The Tech Trek

In this episode, Amir sits down with Jim Olsen, CTO of ModelOp, to explore the essential role of AI governance in today's organizations. Jim shares practical insights into managing foundational models, emphasizing their impact on regulatory compliance, business performance, and innovation. The conversation delves into the distinct challenges of implementing AI solutions, how governance aligns AI with business objectives, and the critical role of regulations. Learn how to navigate this evolving field and position AI as a strategic enabler for your organization. What you'll learn: Understanding AI governance:Why it’s critical for managing risks, ensuring compliance, and aligning AI with business goals. Building an AI model inventory:The first step in AI governance—tracking and maintaining an inventory of all AI models to enable better control and oversight. Managing the lifecycle of AI models:From design to retirement—how to ensure models stay effective, compliant, and valuable throughout their lifecycle. The business case for governance:How strong governance practices support performance metrics, innovation, and long-term ROI. Highlights: 01:20 The unique challenges of implementing foundational AI models 04:07 Defining the framework for AI governance 07:09 Why governance is essential for risk management and compliance 14:14 Measuring the performance and ROI of AI solutions 19:19 Practical examples of AI governance in action 21:48 What the future holds for AI governance This episode is packed with actionable advice to help business leaders and technologists navigate the complexities of AI governance. Tune in to learn how to make AI work smarter for your organization. Guest: Jim Olsen is the Chief Technology Officer at ModelOp, where he leads the design and development of ModelOp Center, a cutting-edge product for AI Governance. With over 40 years of experience in software across a wide range of industries, Jim brings a wealth of expertise to his role. Currently, he works remotely from his off-grid cabin in Colorado, exemplifying his unique approach to innovation and technology leadership. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimolsen/ ---- Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player. Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests? Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)

In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir Bormand talks with Ken Kao, VP of Engineering at Rad AI, about the evolving role of engineers in driving business innovation. They explore how tech differentiation can give companies a competitive edge and how engineers can act as problem solvers and creative artists beyond just writing code. Key Takeaways: Tech Differentiation for Competitive Edge: Learn how technology-driven innovation can set companies apart. Engineers as Artists and Problem Solvers: Engineers can move beyond code by creatively solving business problems. Shifting Engineers Left: Involve engineers earlier in the business process to unlock more strategic value. Business-Driven Tech Conversations: Bridge the gap between tech and business by fostering mutual understanding. Future Engineering Skills: Develop critical thinking, business awareness, and adaptability to stay competitive in tech. Episode Highlights: 01:40 - The Role of Engineering in Company Differentiation02:42 - Real-World Examples of Tech Differentiation06:50 - The Dynamic Nature of Tech-Driven Innovation09:37 - Empowering Engineers for Business Impact10:39 - Shifting Engineers Left in Business Discussions11:47 - Competitive Edge Through Generative AI12:47 - The Evolving Role of Software Engineers13:19 - Engineers as Problem Solvers14:38 - Engineers as Creative Artists Beyond Coding16:54 - Bridging the Gap Between Tech and Business17:43 - Future-Ready Skills for Engineers20:40 - Automation and the Future of Engineering Listen now for expert advice on fostering tech innovation, empowering engineers, and driving business growth through strategic tech leadership! Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)

Guest: Jordan Kaye, Head of Technology at Belvedere Trading Episode Summary:In this episode, Jordan Kaye redefines technical debt through a practical lens, emphasizing the importance of conscious decision-making and its impact on engineering velocity, quality, and business outcomes. He explains how technical debt should be approached like financial debt—intentionally incurred with clear trade-offs. Jordan also shares strategies for balancing agility and long-term system stability, offering actionable advice for tech leaders and engineering teams navigating high-impact projects. Key Takeaways: Redefining Tech Debt: Tech debt isn’t just “bad code” — it’s a conscious decision made to accelerate progress while accepting future challenges. Quantifying Debt: Use tools like issue boards to track, visualize, and manage tech debt over time. Business-Driven Engineering: Tech teams should align with business goals to ensure solutions drive meaningful outcomes. Balancing Quality and Speed: Prioritize flexibility over perfection, focusing on scalable and maintainable systems. Avoiding Premature Problem-Solving: Use "just-in-time scoping" to prevent wasted work and maintain agility. Episode Highlights: 01:00 - Redefining Tech Debt as a Conscious Decision03:45 - How to Quantify and Manage Tech Debt07:10 - Business Context and Engineering Trade-Offs10:50 - When Legacy Code Is Not a Problem13:15 - Organizational Buy-In for System Maintenance16:50 - Quality vs. Velocity: Finding the Right Balance18:30 - Building Agile and Flexible Engineering Systems22:00 - Avoiding Premature Problem-Solving through Just-in-Time Scoping Connect with Jordan Kaye: LinkedIn: Jordan Kaye on LinkedIn Personal Website: jordankaye.dev Listen, learn, and redefine how your engineering team approaches tech debt! Share this episode with tech leaders and developers ready to rethink their approach. 🚀

Episode Overview: In this episode, Amir Bormand sits down with Amnon Mishor, CTO of Gynger, to discuss startup resilience, founder mindset, and navigating tough economic times. Drawing from his experience building multiple startups during challenging market conditions, Amnon shares actionable insights on responsible growth, managing existential risks, and staying focused on core business goals. Key Takeaways: 1. Redefining Resilience in Startups Resilience isn’t about merely surviving tough times; it’s about positioning the company for long-term success. The most successful companies have faced existential crises but persevered by adapting. 2. Founders’ Mindset During Tough Times Founders must focus on what they can control, ignoring unpredictable macroeconomic shifts. Avoid betting on the market or altering the company’s mission based on fleeting economic trends. 3. Responsible Growth vs. Rapid Expansion Growth must be deliberate and grounded in clear, data-driven metrics. Avoid hiring too quickly or building unnecessary features based on external pressures. Always evaluate ROI on new product features and hiring decisions. 4. Navigating Investor Challenges Finding the right investors who align with long-term goals is critical, even when funding is scarce. Be ready to walk away from unfavorable deals to maintain strategic focus. 5. Managing Risks and Staying Focused Founders often face the temptation to diversify products prematurely, risking dilution of the company’s core mission. Focus on the startup’s superpower, avoiding the pitfalls of overextension. Episode Highlights: 01:12 What Gynger Does: Embedded Financing for Tech Purchases 03:00 Defining Resilience Beyond Just Survival 04:23 Challenges of Building Startups During Market Downturns 06:38 Importance of Finding the Right Investors 10:45 Balancing Responsible Growth with Market Pressures 14:28 Avoiding the Trap of Overexpansion and Product Dilution 18:33 Why Startups Need to Stay Lean and Focused 20:29 Defining Responsible Growth in Practical Terms 25:55 Core Lessons from Founding Two Startups Final Thoughts: Amnon emphasizes that while founders can’t control market dynamics, they can build resilient companies through strategic decision-making, responsible growth, and unwavering focus. His experience in building startups during difficult economic periods offers valuable lessons for founders, investors, and tech leaders alike. Connect with Amnon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amnonmishor/ Email: amnon@gynger.io Subscribe & Share: Like this episode? Share it with your network and subscribe for more insightful conversations with tech leaders.

Join us for a deep dive into career progression in tech with Anant Gupta, SVP of Engineering and Data Science at Included Health. This episode explores the skills, decisions, and reflections that shape a fulfilling career in technology. Anant shares lessons from his journey through senior engineering roles and leadership positions at companies like LinkedIn and Uber, offering practical advice on balancing technical mastery with leadership ambitions. Whether you're navigating transitions or striving for career happiness, this conversation provides actionable insights for every tech professional. Episode Highlights The Chef Analogy for Career Growth (02:33) Anant explains how career progression is like becoming a great chef—mastery comes from honing your craft, not just moving up the ladder. Skills Beyond Engineering (03:45) Essential skills such as coaching, mentoring, and communication are crucial for leaders, extending beyond technical expertise. Transitioning to Leadership Roles (05:22) Discover the nuances of moving from IC to management and the importance of helping teams succeed. Finding Fulfillment (15:49) Insights on finding joy in your chosen career path and focusing on impact over titles. Key Takeaways Hone Your Craft: Focus on building deep expertise in your area, whether technical or managerial. Excellence is the foundation for growth. Leadership Is About Others: Effective leaders focus on enabling their teams, creating a shared vision, and coaching for success. Pursue Skills, Not Titles: Career happiness often comes from skill mastery and meaningful work, rather than chasing hierarchical promotions. Reflect Often: Regularly assess where you find joy and impact, ensuring your career aligns with your values and goals. Guest: Anant Gupta is the SVP of Engineering and Data Science at Included Health, leading technology initiatives to redefine healthcare. Anant believes in the transformative power of technology to fundamentally alter how we live and interact with the world around us. He oversees initiatives that harness AI, comprehensive data platforms, and consumer technology to make healthcare more predictive, personalized, and accessible—aligning with the company's vision of personalized, all-in-one healthcare. Before joining Included Health, Anant held significant roles at pre-IPO giants such as Uber and LinkedIn, managing large, multidisciplinary teams. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to leveraging technology for impactful solutions and a dedication to team development. By fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, Anant consistently drives substantial innovations, reinforcing his commitment to transforming how we experience and benefit from advanced technology. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anantgupta1/ ---- Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player. Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests? Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)

In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir Bormand sits down with Ron Williams, founder and CEO of Kindle, to explore the evolving world of AI models and their business implications. The conversation dives into how companies can securely leverage AI, the emerging risks tied to AI adoption, and the shift from cloud-centric models to AI-driven infrastructures. Ron shares valuable insights on managing these challenges while maximizing the potential of generative AI. Key Takeaways: AI as a "Smart Intern": AI models are more than tools—they’re like smart interns who learn, adapt, and act on data. Companies must be cautious about the risks of exposing data and intellectual property to AI systems. Data Security in the AI Era: AI presents risks beyond traditional data breaches as it learns and retains insights from sensitive information. Organizations must rethink their security policies to address these new vulnerabilities. The Future of SaaS and AI: AI is reshaping software workflows, potentially reducing reliance on traditional SaaS platforms. Companies must prepare for a shift toward personalized AI models that improve operational efficiency. Ownership of AI Models: Businesses need to invest in their own AI models rather than relying solely on third-party solutions. Owning AI models ensures control over future capabilities and reduces dependency risks. Highlights: [00:00] Introduction Amir introduces Ron Williams and the focus of the episode: navigating AI and business security. [01:00] What Kindle Does Ron explains Kindle’s role in AI orchestration and how it helps businesses manage AI capabilities securely. [03:00] Comparing Cloud and AI Risks Discussion on how AI risks differ from traditional cloud data risks and the importance of understanding these nuances. [06:00] AI and Competitive Risk Insights into how large companies and startups are navigating AI’s impact on competition and innovation. [09:00] AI Models in the WorkplaceHow companies are deploying AI models to augment and, in some cases, replace traditional roles like customer service. [12:00] Apple’s On-Device AI and Future TrendsThe benefits of localized AI models, such as privacy and operational independence, as exemplified by Apple’s approach. [18:00] The Importance of Custom AI ModelsWhy building proprietary AI models is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in the future. [24:00] Closing ThoughtsRon emphasizes the significance of AI in shaping the future of business and offers actionable advice for leaders. Call to Action: Share this episode with tech leaders who are navigating the complexities of AI adoption. Remember to subscribe and leave feedback on what topics you'd like us to cover next!

In this episode, Amir Bormand speaks with John Coles, VP of Data Science and Analytics at ACV Auctions. They dive into what it means to lead with a data-first mindset, empower engineering teams, and foster a culture of innovation through hackathons. John shares insights on balancing profitability, ROI, and innovation while addressing the critical role of context and flexibility for team success. Key Takeaways Data-First Culture: Building with data in mind from the start enables both immediate and future business opportunities. Empowering Engineers: Providing context and flexibility allows engineers to innovate and adapt to rapidly evolving technologies. Hackathons as Innovation Drivers: Structured and collaborative hackathons foster creativity, experimentation, and peer recognition. ROI-Driven Decision Making: Embedding analytics within teams ensures alignment between business goals and engineering efforts. Highlights [00:01:00] - Introduction to ACV Auctions and its data-first approach to the automotive wholesale market.[00:04:00] - How providing context and flexibility fosters innovative solutions in engineering teams. [00:07:00] - The role of hackathons in driving innovation and their integration into ACV's product roadmap.[00:08:00] - Importance of peer-driven recognition in hackathons to elevate impactful ideas. [00:14:00] - Balancing innovation with business priorities: How ACV manages hackathon outputs and roadmaps.[00:17:00] - The role of upskilling and team enablement to turn hackathon ideas into actionable products.[00:20:00] - Examples of hackathon projects that have transformed into production solutions at ACV Auctions.[00:23:00] - The importance of embedding analytics into teams to measure ROI and drive insights. Episode Quote "Insight without delivery doesn’t result in value in a business. It’s interesting, but it doesn’t move you forward." — John Coles This episode offers invaluable insights for tech leaders looking to balance innovation and business outcomes while empowering their teams to lead from any position within the company. Guest: John Coles, Ph.D. is the Vice President of Data Science and Analytics at ACV, where he leads data infrastructure, machine learning and data analytics strategy. Prior to joining ACV, Dr. Coles held many leadership roles, including Chief Technology Officer and Chief Product Officer of Bronze Trident Inc., a startup in Buffalo, New York, where he designed the business model and product plan for an automated tax challenge software. Dr. Coles was recently recognized as an Auto Remarketing ‘40 Under 40’ Honoree (2021) and was awarded the Koopman Prize from the Military Appreciations Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS)—among other accolades. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University at Buffalo, a Master of Engineering from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in Operations Research from the University at Buffalo. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-coles-28311015/

In this insightful episode, Amir Bormand interviews Anil Choudary, CTO at Alliant Credit Union, about bridging the gap between technology and business priorities. The conversation covers managing tech debt effectively, engaging with business leaders, and fostering a culture of collaboration. Anil shares strategies for empowering engineers, using hackathons to foster innovation, and building a shared understanding between business and technology teams. Key Takeaways: Bridging the Gap: Understand and translate business priorities into technology initiatives to align goals effectively. Tech Debt Management: Position tech debt as a shared enterprise issue, not just a technical challenge. Empowering Engineers: Leverage initiatives like hackathons to surface bottom-up innovations and bridge the gap between business and technology. Culture of Collaboration: Establishing a culture of mutual understanding and collaboration is key to successful technology implementation. Emerging Technologies: Carefully evaluate the value and feasibility of emerging technologies like GenAI to ensure alignment with organizational needs. Highlighted Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to Anil Choudary and the topic of technology-business alignment. [02:00] Understanding and translating business priorities into technology initiatives. [05:00] Tech debt: A shared challenge and how to communicate it to business stakeholders. [09:00] Evaluating the feasibility of emerging technologies like GenAI for practical use cases. [13:00] Using hackathons to empower engineers and foster innovation within the organization. [18:00] Lessons from leading tech companies: Applying product-centric thinking to mainstream organizations. [24:00] Creating production-ready AI solutions and addressing the hype versus reality of emerging technologies. Memorable Quote: "Tech debt isn't just a technology problem—it's an enterprise problem. It's about understanding how our decisions over time shape the organization's ability to innovate." – Anil Choudary This episode offers a practical guide for technology and business leaders to align their strategies, foster collaboration, and embrace innovation while managing the complexities of tech debt and cultural transformation. --- Anu Choudary is a seasoned technology leader with extensive experience in driving digital transformation and strategic business initiatives. With a background in both technical and managerial roles, she excels at bridging the gap between business objectives and technological innovation. Anu has led high-impact projects in cloud computing, enterprise architecture, and software development, demonstrating a keen ability to align IT solutions with organizational goals. Known for her collaborative approach, she fosters cross-functional solid relationships and emphasizes the importance of mentorship and team development. Her expertise positions her as a valuable asset in leading technology-driven growth and change within organizations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/achoudary/

In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir Bormand chats with Dana Lawson, CTO at Netlify, about the complexities and nuances of stepping into a CTO role. They dive deep into the challenges of leadership, career progression, and aligning technical and business objectives. Dana shares her journey from a director role to CTO, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, adaptability, and building relationships within and beyond the organization. Key Takeaways: Rethinking Career Success: Success in technology isn’t about chasing titles; it’s about finding fulfilling roles that align with personal and organizational goals. Balancing Business and Technology: As you move up the ladder, the focus shifts from technical execution to strategic alignment with business goals. The Power of Vulnerability: Embracing vulnerability and asking for help fosters growth, collaboration, and team trust. Building Strong Relationships: Strong partnerships across teams, especially with finance and sales, are critical for CTO-level success. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction Dana shares her role at Netlify and the platform’s mission to streamline web development for engineers. [01:00] Is the CTO Role the Pinnacle of Success? Dana discusses societal pressures to climb the career ladder and why the CTO title isn’t the ultimate measure of success. [04:00] The Role of Directors in Organizations The unique impact and gratification that come with the director role versus higher executive positions. [07:00] Transitioning to the CTO Role Key skills Dana developed during her career that became critical as a CTO, including business acumen and data-driven decision-making. [11:00] Balancing Strategy and Execution How Dana balances being a strategic leader while staying connected to the technology and product teams. [13:00] Vulnerability in Leadership Why it’s essential to ask for help and leverage networks to overcome challenges in leadership roles. [17:00] Bridging Gaps with Business Teams Building trust and learning the language of finance and sales teams to align technical goals with business outcomes. [20:00] Advice for Aspiring CTOs Dana shares advice for senior engineers and directors looking to transition into executive leadership. Listen to Learn: How to navigate career progression in tech without succumbing to societal pressures. Why understanding the workflows of non-technical teams is crucial for senior leaders. How vulnerability and openness can enhance your effectiveness as a leader. This episode offers invaluable insights for aspiring tech leaders or anyone looking to understand the dynamics of transitioning to executive roles. Dana’s experience and candid reflections provide a roadmap for navigating challenges and fostering meaningful impact in the tech space. Don't miss out!

In this engaging episode, Amir sits down with Utkarsh Sangi, Head of Engineering at EarnUp, to explore the intricacies of the senior engineering role and the factors that influence career growth beyond it. They dive into the personal and professional considerations of staying at a senior level, the challenges of progressing to staff or management positions, and the critical role of leadership and mentorship in career advancement. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the balance between technical expertise and leadership skills, how to identify and close gaps in personal development, and the importance of aligning career goals with personal values. Highlights and Timestamps: 01:00 – What is a Senior Engineer?Utkarsh defines the senior engineering role as one focused on handling project-level complexity and explains why it is often considered a "terminal position" in tech careers. 03:00 – Why Engineers Stay at the Senior LevelUtkarsh discusses how personal priorities, such as work-life balance and individual happiness, influence decisions to remain at the senior level. 04:50 – The Role Change Beyond Senior EngineeringTransitioning beyond senior engineering involves unlearning certain habits and developing leadership skills, which can be challenging but rewarding. 08:00 – Manager's Role in Career GrowthA manager’s trust and feedback are critical for engineers aspiring to move beyond senior positions. Utkarsh emphasizes the importance of a strong manager-engineer relationship. 10:20 – Choosing Between Staff and Managerial TracksUtkarsh advises engineers to align their career paths with their day-to-day interests and desired outcomes, whether technical innovation or people development. 12:40 – Navigating Subjectivity in Skill AssessmentThe challenges of assessing technical skills and how managers can objectively evaluate an engineer’s impact. 14:50 – The Leadership GapUtkarsh highlights how leadership, both technical and people-oriented, is essential for moving beyond senior roles. Engineers must learn to delegate, collaborate, and drive organizational impact. 18:00 – The Value of Mentorship and Self-DevelopmentMentorship, self-awareness, and continuous learning are vital for career progression, especially for engineers aiming to take on leadership roles. 22:30 – External vs. Internal PromotionsUtkarsh explains the balance engineering leaders must strike when deciding to promote internally or hire externally for higher roles. Key Takeaways: ✅ Senior Engineering as a Terminal Position:It’s okay to remain a senior engineer if it aligns with personal happiness and career goals. Not everyone needs to climb the corporate ladder. ✅ Leadership is the Differentiator:Whether aiming for staff engineer or managerial roles, leadership skills—such as delegation and strategic thinking—are crucial. ✅ Manager-Engineer Trust is Vital:Strong relationships with managers pave the way for growth by fostering open communication and actionable feedback. ✅ Mentorship and Self-Development Drive Success:Investing in personal development and seeking mentorship are key to bridging gaps in leadership skills. Episode Quote: "Leadership isn’t just about knowing more; it’s about elevating others and driving impact across the team." This episode provides actionable advice and inspiration for engineers and tech professionals navigating career transitions, whether staying at the senior level or aspiring to higher leadership roles. Tune in to hear Utkarsh’s thoughtful perspectives on balancing career aspirations with personal fulfillment. Guest: Utkarsh Sangi is the Head of Engineering at EarnUp, a company focused on transforming mortgage servicing through technology. With a strong background in software engineering and technical leadership, Utkarsh has held key roles in scaling teams, driving product innovation, and managing complex engineering projects. His expertise spans various industries, including financial services and tech startups. Utkarsh is passionate about mentoring engineers, developing team leadership, and fostering a collaborative work environment that balances technical excellence with business outcomes. His experience and insights have positioned him as a leader in navigating the evolving demands of modern engineering organizations.