, and deep tech innovation. A true global citizen, Glen has lived and worked in 15+ countries and is now building a Web3- and AI-enabled platform to bring dignity, trust, and speed to how we prove human connection in high-stakes processes like immigration, banking, and beyond. https://www.linkedin.com/in/glencameronpb/ https://www.bonded2.com/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and how Mehmet and Glen met 02:00 – Glen’s personal immigration struggle that sparked Bonded 06:30 – Why traditional proof of relationships is broken 09:00 – Using AI + blockchain to build time-based, verifiable relational identity 13:30 – Starting from scratch: what if you’re already 45 years old? 16:00 – Privacy-first approach: user-owned data, kill switch, full control 18:30 – Getting immigration authorities to accept digital proof 21:00 – How Bonded structures evidence (scrollable timeline, triangulated proof) 23:30 – Border crossings, interrogation, and “proof in your pocket” 25:00 – Glen on why existing tech harvests data without helping users 27:00 – Expanding beyond immigration: traffic stops, IP rights, relational AI agents 30:00 – Why Web3 matters — and how Bonded avoids the hype traps 34:00 – Glen’s global career story and lessons from advertising to tech 41:00 – The rise of real use cases for relational protocols 44:00 – Fundraising, building responsibly, and going beyond MVP 47:00 – Final thoughts and how to get in touch with Glen…

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#500 The Recruiter’s VC Mindset: Betting on Startups and People with Justin Dixon 48:40

לפני יומיים48:40

48:40

In this special 500th episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive deep into the talent game behind startup scaling and private equity moves. Joining us is Justin Dixon , founder of Hire Tomorrow, who brings nearly two decades of recruiting experience—from Fortune 500s to early-stage startups and PE-backed ventures. We explore how AI is disrupting (and complicating) hiring, why job security at big companies is a myth, and how to evaluate a startup as if you were a VC—even when you’re just looking for your next role. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • The shift from employee to founder mindset (and how Rich Dad Poor Dad started it all) • How startups can compete with Fortune 500s for top talent • Why private equity firms almost always replace the CFO post-acquisition • What startup job seekers should really evaluate (hint: think like a VC) • How AI is flooding hiring pipelines—and what that means for founders and recruiters • Why job security at big companies is often an illusion • How Justin uses AI as a “board of advisors” to sharpen his thinking • The underrated power of podcasting for network building and deal flow ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn: • Practical hiring insights for both founders and job seekers • How to vet a startup before joining—beyond the hype • Trends shaping AI’s role in recruitment (and its limitations) • The human side of recruiting that AI can’t automate 👤 About the Guest: Founder of Hire Tomorrow, Justin Dixon brings a wealth of experience and passion to his business. With a career dedicated to the recruiting industry, Justin has effectively collaborated with companies of various sizes and across diverse industries, ranging from emerging startups to Fortune 500. In January 2020, he transitioned from his role as Head of Recruiting for a Wealth Management firm to establish Hire Tomorrow, dedicated to assisting Private Equity firms and Startups in finding the Right Talent to drive their success. Our focus extends across C-level roles, Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Technology, ensuring a comprehensive approach to fulfilling our clients' staffing needs. https://www.hiretomorrow.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmdixon15/ Episode Highlights (Timestamps): 00:00 – Introduction and Justin’s backstory 02:00 – Quitting a stable job to launch a recruiting firm 06:00 – Building financial freedom through entrepreneurship 08:30 – Working with private equity firms post-acquisition 13:00 – Why PE firms prioritize CFO replacements 15:00 – How startups can win talent over big companies 19:00 – What Justin looks for in a startup before recommending it 23:00 – Startup job seekers need a VC mindset 27:00 – How AI is disrupting hiring—and why it’s messy 33:00 – Why candidate experience is broken 37:00 – Limitations of AI interviews and hidden legal risks 41:00 – Why recruiters (and salespeople) won’t be replaced 43:00 – How podcasting builds network, not just visibility 46:00 – Wrap-up and how to reach Justin…

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#499 Accelerating Enterprise Innovation: Karan Jain on Rethinking Vendor Collaboration 46:57

לפני 7 ימים46:57

46:57

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , host Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Karan Jain , Founder and CEO of NayaOne , to explore the broken state of enterprise tech adoption — and what it takes to fix it. With over two decades of experience in financial services and technology, Karan is on a mission to eliminate the painful 12-month vendor procurement cycles that cripple innovation in large institutions. NayaOne offers a powerful, secure platform that connects enterprises with technology vendors and enables real-time evaluation using synthetic data, workflow tooling, and curated testbeds. From regulated environments like banking and healthcare to emerging innovation hubs in MENA, this conversation dives deep into how enterprises can move faster without compromising trust, compliance, or outcomes. 💡 What You’ll Learn • Why most enterprises still take 6–12 months to validate a tech vendor • How NayaOne shortens this cycle to a few weeks with sandbox infrastructure and synthetic data • The role of AI urgency in transforming procurement culture • Why “measured” doesn’t have to mean “slow” in regulated industries • How enterprise buyers are beginning to embrace experimentation over perfection • Trends in enterprise AI use cases (contact centers, dev tooling, document workflows) • What MENA banks can learn from global innovation patterns — and where they’re leapfrogging ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • 🧪 Proof-of-concept purgatory is real — but solvable with the right tools and mindset • ⏱ Speed is a competitive advantage, even in highly regulated sectors • 🤖 AI adoption requires a cultural shift, not just tools • 🌍 MENA is a region full of top-down innovation energy and emerging early adopters • 🧠 Enterprises must start thinking like platforms — not just buyers 👤 About Karan Jain • Founder & CEO of NayaOne • Former exec in banking, wealth, capital markets • Passionate about transforming enterprise-vendor relationships and building tech infrastructure that accelerates delivery • Actively working with banks, insurers, governments, and regulators globally — including in the MENA region https://nayaone.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karanjainonline/ ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:30 – Karan’s journey from banking to NayaOne 03:15 – The core problem: why vendor adoption is broken 05:40 – Industries most affected: finance, health, legal, public sector 07:10 – How NayaOne accelerates vendor evaluation with synthetic data 10:30 – Vendor vs. enterprise adoption mindsets 12:20 – Executives as the key stakeholders in tech adoption 14:40 – Why AI has forced enterprises to move faster 17:00 – NayaOne’s internal AI journey and infrastructure 20:15 – Agentic AI: hype vs. real use cases 23:45 – Why 70% of “AI agents” are just glorified automation 26:10 – Real enterprise AI use cases today 29:00 – The enterprise fear of missing out (FOMO) 31:10 – Lessons from neobanks and BNPL players 34:00 – The CVC use case: accelerating adoption within portfolios 36:20 – Expansion and innovation patterns in MENA 39:40 – Cultural nuance and early adopters in B2B 41:00 – Crossing the chasm in the MENA startup ecosystem 44:00 – Where to find Karan and learn more…

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#498 Edge AI Meets Global Impact: Dev Aditya on Scaling Learning Without the Cloud 42:34

לפני 9 ימים42:34

42:34

In this episode, host Mehmet Gonullu welcomes back Dev Aditya , Co-Founder of OIAI by Otermans Institute , who returns nearly two years after his first appearance to share an extraordinary update: they’ve built an AI teacher that runs completely offline — even on a 2020 Android phone. From educating learners in refugee camps to scaling across 17 countries, Dev’s mission is clear: make AI-powered learning accessible to the 750 million people underserved by the internet and modern hardware. We explore the engineering breakthroughs , the philosophical pivots , and the global partnerships that are making it possible. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • Why offline, voice-first AI is a game changer for education in low-connectivity areas • How Dev’s team runs 3D avatar-based AI on edge devices from 2020 — without cloud inference • The reason they pivoted away from enterprise clients to return to their impact-driven mission • Why running AI for the marginalized means solving for both connectivity and hardware bottlenecks • Their ambitious goal: upskill 750M people by 2030 • The launch of an SDK for other organizations to embed their AI teaching system • Upcoming partnerships with African governments and UN bodies ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn: • How to scale AI without relying on cloud infrastructure • What true digital inclusion looks like — beyond donations and broadband • The importance of philosophy and mission in product decisions • The future of immersive, voice-first learning experiences • How to build for constraint — and still scale globally 👤 About the Guest: Dev Aditya is the co-founder of OIAI by Otermans Institute. He’s known for launching the world’s first public-facing AI teachers well before ChatGPT entered the scene. Dev’s work focuses on democratizing education through AI and edge computing, bringing scalable, impactful learning to the most underserved populations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dev-adityaofficial/ https://www.portfolio.oiedu.co.uk/ 00:00 – Welcome back, Dev Aditya & what’s changed since Episode 212 02:00 – From rural schools to refugee camps: The origin story 05:30 – Content vs. teacher: The real challenge in scaling learning 07:00 – The philosophical misstep and going back to the mission 09:40 – Monetizing impact: Lessons from enterprise and education 11:00 – Offline breakthrough: Running AI without internet 13:40 – Engineering feat: 3D avatar AI on Android 2020 phones 15:20 – Why bigger models don’t equal better outcomes 18:00 – Did open-source LLMs influence their vision? 21:00 – How they handle data, analytics & personalization offline 23:00 – No patents? Why they’re releasing an SDK instead 25:00 – The SEA Model: Skills, Efficiency, Accessibility 27:00 – Building voice-first digital experiences for the underserved 30:00 – VR + AI for marginalized learners? Already built 32:00 – Teaching entrepreneurship, not just STEM 34:30 – An AI teacher that remembers you 36:00 – What’s next: Kenya, Guinea-Bissau & São Tomé 38:00 – Final thoughts & how to get in touch with Dev…

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#497 From Startup Grind to Mozilla Labs: Raj Singh on AI, Vibe Coding, and Building What Matters 50:31

לפני 14 ימים50:31

50:31

Raj Singh, VP of Product at Mozilla and a seasoned startup founder, joins The CTO Show with Mehmet to share a candid look into the evolution of building products—from the early days of AI to today’s GenAI-fueled solo founder wave. We dive into what vibe coding means, how big companies like Mozilla are tackling zero-to-one innovation, and why most startups fail—not because of the idea, but because the founders get tired. 🚀 Key Takeaways • Most startups fail in the messy middle, not the beginning or end • AI is shifting us from “doing the work” to “instructing the machine” • Vibe coding is enabling faster product iteration—but it still needs human judgment • Large companies often struggle with zero-to-one because of talent structure, risk aversion, and short conviction windows • Solo founders can thrive—if they manage their energy and support systems ⸻ 🎯 What You’ll Learn • How Raj defines product-market fit in the GenAI era • The new role of engineers and creators in the age of AI • How to build new products inside legacy organizations • When and how to pivot—without burning out • Why AI shouldn’t be the pitch—it should be the enabler 👤 About the Guest Raj is the VP of Product at Mozilla, leading new 0 to 1 product initiatives. He joined Mozilla in 2022 via the acquisition of his startup, Pulse, which developed AI meeting summarization models. Previously, Raj has been a repeat consumer-focused startup founder. He was Co-Founder and CEO of Tempo AI, a smart calendar acquired by Salesforce in 2015. He also co-founded AllTheCooks, which became the largest recipe community on Android before its acquisition by Cookpad. Earlier in his career, he served as VP of Business Development at Skyfire, a mobile browser acquired by Opera. Prior to this, Raj co-founded and exited startups in the ringtone, live video and college dating categories. https://linktr.ee/mobileraj Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 00:00 – Intro and Raj’s journey from founder to Mozilla 03:00 – Pattern recognition and founder gut-checks 06:15 – Why most startups are stuck in the messy middle 08:45 – Evolution of AI: from OpenCV to GenAI 11:20 – Vibe coding and the shift in creative workflows 13:40 – The 95% AI accuracy rule and human-in-the-loop design 16:00 – AI’s impact on growth hacking and customer acquisition 17:40 – Can solo founders really build unicorns? 20:00 – Trillion-dollar ambitions vs. billion-dollar thinking 21:30 – Building zero-to-one products inside Mozilla 25:00 – Why large companies struggle with innovation 29:00 – Culture, incentives, and the “conviction window” 33:00 – Pivoting: when to stick, when to switch 36:00 – The solo founder dilemma and founder loneliness 41:00 – Consumer AI: solving problems vs. chasing hype 44:00 – Final advice: execute your idea—don’t just think about it…

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#496 From Accidental Founder to 30,000+ Entrepreneurs | Jeremy Ames on Building Businesses That Last 51:34

לפני 16 ימים51:34

51:34

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Jeremy Ames , Co-Founder and CEO of Guidant Financial , a company that has helped over 30,000 entrepreneurs fund their businesses using US retirement funds. Jeremy shares his unconventional path into entrepreneurship, the rise of Main Street innovation , and what truly holds people back from launching businesses. This is a masterclass in testing ideas , avoiding costly mistakes, and seeing opportunities where others don’t—plus a refreshing take on AI adoption in traditional businesses. 💡 Key Takeaways • Why retirement funds can be a powerful startup capital source • The secret behind starting a business without quitting your job: “Side Projects” • Why validation before investment is non-negotiable • What entrepreneurs often overlook about financial modeling • The power of AI in traditional businesses and why it’s about culture, not just tools • Why “shiny object syndrome” kills more businesses than lack of capital • A personal story of failure—and what Jeremy learned from a loss-making franchise bet ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to reduce risk when starting a business • What investors and entrepreneurs can learn from 30,000+ business launches • How to blend tech savviness with service-based business models • How AI is being used at Guidant Financial to create bottom-up innovation • Why agency, ownership, and intention matter more than ever in today’s uncertain economy 👤 About the Guest Jeremy Ames is a serial entrepreneur and the Co-Founder & CEO of Guidant Financial, a leader in innovative business funding solutions. With over 20 years of experience, Jeremy has helped 30,000+ individuals leverage their retirement funds to start and grow businesses through programs like 401k Business Financing (ROBS). A firm believer in the power of entrepreneurship to create wealth and freedom, Jeremy’s career spans successes, failures, and invaluable lessons, including being recognized as the SBA’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year. http://www.guidantfinancial.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyamesentrepreneur/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyamesentrepreneur/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro & Jeremy’s background 03:00 – The emotional story behind his first business 06:00 – What keeps people from starting businesses 09:30 – The “Side Project” framework 13:00 – The viral cocoa bomb experiment 16:30 – Cleaning trash bins = $4M business? 19:00 – The engineer who bought a car repair shop 22:00 – Guidant’s approach to AI adoption 27:00 – AI’s role in business financing 29:00 – The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make after launching 33:00 – Coffee shop myths and financial realism 36:00 – Research, customer interviews, and competitive edge 40:00 – On the illusion of copying success 44:00 – A personal failure: the massage franchise story 47:00 – Final thoughts on agency, entrepreneurship, and ownership…

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#495 Next-Gen Gaming: AI Agents, NFTs, and the Blockchain Frontier 40:43

לפני 19 ימים40:43

40:43

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Marlin , the CTO of ZKcandy , to explore the evolving intersection of AI agents, blockchain infrastructure, NFTs, and the gaming world . We dive deep into how Greg is building seamless onboarding for Web3 gaming, how AI agents are redefining non-player characters and companions, and why encrypted AI agent NFTs might just be the future of user-owned digital experiences. Whether you’re a founder building in Web3, an investor watching the AI frontier, or just curious about where gaming is headed—this one’s packed with insights. 💡 Key Takeaways • What AI agents actually are—and why they matter in gaming • The vision behind encrypted AI companion NFTs • How ZKcandy simplifies Web3 authentication and onboarding • Why composability and simplicity are keys to developer adoption • The role of blockchain in preserving ownership and memory in AI • Founder tips on staying resilient in a copycat-prone startup environment ⸻ 🎧 What You’ll Learn • How AI agents will revolutionize NPCs and game companions • Why ERC-7662 is critical for privacy-first AI agents on-chain • Practical strategies for founders building in AI + gaming + blockchain • A preview of Raid Quest and ZKcandy’s upcoming game features About Greg Marlin Greg is a serial entrepreneur and technologist with a track record across SaaS, crypto, AI, and developer platforms. As the CTO of ZKCandy , a layer-2 blockchain built on the ZK Stack, he’s building tools that simplify Web3 onboarding for developers and gamers alike. Greg is also the author of ERC-7662 , the emerging standard for encrypted AI agent NFTs. https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmarlin/ https://zkcandy.io/ https://eips.ethereum.org/EIPS/eip-7662 ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – Greg’s journey from SaaS to AI to blockchain 04:00 – Breaking down what an AI agent actually is 09:30 – How AI companions will reshape gaming experiences 13:00 – AI in “raid” environments and social quests 15:00 – Addressing hallucinations and unpredictability in AI 20:00 – What ERC-7662 is and why it matters for AI NFTs 26:00 – Who owns your AI? How blockchain can protect user memory 28:00 – Developer experience: Plug-and-play SDKs for Web3 games 32:00 – Advice for founders building at the intersection of AI and gaming 36:30 – Final thoughts + where to find Greg…

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#494 Trust is the New Traction: PR, Fundraising, and the AI Discovery Shift with Mauro Battellini 47:51

לפני 21 ימים47:51

47:51

In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Mauro Battellini , co-founder of Black Unicorn PR , to break down why PR is no longer optional for startups—and how the rise of AI-powered search is changing what investors and customers see first. From fundraising strategy to media perception, Mauro explains how to build legitimacy , earn visibility , and outperform better-funded competitors —even if you’re not in Silicon Valley. Whether you’re a first-time founder or a repeat entrepreneur, this episode will shift how you think about storytelling, credibility, and why “earned media” may be your strongest asset in the AI era . 🔑 Key Takeaways • When PR matters : The signals investors, regulators, and enterprise clients look for beyond the pitch deck • AI’s impact on perception : How tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity influence investor research and due diligence • Personal branding vs. thought leadership : Why founders must be discoverable—before the product is • PR in emerging markets : How startups from Central & Eastern Europe or MENA can play the global media game • Fundraising and credibility : How the right PR at the right time can shorten investor cycles ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to identify your startup’s PR timing based on traction and stakeholder needs • Why earned media is becoming more powerful than paid ads in the AI era • The difference between “spray & pray” and strategic media outreach • How journalists evaluate startups—and how founders can become go-to voices • Real-world examples of how PR directly impacted fundraising outcomes 🧑‍💼 About Mauro Battellini Mauro is the co-founder of Black Unicorn PR , an agency laser-focused on early-stage tech startups. With a background in sales, market research, and e-commerce, Mauro brings a unique lens to PR that aligns brand perception with business outcomes. His mission: help founders from non-traditional ecosystems punch above their weight in global markets. https://www.blackunicornpr.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauro-alexis-battellini/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and Mauro’s journey from sales to startup PR 04:30 – Why Black Unicorn PR was founded to fix broken agency models 06:45 – When founders should start thinking about PR 10:15 – The mindset shift: PR isn’t about vanity—it’s about trust 14:00 – Thought leadership vs. personal branding in founder visibility 18:20 – Why emerging markets struggle with global media presence 22:40 – How PR helped Lithuanian startups get into international coverage 26:30 – What PR looks like during a fundraising round 30:45 – AI’s disruption of SEO and search discovery 33:10 – Why PR is becoming essential in the AI discovery layer 36:00 – The rise of solo journalists, niche media, and credibility loops 38:20 – Practical advice: what AI sees when someone Googles you 42:00 – Why PR is your startup’s trust layer in the noisy digital world 45:00 – Final tips: how to map stakeholders, focus outreach, and treat journalists like investors…

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#493 Reimagining Events with Tech: Cosmin Ivan on Scaling Platinumlist Across MENA 44:25

לפני 23 ימים44:25

44:25

In this episode of The CTO Show , Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Cosmin Ivan , CEO of Platinumlist , the leading event and ticketing platform in the MENA region. From selling tickets by hand to building a platform used for the biggest concerts and sporting events, Cosmin shares his 18-year journey and how Platinumlist became a trusted tech partner for global entertainment brands. They unpack the power of secure, scalable event tech, what it takes to expand across culturally diverse markets, and why trust, transparency, and customer experience drive long-term success. 💡 What You’ll Learn • How Platinumlist evolved into MENA’s most trusted ticketing tech platform • The role of security, dynamic QR codes, and anti-scalping measures • Why a great user experience begins before the event • Strategies for scaling across culturally diverse countries • Cosmin’s leadership approach to change management and team building • The future of AI, blockchain, and Web3 in entertainment tech • Opportunities for startup founders in the MENA event ecosystem ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • Tech alone isn’t enough— simplicity and trust are critical. • 85% drop in ticket fraud after adopting dynamic QR and bank-grade encryption. • Customer experience is an end-to-end journey, not a single touchpoint. • The GCC’s mobility and transparency offer a unique opportunity for entertainment startups. 👤 About the Guest Cosmin Ivan is the CEO of Platinumlist, the region’s leading event discovery and ticketing platform. With nearly two decades in the industry, Cosmin helped grow the company from a scrappy 3-person operation to a regional tech powerhouse operating across the GCC. He’s an advocate for customer-centric design, ethical reselling, and event tech innovation. https://platinumlist.net/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cosmin-ivan-38546582/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and welcome 02:00 – Cosmin’s journey from Europe to Platinumlist 06:00 – Defining a great event experience 10:00 – Leveraging tech to eliminate fraud and scalping 15:00 – Behind the scenes: Dynamic QR and secure ticketing 20:00 – Scaling Platinumlist across MENA 25:00 – Leading change and adapting to regional nuances 30:00 – The future of event tech: AI, Web3, crowd analytics 36:00 – What’s next for Platinumlist 39:00 – Advice for entertainment tech entrepreneurs in MENA 42:00 – Final thoughts on leadership and team culture…

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#492 Building Human-First Products in the Age of AI: Eric Müller on Security, Trust, and Leadership 46:20

לפני 26 ימים46:20

46:20

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Eric Müller , Product Engineering Associate Director at Work & Co, to unpack the evolving intersection of AI adoption , digital security , and empathetic leadership . With a career that spans cybersecurity, product architecture, and agency collaboration, Eric shares how to lead engineering teams through complexity without losing the human touch —especially in today’s AI-driven landscape. Whether you’re a founder, CTO, product leader, or advisor , this conversation is packed with practical insights and leadership wisdom 💡 What You’ll Learn • Why AI should augment , not replace, your dev team • The real risks of trusting LLM output blindly (including “slopjacking”) • How to balance speed and security in fast-paced product teams • The overlooked power of psychological safety in engineering culture • Why technical debt is just business debt —and how to manage it • Practical ways to communicate security to non-technical leaders • How to spot and mentor emerging engineering leaders ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • AI is not a silver bullet. Use it to accelerate boilerplate and QA, but keep human oversight for anything mission-critical. • Security must start early. You can’t patch it in the final sprint—bake it into your culture from day one. • Empathy wins. In client work and internal leadership, understanding before advising changes everything. • Trust your inner voice. As a leader, self-trust is a vital compass—don’t let indecision erode confidence. 👤 About Eric Müller Eric Müller, is an Associate Director focusing on Product Engineering and Digital Security at Work & Co, part of Accenture Song, where leads engineering teams and supported automated processes to deliver high-quality digital products for the past decade. With over 20 years of experience in engineering and security, Eric has worked across various industries including banking, social media, B2B, retail, fashion, and online gaming. His extensive background includes significant roles at Wells Fargo Bank, Charles Schwab, Razorfish, and Mekanism, where he delivered award-winning projects for clients such as Microsoft, Business Wire, Anza, and Vibrant Planet. Eric fosters empathetic leadership and transparent communication to build resilient, high-performing tech teams. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmullersf/ https://work.co/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro & Eric’s journey from Gen X hacker to engineering leader 04:00 – AI adoption: Hype vs. Doomerism, and where the real value lies 07:00 – Finding the sweet spot for GenAI in engineering 10:00 – The tension between speed, usability, and secure code 12:30 – LLM risks: hallucinations, outdated data, slopjacking 15:30 – Explaining AI risk & security to non-technical executives 18:00 – Making clients feel heard: the “make them writer” mindset 22:00 – Coaching engineering teams through compromises and deadlines 29:00 – Psychological safety and what leaders get wrong 33:00 – Leading in a hybrid world: Slack, trust, and async culture 38:00 – Spotting and mentoring the next generation of leaders 41:00 – Why mentorship vs management books 44:00 – Final advice: Trust yourself, and trust your team…

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#491 Scaling Engineering Teams for the AI Era: Insights from Mary Moore-Simmons 41:31

לפני 28 ימים41:31

41:31

In this episode, Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Mary Moore-Simmons , VP of Engineering at Keebo AI, to unpack what it really takes to scale high-performing engineering teams in today’s AI-powered environment. From DevOps and ML Ops to building team culture that lasts, Mary shares hard-won insights from over a decade in engineering leadership across startups and high-growth tech companies. This is a must-listen for founders, CTOs, and venture investors seeking clarity on where engineering, AI, and culture intersect. 🔑 Key Takeaways • The shift from traditional DevOps to ML Ops and its impact on team structure • Why data engineering is no longer optional, even for product-focused engineers • How to balance velocity with sustainable engineering culture • The real difference between a CTO and a VP of Engineering • Why culture must be owned—and modeled—by the CEO to scale • How Mary mentors future leaders through transparency and structure ⸻ 📘 What You’ll Learn • The traits Mary looks for when hiring for early-stage engineering teams • How to scope early features in a fast-moving startup environment • Strategies to shield your team from “firefighting” and maintain focus • The importance of infrastructure automation in the age of AI • Mary’s thoughts on whether company culture can truly scale 👤 About the Guest Mary Moore Simmons is the VP of Engineering at Keebo.ai, where she has been instrumental in shaping the company's innovative approach to data warehouse optimization. A seasoned engineering leader with 10+ years in software, her background includes Director of Engineering at Github and Zcash as well as VP of Engineering at AgentSync. She focuses on building high-performing teams that sustain a healthy culture and growth mindset. She is passionate about authentic and transparent leadership, and building a culture where people can bring their authentic selves to work, where DEIB is table stakes. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmooresimmons http://keebo.ai/ https://github.com/mmsthepizzathief Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:01 – Mary’s journey: from chemical engineer to VP of Engineering 03:20 – What Keebo AI does and how they optimize Snowflake & Databricks 05:10 – The evolving intersection of software and data engineering 07:00 – Why Mary prioritizes hiring with data and ML experience 08:30 – DevOps, ML Ops, and keeping engineers happy and efficient 10:50 – The CTO vs VP of Engineering: What really separates the two 13:30 – Balancing velocity vs long-term stability in startup engineering 18:45 – How Mary shields her team from noise and burnout 22:00 – The traits Mary looks for when hiring 23:30 – Authentic and transparent leadership in practice 25:30 – Does culture scale? What Mary has seen work 28:30 – What goes wrong when companies scale too fast 33:00 – Coaching future leaders and creating career ladders 37:00 – Tools, books, and blog posts Mary recommends 38:00 – AI, automation, and what tech excites Mary today 40:00 – Where to connect with Mary…

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#490 From Data to CTO: Keith Cassar’s Evolution in Tech Leadership 43:36

לפני 4 weeks43:36

43:36

In this episode of The CTO Show , Mehmet welcomes Keith Cassar , CTO at Game Lounge, who shares his journey from SQL developer to tech leader, and what it takes to evolve from a data specialist into a cross-functional CTO. Together, they explore how to make data genuinely useful, what AI can and can’t solve, and how to scale high-performing tech teams without overengineering. 📌 Key Takeaways • The shift from developer to data leader to CTO — and what changes at each level • Why availability, accuracy, and speed of data are key to data usability • How to turn raw data into decision-ready insights • Embracing AI for empowerment, not replacement • Building cross-functional, agile teams without overhiring • How to lead during crisis: the importance of being “first to know” • Leadership advice for aspiring CTOs — from imposter syndrome to team design ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to structure data systems that support business decisions • Practical use cases of AI in affiliate marketing and tech operations • How to scale infrastructure with limited resources • The CTO’s evolving role in hybrid and remote work culture • Personalization as the next AI frontier 👤 About Keith Cassar Keith Cassar is the CTO of Game Lounge , an affiliate marketing company operating globally. With a strong background in data engineering, Keith previously held roles as Chief Data Officer and Head of Data. He began his career as a developer, later joining King (makers of Candy Crush) during its early growth. Now based in Malta, he focuses on bridging the gap between tech and business, using data and leadership to build resilient organizations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithcassar/ https://www.gamelounge.com/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction and Keith’s background 03:00 – Transitioning from data to CTO 07:00 – What “making data usable” really means 11:00 – Raw data to insight: The transformation journey 14:00 – Real-world AI applications and limitations 18:00 – Scaling infrastructure with limited resources 21:00 – AI in development teams: Productivity vs. replacement 25:00 – Frameworks for high-performing tech teams 28:00 – Remote culture and trust in hybrid environments 33:00 – Crisis leadership and data observability 37:00 – Trends in personalization and AI 39:00 – Advice for aspiring CTOs and tech leaders 42:00 – Final thoughts + where to find Keith…

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#489 Why Silicon Valley Still Wins: Dr. Andrey Kunov on What Emerging Markets Miss 1:02:56

לפני 5 weeks1:02:56

1:02:56

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , Dr. Andrey Kunov — serial entrepreneur, founder of Silicon Valley Innovation Center, and AI advisor — joins us from the heart of Silicon Valley to dissect what truly makes the Valley unbeatable. We explore why other ecosystems struggle to replicate it, what founders in emerging markets should focus on instead, and how AI is reshaping the rules of startup creation and capital. 🧠 What You’ll Learn • Why disruption doesn’t start with capital — it starts with conviction • The real reason Silicon Valley can’t be copied • How AI agents will reshape startup teams (and reduce early hiring needs) • Why execution matters more than knowledge in today’s innovation economy • How emerging hubs can build their own innovation flywheel • Why venture capital isn’t always a blessing — and when to delay raising ⸻ ✨ Key Takeaways • Disruption = growth without profit : Startups win by operating in uncertain markets large companies avoid. • Execution is the differentiator : Ideas are common — what matters is putting them into motion, despite risk. • AI is shifting the capital equation : Solo founders can now build with fewer resources by deploying intelligent agents. • Silicon Valley’s edge lies in compounding effects : Talent, capital, IP protection, early adopters, and open markets fuel each other. • Emerging markets should stop copying and start localizing innovation using their own unfair advantages. 🎙️ About the Guest Dr. Andrey Kunov is the founder of Brio Link and Silicon Valley Innovation Center (SVIC) , with over two decades of experience in innovation, AI, and technology adoption. At Brio Link, he develops fully automated, AI-powered marketing solutions for enterprises. Through SVIC, he has helped global corporations and governments accelerate innovation by connecting them with Silicon Valley’s ecosystem of startups, R&D labs, and venture capital. His clients include Toyota, ExxonMobil, Deutsche Bank, and SAP. A Stanford Ph.D. holder, Dr. Kunov specializes in generative AI, automation, and bridging Silicon Valley with global markets. https://briolink.com/ https://svicenter.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kunov/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Dr. Kunov’s journey from Kazakhstan to Stanford 04:30 – Common thread between science, startups, and execution 07:50 – Defining real technological disruption 13:10 – Why large companies can’t build disruptive products 18:00 – How Google and Amazon became monopolies without being first 22:30 – Execution vs. knowledge in the age of abundant AI 28:10 – How Silicon Valley Innovation Center helps global founders 34:00 – Startup scouting and strategic acquisitions for corporates 38:45 – Why no one can replicate Silicon Valley 47:30 – Advice for emerging markets: build your own version, don’t copy 53:00 – The rise of AI agents and how founders should use them 58:00 – Sam Altman, superintelligence, and the path to post-VC innovation 1:00:00 – Final thoughts and where to find Dr. Kunov online…

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#488 The Inside-Out Entrepreneur: Mohamed Ahmed on Startup Mindset and Emotional Readiness 1:03:27

לפני 5 weeks1:03:27

1:03:27

In this episode, host Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Mohamed Ahmed , an engineer-turned-founder and author of The Inside-Out Entrepreneur . Together, they unpack the mental, emotional, and strategic conditioning required for engineers to become successful startup founders. From navigating early-stage chaos to managing the emotional rollercoaster of startup life, Mohamed offers frameworks, stories, and tools that every founder needs to hear. 🎯 Key Takeaways • Why building a business is radically different from building a product • How emotional resilience and mental robustness can make or break your startup • The difference between mentors, advisors, and the right kind of friends • Fundraising reality checks: what first-time founders often get wrong • How to avoid “startup identity crisis” and separate your self-worth from your venture • Tactical tips for expanding your founder support system and filtering noise ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn • A practical mindset framework to prepare for the ups and downs of entrepreneurship • How to validate your idea without getting stuck in tech hype • The role of storytelling, support systems, and self-awareness in founder success • How to build real VC relationships without falling into transactional traps ⸻ ⏱️ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and Mohamed’s journey from Egypt to AWS to entrepreneurship 03:00 – Why engineers often misunderstand what it takes to build a business 06:00 – Emotional resilience: the invisible edge founders need 14:00 – Fundraising psychology and how to avoid burnout from rejections 19:00 – The support system: mentors, family, friends, and the role they each play 28:00 – Filtering noise: how to avoid time-wasters and empty advice 36:00 – How Mohamed overcame a failed acquisition hours before signing 44:00 – Fundraising done right: how to build investor trust before the ask 47:00 – Talking tech vs. solving problems: building the right narrative 52:00 – What “Boundless Founder” means and how Mohamed is giving back 👤 About Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed is an AI infrastructure leader, entrepreneur, and author of The Inside-Out Entrepreneur . He has built and scaled AI-driven ventures across startups and Fortune 1000 companies, with leadership roles at Intel, Amazon, and Microsoft. As the founder of Boundless Founder , he helps technical founders develop the mental resilience and strategic clarity needed to scale high-growth businesses. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamedfahmed/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Out-Entrepreneur-Become-entrepreneur-were/dp/B0DN25TW7H ⏱️ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and Mohamed’s journey from Egypt to AWS to entrepreneurship 03:00 – Why engineers often misunderstand what it takes to build a business 06:00 – Emotional resilience: the invisible edge founders need 14:00 – Fundraising psychology and how to avoid burnout from rejections 19:00 – The support system: mentors, family, friends, and the role they each play 28:00 – Filtering noise: how to avoid time-wasters and empty advice 36:00 – How Mohamed overcame a failed acquisition hours before signing 44:00 – Fundraising done right: how to build investor trust before the ask 47:00 – Talking tech vs. solving problems: building the right narrative 52:00 – What “Boundless Founder” means and how Mohamed is giving back…

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#487 From Dream to Done: Cheryl Cunningham on Creating the Agentic OS for Solopreneurs 46:14

לפני 5 weeks46:14

46:14

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Cheryl Cunningham , CEO of Huro AI , to explore how agentic AI is reshaping entrepreneurship as we know it. From her early days in the food industry to building a quantum-informed AI company, Cheryl shares the journey behind Huro’s mission: enabling solopreneurs and SMBs to go from vision to execution with a single personalized operating system. Whether you’re a future founder, tech leader, or just AI-curious — this is an unmissable conversation about agency, survival, and the future of work. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Why the solopreneur economy is growing — and how AI will fuel it • How Huro’s AI agent “Gabby” acts like your personal COO • The importance of hyper-personalization in future AI systems • Cheryl’s perspective on quantum-inspired AI and sustainability • Why entrepreneurship is no longer optional — it’s a survival skill ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn • How agentic AI can turn a non-technical founder into a one-person startup • The mindset shift from tools-in-buckets to full-stack execution engines • The role of empathy and personal context in the AI-human loop • Real talk on how and when AI might really replace traditional jobs • What Cheryl learned by moving from service entrepreneur to tech founder ⸻ 👤 About Cheryl Cunningham Cheryl Cunningham is the CEO and founder of Huro AI , a company building a hyper-personalized, agentic operating system designed to help everyday entrepreneurs execute their vision—without needing to be tech experts. With a background spanning food service to frontier AI, she brings a fresh, grounded approach to what it means to build tools for the builder. https://www.huroai.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylecunningham/ Episode Highlights [00:04:30] Cheryl’s first vision of Huro AI: A way to protect humanity from AI job loss [00:07:10] Why siloed tools are failing new entrepreneurs [00:09:30] The birth of Gabby: A hyper-personalized AI COO [00:14:00] Human uniqueness as the “source code” for agentic agents [00:20:30] Lessons from the food industry: Distribution is everything [00:23:00] Quantum-level AI thinking: Feasible without quantum chips? [00:35:00] Why we’re entering a “forced entrepreneurship” era [00:40:00] A message to the non-technical dreamers: You won’t be left behind…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#486 The Brave Leap: Michael Cutajar on Automating Accounting with AI Agents & Building with Purpose 40:38

לפני 6 weeks40:38

40:38

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Michael Cutajar , CEO of AI Partners, who’s on a mission to fix the broken world of accounting through the power of AI agents. From his early days as a PwC accountant in Malta to founding multiple startups—including a VR venture and now an AI-driven automation company—Michael shares what it takes to go from employee to entrepreneur, how to close six-figure enterprise deals, and why cultural resistance to failure is holding regions like Europe and MENA back. 🎯 What You’ll Learn • Why the accounting industry is broken—and how AI agents can fix it • How to sell automation without triggering fear of job loss • Michael’s approach to closing large deals through trust and patience • Why he traveled to Silicon Valley to build founder confidence • How to reframe failure as feedback • The hidden importance of storytelling in tech entrepreneurship • Why personal touch still matters in a world of AI ⸻ 🧠 Key Takeaways • “Build for free to earn trust” can break through even the most skeptical industries • Defensibility in AI isn’t just about code—it’s about context, geography, and relationships • Europe’s fear of failure is cultural, not intellectual—founders need a new narrative • The future of junior roles in accounting (and tech) is advisory, not operational 👤 About the Guest Michael Cutajar is the founder and CEO of AI Partners , a startup creating AI agents tailored for finance and accounting workflows. A qualified accountant turned tech entrepreneur, Michael is passionate about solving real-world problems with automation and building in public with a practical, test-first mindset. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcutajar/ https://www.ai-partners.ai/ 🕒 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 00:00 – Intro & Michael’s background 02:30 – From accounting to entrepreneurship 04:45 – Spotting opportunities in AI automation 06:15 – Why accounting is a broken industry 07:40 – Real-world impact of AI agents (150% efficiency gains) 09:30 – Selling automation without triggering fear 11:00 – Lessons from closing six-figure enterprise deals 13:00 – Playing with pricing models in an evolving AI economy 14:50 – Can Big Tech kill your AI startup? 16:30 – Will AI make purchasing decisions? 17:30 – Are junior accounting jobs disappearing? 19:00 – How Michael built confidence through pitching 20:30 – Going to Silicon Valley for real-world feedback 22:00 – Why failure is taboo in Europe and MENA 26:30 – How to change a risk-averse culture 29:00 – Why schools need entrepreneurship education 31:00 – AI Partners’ roadmap and UK expansion 32:00 – The truth about “one-person unicorns” 37:00 – Final thoughts: Learn, test, and take the leap…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#485 Scaling Starts with People: Nahed Khairallah on Building Teams That Don’t Break 1:02:38

לפני 6 weeks1:02:38

1:02:38

Mehmet sits down with Nahed Khairallah , founder of Organized Chaos , to discuss why startups that reach initial traction often stall or fail due to people-related blind spots. With experience advising over 150 startups globally, Nahed unpacks the tactical, cultural, and strategic layers of building scalable teams that last. 🔑 Key Takeaways • 🚫 The real reason startups fail after product-market fit isn’t product—it’s people decisions • 🧠 Why founders struggle to let go—and how that bottlenecks growth • 🔍 The myth of culture as an “HR responsibility” and how to fix it • 🌍 When (and how) to scale internationally from a headcount perspective • 🔄 Burnout, layoffs, and the hidden cost of poor hiring processes • 💡 Why copying big company playbooks kills early-stage startups • 🤖 How AI is changing HR infrastructure—and where the tech is still falling short ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to plan headcount like a growth-stage founder, not a first-time operator • Tactics to avoid operational debt from misaligned hires • The early signals that your startup culture is breaking • Frameworks for HR as a business enabler, not a cost center 👤 About Nahed Khairallah Nahed is a relentless advocate for the extraordinary potential of fast-growing startups. For over a decade, he has built a track record of transforming 7-figure companies into 9-figure powerhouses by turning HR into rocket fuel for their growth. His journey in scaling startups has been an exhilarating global expedition, taking him across the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This experience has enriched his perspective on what it truly means to drive hyper-growth on a global scale and across cultures. https://www.linkedin.com/in/khairallahnahed https://organizedchaos.fyi/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and why people ops is often overlooked 01:30 – Nahed’s journey: from IT to HR for startups 05:15 – Common people mistakes when startups start scaling 10:05 – Hiring for short-term needs vs long-term adaptability 14:10 – When is a startup really ready to scale globally? 20:00 – Why founders must stop treating HR as admin overhead 26:00 – A real example of cutting $500K in hiring costs 29:40 – Why startup culture breaks after 50+ employees 35:00 – Burnout, silent resignations, and founder blind spots 44:20 – Layoffs as a symptom of bad planning 48:00 – Using AI in HR: what’s working and what’s not 56:00 – Nahed’s podcast, newsletter, and startup HR course…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#484 The CTO as Orchestrator: Naga Vadrevu on Leading Tech with First Principles 42:33

לפני 6 weeks42:33

42:33

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , Naga Vadrevu, Chief Technology Officer at Wonderschool and former engineering leader at Square, Adobe, and Autodesk, shares his journey from big tech to startup disruption. Naga dives deep into how he applies AI and machine learning to revolutionize childcare access in the U.S., and why modern CTOs must evolve from coders to orchestrators. He also reflects on the tough decisions leadership demands, including disbanding QA teams and embracing lean, impact-focused engineering. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Why CTOs today must focus on customer outcomes , not just technical execution • How AI is reshaping industries with human-centric applications • The jobs-to-be-done mindset that shaped Square’s success • Lessons from shutting down a QA department in favor of full automation • The future of lean engineering teams and the end of unnecessary hierarchy • Thoughts on MCP, API design, and the orchestration layer of modern platforms ⸻ 💡 What You’ll Learn • How to lead tech teams with purpose and clarity • What it takes to align engineering with business goals • First-hand insights into AI implementation in non-technical industries • Why understanding “first principles” can give you a competitive edge • Tips for future CTOs and first-time startup tech leaders 👤 About Naga Vadrevu Naga is the CTO of Wonderschool, a platform transforming early childhood education through tech. With 15+ years in Silicon Valley, his experience spans enterprise giants like Adobe and Square to fast-scaling startups. Naga is passionate about using technology to solve human problems—and doing it with first-principles thinking. https://www.wonderschool.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/naga-ravi-vadrevu-8b142521/ Episode Highlights ⏱️ [00:02:00] Naga’s journey from India to Silicon Valley ⏱️ [00:03:00] Applying AI-driven pricing in childcare ⏱️ [00:05:00] Matching parents and childcare providers with tech ⏱️ [00:09:00] Learning the business: Lessons from Square and “Jobs To Be Done” ⏱️ [00:14:00] Thoughts on mass layoffs and the evolving role of engineers ⏱️ [00:21:00] Lean teams and the new standard for Series A+ readiness ⏱️ [00:26:00] Deterministic APIs vs non-deterministic agents ⏱️ [00:30:00] Shutting down QA and retraining engineers ⏱️ [00:34:00] Advice for aspiring CTOs: Think like a business owner…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#483 Bootstrapping in Motion: Nelson Nigel’s Blueprint from Yellow Cab to Kidmoto 35:14

לפני 7 weeks35:14

35:14

In this episode, Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Nelson Nigel , the founder of Kidmoto , a ride-hailing service designed specifically for families traveling with young children. From driving a yellow cab in New York to building a tech-enabled transportation service operating in 64+ cities , Nelson shares how he bootstrapped his company past $1M in revenue—without external funding, without a co-founder, and without chasing VC hype. It’s a raw, refreshing look at building a real business in a noisy tech world. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Why Nelson chose to bootstrap instead of raising funding—and what it really takes • How being a yellow cab driver helped him identify the market gap • The power of a 400-page business plan as a startup GPS • Why focusing on operations, not investors, led to lasting traction • How Kidmoto scaled to 64 cities by owning its niche • His framework for leadership: “The path to greatness is along with others.” ⸻ 📘 What You’ll Learn • The realities of bootstrapping in a competitive market • How to validate product-market fit from first-hand customer pain • When not to chase investors—and how to stay grounded instead • The mindset it takes to turn operational grit into strategic scale • How humility and focus build trust in high-stakes services 👤 About Nelson Nigel Nelson Nigel, the resilient Founder and CEO of Moto Nation, transformed a personal challenge into a thriving business. In 2016, as an Uber driver, he observed the absence of child car seats in taxis and car services, leaving parents in a vulnerable position. Recognizing the gap in the market left by Uber and Lyft, Nelson developed a mobile app to offer a convenient and safe solution for parents traveling with small children, particularly to and from airports. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelsonnigel/ https://kidmoto.taxi/ Episode Highlights (Chapters) 00:00 – Intro and Nelson’s journey 03:00 – Spotting the market gap for Kidmoto 05:00 – Bootstrapping vs. fundraising: The decision 08:00 – Creating a 400-page business plan 11:00 – Product-market fit from real-world taxi insights 14:00 – Competing with Uber and Lyft? “I run my race” 17:00 – Scaling to 64 cities and $1M+ in revenue 20:00 – How Nelson would approach investors today 22:00 – Leadership philosophy and culture at Kidmoto 26:00 – Staying grounded through adversity 28:00 – What’s next: MotoNation and healthcare logistics 31:00 – Kidmoto’s use of AI and future outlook 33:00 – Final thoughts and Nelson’s advice for founders…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#482 The Browser Is the New Battleground: John Carse on Securing the Modern Endpoint 49:37

לפני 7 weeks49:37

49:37

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we’re joined by John Carse , Field CISO at SquareX , to explore a fast-emerging shift in cybersecurity: the browser as the new endpoint. John shares why traditional tools like EDR and CASB are no longer sufficient, how modern threats are bypassing enterprise defenses, and what CISOs need to prioritize in a SaaS-first, GenAI-driven world. With decades of leadership across Dyson, Rakuten, Expedia, and the U.S. Navy, John brings both a practitioner’s lens and a future-forward vision to security. 💡 What You’ll Learn • Why the browser is now the most targeted endpoint • How unsanctioned SaaS apps increase attack surface • The growing importance of browser-based detection and response • Where AI is accelerating both attackers and defenders • Practical advice for CISOs prioritizing browser security today ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • Over 60% of cyberattacks now begin in the browser. • Legacy tools like EDR, CASB, and DLP often miss context at the browser layer. • Browser extensions can now enforce enterprise-grade policies with minimal user friction. • AI is a dual-edged sword —accelerating threats but also helping defenders respond faster. • SquareX helps convert any browser into a secure enterprise environment with deep visibility, policy control, and threat mitigation. 👤 About the Guest John Carse is Field CISO at SquareX, a browser security company redefining how enterprises protect their workforce. He previously served as Global CISO at Dyson and Rakuten, and led security operations at JP Morgan Chase and Expedia. John blends deep hands-on expertise with strategic insight into emerging threat landscapes and CISO priorities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncarse/ https://www.securityweek.com/industry-moves/feb-24-2025/ https://sqrx.com/ Episode Highlights [00:03:00] – What is a Field CISO and John’s role [00:06:00] – Why the browser has quietly become the new endpoint [00:10:00] – How detection and response works inside the browser [00:18:00] – The real threats: browser-based social engineering, sync jacking, and polymorphic extensions [00:24:00] – Why EDR and SASE tools are not enough [00:32:00] – Balancing security and user experience in browser-based defense [00:40:00] – What excites John about the future of browser security and GenAI…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#481 Go-to-Market Clarity in a Noisy World: Jan van Schuppen’s GTM Wisdom 45:22

לפני 7 weeks45:22

45:22

In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Jan van Schuppen , a seasoned sales entrepreneur and founder of Ideas in Spades , who has led global B2B sales teams for over 30 years. They explore the biggest myths in go-to-market (GTM) strategy, the traps of founder-led content, how to balance automation with authenticity, and why selling before building is often the smartest startup move. Whether you’re a founder looking for early traction or a tech leader rethinking your sales stack in the age of AI, this conversation cuts through the noise and delivers timeless, actionable GTM wisdom. 🧩 Key Takeaways: • Why “sell first, build later” works in B2B SaaS • The founder-as-content-creator myth—and what to do instead • How AI tools and digital avatars can boost outreach and sales trust • Why startups need fewer followers—and more qualified conversations • How to train sales teams to blend automation with authenticity • The future of sales in an AI-driven market (from both seller and buyer sides) ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn: • How to map out your GTM motion before product is finished • Ways to convert your network into test users and early buyers • How to avoid “spray-and-pray” tactics that waste founder time • The 5/95 method for using AI in sales without losing your voice • How to create trust-based outreach without overthinking algorithms 👤 About the Guest: Jan van Schuppen is a sales strategist and founder of Ideas in Spades . After exiting his last company, Jan began helping founders accelerate their path to revenue through hands-on coaching and AI-powered digital sales solutions—including avatar-based training. He also partners with leading AI video platform HeyGen as a creative and enterprise sales advisor. https://www.linkedin.com/in/janvanschuppen/ https://ideasinspades.com/ 🔍 Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] – What it means to be a “sales entrepreneur” [00:04:00] – The one sales principle that never changes [00:08:00] – How Jan coaches founders to unlock early revenue [00:10:00] – Why founders don’t need to be content creators—but must be visible [00:17:00] – The power of founder-led pilots and early feedback loops [00:21:00] – AI outreach vs. authenticity: Jan’s 5/95 framework [00:26:00] – Using digital avatars in sales follow-ups and proposals [00:31:00] – How to build an audience without chasing algorithms [00:36:00] – What AI means for future sales teams—and how to stay relevant…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

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#480 The Dangerous Gap: Why Startups Fail After MVP – Insights from Ali Hafizji 35:58

לפני 8 weeks35:58

35:58

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we’re joined by Ali Hafizji, founder of the product development agency Wednesday , for a candid look into one of the most overlooked phases in startup growth: the dangerous gap between MVP and Product-Market Fit (PMF). We explore why many startups lose momentum after MVP, how to avoid premature scaling, the role of AI in early-stage execution, and what it really takes to survive the chaos between MVP and PMF. 💡 Key Takeaways • Why the MVP is just a milestone , not the finish line • The most common traps founders fall into post-MVP • How to measure the right metrics instead of vanity ones • The importance of distribution, sales, and customer conversations • When and how to outsource technical work without losing control • Why being an AI-native founder or team is now a startup superpower • The real difference between a programmer and a product engineer ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to shift your mindset and role after shipping an MVP • The dangers of scaling too early or hiring too fast • How AI changes the game for early-stage teams and solo founders • Whether non-technical founders still need CTOs in the age of AI • How to evaluate and collaborate with outsourcing partners effectively 👤 About the Guest Ali Hafizji is a veteran entrepreneur, engineer-turned-marketer, and founder of Wednesday , a product development agency helping startups go from MVP to scalable products. At Wednesday Solutions, he leads a team that has collaborated with over 10% of India’s unicorn companies, delivering solutions that have meaningfully contributed to their growth. With deep insights from working across multiple startups, Ali brings sharp clarity to common mistakes, smart iterations, and team-building in early-stage ventures. http://wednesday.is/ http://tuesday.is/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alihafizji/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and Ali’s background 03:00 – Why MVP is just the beginning 05:00 – The real job of a founder after MVP 06:30 – What is “The Dangerous Gap”? 08:00 – Why vanity metrics lead startups astray 11:00 – Premature scaling: the #1 killer 14:30 – What great early-stage teams focus on 17:00 – How AI can help founders post-MVP 20:00 – Product engineer vs. programmer 25:00 – Outsourcing: best practices and warning signs 30:00 – Do you need a fractional CTO? 33:00 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Ali…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#479 Rewriting the Music Playbook: Jeremy Sirota on Innovation, AI, and Artist Empowerment 44:54

לפני 8 weeks44:54

44:54

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the transformation of the global music industry with Jeremy Sirota , CEO of Merlin , the world’s leading digital licensing partner for independent music labels. Jeremy unpacks how Merlin is leveling the playing field for indie artists, leveraging tech and AI to streamline music licensing, and helping startups access curated music legally and efficiently. Whether you’re a tech founder, investor, or platform builder, this conversation offers a rare lens into licensing, innovation in legacy industries, and the cultural implications of AI in creative ecosystems. 🧠 What You’ll Learn • How Merlin is redefining music licensing through in-house platforms and normalized APIs • Why independent music matters in an AI-driven world • How Merlin’s “Connect” initiative bridges startups and music licensing • What founders should know when building tech for creators • AI in music: risk, regulation, and opportunity • Pattern recognition and leadership lessons for startup operators ⸻ ✨ Key Takeaways • Intentional serendipity : Jeremy’s nonlinear career from law to tech to music • “The fourth major” : Merlin’s global reach empowering indie labels • Music licensing gap : Why startups don’t know who to talk to—and how Merlin solves it • AI & copyright : The global debate on generative music models • Culture meets tech : Pattern recognition > prediction in fast-moving industries • Innovation from constraints : Bad idea sessions and reverse engineering success 👤 About the Guest Jeremy Sirota is CEO of Merlin, the independent’s digital music licensing partner. Merlin is a global leader for independent labels and distributors around the world, representing 15% of the global market share. Merlin helps its members to own their independence by striking premium music deals with services like Apple, Canva, Snap, Spotify, Twitch, and YouTube. Sirota’s role at Merlin weaves together his lifelong passions for music and technology. He started his career as a technology lawyer at Morrison & Forster, with a focus on copyright law. He went on to hold senior positions at Warner Music Group, culminating as Head of Business & Legal Affairs for WEA and ADA. Prior to Merlin, he was an early hire on the Facebook music team to launch music experiences across Facebook and Instagram. https://merlinnetwork.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremysirota/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Jeremy’s unique background 03:30 – What Merlin is and why it matters for independent artists 08:15 – The startup licensing problem: why Connect was created 13:00 – Building innovation inside a legacy industry 18:20 – API pull vs. push: simplifying music access for developers 21:00 – Music in Reels, TikToks, and social platforms: legal challenges 25:00 – Can AI-generated music be copyrighted? 30:00 – Artist anxiety vs. excitement about AI 36:00 – Startup advice: intuition, testing, and leadership culture…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#478 100x Outcomes, Not 10x Hype: AI Execution Strategies with Matt Leta 55:03

לפני 8 weeks55:03

55:03

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive deep into what it really takes to implement AI that works —not just experiments, but systems that scale. Joining us is Matt Leta , founder & CEO of Future Works, an AI-native company built alongside generative AI as his co-founder. 🔑 Key Takeaways • AI alone isn’t enough —without workflow integration and people buy-in, the tech fails. • 20% of teams may never adapt to AI , and that has structural consequences. • Digital transformation 3.0 is here: from networks to intelligence. • Executive blind spots often derail AI success more than tech limitations. • Vibe coding is real —and it’s reshaping how products get built. ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to go beyond tools like ChatGPT and achieve organization-wide ROI • Why “AI-first” is a mindset, not a label • The future of billion-dollar companies with minimal teams • Lessons from Matt’s journey—from artist to startup exit to AI-native builder 👤 About the Guest Matt Leta is a serial entrepreneur, technologist, and the founder of Future Works , a company born from an experiment: what if AI could co-create a business from scratch? Formerly a digital product studio founder, Matt has worked with top-tier Silicon Valley companies including Apple, Google, and JLL among 150+ organizations, built multiple ventures, and authored the book “100x: An Executive Brief for AI-Driven Business Results.” He’s also the creator of the viral HustleGPT experiment and a vocal advocate for building truly AI-first organizations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/matleta/ https://future.works/ https://www.amazon.com/100x-Executive-AI-Driven-Business-Results-ebook/dp/B0DZHQFCV4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1447UD5KAL1RZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oYi5C4pp0ELD6xmW0R8QjWICgAlDBWJOKH6JsbGSj6mdDn_yFdDr7SOGNkVLJRcxV-_dpJxGb2ya8bUCZP9J_whgn7AUhYm_Vfzr_3NhbTs.gzpYqf3AVAAFG1fqdK9zHLhfWkn9A7U8zMrPDHo1Ra0&dib_tag=se&keywords=matt+leta&qid=1743434813&sprefix=matt+%2Caps%2C1036&sr=8-1 Episode Highlights & Timestamps • [00:01:00] Matt Leta’s journey from artist to AI-native entrepreneur • [00:05:30] Can AI really co-found a company? Lessons from HustleGPT • [00:08:00] Why most companies fail at AI implementation • [00:13:45] Automation vs. Intelligence: what leaders often confuse • [00:17:00] Internal resistance: why some teams never adopt AI • [00:21:00] Digital transformation isn’t new—this is just the next wave • [00:27:00] “100x” thinking and the rise of the augmented team • [00:34:00] Vibe coding, solo founders, and the $1B company of one • [00:43:00] Are today’s AI models smarter—or just shinier? • [00:50:00] Why adaptability beats prediction when building with AI…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#477 The Singularity of Hope: Sam Sammane on Amplifying Humanity with AI 54:33

לפני 9 weeks54:33

54:33

In this thought-provoking episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we welcome Sam Sammane , physicist, serial entrepreneur, and author of The Singularity of Hope . With a background in nanotechnology, life sciences, and AI, Sam offers a rare mix of technical depth and philosophical insight. Together, we explore how AI is reshaping business, creativity, and even our understanding of intelligence—and why the future belongs to those who amplify human potential , not replace it. 🧠 What You’ll Learn • Why most people misunderstand AI (and how to explain it better) • What makes real intelligence—including love, intuition, and soul—impossible to replicate • How startups can build defensible models in a world of fast replication • When AI amplifies human creativity vs. when it distracts from it • Why specialization (not general AI) is where business value lives ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • Generative AI is powerful but not conscious —it’s automation on steroids, not artificial general intelligence. • Startups need a human or physical component to stay defensible in the AI era. • Human augmentation is the next frontier: using AI to elevate—not replace—intuition, judgment, and wisdom. • Be cautious with AI hallucinations and over-automation without human-in-the-loop control. 👤 About the Guest Sam Sammane is a bestselling author, PhD in nanotechnology, and founder of multiple ventures across life sciences, AI, and public relations. His book The Singularity of Hope explores humanity’s path through the age of AI. He is also the author of the novel The Republic of Mars . Sam brings a deeply humanistic lens to emerging technologies, blending scientific rigor with bold visions of the future. https://www.sammane.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-sammane-ba192720/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Sam’s multidisciplinary background 02:45 – From nanotech and life science to AI startups 06:10 – What people get wrong about AI and intelligence 12:30 – The emotional layer: love, empathy, and human learning 16:40 – The myth of AGI and why it’s still far away 22:00 – AI vs. quantum intelligence: where we are and aren’t 25:45 – Real-world use cases that excite Sam today 29:50 – AI as a “super assistant,” not a cofounder 32:10 – Why intuition still beats perfect data 36:30 – Hallucinations, shortcuts, and human laziness 42:10 – Big tech manipulation and algorithmic ethics 45:00 – Advice for founders in the age of commoditized tech 50:00 – Why physical innovation is your startup moat 52:00 – Where to find Sam + upcoming speaking in Dubai 53:00 – Closing thoughts & tease for Part 2 on The Republic of Mars…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#476 Stop Pitching Tech, Start Selling Outcomes: Josh Dorfman’s Advice for Climate Founders 57:15

לפני 9 weeks57:15

57:15

In this episode, Mehmet is joined by Josh Dorfman , CEO of Supercool and host of the Supercool podcast. Josh is a serial sustainability entrepreneur, former investor, and media trailblazer with two decades of experience scaling climate-focused ventures. From founding The Lazy Environmentalist to helping build a company that landed a 10M panel deal with D.R. Horton, Josh shares why storytelling—not tech specs—is what drives results in climate tech today. 📌 Key Takeaways: • Why outcomes matter more than tech or climate talk when selling to real-world customers. • The single biggest communication mistake climate founders make—and how to fix it. • Why corporate partnerships (like D.R. Horton or Amazon) are crucial for GTM in climate tech. • The role of personal branding in breaking through a crowded tech market. • Why investors are leaning into climate tech for business reasons , not just impact. ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn: • How to pitch climate solutions to skeptics using outcomes, not moral appeals. • Strategic GTM lessons from real deals in building materials, mobility, and AI-powered HVAC. • How Josh used media to amplify early-stage ventures (and how founders can do the same). • What LPs are really looking for in the climate investment space. About Josh Dorfman: Josh Dorfman is the founder of Supercool , a media company focused on real-world, proven climate solutions. With previous roles as a VC, tech startup founder, and national radio host, Josh blends operational insight with a media-savvy approach to helping climate founders scale. He is best known for his earlier work as The Lazy Environmentalist on Sirius Radio and Sundance Channel. Josh is a driving force in sustainable innovation, creating companies that blend cutting-edge technology with a positive environmental impact. As co-founder and CEO of Plantd, Josh spearheaded efforts to produce carbon-negative building materials, earning accolades such as Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies. Much like your guest, John, Josh has a way of intertwining sustainability with savvy business practices. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorfmanjosh/ https://getsuper.cool/ https://www.plantdmaterials.com/ Episode Highlights: [00:03:00] Josh’s China moment that triggered a climate awakening [00:08:00] Why talking about AI or climate turns off most customers [00:16:00] What drag racers taught Josh about emotional storytelling [00:24:00] From prototype to 10M panel order: Scaling a new material with D.R. Horton [00:31:00] The myth that only young people will solve climate change [00:43:00] GTM tactics: Changing the RFP instead of chasing it [00:47:00] Why founders must invest in their personal brand [00:51:00] Josh’s ideal investment: turning carbon removal into durable products…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#475 Focus, Grit, and Product-Market Fit: Lessons from Anya Cheng’s Startup Journey 50:43

לפני 9 weeks50:43

50:43

In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Anya Cheng , the founder and CEO of Taelor , a fashion-tech startup revolutionizing how busy men dress—without shopping or doing laundry. With past leadership roles at Meta, eBay, and McDonald’s, Anya brings a unique product mindset and startup resilience that shines through her journey from MVP to raising millions. This is a masterclass in product thinking, perseverance, and staying focused—even when things get scrappy. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Start with real customer pain , not tech buzzwords • Use product intuition and lean MVPs to validate ideas • Why storytelling and empathy beat sales tactics in fundraising • Fundraising is less about pitching, more about training champions • Deep customer insight is your competitive moat 🎧 What You’ll Learn • How Anya applied agile principles to build Taelor from a landing page • The truth about launching AI products in fashion • Lessons from her time at Meta, eBay, and Target • How to approach investors with authenticity and relevance • Why female founders and minority-led teams should lean into their strengths 👤 About the Guest Anya Cheng is a serial builder and product leader turned founder. As a Mentor at '500 Startups' and ex-product leader at McDonald, eBay and Facebook, she has been listed in 'Girls Tech 40 Under 40' and founded a sustainable men clothing rental platform- Taelor (currently doing $1.5m in revenue). She’s also a TEDx speaker and a mentor at 500 Startups. At Taelor , she’s building “Netflix for menswear,” using AI to deliver rental clothing for men who want to look great without effort. Use code PODCAST25 for 25% off your first month! https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng/ https://taelor.style/ 🧭 Episode Highlights 00:02 – Anya’s background and the aha moment behind Taelor 00:07 – Early MVP experiments and Taelor’s first 100 customers 00:12 – GTM lessons from Meta, eBay, and Target 00:15 – Knowing when to follow data—and when not to 00:18 – Building a product team with complementary pieces 00:22 – What Anya looks for in startup founders as a 500 Startups mentor 00:26 – Fundraising stories and mindset reframes 00:34 – Solving for a focused use case instead of chasing features 00:39 – Her perspective on being a female founder in tech 00:42 – TEDx behind the scenes and tips for pushing through hardship 00:47 – Mehmet’s reflections on podcasting, persistence, and building in public…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#474 Execution Over Ideas: Andy Cwik on Building and Scaling 58:52

לפני 10 weeks58:52

58:52

Episode Overview In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , Andy Cwik—co-founder and CEO of Hubub—shares his lessons from three startups, including the painful failures and meaningful wins. From crashing his first startup to exiting a telehealth company, Andy now leads Hubub, a SaaS platform that automates client entertainment for B2B teams. He opens up about what truly makes a startup successful (hint: it’s not the idea), how AI fits into real business workflows, why network effects matter more than ever, and how he’s using his time to mentor founders and advocate for mental health reform through a personal documentary project. 💡 Key Takeaways • Execution outweighs the idea: Why founders often get stuck at ideation. • Building defensibility through network effects and switching costs. • How to pitch enterprise tools to decision-makers, not just users. • Why most AI startups are chasing buzzwords—and what actually works. • The evolution of startup ecosystems beyond Silicon Valley. • A rare look into Andy’s advocacy for mental health reform in the justice system. 🎧 What You’ll Learn • The origin story behind Hubub and its 13-year evolution • How to move from “paper napkin” idea to product with traction • Strategic use cases of AI in early-stage SaaS • How to validate pain points and avoid marketplace traps • Navigating risk aversion in startup hubs like Chicago • Why some founders should take the exit—and why others shouldn’t 👤 About the Guest Andy Cwik is a seasoned entrepreneur and AI thought leader with a track record of building innovative businesses. As the Co-Founder and CEO of hubub, he is redefining business client entertainment through AI-driven digital concierge services, automating logistics from reservations to expense reporting. With over a decade of experience in tech-driven ventures, Andy has successfully founded and exited multiple companies, including a telehealth startup with peak annual revenues of $25 million and a data encryption firm. Beyond hubub, Andy is a key figure in Chicago’s startup ecosystem, serving in leadership roles for the Founders Institute and Founders Network, where he mentors emerging entrepreneurs. He has raised over $5 million across his ventures and has spoken at leading AI and business events, including GenAI Collective and the Union League of Chicago Business Leaders Group. Passionate about AI’s capabilities and limitations, Andy brings unique insights into the evolving landscape of technology, work, and automation. His thought leadership challenges mainstream AI narratives, advocating for a balanced perspective on its future impact. https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-cwik https://hubub.me/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:01 – Andy’s startup journey: 3 ventures and one painful failure 04:00 – The aha moment that led to Hubub 08:00 – Why expense reporting is the hidden pain point no one talks about 10:30 – Building a two-sided marketplace with smart API integrations 13:00 – What startup founders get wrong about AI 17:30 – Network effects and why Groupon failed 23:00 – Defensibility: Your real moat in a world of clones 28:00 – How AI is reshaping VC workflows (and deal sourcing) 32:00 – Chicago vs. Silicon Valley: What founders should know 40:00 – When to exit and when to stay the course 47:00 – Andy’s work on a documentary about mental health and the justice system…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#473 AI Won’t Replace Jobs, It Will Replace Companies — Anthony Franco Breaks It Down 55:47

לפני 10 weeks55:47

55:47

In this episode of The CTO Show , serial entrepreneur and podcast host Anthony Franco joins Mehmet to unpack how AI is fundamentally reshaping how businesses operate—beyond the hype. With six exits under his belt and decades of experience launching and scaling ventures, Anthony shares what it really takes to operationalize AI in today’s organizations and why the real disruption isn’t about job loss—it’s about organizational survival. 💡 What You’ll Learn • Why most leaders still misunderstand what “AI transformation” really means • The biggest mistake companies make when automating workflows • How to rethink outdated systems like Agile and Six Sigma in the AI age • Why agentic AI is less about replacing roles and more about rebuilding how work is done • How founders can leverage AI for early-stage growth, product-market fit, and GTM ⸻ 🧠 Key Takeaways • Don’t automate bad processes—simplify first, then apply AI • Think like a gardener, not a factory manager: AI requires adaptability • Founders need to master human-to-human connection more than ever • Smaller teams will win, but collaboration still beats solo work • The best time to exit is two years before you burn out 👤 About the Guest Anthony Franco is a serial entrepreneur, founder of six companies, and host of the How to Founder podcast. He’s currently helping companies apply AI-first thinking to real-world operations through his work with OneReach and initiatives like AI First Principles and the WISER Methodology . http://www.howtofounder.com/ https://linkedin.com/in/anthonyfranco/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:02 – Anthony’s journey and current projects 04:00 – What it means to “operationalize” AI 06:30 – AI First Principles and the WISER Methodology 11:00 – Why old frameworks like Agile are becoming obsolete 17:00 – Can this work for large enterprises? 20:00 – Is AI a threat to jobs or to companies? 25:00 – How founders should approach AI-powered ventures 30:00 – Building vs. selling: What founders forget 34:00 – Why a great product isn’t enough without distribution 39:00 – The story behind How to Founder 43:00 – Smaller teams, bigger outcomes 47:00 – Signs it’s time to exit 51:00 – Final thoughts on the startup mindset…

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

1
#472 Reinventing Cooling: Faizan Ahmed’s Solid-State Revolution 51:11

לפני 10 weeks51:11

51:11

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the world of deep tech and hardware innovation with Faizan Ahmed , founder and CEO of Invensify . From solving his father’s insulin storage problem to building a patented solid-state cooling module, Faizan walks us through the journey of reinventing refrigeration and building a product-as-a-service business in a legacy-driven industry. 🎯 Key Takeaways • What solid-state cooling really is—and why it matters • The surprising size of the pharma cold chain logistics market • Why hardware innovation must be 10x better to be taken seriously • How a Product-as-a-Service model creates defensibility • Fundraising for deep tech: what works and what doesn’t • Real-world sustainability beats greenwashing ⸻ 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to identify deep tech opportunities from personal problems • The trade-offs of designing hardware with no moving parts • Why solid-state cooling is more sustainable and scalable than compressors • What it takes to commercialize deep tech in a SaaS-obsessed world • How to overcome industry resistance to innovation 👤 About the Guest Faizan Ahmed is a second-time hardware founder with a background in electrical engineering and solid-state physics. Before Invensify, he exited a startup that built camera lens rain deflectors, and earlier contributed to a defense tech company acquired by the U.S. Air Force. Today, he leads Invensify in building energy-efficient, compressor-free cooling systems for healthcare and beyond. https://www.invensify.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/faizan-ahmed-a720b411/ 🕒 Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and guest welcome 01:30 – Faizan’s engineering background and past exits 03:55 – The insulin travel problem that sparked Invensify 05:30 – Cold chain logistics is a $6.2B market still using ice packs 06:45 – What is solid-state cooling? Tech foundations explained 10:00 – Efficiency, battery weight, and key trade-offs 12:30 – Designing lightweight, plug-and-play cooling systems 14:00 – Zero moving parts = low maintenance + high reliability 15:00 – Accidental sustainability: how climate impact became a bonus 17:00 – Key verticals: pharma, EV batteries, AI chips, data centers 21:00 – Product-as-a-Service: Why Faizan avoided hardware sales 24:30 – ESG regulations and sustainability tailwinds 28:00 – Manufacturing in Malaysia and global expansion plans 29:00 – Fundraising lessons from deep tech 31:00 – The importance of 10x differentiation in hardware 34:00 – Transferable skills from previous startups 36:00 – Will solid-state cooling replace traditional refrigeration? 39:00 – Faizan’s vision: Cooling fridges in off-grid areas 42:00 – Which is harder—tech innovation or mindset shift? 47:00 – Final advice to founders…

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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu « » #72 Navigating the Hype: Mapping Generative AI to Key Business Objectives

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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu « »
#72 Navigating the Hype: Mapping Generative AI to Key Business Objectives