SUMMARY
In this episode, I talk with Allan Jaffe, VP of Technology at Top Speed Data, about his 40+ year career in telecom and tech. We cover what it means to be a technology advisor, how his team helps businesses solve problems without extra cost, and why cybersecurity is more important than ever. Allan also shares thoughts on work-life balance, daily routines, and how perspective and kindness go a long way in business and life.
A Career Built on Adaptability & Relationships 00:00:48
- Allan shares his journey from earning an economics degree at UC Davis to building a career in telecom and technology
- Early work at Pacific Bell, experience in operations, then a shift to sales and leadership
- How Top Speed Data formed: a group of former colleagues reuniting to launch a client-first technology advisory firm
- The evolution of the industry: from black rotary phones to full-stack cloud solutions
The Business of Technology Advising 00:03:34
- What a "technology advisor" really does
- Why the independent broker model is a win-win for clients and providers
- How Top Speed Data helps businesses find the right tech solutions without added cost
- The team’s hands-on, community-centered, service-first approach
- Common client challenges and how Allan and his team solve them
Routines, Success, and Work-Life Integration 00:08:18
- Allan’s morning routine: early starts, dog walking, and focused deep work
- How he structures his day and week for maximum impact
- The importance of flexible work to show up for family
- Reflections on “work-life integration” over the elusive idea of “balance”
- The role of perspective and gratitude in staying grounded
Industry Insights & Common Missteps 00:18:25
- The biggest risks
- How ransomware attacks often target small and medium businesses
- The growing threat of ransomware-as-a-service and data leaks on the dark web
- Advice to companies: security is no longer optional, even for SMBs
- Why Allan believes in doing what it takes to support both his clients and his family
Books, Reflections & Bonus Wisdom Book Recommendations 00:36:29
- Nuts! by Herb Kelleher – customer service and culture at Southwest Airlines
- Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin – lessons from presidential history
- Unapologetically Ambitious by Shellye Archambeau – breaking barriers for women and minorities
- Thoughts on perspective, resilience, and why even difficult jobs are a privilege
- How growing up with strong family values and immigrant roots shaped his work ethic
- The importance of hobbies, hiking, community, and... walking his wife's dog
Links
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