We made it— 300 episodes of This Is Woman’s Work ! And we’re marking this milestone by giving you something that could seriously change the game in your business or career: the skill of pitching yourself effectively. Whether you’re dreaming of being a podcast guest, landing a speaking gig, signing a client, or just asking for what you want with confidence—you’re already pitching yourself, every day. But are you doing it well? In this milestone episode, Nicole breaks down exactly how to pitch yourself to be a podcast guest … and actually hear “yes.” With hundreds of pitches landing in her inbox each month, she shares what makes a guest stand out (or get deleted), the biggest mistakes people make, and why podcast guesting is still one of the most powerful ways to grow your reach, authority, and influence. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ Why we all need to pitch ourselves—and how to do it without feeling gross ✅ The step-by-step process for landing guest spots on podcasts (and more) ✅ A breakdown of the 3 podcast levels: Practice, Peer, and A-List—and how to approach each ✅ The must-haves of a successful podcast pitch (including real examples) ✅ How to craft a pitch that gets read, gets remembered, and gets results Whether you’re new to pitching or want to level up your game, this episode gives you the exact strategy Nicole and her team use to land guest spots on dozens of podcasts every year. Because your voice deserves to be heard. And the world needs what only you can bring. 🎁 Get the FREE Podcast Pitch Checklist + Additional Information on your Practice Group, Peer Group, and A-List Group Strategies: https://nicolekalil.com/podcast 📥 Download The Podcast Pitch Checklist Here Related Podcast Episodes: Shameless and Strategic: How to Brag About Yourself with Tiffany Houser | 298 How To Write & Publish A Book with Michelle Savage | 279 How To Land Your TED Talk and Skyrocket Your Personal Brand with Ashley Stahl | 250 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…
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محتوای ارائه شده توسط Mehmet Gonullu. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Mehmet Gonullu یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
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#366 From Dubai to the World: Rodolph Khlat on AI-Powered Software Development
Manage episode 430860853 series 3506362
محتوای ارائه شده توسط Mehmet Gonullu. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Mehmet Gonullu یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
In this episode of “The CTO Show with Mehmet,” our host, Mehmet, welcomes Rodolph Khlat, the co-founder of Smartr AI, a Dubai-based software development automation engine. Rodolph shares his fascinating journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in AI-driven software development. He discusses the origins of Smartr AI, a company dedicated to making software development faster and more efficient through automation and artificial intelligence.
Rodolph explains how he and his co-founder started as small developers fresh out of college, eventually discovering a unique technique that allowed them to deliver high-quality code in a fraction of the time. This discovery led to the creation of Smartr AI, a product designed to onboard junior developers and enable them to produce work at the level of senior developers. With Smartr AI, they have completed numerous projects across several countries, including partnerships with notable clients like Telus and the Dubai Corporate Games.
Throughout the conversation, Rodolph highlights the challenges and feedback they’ve received from the developer community. He emphasizes the importance of non-intrusive integration into developers’ workflows and shares insights from their Beta program, which currently has 50 developers testing the product. He also touches on the broader market validation they’ve achieved and their plans for expanding Smartr AI’s capabilities.
Mehmet and Rodolph delve into the differentiation between Smartr AI and other low-code/no-code platforms. Rodolph explains that while low-code/no-code solutions cater to non-technical users, Smartr AI is designed for actual developers, offering deeper customization and avoiding vendor lock-in. They discuss the potential for AI to assist, but not replace, human developers, envisioning a future where AI handles repetitive tasks, allowing developers to focus on more complex and creative aspects of coding.
The discussion also covers the entrepreneurial landscape in Dubai and the wider MENA region. Rodolph praises Dubai’s supportive environment for startups, citing its streamlined processes and focus on eliminating bureaucratic noise, which allows entrepreneurs to concentrate on building and scaling their businesses. Mehmet echoes this sentiment, noting the growing interest from international founders looking to move to Dubai for its favorable business climate.
More about Rodolph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/khlat/
01:13 Guest Background and Startup Journey
01:56 Challenges and Solutions in Software Development
04:40 Market Validation and Feedback
07:01 Automation and AI in Software Development
10:07 Low Code vs. Smartr AI
16:16 AI's Role in Software Development
20:46 Smartr AI for Non-Technical Users
31:30 Entrepreneurial Landscape in Dubai
34:57 Final Advice and Closing Remarks
461 قسمت
اشتراک گذاریManage episode 430860853 series 3506362
محتوای ارائه شده توسط Mehmet Gonullu. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Mehmet Gonullu یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
In this episode of “The CTO Show with Mehmet,” our host, Mehmet, welcomes Rodolph Khlat, the co-founder of Smartr AI, a Dubai-based software development automation engine. Rodolph shares his fascinating journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in AI-driven software development. He discusses the origins of Smartr AI, a company dedicated to making software development faster and more efficient through automation and artificial intelligence.
Rodolph explains how he and his co-founder started as small developers fresh out of college, eventually discovering a unique technique that allowed them to deliver high-quality code in a fraction of the time. This discovery led to the creation of Smartr AI, a product designed to onboard junior developers and enable them to produce work at the level of senior developers. With Smartr AI, they have completed numerous projects across several countries, including partnerships with notable clients like Telus and the Dubai Corporate Games.
Throughout the conversation, Rodolph highlights the challenges and feedback they’ve received from the developer community. He emphasizes the importance of non-intrusive integration into developers’ workflows and shares insights from their Beta program, which currently has 50 developers testing the product. He also touches on the broader market validation they’ve achieved and their plans for expanding Smartr AI’s capabilities.
Mehmet and Rodolph delve into the differentiation between Smartr AI and other low-code/no-code platforms. Rodolph explains that while low-code/no-code solutions cater to non-technical users, Smartr AI is designed for actual developers, offering deeper customization and avoiding vendor lock-in. They discuss the potential for AI to assist, but not replace, human developers, envisioning a future where AI handles repetitive tasks, allowing developers to focus on more complex and creative aspects of coding.
The discussion also covers the entrepreneurial landscape in Dubai and the wider MENA region. Rodolph praises Dubai’s supportive environment for startups, citing its streamlined processes and focus on eliminating bureaucratic noise, which allows entrepreneurs to concentrate on building and scaling their businesses. Mehmet echoes this sentiment, noting the growing interest from international founders looking to move to Dubai for its favorable business climate.
More about Rodolph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/khlat/
01:13 Guest Background and Startup Journey
01:56 Challenges and Solutions in Software Development
04:40 Market Validation and Feedback
07:01 Automation and AI in Software Development
10:07 Low Code vs. Smartr AI
16:16 AI's Role in Software Development
20:46 Smartr AI for Non-Technical Users
31:30 Entrepreneurial Landscape in Dubai
34:57 Final Advice and Closing Remarks
461 قسمت
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
What happens when the very platforms meant to connect us instead manipulate us? In this eye-opening conversation, Tim O’Hearn — former black-hat growth engineer, bestselling author of Framed: A Villain’s Perspective on Social Media — joins Mehmet to expose the hidden mechanisms behind social media addiction, fake engagement, and the dark psychology driving today’s online behavior. Whether you’re a startup founder, tech leader, marketer, or a concerned user, this episode will shift the way you think about algorithms, content, and influence. Key Takeaways • Why all social platforms eventually get gamed — and why they let it happen at first. • How social proof, dopamine loops, and algorithmic feedback traps rewire our behavior. • The blurry line between black-hat marketing and everyday online tactics. • How social media evolved from community to manipulation machine. • Realistic strategies to protect yourself and your mental health online. ⸻ What You Will Learn ✅ How black-hat tactics exposed deep weaknesses in major platforms ✅ Why being controversial now beats being authentic in the algorithm game ✅ How kids and adults alike are losing control to tech-designed addiction ✅ Why the future of the internet might feel “dead” unless something changes ✅ Practical tips for healthier digital habits About Tim O’Hearn Tim O'Hearn is a software engineer who created some of the most pesky and effective bots to ever be unleashed on social media. Between 2017 and 2022, his agency gained millions of followers for its clients while generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue. His February 2025 debut, Framed: A Villain's Perspective on Social Media, was a #1 New Release in "Social Aspects of the Internet" on Amazon. Framed is Tim's confrontation with the Internet Age delivered by a video game cheater who outgrew gaming but never stopped breaking the rules. Tim has spent his career working in quantitative trading and has freelanced as a sports journalist. The book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW2X8YSK Tim’s Website: https://www.tjohearn.com/links Episode Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 — Intro: Welcome and overview of today’s discussion 01:00 — Tim O’Hearn’s journey: from black-hat engineer to bestselling author 04:00 — Building bots that beat the system: Early vulnerabilities of Instagram 08:00 — The psychology of fake followers, likes, and social proof 11:00 — How AI is changing (and worsening) manipulation dynamics 14:00 — Growth hacks vs black-hat: where’s the line today? 18:00 — Is the algorithm pushing creators toward extremes? 22:00 — How the algorithm manipulates our emotions and behavior 27:00 — Who’s really to blame: us, the platforms, or someone else? 32:00 — Are kids the biggest victims of addictive tech? 36:00 — The lost magic of early internet communities 40:00 — Dead Internet Theory and the rise of AI-generated everything 45:00 — If we could redesign social media from scratch: what Tim would change 48:00 — Final thoughts: How to regain control in a hyper-digital world…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #461 Investing in the Future of Healthcare: Cameron Sabet on AI, Space, and the VC Edge in MedTech 43:55
In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the unique intersection of venture capital, healthcare innovation, and frontier tech with Cameron Sabet , a Georgetown medical student and Principal at Multifaceted Capital. Cameron shares his unconventional path from academia to venture capital, and how he evaluates startups through both a clinical and investor lens. From AI-powered health tools to biotech innovation in space , this episode explores what it takes to build and back the next wave of MedTech startups. 💡 Key Takeaways • Why domain expertise is critical in healthcare startups • Cameron’s 3 red flags that kill MedTech deals before they start • The rise of AI-driven patient intake systems • Why the future of medicine might be built… in space • How founders can get VC attention—with or without early revenue ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn • How Cameron balances being a med student and VC investor • How to assess healthtech traction when clinical trials take years • The strategic importance of your board composition • How grants, institutional backing, and timing can replace seed funding 👤 About the Guest Cameron Sabet is a U.S.-based medical student, VC investor, angel backer of Y Combinator startups, and advisor to early-stage healthtech ventures. At Multifaceted Capital, he backs high-potential founders with a bias toward deep domain understanding and global scalability. https://www.cameronsabet.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-sabet-178079250/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and Cameron’s background 03:00 – From Georgetown to VC: Why Cameron got into investing 07:00 – What defines a good healthtech investment thesis 10:30 – The 3 biggest red flags in early-stage MedTech 15:00 – How founders should pitch health investors 17:00 – Moats, speed, and defensibility in an AI-driven world 21:00 – Can AI close the healthcare knowledge gap? 25:00 – Cancer care in Africa and AI in low-resource settings 27:00 – Why space is the next frontier in biotech 30:00 – Regrets, missed startups, and lessons learned 33:00 – What traction really looks like in healthcare 36:00 – Non-traditional paths to early-stage MedTech funding 40:00 – Final advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in healthcare…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this deeply reflective episode, Mehmet welcomes futurist, bestselling author, and technologist Sam Rad to explore how we navigate—and thrive—in a world reshaped by exponential tech. From AI and quantum computing to deepfakes and biotech, this conversation is less about predicting the future and more about reclaiming what it means to be human. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Why acceleration , not just change, defines this tech era • How to surf the wave of AI, quantum, and biotech without losing your sense of self • The importance of deprogramming from outdated operating systems • What “post-human” really means—and why reconnection is the key • Sam’s own experience with building a deepfake of herself • A powerful reminder: Purpose is your protection in uncertain times ⸻ 📘 What You’ll Learn • What’s driving the current “age of acceleration” • How to build mental and emotional resilience as a founder or leader • The role of spirituality and introspection in shaping your path • How emerging technologies may force a radical rethink of work, identity, and meaning • Whether Universal Basic Income is a solution or a patch 👤 About Sam Rad Sam Rad (Samantha Radocchia) is a lifelong student of humanity—futurist, anthropologist, and creative technologist—a four-time technology entrepreneur, and the founder of the meta-media storytelling studio Radical Next. Sam has shared stories of radical change with global audiences on stages across five continents—empowering individuals, leaders, and organizations not only to survive but to thrive amid radical and accelerating change. Her work has led to advisory roles with the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and the Federal Reserve, among others. She has served in multiple founding executive roles across the C-Suite, including co-founder of NYOUM, a London-based generative AI communication platform, and Chronicled, a San Francisco-based blockchain company bringing trust to global commerce. Prior to Chronicled, Sam founded two companies leveraging AI to map personal aesthetics and taste. She holds a dual bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, English Literature, and Linguistics from Colgate University, a master’s degree from New York University in Game Design and Social Analysis of Technology, and several patents linking the physical and digital worlds. She is considered a pioneer in extended reality (XR), simulation design, applied cryptography, blockchain systems, artificial intelligence, and natural language processing. Sam’s work has been featured in Newsweek, Fast Company, and Forbes, where she previously wrote as a contributor. She was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 List for Enterprise Technology and is also the author of the bestselling book: Bitcoin Pizza: The No-Bullshit Guide to Blockchain. Sam is a citizen of the world and is most often found people-watching somewhere between a Brooklyn coffee shop, South American rainforest, London’s West End, or some undisclosed off-grid location. https://sam-rad.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantharadocchia/ ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Sam’s background 03:00 – Living on the edge of emerging tech 06:00 – The Age of Acceleration explained 09:00 – Deepfakes, cognition, and digital identity 14:00 – Are we ready for what’s coming? 17:00 – Learning to surf change 22:00 – The post-human dilemma 28:00 – Reprogramming vs. resisting 33:00 – Future of work, economics & Universal Basic Income 39:00 – Spirituality, purpose & thriving in the now 49:00 – What “radical” really means 52:00 – Final thoughts & optimism…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this thought-provoking episode, Mehmet sits down with Joel Quintela , a business psychologist and former computer systems engineer, to break down the biggest hiring blind spots—and how to fix them. Joel shares how psychology, structured assessments, and poker strategies can help founders and leaders hire better, retain top talent, and create winning teams. You’ll learn how to go beyond gut feel and “culture fit” into something more predictive—and scalable. 🎯 Key Takeaways • Why bad hires hurt startups more than big companies • How to identify and avoid founder blind spots when hiring • The difference between person-job fit and person-environment fit • The P.O.K.E.R. framework to align perception with reality • Why most roleplays and interviews fail to predict success • The hidden cost of complexity in HR tech and candidate experience • Why founders often think they’re good at hiring—but aren’t ⸻ 🧠 What You’ll Learn • How structured job profiling can reduce attrition • How to assess motivation fit in early interviews • What data-driven hiring looks like at scale • Why simplicity and clarity matter more than AI in talent tech • The link between self-awareness and high performance 👤 About Joel Quintela Joel Quintela is the founder and CEO of Quintela Group LLC, a minority-owned business enterprise specializing in HR technology solutions. With over 25 years of experience in HR assessment technology and 15 years as an entrepreneur, Joel has worked with numerous Fortune 500 clients to improve their hiring processes. https://quintela.io/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelquintela/ 🕒 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 00:00 – Intro & Joel’s background 03:45 – Why gut feeling fails in hiring 07:00 – The impact of a bad hire on startups 10:20 – Common founder blind spots 13:45 – Job profiling: the missing step in hiring 16:50 – Role plays, assessments, and triangulation 22:10 – Culture fit vs real environmental fit 28:00 – Complexity kills: The UI/UX trap in HR tech 34:30 – The P.O.K.E.R. Framework: From perception to reality 47:00 – Final thoughts on performance, mindset, and human behavior…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
🔍 Episode Overview In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Lucas Lovell , VP of Product at Paddle , to unpack the powerful yet often overlooked role of payments in SaaS growth. From navigating tax compliance and pricing localization to optimizing for global expansion, Lucas shares product leadership insights and the future of billing in an AI-powered world. Whether you’re a founder scaling globally or a product leader aiming to boost efficiency, this episode delivers practical frameworks and forward-thinking strategies. 📌 Key Takeaways • What the Merchant of Record model really is—and why it matters • How Paddle handles tax, compliance, and fraud so SaaS companies can scale • Why localized pricing and payment methods impact conversion • The power of web-first flows for mobile apps to bypass app store fees • Using your payments platform as a strategic GTM and growth tool • How AI will shape the future of subscription billing and product design • What founders should prepare before an exit or fundraising round ⸻ 🎧 What You’ll Learn • How to enter new markets without spinning up new entities • Tactical ways to increase revenue through smarter payment setups • Why usage-based pricing is gaining momentum across SaaS • How Paddle supports product teams through compliance shifts and AI tools • Real trends from global SaaS markets—from MENA to India and Southeast Asia 👤 About Lucas Lovell Lucas Lovell is currently VP of Product a Paddle, a payments infrastructure company for digital software companies. Prior to that, Lucas was Founder of an early stage SaaS startup in the travel & hospitality space, that he launched in Australia out of Law School. He was a laureate of the French Tech Ticket Program, and grew the startup in Paris & across Europe before joining Paddle in 2021. His experience in technology is firmly at the intersection of SaaS & fintech, which is the primary problem space he explores day-in day-out at Paddle. Outside of work, Lucas is a keen runner & skier, and loves both the outdoors & exploring his now home city of London. https://www.paddle.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaslovell/ 🕒 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 00:00 – Intro and Lucas’s journey from law to SaaS founder to VP Product 04:00 – Explaining the Merchant of Record model 07:00 – How Paddle enables localized payment methods 09:30 – Product complexity at the intersection of tax, compliance, and UX 14:30 – Pricing localization strategies and regional purchasing power 21:00 – Web-first flows vs. App Store dependency 26:00 – How payments impact exit valuations and due diligence 31:00 – AI’s role in billing, usage-based models, and future product trends 36:00 – Emerging SaaS GTM playbooks and community-led growth 40:00 – Regional SaaS trends: India, Singapore, and beyond 42:00 – Where to connect with Lucas and learn more about Paddle…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #457 Why Founder-Led Growth Isn’t Optional: Jess Schultz on Early-Stage GTM, Metrics, and Startup Scaling 49:41
In this high-impact episode, Mehmet sits down with Jess Schultz , a fractional CRO/CMO and angel investor, to unpack what truly drives early-stage startup success. From the importance of founder-led sales to building a go-to-market (GTM) motion that actually works, Jess shares practical advice that bridges theory and execution. Whether you’re a technical founder hesitant to sell, or an early-stage investor looking for better GTM signals, this episode delivers actionable insights grounded in Jess’s experience as both a growth operator and former VC. 🎯 What You’ll Learn • Why founder-led sales is non-negotiable in the early stages • How to know when to hire your first sales rep or fractional GTM leader • The signs of early product-market fit (it’s not just ARR) • How to segment and prioritize ideal customer profiles • Why building a personal brand as a founder accelerates GTM • The truth about outbound vs. inbound in 2025 —and how AI is changing both • What metrics actually matter before you hit $10M ARR ⸻ 🧠 Key Takeaways • Founder-market fit and coachability matter as much as traction to early investors • The founder should drive top-of-funnel AND be the closer—until it’s time to slowly step back • Thoughtful positioning and audience-building beats ad spend in early GTM • Outbound still works , but only when highly personalized (and not AI-written) 👤 About Jess Schultz Jess Schultz brings a rare blend of experience across capital markets, SaaS sales, venture capital , and now entrepreneurship —giving her a sharp, forward-looking perspective on business growth and market dynamics. At Amplify Group , Jess helps startups master go-to-market strategy and navigate the transition from founder-led sales to scalable growth. Her hands-on work has driven 150–590% YoY revenue growth for her clients. Beyond her role as a fractional CRO/CMO, Jess is a thought leader and brand builder—for both herself and the startups she advises. Her passion for sharing practical insights and demystifying growth strategy makes her an engaging and highly impactful guest. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicatschultz/ https://www.amplifyscales.com/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and Jess’s background 03:00 – Why she became a fractional CRO/CMO 05:00 – Why founder-led sales always comes first 10:00 – Common mistakes founders make when selling 13:00 – The power of founder-led content & brand 18:00 – Knowing when you’ve hit product-market fit 21:00 – When (and how) to hire your first sales rep 24:00 – Metrics that really matter under $10M ARR 29:00 – What’s changed in outbound and AI’s role in GTM 34:00 – The case for consistent marketing, not just campaigns 39:00 – How Jess evaluates startups as an angel 44:00 – Fundraising readiness tips from a former VC 47:00 – Final advice + where to follow Jess…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #456 Colin Fitzpatrick on AI Agents, Vibe Coding, and the Future of Web3, Robotics, and Work 54:14
🔍 Episode Overview In this forward-looking conversation, Mehmet welcomes Colin Fitzpatrick, founder of Griffin AI and long-time tech leader, to unpack the convergence of artificial intelligence, Web3, and robotics. From “vibe coding” and AI agents to programmable avatars and robotic personal assistants, Colin paints a vision of a world being reshaped by exponential technology. They also explore how AI will democratize software development, disrupt work as we know it, and create massive opportunity. 📌 Key Takeaways • Why we haven’t seen the true “ChatGPT moment” yet—and what’s coming next • What “vibe coding” is and how it’s revolutionizing app development • Why AI won’t replace developers—but will change who builds software • How AI agents are solving onboarding and usability issues in Web3 • How AI and Web3 are becoming a “happy marriage” of complementary technologies • What robotics breakthroughs (like Figure and Gemini for Robotics) mean for your everyday life • Why tech-savvy founders will use AI agents as a competitive edge • How to future-proof yourself and your company in the AI age ⸻ 🎧 What You’ll Learn • The role of AI agents in automating complex, goal-oriented tasks • The current limitations of AI coding tools—and why they’re about to disappear • How AI and robotics together will reshape daily life and physical labor • The rise of deep research tools and personalized AI assistants • Why knowing how to use AI tools will become a fundamental job skill 👤 About the Guest Colin Fitzpatrick is a tech entrepreneur and futurist based in Dubai. With a career spanning Oracle, Salesforce, and HubSpot, he founded a metaverse/NFT venture and now leads Griffin AI , a platform enabling autonomous AI agents for Web3 applications. He is a vocal thought leader on LinkedIn covering emerging tech, AI, and the future of work. https://www.griffinai.io/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/colly/ 🕒 Episode Highlights & Timestamps 0:00 – Intro and Colin’s journey from enterprise software to Web3 2:00 – How ChatGPT changed everything for Colin 4:30 – The rise of AI agents and the next “GPT moment” 6:45 – Vibe coding: Coding apps just by describing them 10:00 – From hobbyist tools to startup MVPs: what’s possible today 14:00 – How Griffin AI is building agents for Web3 wallets and dApps 18:30 – The difference between bots and true AI agents 21:00 – How AI will automate personal and business workflows 26:00 – Using AI to explore meme coins and analyze trends 29:00 – Deep Seek, Grok, and Google’s edge with Gemini 33:00 – Robotics breakthroughs: Figure, Sora, Gemini for Robotics 38:00 – The future of AI-embodied robots in everyday life 43:00 – Preparing for the AI-driven job market 45:30 – Why AI has to become more human and contextual 48:00 – Personal AI personalities and voice assistants 50:00 – Final advice: How to stay ahead in the AI age…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this mind-expanding episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , futurist investor and international entrepreneur Steven Zeller joins us to explore the cutting edge of human advancement through technology. From genetic engineering and health tech breakthroughs to brain-computer interfaces , quantum computing , and the philosophical questions of immortality , Steven shares a vision of the near future that is as inspiring as it is disruptive. Whether you’re a tech founder, startup enthusiast, or future-focused investor, this episode is packed with next-level insights. 🔑 Key Takeaways • Why AI is only the beginning—and how quantum computing will unlock true superintelligence • How CRISPR and AI are merging to rewrite human biology and potentially eradicate cancer • The race to build ethical and non-invasive brain-computer interfaces • The philosophical and economic implications of human pseudo-immortality • Why repetitive jobs must be automated —and how it will free humanity for higher pursuits • The bold case for optimism in the face of exponential technological change 📚 What You’ll Learn • The state of AI-powered genetic engineering in 2025 • Cutting-edge examples of non-invasive neurotech • The case for investing in humanity’s long-term future • Steven’s framework for evaluating high-impact, long-horizon tech investments • Why fear of innovation is outdated—and how to embrace what’s next 👤 About the Guest Steven Zeller is an international entrepreneur and investor focused on frontier technologies such as AI, quantum computing, longevity, and neurotech. His mission is to help accelerate humanity into a prosperous future by backing innovations that have profound societal impact. http://linkedin.com/in/steven-zeller-b05664100 ⏱️ Episode Highlights (Timestamps) • [00:01:00] Steven’s background and his mission to accelerate humanity • [00:05:00] Health tech, AI, and the dawn of engineered longevity • [00:13:00] The reality of brain-computer interfaces today • [00:20:00] The rise of non-invasive neurotech and its commercial future • [00:26:00] Quantum computing breakthroughs and what’s next • [00:33:00] Why we need quantum to achieve superintelligence • [00:38:00] Investing with a long-term vision vs. short-term ROI • [00:44:00] The future of work: replacing repetitive jobs with human creativity • [00:47:00] Final thoughts: hope, harmony, and embracing innovation…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Srini Parthasarathy , CTO of Shardeum , a Layer 1 EVM-compatible blockchain that’s rewriting the rules of scalability, decentralization, and transaction efficiency. Srini shares his journey from building NFT platforms and working at AWS to leading a project that’s tackling the blockchain trilemma head-on. Whether you’re a developer, founder, or Web3 investor, this episode breaks down what makes Shardeum different—and why it could shape the future of blockchain infrastructure. 💡 What You’ll Learn • The core problems with today’s blockchains (scalability, gas fees, decentralization) • How Shardeum uses dynamic state sharding and transaction-level consensus • Why Shardeum is developer-friendly and EVM-compatible • Srini’s thoughts on the intersection of AI and blockchain • What it takes to transition into Web3 as a tech leader or developer ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • Shardeum dynamically scales by increasing the number of “shards” as usage grows. • Unlike traditional blockchains, consensus is achieved per transaction—not per block. • This design enables low, predictable gas fees , even during high demand. • The network becomes more decentralized as it scales. • Shardeum is fully open-source and developer-friendly. 👤 About the Guest Srini Parthasarathy is the Chief Technology Officer at Shardeum , a dynamic state-sharded blockchain offering linear scalability, low gas fees, and robust decentralization. Srini’s career includes leadership roles at Silks, DraftKings, and AWS, and he brings decades of experience in distributed systems and blockchain innovation. http://shardeum.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/svasan/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights • [00:02:00] Srini’s background in blockchain gaming and infrastructure • [00:05:00] Explaining Shardeum with the spreadsheet analogy • [00:08:00] What makes Shardeum’s dynamic state sharding unique • [00:12:00] How Shardeum benefits both users and developers • [00:14:00] Shardeum’s Proof of Quorum and security model • [00:18:00] Open source philosophy and transparency at Shardeum • [00:20:00] Srini’s take on the synergy between AI and blockchain • [00:25:00] Advice for tech leaders transitioning into blockchain • [00:28:00] Final reflections and where to follow Srini and Shardeum…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“AI won’t replace marketers—but marketers who use AI will replace those who don’t.” – Prashant Agrawal In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with veteran marketer and educator Prashant Agrawal to explore how AI is transforming the marketing function. From his roots in traditional FMCG marketing to his deep dive into the world of LLMs and AI tools, Prashant shares a refreshingly honest and practical view on what it means to integrate AI into business and marketing strategies today. Whether you’re a tech leader, CMO, or founder trying to make sense of all the AI noise—this one is for you. 🧠 Key Takeaways • The ChatGPT moment that shifted Prashant’s career toward AI • Why AI in marketing is neither a magic button nor overhyped • Practical misconceptions about AI most business leaders still have • Why cost-cutting is the wrong way to think about AI in marketing • The must-know tools for marketers (hello, “Mrs. Peg” stack!) • How to use prompt engineering and conversation-driven workflows effectively • The skillsets marketers and teams need to futureproof their roles • Why strategic experimentation beats all-in AI transformations • What AI agents mean for the future of marketing automation ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn • How to critically evaluate AI tools and avoid chasing buzzwords • Tips for training your team to embrace AI without fear • The importance of data literacy and prompt fluency in modern marketing • How to use LLMs like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity to solve real-world problems • Why iterative thinking, not just prompting, is the future of AI collaboration 👤 About the Guest Prashant Agrawal is a seasoned marketing leader with over two decades of experience in brand building across 40+ countries. From heading marketing at Himalaya Herbals to co-founding Swiss Image in Europe, he’s now focused on AI, consulting, and teaching. Prashant brings a rare mix of hands-on experience and academic insight to the table. https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashant-agarwal-8353848/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights & Timestamps • [00:02:00] Prashant’s transition from FMCG to entrepreneurship and AI • [00:06:30] The spectrum of AI misconceptions in business • [00:08:45] Why AI is about quality and creativity, not just cost savings • [00:13:00] The “Mrs. Peg” AI stack: Tools marketers should explore • [00:20:00] Deep search, thinking LLMs, and the new research paradigm • [00:26:00] Critical AI skills: Data literacy and prompt engineering • [00:31:00] Advice for leaders: how to start integrating AI without fear • [00:35:00] Continuous learning and AI’s accelerating pace • [00:41:00] What’s next: AI agents and hopes for hallucination fixes…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“The cost of non-compliance is much higher than the cost of getting it right from day one.” – Vikas Panchal In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Vikas Panchal , General Manager – MENA at Tally Solutions , and a seasoned leader with two decades of experience in helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) modernize their operations. Together, they dive into the evolving role of AI and automation in SME finance, compliance, and digital transformation—especially in the MENA region . From solving hidden inefficiencies to boosting cash flow visibility and minimizing compliance risks, Vikas offers a practical roadmap for SME founders and operators looking to step into the digital era. 💡 Key Takeaways • Why automation isn’t just for large enterprises —and how even basic tools can transform SME operations • Common pain points SMEs face and how they can be tackled with digital solutions • How AI is making financial analytics, cash flow forecasting, and compliance smarter and easier • The importance of compliance readiness and how automation helps prevent, detect, and correct errors • What SME founders should know about adopting cloud-based tools in the age of remote work • Actionable advice on where to begin your digital transformation journey 📚 What You’ll Learn • How to make sense of automation as an SME founder • The role of AI in financial decision-making • Tips for adopting tech tools that solve your real business problems • How to stay compliant with local VAT and corporate tax regulations • Insights into the future of financial management for MENA’s growing SME ecosystem 👤 About the Guest Vikas Panchal is the General Manager – MENA at Tally Solutions , a trusted voice in the business software ecosystem for SMEs. Based in Dubai, Vikas has spent nearly 20 years working with small and medium businesses across the region to drive digital adoption, streamline financial operations, and ensure regulatory compliance. https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikas-panchal-59375630/ https://tallysolutions.com/ 🕒 Episode Highlights • [00:02:00] — Vikas introduces his background and work with SMEs across MENA • [00:04:30] — Why SMEs hesitate with automation (and how to overcome it) • [00:08:00] — The importance of end-to-end automation, not just invoicing • [00:10:30] — Real-world examples of how AI is enhancing SME decision-making • [00:14:00] — Tips on getting started with AI: Start small, solve real problems • [00:16:30] — Compliance: The hidden cost of getting it wrong • [00:19:00] — How automation tools help prevent, detect, and correct financial errors • [00:24:30] — Will AI replace accountants? Vikas shares a balanced perspective • [00:26:00] — How remote work and cloud access changed the SME landscape • [00:30:00] — Final advice to SME owners: Start your digital journey now…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“You either earn or you learn — both are wins.” – Allan Abbas In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , Allan Abbas joins us to explore the world of fintech innovation, startup growth, and what it takes to build a game-changing product in the Middle East. Allan, a former Amazon leader turned founder, shares his personal journey from bootstrapping his first startup to co-founding Emflex — a company focused on fixing car financing in Saudi Arabia. We dive deep into what it means to “play the two startup games”: lifestyle businesses vs. venture-scale startups, the power of embedded finance, and why the MENA region is primed for fintech disruption. 💡 What You’ll Learn • The difference between bootstrapped vs. VC-backed startup models • Why fintech is just getting started in the MENA region • How AI and open banking are reshaping financial services • What embedded finance really means — and why it’s the future • How to navigate fintech regulations in Saudi Arabia • The psychology of being a solo founder vs. being in a builder community ⸻ 📝 Key Takeaways • Fintech in MENA is still <1% of the banking market — massive upside remains • The car financing journey today is broken — Emflex aims to cut it from 7 days to 90 minutes • AI isn’t just a feature; it’s infrastructure • Open banking gives users control over their financial data — unlocking new business models • Know which game you’re playing: lifestyle vs. scale — and commit fully About Allan Abbas Allan Abbas is a former Amazonian engineer who thrives on pushing boundaries both personally and professionally. He previously launched and bootstrapped a niche sports tourism startup in Dubai, generating $1.2 million in product sales without any mentorship or external funding. With six years of progressive leadership experience at Amazon, Allan has led large-scale operations, product development, and launch management across multiple verticals. He specializes in assembling and leading high-performing teams. Today, Allan is focused on building an AI-powered fintech startup aimed at transforming the car financing experience across the MENA region. https://www.allanabbas.com/ https://linkedin.com/in/alanabbas ⏱️ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Intro and Allan’s background 02:00 – From Amazon to startups: The itch to build 04:30 – Why fintech? The “aha” moment 06:00 – Is MENA fintech really saturated? 08:00 – What is embedded finance and why it matters 10:00 – How car financing works today vs. Emflex’s vision 13:00 – How Emflex uses AI to match lenders and improve credit checks 15:30 – Fintech regulations: What founders need to know 19:00 – Why open banking is a game-changer 22:00 – Allan on startup scars, lessons, and pivoting 25:30 – Bootstrapping vs. VC: Choosing your path 29:00 – The Antler experience and value of being among builders 33:00 – MENA startups going global — when and how? 36:00 – Final thoughts, favorite fruit, and closing words…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“My grand vision is to make the RFP obsolete — and I believe AI can make that happen.” — Peter Bonney , CEO & Founder of Fastbreak In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we’re joined by Peter Bonney , CEO and Founder of Fastbreak , to discuss how AI is transforming one of the most painful processes in enterprise sales: responding to RFPs . With over 9 years of experience navigating the procurement landscape from both buyer and seller perspectives, Peter shares his bold vision for eliminating inefficiencies, empowering sales teams, and ultimately making the traditional RFP obsolete. We dive deep into how Fastbreak uses AI to semantically understand complex company knowledge, automate responses, and allow human teams to focus on what truly matters. We also touch on the future of SaaS, defensibility in the AI age, and how to scale efficiently in uncertain times. 🔑 Key Takeaways • The inefficiency in RFP processes is still a major pain point for enterprises. • Fastbreak’s AI engine builds a semantic understanding of company content to generate smart, relevant responses. • The goal isn’t to replace people but to empower them — AI handles repetitive tasks, humans focus on high-value work. • Peter’s ultimate vision: make RFPs obsolete by using AI on both buyer and seller sides. • In a world where “every company is now an AI company,” finding a defensible moat is more important than ever. • Scaling AI-driven SaaS is easier than ever thanks to API access to foundation models — but maintaining differentiation is critical. • AI helps in shortening B2B sales cycles by optimizing responses, follow-ups, and internal coordination. ⸻ 🎓 What You’ll Learn • Why enterprise procurement is still stuck in a legacy loop • How AI changes the way sales teams and proposal managers operate • What the future of “robot-to-robot selling” could look like • The risks of building on top of foundational models — and how to stay ahead • How founders should think about scalability , support , and customer trust in the AI age 👤 About the Guest – Peter Bonney Peter Bonney is the CEO and Founder of Vendorful, a SaaS platform designed to simplify and accelerate complex engagements between B2B buyers and sellers. Peter's leadership has helped Vendorful become a key player in the B2B tech space, focusing on making complex procurement processes more efficient and transparent. He is also the CEO and Founder of Fastbreak, a spinoff from Vendorful focused on helping sales and pre-sales teams leverage their company’s knowledge and collaborate seamlessly with internal subject-matter experts (SMEs) to make complex deals faster and easier. https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bonney-nyc/ https://vendorful.ai/ https://fastbreakrfp.com/ 🕒 Episode Highlights & Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome and introduction 1:05 – Peter’s background and the founding of Fastbreak 3:30 – Where AI fits into the RFP response process 6:50 – Why procurement remains one of the most outdated processes 10:00 – AI’s impact on sales roles: AEs, SDRs, and proposal managers 14:30 – Reducing repetitive work with AI and improving quality of responses 18:00 – Are buyers using ChatGPT to write RFPs? Signs you can spot 21:00 – Peter’s “wild idea” to eliminate RFPs using dual-sided AI 24:30 – Robot-to-robot selling and how customers use AI to choose vendors 26:00 – Shrinking B2B sales cycles with AI-enabled efficiency 29:00 – Virtual sales engineers and the future of sales collaboration 32:00 – Is every SaaS company now an AI company? 34:30 – The challenge of defensibility in a world of rapid AI evolution 37:00 – Scaling SaaS in the age of APIs and democratized infrastructure 39:30 – Fundraising, angel investing, and Peter’s honest outlook on the future 42:00 – Final thoughts on Lean Startup principles, failure, and staying adaptive…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode, Mehmet speaks with Zeke Camusio , founder of Data Speaks , an AI-powered platform helping marketers and founders finally solve the attribution puzzle. From cutting through vanity metrics to deploying machine learning for media mix modeling, Zeke shares a tactical playbook for maximizing return on every marketing dollar —without increasing ad spend. Whether you’re a founder navigating early-stage growth or a CMO optimizing multimillion-dollar campaigns , this conversation offers powerful insights into how AI is transforming marketing efficiency . 🔑 Key Takeaways • The two major attribution challenges most startups overlook • Why traditional analytics tools like Google Analytics can mislead your strategy • The difference between multi-touch attribution and media mix modeling • How AI and machine learning bring clarity to messy marketing data • What startup founders should know before scaling their ad budget • How to optimize ROI across multiple channels—even with limited resources • What to expect from the future of marketing in a cookie-less, AI-powered world 💡 What You’ll Learn • Why attribution is broken—and how to fix it • How to reduce waste in marketing spend • How small businesses can access tools once limited to enterprise • The strategic role of AI in marketing planning • When to consider first-party tracking vs. third-party pixels • How to think about incrementality in your campaigns 👤 About Zeke Camusio Zeke Camusio is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Data Speaks, an AI-powered analytics platform that helps companies identify what drives their sales and invest in the right marketing strategies. With a background in economics and data science, Zeke has spent the last 20 years developing AI, machine learning and data analytics solutions, enabling hundreds of companies to make data-driven decisions and accelerate growth. He is a frequent speaker at AI, machine learning, and digital marketing conferences and podcasts. https://www.dataspeaks.ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekecamusio/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights & Timestamps • [00:02:00] – Zeke’s background and journey from marketing agency to AI startup • [00:06:00] – Common misconceptions about data-driven marketing • [00:10:00] – Attribution breakdown: why last-click logic fails • [00:13:00] – Explaining media mix modeling with real-world examples • [00:17:00] – Where machine learning fits into attribution • [00:20:00] – Why tracking individual users is no longer the best path • [00:26:00] – Cost considerations: DIY vs. partnering with attribution experts • [00:29:00] – Can we track traffic from ChatGPT and LLMs? • [00:33:00] – Zeke’s prediction: AI agents as decision-making assistants • [00:36:00] – Final advice for founders and marketing leaders…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
AI is reshaping consumer behavior like never before, creating both opportunities and challenges for businesses. In this episode, I sit down with Shahar Boyayan , an expert in consumer psychology and AI-driven behavior, to discuss how businesses—especially small businesses and entrepreneurs—must adapt to this shift. We explore hyper-personalization, AI-driven marketing, the ethics of AI in business, and how companies can leverage AI without crossing privacy boundaries. Key Takeaways ✅ AI is becoming an extension of consumer behavior – Understanding how consumers interact with AI is crucial for business success. ✅ The rise of hyper-personalization – AI can tailor experiences, but businesses must balance personalization with privacy. ✅ Small businesses can compete with big players – AI tools are now accessible to startups, leveling the playing field. ✅ The ethics of AI in marketing – Businesses need to be aware of AI’s influence and ensure transparency in data usage. ✅ Why you need to embrace AI now – Waiting too long to adapt could leave businesses behind. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🔹 How AI is shaping modern consumer behavior 🔹 The eight laws of irresistibility in business 🔹 The risks and benefits of AI-driven personalization 🔹 How small businesses can leverage AI for growth 🔹 The future of AI in marketing, e-commerce, and customer engagement About the Guest Shahar Boyayan is a leading expert in the fascinating intersection of consumer behavior and artificial intelligence. With her finger on the pulse of emerging technologies and their impact on commerce, Shahar offers invaluable insights into the future of consumer trends and business strategies. She is the author of the groundbreaking report, "AI-Driven Consumer Trends and Business Applications: Navigating the Near Future of Commerce and the Eight Laws of Irresistibility." This seminal work has quickly become a go-to resource for businesses looking to harness the power of AI in understanding and influencing consumer behavior. https://proptalkie.com/ai-trends https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahar/ Episode Highlights (with timestamps) ⏳ [00:02:00] – Shahar’s journey from Brazil to the U.S. and her passion for consumer behavior ⏳ [00:04:00] – Why AI is the biggest shift in consumer behavior in decades ⏳ [00:06:30] – The eight laws of irresistibility and why emotional connection matters in business ⏳ [00:09:00] – The rise of AI-generated marketing content—how can businesses stay authentic? ⏳ [00:12:30] – AI-driven personalization: How much is too much? ⏳ [00:18:00] – The role of AI in e-commerce and retail transformation ⏳ [00:24:00] – AI’s ability to understand human emotions and predict moods ⏳ [00:28:00] – The AI shopping cart: How AI is reshaping online shopping experiences ⏳ [00:31:00] – How small businesses can use AI to stay competitive ⏳ [00:37:00] – Shahar’s final advice for entrepreneurs on using AI wisely…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #447 Islamic Finance Meets Blockchain: Ethical DeFi with Haqq Network’s Alex Malkov & Andrey Kuznetsov 53:10
In this episode, I sit down with Alex Malkov and Andrey Kuznetsov , co-founders of Haqq Network , to explore how Islamic finance and blockchain are merging to create ethical DeFi solutions . Haqq Network aims to bring Sharia-compliant financial products into the Web3 space, addressing fairness, transparency, and financial inclusion. We discuss real-world tokenization , the role of AI in DeFi , and how blockchain can revolutionize Islamic finance for 2 billion Muslims worldwide . Key Takeaways ✅ Bridging Islamic Finance & Web3 – Why Sharia-compliant finance matters in DeFi ✅ Tokenization of Real Assets – Gold, Sukuk, and commodities in the blockchain era ✅ Regulatory Landscape – How MENA and Southeast Asia are shaping crypto adoption ✅ AI in Blockchain – The role of machine learning in ethical finance and user experience ✅ Beyond Meme Coins – Why sustainable, mission-driven crypto matters What You’ll Learn 📌 The core principles of Islamic finance and how they apply to DeFi 📌 How Haqq Network is pioneering Sharia-compliant blockchain solutions 📌 The challenges and opportunities in tokenizing real-world assets 📌 Why AI is a game-changer for user-friendly DeFi adoption 📌 The future of ethical investing in blockchain About the Guests 🔹 Alex Malkov – Alex Malkov combines over a decade of legal experience with a focus on Web3 projects. He has worked with major blockchain and fintech firms like AAVE and Bequant, ensuring legal compliance and innovative approaches in the space. His leadership at HAQQ focuses on building an ethics-first blockchain platform that addresses real-world challenges, particularly in emerging markets. His areas of expertise include DeFi, crypto adoption in South East Asia, Real World Tokenization, Rise of Islamic Fintech, Blockchain solutions. https://www.linkedin.com/in/probono42/ 🔹 Andrey Kuznetsov –Andrey is a serial entrepreneur and engineer focused on fintech, cybersecurity, and network communication solutions. He has led teams that have built payment services, corporate messengers, blockchain staking services, and financial analysis software.Andrey is a serial entrepreneur and engineer focused on fintech, cybersecurity, and network communication solutions. He has led teams that have built payment services, corporate messengers, blockchain staking services, and financial analysis software. His areas of expertise include real world tokenization, crypto adoption in GCC and SEA regions, and a tech side of blockchain. https://www.linkedin.com/in/brainsmith/ https://haqq.network Episode Highlights ⏳ [00:00] – Welcome & Introduction to Haqq Network ⏳ [02:00] – Alex & Andrey’s backgrounds and roles at Haqq ⏳ [05:00] – The inspiration behind Haqq Network & Islamic Coin ⏳ [08:00] – How Sharia principles apply to blockchain finance ⏳ [12:00] – Tokenizing real assets: Gold, commodities, and beyond ⏳ [18:00] – Regulatory insights: MENA vs. Southeast Asia adoption ⏳ [26:00] – AI’s impact on blockchain & DeFi accessibility ⏳ [35:00] – The future of ethical crypto & sustainable DeFi ⏳ [45:00] – Final thoughts: Advice for entrepreneurs in Web3…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode, I sit down with Nadav Boaz , a seasoned entrepreneur and AI-driven product builder, to explore how AI is reshaping business, product development, and sales. Nadav shares his insights on launching AI-powered startups, the evolving landscape of human-to-AI interactions, and why competitive advantages are shifting away from technology itself. We also dive into thought-provoking questions like: • Will AI replace human-led sales and customer interactions? • What gives startups a competitive edge when AI levels the playing field? • How is AI changing the speed and dynamics of launching new products? • What’s the future of B2B SaaS in a world where businesses can build their own tools? If you’re an entrepreneur, tech leader, or curious about the future of AI-driven businesses, this episode is for you! 🎯 Key Takeaways ✅ AI is an amplifier—launching products is easier, but differentiation is harder. ✅ Competitive advantage now comes from market capture rather than just technology. ✅ AI-powered sales and customer interactions are already replacing human-led processes. ✅ Startups should validate markets before building , as launching is now faster than ever. ✅ B2B SaaS could face disruption as companies build their own AI-powered internal tools. ✅ Future success depends on speed, adaptability, and customer acquisition strategies . 🎙 About the Guest: Nadav Boaz Nadav is an AI and tech thought leader, ranked as LinkedIn’s Top AI Voice, with extensive experience in Al Transforming Industries, Philosophy in Tech, Remote Teams & Hiring, Automation & Efficiency, Innovation & Leadership, Tech & Dating, Digital Psychology, Growth Hacking and Human Engineering He’s passionate about AI, humanity’s future, and the philosophical implications of tech and would bring valuable insights to your audience. 🔗 Connect with Nadav Boaz • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nedx/ • Website: https://voiceDrop.ai | https://www.prymatica.com/ 📌 Episode Highlights & Timestamps ⏳ 00:00 – Intro & Welcome Nadav Boaz ⏳ 01:30 – Nadav’s journey: From failures to AI-powered success ⏳ 04:00 – How AI is changing product development and competition ⏳ 07:00 – The future of startup differentiation: Is tech still a competitive advantage? ⏳ 10:30 – The rise of AI-powered sales and marketing: Is human-led interaction dead? ⏳ 14:00 – AI selling to AI: The future of automation in business ⏳ 19:30 – The importance of market validation before product development ⏳ 24:00 – How AI is used in cold email marketing and voice automation ⏳ 32:00 – The future of B2B SaaS: Will big companies replace SaaS with internal AI? ⏳ 38:00 – Entrepreneurial mindset: How to stay ahead in the AI revolution ⏳ 40:00 – Final thoughts & where to connect with Nadav…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , I sit down with Alec Crawford , an AI and cybersecurity expert with decades of experience in financial institutions like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Deutsche Bank. Alec is now leading AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, focusing on AI Governance, Risk, Compliance, and Cybersecurity (AI GRCC) . We dive into: 🔹 How AI is reshaping cybersecurity—both defensively and offensively 🔹 The biggest vulnerabilities companies face in the AI era 🔹 Why traditional security approaches aren’t enough anymore 🔹 How businesses can balance AI adoption with compliance and governance 🔹 The rise of AI-powered cyber threats , including phishing, data breaches, and zero-day exploits 🔹 The role of AI agents in securing enterprises 🔹 Why regulators are behind and what businesses must do to stay compliant This episode is packed with actionable insights for CISOs, CTOs, tech leaders, and entrepreneurs looking to navigate the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape. 🎙️ About Alec Crawford Alec Crawford founded and leads Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc., which accelerates Gen AI adoption through a platform ensuring AI safety, security, and compliance. The company achieving the top rank for both Gen AI cybersecurity and regulatory compliance from Waters Technology in 2024. Alec, an AI, investing and risk management expert, shares insights through various media and has a rich history of leadership roles, including at Lord, Abbett & Co. LLC, where he managed global investment risks. His background spans prominent positions in financial services since 1988, including at Ziff Brothers Investments, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley. Alec holds a Computer Science degree from Harvard, where he specialized in artificial intelligence. https://linkedin.com/in/aleccrawford https://aicrisk.com/ 🎯 Key Takeaways ✅ AI is both the biggest opportunity and the biggest threat in cybersecurity ✅ AI-driven cyberattacks—such as hyper-realistic phishing, deepfake fraud, and rapid zero-day exploits —are evolving faster than defenses ✅ Many companies are adopting AI without a clear security strategy , leading to data leaks and compliance risks ✅ Traditional cybersecurity models aren’t keeping up , and CISOs must embrace AI-driven defense mechanisms ✅ Organizations should focus on AI governance early to avoid massive compliance fines from GDPR, the EU AI Act, and emerging U.S. state regulations ✅ AI agents will automate threat detection and compliance monitoring , but adoption must be done securely 🎧 What You’ll Learn 🔹 How AI helps hackers launch more sophisticated cyberattacks 🔹 Why regulatory compliance for AI is still a gray area and what businesses need to do now 🔹 The future of AI in security —from AI-powered monitoring to real-time attack mitigation 🔹 What AI GRCC (Governance, Risk, Compliance, and Cybersecurity) means for organizations 🔹 Why cybersecurity needs to shift from reactive to proactive strategies ⏳ Episode Chapters (Timestamps for YouTube & Spotify) 00:00 - Intro & Welcome to Alec Crawford 02:00 - Alec’s Background: From Harvard Neural Networks to AI Security 05:30 - The Acceleration of AI & Cybersecurity Threats 08:45 - The Role of AI in Phishing & Data Breaches 12:15 - How Businesses Can Secure AI Adoption Without Breaking Compliance 15:30 - The Biggest Security Gaps in Enterprises Today 18:40 - AI in Governance & Regulatory Compliance 22:00 - Why Cybersecurity Teams Are Facing Alert Fatigue 26:15 - The Future of AI Agents in Cybersecurity 30:00 - AI-Powered Threat Detection & Ransomware Prevention 35:30 - The Next Evolution of AI in Security 40:00 - Final Thoughts & Where to Find Alec…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #444 From MIT to IPOs: John Cousins on Mastering Money, Startups, AI, and the Future of Learning 53:13
In this episode, I sit down with John Cousins , a serial entrepreneur, investor, and educator, to discuss financial literacy, startup success, AI’s impact on learning, and the future of solopreneurship . With experience spanning MIT, IPOs, hedge funds, and AI-driven education , John shares powerful insights on navigating the world of business, investment, and entrepreneurship. 🔹 Key Takeaways from This Episode ✔️ The Power of Financial Literacy – Why schools fail to teach financial basics and how to take control of your money. ✔️ Startup Success – The traits that define successful entrepreneurs and why execution matters more than ideas. ✔️ Angel Investing & Hedge Funds – What John looks for in founders and how to evaluate great investments. ✔️ AI & Business Education – How AI is transforming the way we learn, create, and run businesses. ✔️ The Future of Solopreneurship – Why AI-powered one-person businesses are the future. ✔️ Building a Learning Habit – The secret behind writing 63 books and educating 30,000+ students. ✔️ Actionable Advice – How to take control of your finances, career, and entrepreneurial journey. 🔹 About John Cousins John Cousins is an investor, tech founder, and bestselling author of Corporate Finance A$AP and over 60 other books. John is the founder of MBA ASAP, which provides training to individuals, over 30,000 students in 165 countries, and corporations including Adidas, Apple, General Mills, Kaiser Permanente, Lyft, PayPal, Pinterest, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. John has taught MBA students at universities worldwide. Currently General Partner at Tetraktys Global, a quantitative hedge fund, he is an early investor in many successful tech companies and crypto protocols. https://www.mba-asap.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncousinsiii/ 🔹 Episode Highlights & Timestamps ⏳ [00:01] – John’s Background : From MIT and electronic music to entrepreneurship ⏳ [00:06] – Taking Companies Public : John’s experience with IPOs and running a hedge fund ⏳ [00:12] – The Financial Literacy Gap : Why schools don’t teach finance & how to learn it yourself ⏳ [00:17] – 30,000+ Students Across 167 Countries : How MBA ASAP is making business knowledge accessible ⏳ [00:22] – AI in Learning & Business : John’s AI-driven negotiation course and multi-language digital learning ⏳ [00:28] – Investment Strategies & Startup Traits : What investors look for in founders & businesses ⏳ [00:36] – Solopreneurship & AI Tools : How AI is enabling individuals to run entire companies ⏳ [00:42] – The Future of Work : AI agents, automation, and the rise of one-person empires ⏳ [00:48] – John’s Writing Process : How he has published 63 books and distilled complex ideas…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #443 AI in Healthcare: Dr. Robert Toth on Medical Imaging, Robot Surgeons, and Predictive Medicine 40:51
AI is transforming healthcare at an unprecedented pace, from medical imaging advancements to the potential of robotic-assisted surgeries and predictive medicine . In this episode, Dr. Robert Toth , Founder of Thetat Tech AI , joins us to discuss how AI is revolutionizing radiology, diagnostics, and patient care , the ethical and regulatory challenges ahead, and what the future holds for AI-driven healthcare solutions . 🔑 Key Takeaways ✅ How AI is revolutionizing medical imaging – from X-rays and MRIs to 3D imaging and segmentation ✅ The role of AI in surgery – why fully autonomous robotic surgeons are still far away ✅ The impact of AI on healthcare workflows – improving documentation, diagnostics, and patient care ✅ Regulatory challenges – how FDA approvals and data privacy laws shape AI adoption ✅ Predictive medicine – how AI can forecast disease risks based on genetic and lifestyle data ✅ The future of patient data ownership – shifting from hospital control to consumer-driven models 🎯 What You’ll Learn • Why AI in medical imaging is one of the most exciting areas of innovation • How robot-assisted surgeries are evolving • The challenges of AI adoption in healthcare , from regulatory hurdles to physician resistance • How AI-driven predictive analytics could revolutionize preventative medicine • What the future holds for wearables, medical IoT (M-IoT), and patient data control 🎙️ About Our Guest – Dr. Robert Toth Dr. Robert Toth holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on medical imaging AI . As the Founder of Thetatech AI , he has spent the last 11 years developing custom AI healthcare solutions , working with universities and medical device companies to push the boundaries of AI applications in healthcare . https://thetatech.ai https://www.linkedin.com/in/robtoth/ 🎥 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) ⏳ [00:02:00] – Why Dr. Robert Toth chose biomedical engineering and AI ⏳ [00:05:00] – AI’s biggest impact today: automating paperwork, transcriptions, and medical summaries ⏳ [00:09:00] – Why fully autonomous robot surgeons are still far off ⏳ [00:12:00] – Breakthroughs in medical imaging AI and 3D models for diagnostics ⏳ [00:17:00] – How AI helps in medical research and drug discovery ⏳ [00:22:00] – The regulatory hurdles slowing AI adoption in healthcare ⏳ [00:27:00] – Future trends : VR in surgery, medical IoT, and predictive health analytics ⏳ [00:32:00] – How startups and entrepreneurs can break into the health AI space ⏳ [00:37:00] – What the future of AI-powered hospitals will look like…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive deep into the future of finance with Agne Linge, Head of Growth at WeFi . Fresh from Davos , Agne shares insights into the latest trends in DeFi, AI-powered fintech, and the evolving global economy . We explore how blockchain and AI are reshaping banking , why traditional financial institutions are falling behind , and how decentralized finance is unlocking economic freedom worldwide . 🎯 Key Takeaways ✅ Why DeFi & AI are disrupting traditional banking models ✅ How blockchain enables financial freedom & inclusion ✅ The role of AI in fraud detection, KYC, and wealth management ✅ The impact of US crypto policies and Trump’s stance on blockchain ✅ The latest insights from Davos on finance, trade wars, and digital assets 📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🔸 What makes DeFi superior to traditional banking? 🔸 How AI is being used in neobanks for security, automation, and compliance 🔸 How global regulations—including in the UAE—are shaping Web3 and crypto adoption 🔸 Will blockchain disrupt central banking and government spending transparency? 🔸 How financial institutions are preparing for the AI-powered banking future 🔹 About Agne Linge Agne Linge serves as a head of growth and board member of WeFi, with a robust background in the crypto, DeFi, and fintech sectors. She brings over eight years of experience in the crypto industry, complemented by more than ten years in consulting, where she has honed her skills in advisory services, strategic planning, and business development.Her expertise spans blockchain technologies, including Layer 1s and Layer 2s, as well as centralized and decentralized exchanges and DeFi protocols. With a solid foundation in traditional finance, Agne’s hands-on experience in crypto and DeFi positions her as a knowledgeable voice in the field. She is an active participant in the crypto community, with a vast network that fosters collaboration and innovation. A sought-after speaker, Agne regularly presents at major global conferences, including Devcon, ETH Denver, and ETH Barcelona. Her previous roles as a director at Binance and head of communications at DeGate further highlight her influential presence in the evolving landscape of digital finance. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agnelinge/ WeFi Website: https://www.wefi.co/ 🎙 Episode Highlights & Timestamps ⏳ [00:01:00] – Agne Linge’s background in finance & crypto ⏳ [00:04:30] – The vision of WeFi: AI & blockchain in neobanking ⏳ [00:10:00] – Why crypto, AI, and blockchain are more than just buzzwords ⏳ [00:15:30] – Understanding DAOs: How decentralized governance works ⏳ [00:21:00] – Trump, Elon Musk & blockchain: The impact of US policies on DeFi ⏳ [00:27:45] – The role of AI in fraud detection, compliance, and risk management ⏳ [00:32:00] – The future of finance: How AI & DeFi will shape the global economy ⏳ [00:37:00] – Crypto regulation in the UAE & MENA: Why Dubai is the global Web3 hub ⏳ [00:40:30] – Final thoughts & Agne’s advice for embracing financial innovation…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
Struggling to scale your tech team? Not sure when to move beyond an agency and build in-house? In this episode, we dive deep into engineering team optimization, startup scaling challenges, and the future of AI in development with Vygandas Pliasas —a Fractional CTO and expert in engineering management. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ When startups should transition from an agency to an in-house team ✅ The common traps founders fall into when working with external dev teams ✅ The step-by-step process for fixing tech bottlenecks and improving team efficiency ✅ How to scale remote engineering teams without chaos ✅ AI’s impact on development and how to integrate it into your tech strategy ✅ The biggest mistakes startups make when hiring developers ✅ The red flags that indicate it’s time for a change in your tech team 🎯 Key Takeaways: 📌 Miscommunication with agencies can slow progress—here’s how to fix it 📌 The right moment to build an in-house team and hire a Fractional CTO 📌 Scaling tech teams requires balancing technical leadership & business goals 📌 AI helps but doesn’t replace human decision-making —how to use it effectively About Vygandas: Vygandad is a seasoned Fractional CTO and software development executive with over 18 years of experience. He specializes in scaling startups, building dedicated remote teams, and driving technical innovation. With expertise in SaaS, e-commerce, and compliance-driven industries, he helps businesses align their technology with strategic goals, ensuring impactful, sustainable growth. From mentoring engineering leaders to streamlining operations, he empowers teams to deliver excellence while cutting costs and boosting performance. https://www.cortip.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/vygandas/ ⏱️ Episode Highlights & Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome & intro to Vygandas Pliasas 02:30 - Why founders struggle with agency-based development 05:15 - How to know when to bring development in-house 08:40 - The challenges of scaling remote engineering teams 12:10 - Hiring & firing: How fast is too fast, how late is too late? 18:45 - AI in development: What works, what doesn’t 30:10 - The biggest startup tech mistakes and how to avoid them 38:45 - Final thoughts & where to find Vygandas online…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“Reducing the amount of time to receive cash unlocks working capital and fuels business growth. AI is transforming this process like never before.” – Fabio Fleitas In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the world of fintech and AI-driven financial operations with Fabio Fleitas , Co-Founder and CTO of Tesorio . Tesorio is revolutionizing cash flow automation , helping businesses collect payments faster and optimize financial operations with AI. We discuss: • The biggest pain points finance teams face in accounts receivable and cash collections • How Tesorio uses AI to automate collections, predict payments, and improve cash flow • The impact of AI and automation on financial operations • The challenges of integrating fintech solutions with banking systems • How startups and enterprises can leverage AI to streamline financial workflows 🚀 Key Takeaways ✅ AI is revolutionizing cash collections by automating invoices, follow-ups, and reconciliation ✅ Tesorio helps reduce payment delays by analyzing financial data and predicting when invoices will be paid ✅ Businesses lose millions in bad debt write-offs —AI-driven automation can significantly cut these losses ✅ Even enterprise finance teams remain understaffed , making automation essential for scalability ✅ The rise of AI agents and operators is making financial workflows more efficient than ever 🎯 What You’ll Learn 🔹 Why late payments are a major financial bottleneck for businesses 🔹 How AI-powered tools like Tesorio improve cash flow predictability 🔹 The importance of automating financial workflows to scale without increasing headcount 🔹 How neobanks and fintech innovations are changing the financial landscape 🔹 Insights into how AI is being used in fintech beyond generative models 🎙️ About Fabio Fleitas Fabio Fleitas is the Co-Founder & CTO of Tesorio , a fintech platform transforming how businesses manage cash flow. He started the company while studying at the University of Pennsylvania and later went through Y Combinator in 2015. Over the past decade, he has led Tesorio’s evolution from a startup to a key player in AI-powered financial automation . https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabiofleitas/ https://www.tesorio.com/ ⏳ Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 📌 [00:02:00] – What is Tesorio? The problem it solves for finance teams 📌 [00:04:30] – Fabio’s startup journey: from university to Y Combinator 📌 [00:06:50] – The pain points in finance and why late payments are a major issue 📌 [00:10:00] – How Tesorio automates cash collections and integrates with financial systems 📌 [00:14:30] – Addressing objections: Why companies still need specialized fintech tools 📌 [00:18:00] – AI-powered automation: How businesses can reduce cash flow risks 📌 [00:21:00] – Banking and fintech evolution : What’s changed in the last decade 📌 [00:28:00] – AI’s growing role in predicting payments and automating financial decisions 📌 [00:33:00] – The future of AI in fintech and Fabio’s take on rapid AI advancements 📌 [00:45:00] – How AI agents can now fully automate invoice submissions 📌 [00:50:00] – Advice for fintech entrepreneurs: How to build impactful AI solutions…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive deep into the evolving landscape of digital marketing with Merag Shahzad , a digital marketing expert and strategist. Merag shares insights on AI’s role in marketing , how brands can balance automation with authenticity, and the future trends shaping digital engagement. We explore the must-have tools for marketers, discuss the overuse vs. underuse of AI , and break down how businesses—especially startups—can leverage marketing as a growth powerhouse . 🔥 Key Takeaways ✔️ AI’s Biggest Impact on Digital Marketing – How AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper AI, and Synthesia are revolutionizing content creation. ✔️ Too Much AI vs. Not Enough – Where businesses are going wrong in AI adoption and how to strike the right balance. ✔️ Must-Have AI Tools for Marketers – Essential AI-driven tools for content creation, search optimization, and audience engagement. ✔️ The Role of Personal Branding – Why founders and executives should invest in building their personal brands online. ✔️ Influencer Marketing & B2B Trends – How Gen Z and the creator economy are shaping brand storytelling across platforms. ✔️ Platform-Specific Strategies – Understanding the unique culture and algorithm of platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. ✔️ Marketing as a Growth Engine – Why startups should prioritize marketing from day one to scale effectively. 🎧 What You’ll Learn 🔹 How to integrate AI into your marketing strategy without losing authenticity 🔹 The difference between AI-powered efficiency and over-reliance on automation 🔹 Why storytelling and emotional connection are key to marketing success 🔹 How businesses can tailor their marketing for different digital platforms 🔹 Why consistency is the secret weapon in content marketing 👤 About Merag Shahzad Merag Shahzad is a seasoned digital marketing expert specializing in AI-driven branding and content strategies. His agency helps businesses optimize their marketing strategies by leveraging AI tools while maintaining authenticity and engagement. https://www.linkedin.com/in/immerag/ https://instagram.com/immerag/ https://www.tiktok.com/@immerag 📌 Episode Highlights ⏳ [00:01:00] – Introduction & Guest Background ⏳ [00:04:00] – The Evolution of AI in Digital Marketing ⏳ [00:10:00] – Must-Have AI Tools for Businesses & Creators ⏳ [00:16:00] – The Balance Between AI and Human Touch ⏳ [00:24:00] – The Power of Storytelling in Marketing Strategy ⏳ [00:30:00] – The Rise of Influencer Marketing & B2B Branding ⏳ [00:40:00] – Best Practices for Digital Marketing in 2025 ⏳ [00:49:00] – How to Choose the Right Social Media Platform…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Daniel Andor , a seasoned product designer and founder of Durran , a product design studio specializing in early-stage tech startups. With 15 years of experience in UX and product design, Daniel shares his insights on lean product design , common startup mistakes , and how to build products that truly engage users . If you’re a founder, product leader, or UX enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to improve your design approach and enhance user experience. Key Takeaways ✅ What is Lean Product Design? – Understanding how rapid iteration and user feedback can shape successful products. ✅ Common UX Mistakes Startups Make – Why technical founders often struggle with product design and how to fix it. ✅ How to Identify User Engagement Issues – Signs your product isn’t working and how to address high churn rates. ✅ Empathy-Driven UX – Why understanding your users’ journey is critical for product success. ✅ The Role of AI in UX Design – Can AI assist in product design, or is it still unreliable? ✅ Metrics That Define Product Success – The key indicators that show your product is resonating with users. ✅ Resources and Frameworks – Daniel’s go-to books and methodologies for UX and product design. What You’ll Learn 🚀 How to validate design decisions before building costly features 🎯 The importance of onboarding and user journey mapping 🔄 How to leverage feedback loops to continuously refine your product 📊 The difference between good and bad UX design for SaaS startups 🤖 Can AI improve UX design? Where it works—and where it fails About the Guest Daniel Andor is the founder of Durran , a product design studio that helps early-stage startups refine and launch their products. He has mentored founders at top accelerators like Techstars , guiding them through the process of product-market fit, UX design, and customer engagement strategies. https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniandor/ https://www.durran.co/ Episode Highlights ⏳ [00:01:00] – Daniel’s journey from graphic design to UX and product design ⏳ [00:04:00] – The importance of lean product design in early-stage startups ⏳ [00:06:30] – Why startups fail: The dangers of feature parity and lack of customer feedback ⏳ [00:10:00] – How to measure user engagement and detect churn signals ⏳ [00:14:00] – The role of empathy in UX and best practices for user onboarding ⏳ [00:19:30] – The lean startup approach: Building, testing, and iterating quickly ⏳ [00:22:00] – AI in UX: Can generative AI enhance product design? ⏳ [00:28:00] – Metrics for success: How to determine if your product is working ⏳ [00:32:00] – Daniel’s recommended books and frameworks for UX and product design…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this episode, we dive into the world of digital twins and AI-driven facility management with Marek Kozlak (CTO & Founder of SIMLAB) and Michał Szopa (Product Owner & Project Manager at SIMLAB) . They share how their cutting-edge technology transforms construction, facility management, and real estate operations by creating real-time, interactive digital twins of buildings . Whether you’re a real estate developer, tech leader, or entrepreneur , this episode provides insights into AI, IoT, and smart building innovations that are reshaping the industry. 🔹 Key Takeaways 🚀 What are digital twins, and how do they impact real estate and construction? 🏗️ The role of AI and IoT in making buildings smarter and more efficient 📊 How SIMLAB’s technology helps prevent costly construction rework and maintenance issues 🔍 How facility managers, homeowners, and developers can leverage digital twins for predictive maintenance 💡 The future of smart buildings and how this innovation can help cut costs and reduce carbon footprints 🔹 What You’ll Learn ✔️ How digital twins bring real-world assets to life with data and visualization ✔️ The difference between ‘as-designed’ vs. ‘as-built’ digital twins ✔️ How SIMLAB integrates with IoT devices, sensors, and automation platforms ✔️ The power of 3D scanning—how anyone can create a digital twin using just a smartphone ✔️ Why AI-driven maintenance and predictive analytics are the future of real estate and construction 🔹 About Our Guests Marek Kozlak is the CEO & Founder of SIMLAB , an expert in mechanical engineering, computer graphics, and digital twin technology . He founded SIMLAB to solve real-world challenges in the construction and property sectors using advanced 3D scanning and AI-powered analytics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/marek-kozlak-82481258/ Michał Szopa is the Product Owner & Project Manager at SIMLAB , specializing in building automation systems, digital transformation, and facility management . His expertise bridges the gap between technology, real estate, and end-user needs . https://www.linkedin.com/in/michal-szopa/ SIMLAB Website: http://www.simlabinc.com/ 🔹 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) ⏳ [00:00] Welcome & introduction to SIMLAB ⏳ [02:00] Marek & Michał’s backgrounds and why they founded SIMLAB ⏳ [06:30] What is a digital twin, and how is it revolutionizing real estate? ⏳ [10:00] The role of IoT in building maintenance and automation ⏳ [14:30] How digital twins help prevent costly construction errors ⏳ [20:00] AI and predictive maintenance in facility management ⏳ [27:00] Real-world use cases: Smart buildings, energy savings & sustainability ⏳ [35:00] Live demo: A deep dive into SIMLAB’s technology (watch on YouTube!) ⏳ [45:00] How anyone can scan their property and create a digital twin ⏳ [50:00] Business model, pricing, and final thoughts…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
In this insightful episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the world of smart cities, digital transformation, and AI-driven urban innovation with Lawrence Eta , a seasoned technology leader with experience spanning Toronto, Saudi Arabia, and beyond. Lawrence shares his expertise on how cities can harness AI, data, and infrastructure planning to build sustainable, people-centric urban environments. 🎯 Key Takeaways 🔹 Smart Cities as a Blueprint for the Future – Why digital infrastructure is essential for modern urban development. 🔹 AI & Data-Driven Cities – How AI is transforming city planning, public services, and security . 🔹 The Role of Government & Regulations – How policy plays a crucial role in creating innovation-friendly cities . 🔹 The 5S Framework for Smart City Success – Lawrence’s strategic approach to stability, scalability, security, sustainability, and integration . 🔹 Tech Leadership & Innovation – Why city CTOs should be at the center of urban strategy . 🔹 The Future of Urban Mobility & Digital Identity – How AI, biometrics, and automation will change the way we interact with cities. 💡 About Our Guest: Lawrence Eta Lawrence Eta is a global digital transformation expert and former Chief Technology Officer of the City of Toronto. He is currently based in Saudi Arabia , where he leads digital transformation and smart city initiatives for one of the region’s mega projects. With a background in technology leadership across North America, Europe, and the Middle East , Lawrence brings a unique perspective on urban planning, governance, and the intersection of AI and infrastructure. Lawrence’s extensive educational background—including an Executive MBA—complements his commitment to innovation and continuous learning. Lawrence Website: https://lawrenceeta.com/ Bridging Worlds: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D188F7WR 📌 Episode Highlights (with Timestamps) ⏳ [00:01:00] – Lawrence’s journey from Toronto to Saudi Arabia & the future of smart cities ⏳ [00:04:30] – Why digital transformation is critical for urban infrastructure ⏳ [00:09:00] – AI’s role in creating more efficient and sustainable cities ⏳ [00:15:00] – Balancing privacy, security, and innovation in data-driven cities ⏳ [00:20:00] – Real-world applications of AI: Biometrics, transportation, and governance ⏳ [00:26:00] – The Middle East as a hub for smart city development & investment opportunities ⏳ [00:34:00] – Why we should rethink IT departments as Technology & Innovation Teams ⏳ [00:39:00] – Leadership lessons & advice for tech professionals in public service…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #435 Revolutionizing Healthcare UX: AI, Personalization, and Design Innovation with Mary Borysova 42:46
In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the evolving landscape of healthcare UX, AI-driven personalization, and innovative design strategies with Mary Borysova , a seasoned product designer specializing in healthcare . Mary shares her insights on how AI, gamification, and behavioral design are transforming the patient experience , improving accessibility, and making health apps more engaging and effective . She also discusses the challenges of designing for diverse user groups, from Gen Z to senior citizens , and the privacy and regulatory constraints that shape digital healthcare solutions. 🚀 What You’ll Learn ✅ How AI is shaping healthcare UX and driving personalized patient experiences ✅ The role of gamification and behavioral design in keeping users engaged ✅ Challenges in designing healthcare apps for different demographics (Gen Z vs. seniors) ✅ Privacy and data security concerns in AI-powered healthcare applications ✅ Innovations in predictive analytics and digital health accessibility ✅ How AI-driven chatbots and voice assistants are revolutionizing mental health support ✅ What it takes to design for both patients and healthcare providers 🏆 About the Guest: Mary Borysova Mary has a unique business and creative approach, backed by her 7 years of design experience specifically in healthcare design, and 12 years of experience in the design and marketing of tech products. Some of the highlights of her work are: - Mary was part of the healthcare venture building studio, working on 5 products 0 To 1, one of them became a unicorn. - She designed a new AI-powered app for CVS Pharmacy (about to launch). She was leading design projects at SaaS PandaDoc, a product used by Patagonia, Panasonic, and Autodesk and 50K more business users. https://techmattersstudio.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-borysova/ https://healthmattersandme.substack.com/ ⏳ Episode Chapters & Timestamps 🎤 [00:00] Introduction & Guest Welcome 👩⚕️ [02:00] Mary’s Journey in Healthcare UX & Product Design 📱 [06:30] How Healthcare UX Differs from Other Industries 🔒 [10:00] Privacy & Security Challenges in Healthcare AI 🎯 [14:30] Gamification & AI Personalization in Health Apps 🏥 [18:45] Designing for Accessibility: Seniors vs. Younger Users 🌍 [22:00] Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Underserved Communities 📊 [27:15] Predictive Analytics & AI in Healthcare Decision-Making 🧠 [30:45] AI Chatbots & the Future of Mental Health Support 🎙️ [36:00] The Future of Healthcare UX & Emerging Trends 👋 [40:30] Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Mary…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
“Most companies can’t answer the fundamental questions about their AI models—where they’re used, how they’re performing, and if they’re compliant. That’s where AI governance comes in.” — Jim Olsen In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive deep into AI governance, compliance, and risk management with Jim Olsen, the CTO of ModelOp, a leading AI governance firm. As AI adoption accelerates, enterprises must navigate the complexities of AI governance, regulatory compliance, and business strategy. Jim shares his journey in AI, the importance of AI governance, and how enterprises can balance innovation while mitigating risks. Whether you’re a tech leader, founder, or executive, this episode provides valuable insights into securing AI models and ensuring responsible AI use in businesses. Key Takeaways: ✔️ AI governance is not just about regulation—it ensures AI models drive business value. ✔️ Most enterprises lack visibility into how AI is being used internally, leading to compliance risks. ✔️ AI models are non-deterministic, requiring monitoring and lifecycle management. ✔️ Regulatory frameworks are evolving, and businesses must be prepared for compliance. ✔️ Balancing AI innovation with risk management is crucial for long-term success. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🚀 Why AI governance is a critical priority for enterprises. 📊 How organizations can track AI models and ensure compliance. ⚖️ The evolving landscape of AI regulations in the US and Europe. 🛡️ Strategies to mitigate AI risks and protect business reputations. 💡 The role of AI in business decision-making and automation. About the Guest – Jim Olsen Jim leads the technical innovation and design of the ModelOp Center platform. He also is integral to advising ModelOp customer CIOs and CTOs on requirements to better support their IT operations as they execute on digital business strategies that often strain technology infrastructure. Prior to ModelOp, he was Director of Software Development at Think Big, a Teradata Company for the Americas consulting organization, and responsible for the design of their Analytics Ops framework. Jim has also held technical design and architect positions at Qualtrics, W.J. Bradley Company, and Convasant and was a Distinguished Engineer at Novell. Jim holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Psychology from Clarkson University and currently has two patents in his name. Connect with Jim on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimolsen/ https://www.modelop.com/ Episode Highlights & Timestamps: ⏳ [00:01:00] – Jim Olsen’s background and how he got into AI governance. ⏳ [00:03:30] – Why enterprises struggle with AI oversight and compliance. ⏳ [00:06:00] – The disconnect between AI adoption and C-suite understanding. ⏳ [00:09:00] – AI regulations: What’s changing and how businesses should prepare. ⏳ [00:14:30] – Risks of deploying AI models without governance. ⏳ [00:18:00] – Generative AI: Potential, pitfalls, and business impact. ⏳ [00:23:00] – Best practices for AI governance in enterprises. ⏳ [00:28:00] – The CTO’s role in balancing AI adoption with compliance. ⏳ [00:35:00] – Future of AI: Agentic AI, automation, and evolving risks.…
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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
1 #433 Breaking the Cash Flow Barrier: Malachi Halliday on Supporting Startups and Small Businesses 38:15
“Accessing funding shouldn’t be a roadblock to growth. Startups and small businesses deserve a financial ecosystem that supports their ambitions.” – Malachi Halliday In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , Malachi Halliday, founder of HFS and a 15-year veteran of the UAE startup ecosystem, joins Mehmet to discuss the pressing issue of cash flow challenges faced by startups and small businesses. Together, they explore innovative funding solutions, the structural hurdles in the UAE, and the importance of financial preparedness for growth. Malachi shares his journey of funding MSMEs, insights into alternative financing options, and actionable advice to help businesses unlock their potential. Key Takeaways: • The unique cash flow challenges faced by startups and MSMEs in the UAE. • Why traditional banks often fail to meet the needs of small businesses. • How alternative funding options like factoring and revenue-based financing are bridging the gap. • The critical role of financial preparedness and collections in scaling a business. • How funding startups and small businesses drives economic growth, competition, and innovation. What You’ll Learn: • The structural challenges of securing funding in the UAE and how to overcome them. • The benefits of providing startups and MSMEs with accessible funding. • Strategies for improving financial readiness before seeking funding. • Real-life examples of how businesses have thrived after receiving tailored financial support. About the Guest: Malachi Halliday is the founder of HFS (Halliday Forfaiting Services), a UAE-based company dedicated to funding startups and MSMEs across the region. Malachi is an award-winning 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭. He 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 to UAE-based, B2B, post-revenue businesses with revenue below AED20m p.a. With a mission to fund 2,000 businesses by 2030, Malachi brings a wealth of experience in providing working capital and financial advisory services tailored to the unique needs of small businesses. https://www.linkedin.com/in/malachihalliday/ https://www.hallidayforfaiting.com/ Episode Highlights: • [00:01:00] Malachi introduces himself and his mission to support MSMEs in the UAE. • [00:03:00] The challenges startups face with cash flow and accessing bank funding. • [00:07:00] Why traditional banking isn’t always a solution for small businesses. • [00:10:00] Success stories: Funding that drives competition and innovation. • [00:14:00] The importance of financial readiness and preparation before seeking funding. • [00:23:00] Common mistakes startups make after raising funds. • [00:27:00] Trends in SME financing and the role of innovation and technology. • [00:30:00] How HFS uses technology to bridge funding gaps. • [00:34:00] Malachi’s final advice: Mastering collections and improving payment terms.…
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