This podcast episode features a conversation between Byron and Jon Freedman, a technologist with extensive experience in the financial services industry. The discussion focuses on the concept of 'standing in the gap' for one's team, emphasizing the role of tech leaders in promoting human flourishing within their teams. Key points include the importance of advocacy, psychological safety, and effective communication in team dynamics. Jon shares his journey from working at hedge funds to becoming a fractional CTO, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of leadership. Additionally, both participants discuss personal anecdotes and practical strategies for making teams more collaborative and productive. Various pitfalls, such as the inauthentic application of these principles and the time management challenges of leadership, are also explored.
Links:
* Jon Freedman on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonfreedman/
* "The Hotel Avocado" by Bob Mortimer - https://www.amazon.com/Hotel-Avocado-Bob-Mortimer-ebook/dp/B0CW1H2LL3?tag=sommardahl-20
* "The Man Who Solved the Market" by Gregory Zuckerman - https://www.amazon.com/Man-Who-Solved-Market-Revolution/dp/073521798X?tag=sommardahl-20
* Quant Fin - quantfin.co.uk/
Timeline:
00:00 Introduction: Standing in the Gap
00:14 Meet Jon Freedman: A Technologist's Journey
01:04 The Financial Sector and Team Flourishing
03:05 Books That Inspire: From Comedy to Finance
05:49 Confession Time: Embarrassing Moments in Tech Leadership
08:11 The Role of a Leader: Protecting and Promoting Team Flourishing
14:05 Practical Examples of Standing in the Gap
29:02 Challenges and Pitfalls in Leadership
39:33 Conclusion: The Importance of Standing in the Gap
