Shows
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Hybrid Work Keeps CTOs Stuck as the Bottleneck (And How to Stop It)In this engaging episode of the Executive Tech Podcast, host Mike engages with Micah Remley, CEO of Robin, to explore the contemporary dynamics of hybrid work environments. The episode kicks off with a discussion on the fundamental misunderstandings surrounding hybrid work and the evolving demands of modern office spaces. Micah advocates for transforming offices into community hubs that attract employees and support flexible work schedules, moving beyond mere attendance mandates.
Throughout their conversation, Micah and Mike delve into the nuanced roles of workplace analytics and the pivotal influence of data in designing effective hybrid...
2025-10-2930 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Your Team Avoids Ownership—and Escalates Everything to YouJoin host Mike in a riveting conversation with Dr. Gretchen Schmelzer, a trauma expert who has advised the UN and Fortune 500 companies. Discover how to navigate leadership amid workplace trauma, especially in post-COVID times. Mike and Gretchen delve into the impact of stress on teams, common signs of trauma, and ways to harness emotional intelligence for effective leadership. Whether you’re dealing with burnout or seeking to optimize team performance, this episode sheds light on understanding and addressing the emotional weight in your organization.
2025-10-2230 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeAI Won’t Replace Leaders—But It Will Expose Bottlenecked OnesJoin hosts Mike and Ken Miller as they delve into the transformative power of resilience and leadership. From Ken's journey through personal adversity and the lessons he learned in leadership, this episode covers the essential roles of emotional, physical, intellectual, and spiritual growth. Discover how Ken applies these insights across nonprofits and tech companies, emphasizing the significance of truth, vulnerability, and AI in organizational success. Whether leading nonprofits or tech ventures, Ken's candid storytelling offers a poignant reminder of what’s possible when innovation meets intention. Don't miss this insightful conversation.
2025-10-1536 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhat Scaling Leaders Miss About Ownership When Growth AcceleratesJoin Mike and Noah Wickham as they uncover the secrets to success in the competitive world of Amazon selling. Discover why putting people first, investing wisely, and knowing your customer are crucial for scaling brands. With insights from over 600 brands, Noah reveals the importance of expert guidance, knowing when to pivot, and how cultural alignment and effective team structures drive results. Explore the challenges and strategies for E-commerce leadership and gain valuable advice for sellers at any stage. Tune in for an engaging conversation that offers actionable insights for thriving in E-commerce.
2025-10-0834 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Leaders Who Avoid Conflict End Up Owning EverythingUrsula Taylor, former litigation partner, discusses her transformative journey from courtroom drama to leveraging emotional intelligence for conflict resolution. Discover how understanding the emotional roots of disputes can redefine workplace dynamics. Host Mike explores with Ursula the misconceptions about conflict, the limitations of the traditional legal system, and how leaders can shift from reactive conflict management to fostering growth and collaboration. Ursula's insights offer a fresh perspective on turning conflict into a pathway for innovation and creativity. Don't miss her approach to reimagined resolution over victory.
2025-10-0125 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhat $100M Operators Understand About Delegation That Most Leaders Don’tMike interviews Neil, an Amazon entrepreneur who shares insights on building and scaling successful e-commerce brands. Neil discusses his journey from working at IBM to launching Voltage Holdings and emphasizes creating businesses with a clear exit strategy. He introduces his "Almost Automated Income with FBA" methodology, focusing on training CEO operators and identifying profitable products. Neil's pay-as-you-profit model and green light system for product selection are also explored. This episode offers actionable strategies for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs seeking growth in the e-commerce space.
2025-09-2421 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Senior Leaders Struggle to Communicate Clearly Under PressureMike welcomes Nina Froriep, celebrated filmmaker and entrepreneur coach, to explore the transformative power of storytelling and authenticity in video content. From her work with Fortune 500 companies to empowering solopreneurs, Nina shares her journey and insights into creating impactful videos using only a smartphone and genuine personal narratives. They delve into strategies for overcoming camera shyness, the advantages of LinkedIn for business growth, and the importance of showing up authentically. Discover how video can revolutionize your business by forging genuine connections and building trust.
2025-09-1725 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Scaling Tech Organizations Break When Context Gets IgnoredExplore the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation with Mike and Karl Weaver as they delve into global business strategies, manufacturing trends, and the rise of Asia in the tech world. Discover the importance of learning Mandarin and fostering international cooperation in innovation. From mobile payments to AI advancements, this conversation highlights the critical role of collaboration between the West and East. Karl shares insights from his experiences in Asia and offers a blueprint for future global tech collaboration.
2025-09-1024 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Leadership Misalignment Quietly Breaks Go-To-Market ExecutionExplore how Pete Stiege transforms B2B marketing from bloated noise into meaningful strategy. With insights from his books "On Purpose" and "Radical Clarity," Pete shares how technical CEOs can align leadership, culture, and marketing for growth. Learn about the challenges faced by "accidental CEOs" and discover the importance of finding a company’s unique true story for impactful marketing. Join Mike and Pete as they discuss the pitfalls of reactive marketing and share actionable strategies to forge strong customer relationships and drive business success.
2025-09-0327 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow Bad Information Flow Turns Leaders Into Decision BottlenecksJoin host Mike as he explores data quality in digital marketing with seasoned entrepreneur Jim Weldon, founder of ProspectDesk. Jim shares insights into transforming bad data into valuable audience intelligence, emphasizing the importance of accurate targeting and clean identity resolution. Discover why Jim, despite a successful career in edtech, fintech, and SaaS, chooses to tackle one of digital marketing's most challenging problems. Tune in to learn how quality data can streamline your marketing efforts, enhance audience engagement, and drive profitability. Perfect for those rethinking their prospecting strategy.
2025-08-2728 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Fractional Leaders Often Fix What Full-Time Execs Can’tJoin host Mike as he welcomes Brian Root, founder of Rooted in Product, to discuss how fractional product leadership can drive significant impact for startups. Drawing from his experience at Amazon and Walmart Labs, Brian reveals the power of a fractional Chief Product Officer (CPO) in transforming company culture and driving innovation, even within highly regulated sectors like FinTech and InsureTech. Discover why Brian believes in the philosophy that you are not your customer, and how the right strategy can deliver value without the need for a full-time executive presence.
2025-08-2030 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Senior Tech Leaders Who Jump to Solutions Create Fragile TeamsExplore how Amazon's PR FAQ framework can transform your innovation process with insights from tech veteran Marcelo Calbucci. In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Marcelo, a former Amazon product leader, shares the power of crafting vision and strategy through writing, why presentations can hinder progress, and how truth-seeking can prevent costly missteps. Learn how this approach can apply beyond tech, to education, healthcare, and more, and discover practical steps for implementing it within your team or business. Hosted by Mike, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on launching new ideas effectively.
2025-08-1325 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Modern Tech Leadership Is Quietly Becoming UnsustainableJoin Mike as he delves into the dynamic world of tech leadership with Nick Hume, a fractional CTO known for bridging the gap between engineering teams and executive management. Discover why companies are increasingly turning to fractional models, the importance of aligning tech and business strategies, and how curiosity fuels innovation across industries. Nick shares insights from his experiences at Microsoft and AWS, offering a fresh perspective on navigating leadership roles and advocating for cutting-edge technologies like AI to accelerate growth. Tune in for strategies that help organizations scale smarter and faster.
2025-08-0626 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhat High-Stakes Decision-Making Reveals About Leadership Under PressureDiscover how Justin Baer, founder of Collars & Co., revolutionized casual menswear by merging comfort and style with the dress collar polo. Mike and Justin delve into Justin's journey from tech to fashion, his experience on Shark Tank, and the agile strategies that have fueled his success. Learn about the innovative mindset that drives Justin to disrupt traditional industries and his passion for creating products that resonate with modern customers. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, product development, and leveraging AI in business.
2025-07-3026 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow Leaders Lose Execution Efficiency Without Realizing ItDiscover the future of marketing through the lens of Hikari Senju, an AI innovator and Harvard-trained strategist. Hikari shares insights on leveraging AI and machine learning to revolutionize brand storytelling and marketing efficiency. Explore themes around data-driven content personalization, the pitfalls of hustle culture, and the balance of creativity and technology. Hosted by Mike, this engaging conversation delves into strategic thinking, overcoming challenges in advertising, and the evolving landscape of marketing. Tune in for a forward-thinking discussion on enhancing brand value and competitive strategy.
2025-07-2326 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Burnout Isn’t a Workload Problem for Senior LeadersEntrepreneurship isn't just about achieving financial milestones; it's also about navigating the mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges that arise. Join Mike as he chats with Mohamed Ahmed, author of "The Inside Out Entrepreneur," who shares insights from his five-year journey of building and selling a startup. Explore how mindset influences business growth, the dangers of hustle culture, and the importance of vulnerability and asking for help. Mohamed emphasizes that a founder's mindset can profoundly affect their team, investors, and customers, underlining that true success starts from within.
2025-07-1624 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThe Leadership Dependency Pattern That Nearly Crushed a Scaling Tech FirmJoin Mike as he delves into the 30-year journey of Jeff Barrella, CEO of Andromeda Technology Solutions. Discover how Jeff and his co-founders grew their business from a small startup to a 50-person team with repeated recognition as a best place to work. Explore insights on intentional company culture-building, leadership evolution, and navigating industry shifts like moving from break-fix to managed services. Jeff shares valuable lessons from their journey, emphasizing the importance of dedication, adaptability, and the long-term commitment required for sustained success. Tune in for inspiring stories and practical advice from a seasoned tech leader.
2025-07-0931 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy “Fixing the Team” Fails When the Leader Is the SystemMike and Ted Santos delve into the transformative journey of CEOs, emphasizing the often-overlooked necessity of personal change to drive business transformation. They explore common pitfalls, such as shifting blame to others, and the significance of leadership style in breaking stagnation. As Ted outlines his approach to producing business "miracles" by fostering disruptive strategies and redefining corporate culture, he also shares insights from his book on the intersection of business leadership and personal relationships. Tune in to discover how evolving mindsets can unlock unprecedented organizational success.
2025-07-0232 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Legacy Systems Don’t Break Companies—Leadership Decisions DoJoin Mike as he delves into the world of legacy systems with Juan Lucas Barbier, the renowned COBOL Whisperer and founder of Cobb COBOL Agency. Discover why COBOL remains vital in today's tech landscape, powering critical sectors like banking and healthcare. Juan Lucas shares insights on modernizing COBOL systems using AI and human expertise, emphasizing the importance of documentation and domain-specific knowledge. Tune in to unravel the intricate dance between legacy systems and cutting-edge technology, and learn how AI-driven modernization is reshaping the digital infrastructure.
2025-06-2530 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhat Large-Scale Organizations Reveal About Decision BottlenecksMike engages with Frank Carone, former chief of staff to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, exploring the art of negotiation, leadership, and building a "culture of yes." Frank shares insights from his diverse career spanning law, business, and government, reflecting on pivotal projects like Willets Point and his tenure as commissioner for New York City’s Taxi and Limousine Commission. Listen in to discover strategies for turning challenges into opportunities, fostering productive relationships, and his approach to making impactful decisions in high-pressure environments.
2025-06-1829 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeCan This $300 Million Strategist Transform Your LeadershipExplore the strategies behind Daniel Friker's impressive growth of a $300 million portfolio with nearly 50% profit increase. Mike and Daniel delve into the three fundamental tenets of business success: planning, executive sponsorship, and execution. Learn how utilizing data visualization tools like Power BI can drive incremental changes and improve operations. The discussion also touches on AI's role in productivity and the importance of a living business plan. Discover how top-tier clients like ExxonMobil are secured and retained through strategic relationships and shared goals. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate business acumen.
2025-06-1137 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSuccess Without Joy: The Leadership Happiness ReframeSharissa Sebastian Depen joins Mike to unpack a leadership problem that hides in plain sight: why high achievers can have the title, salary, and influence—and still feel stressed, stuck, or unfulfilled. Drawing from her coaching work and her own career turning point, Sharissa argues that workplace happiness starts with alignment: knowing who you are, what you value, and why the next step actually matters.
A key reality frames the conversation: we spend over 90,000 hours of our lives at work, so misalignment becomes chronic stress, not a passing inconvenience. They talk through how to pr...
2025-06-0435 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeLeadership Isn’t Control: Coaching Teams Like ChampionsWhat separates great individual performers from great leaders? In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with David Kitchen (Coach Kitch) to break down the mindset shift leaders must make when moving from doing the work themselves to winning through others.
Drawing from his experience coaching elite athletes and executives, Coach Kitch explains why leaders are “beholden to how other people perform” and why delegation—not control—is the real superpower of leadership. He challenges common myths like “if you want it done right, do it yourself” and the idea that leading...
2025-05-2831 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Clear Communication Is the Leader’s Real SuperpowerWhat if the biggest barrier to your leadership success isn’t strategy, talent, or execution—but communication?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Tissa Richards, repeat software founder, CEO, award-winning author, and global leadership expert, to unpack why most leaders think they’re communicating clearly—and why they’re often wrong. Tissa explains how failing to provide context and “the why” behind decisions creates misalignment, wasted effort, and burnout across teams.
The conversation dives into practical techniques leaders can use immediately, including feedback loops...
2025-05-2133 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow AI Is Rewriting Customer Experience—and What Leaders Must Do NowAI is no longer a future concept in customer experience—it’s already reshaping how companies engage, sell, and support at scale.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Alex Levin, founder of Regal.io and former growth leader at Handy, to explore how AI-powered contact centers are transforming entire industries. Alex shares lessons from scaling businesses through major mergers, building products at the edge of what’s possible, and rethinking the role of customer interaction in a world rapidly moving toward automation.
The co...
2025-05-1432 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeYou Can’t Choose the Pitch—But You Always Choose the SwingEvery leader faces curveballs. The difference between those who break and those who build something stronger is how they respond.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Joelle Kaufman, a 25-year B2B SaaS executive, go-to-market leadership coach, and generational cancer survivor, to unpack her Curveball Method for leading through adversity. Drawing from her experience helping build over $4B in market value—and navigating cancer personally—Joelle explains why challenges are constant, but panic is optional.
The conversation explores how leaders can slow down...
2025-05-0740 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhen a Break Becomes a Breakthrough: From Sales to CEO at 10HatsWhat if one of the most painful moments in your life became the catalyst for your greatest professional breakthrough?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Brian Strong, CEO of 10Hats, to explore a leadership journey shaped by sales, startups, setbacks, and perspective. From selling railroad materials to telecom, founding and exiting a GovTech software company, and ultimately stepping into the CEO role at 10Hats, Brian shares how wearing many hats prepared him to lead with clarity and empathy.
Brian opens up about...
2025-04-3027 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeDon’t Get Left Behind: How Modern Leaders Blend Technology and MindfulnessYour competition is evolving—but are you?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Christopher Larsen, a technology executive, coach, and founder of KnowledgeGain, to explore a powerful intersection most leaders overlook: cutting-edge technology and ancient holistic practices. With a background in engineering, executive leadership, and mindfulness-based coaching, Christopher explains why technical excellence alone is no longer enough to lead effectively.
Christopher shares his journey from climbing the corporate ladder at IBM to realizing that success without fulfillment leads to burnout, disengaged teams, and poor de...
2025-04-2327 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Fear-Based Leadership Fails—and How Empathy Builds Stronger TeamsWhat if the leadership style you were taught is the very thing pushing your best people away?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Haley Anthony, combat veteran, leadership coach, and founder of Rise Executive Coaching, to unpack why fear-based leadership is not just outdated—but actively harmful to performance, culture, and retention. Drawing from her military background and years of transforming struggling teams, Haley explains how intimidation, avoidance, and control quietly erode trust and drive high performers out the door.
The conversation ex...
2025-04-1633 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Great Teams Are Built on Strengths, Not RolesWhat if the key to stronger teams isn’t fixing weaknesses—but fully understanding and leveraging what people naturally do best?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Jennifer Pasquale, a dual-certified Gallup CliftonStrengths coach, to explore how strengths-based development transforms individuals, teams, and entire organizations. Drawing from her work with corporate teams and military spouses, Jennifer explains how self-awareness becomes the foundation for engagement, connection, and performance.
Jennifer shares her personal journey of feeling professionally “off center” and how discovering her own strengths gave her lang...
2025-04-0927 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWho Owns Your Content in the Age of AI? Inside the Fight for Data Rights and TransparencyAs AI models consume massive amounts of data, a critical question is emerging: who actually owns the content that trains them?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Sharon Boulding, former CTO and CISO, AI cybersecurity expert, and founder of Parsifer, to explore the hidden risks AI poses to content creators, publishers, and the broader digital ecosystem. Sharon shares how her background in banking, linguistics, and risk management led her to build an AI-powered solution focused on data provenance, fingerprinting, and transparency.
The...
2025-04-0237 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeInside HumanX: What Tech Leaders Must Know About AI, Privacy, and Responsible AdoptionBroadcasting live from HumanX in Las Vegas, one of the world’s leading AI conferences, Mike Mahoney takes listeners inside the conversations tech leaders can’t afford to ignore.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike breaks down how AI is reshaping industries—from enterprise operations and cybersecurity to healthcare, marketing, and autonomous systems—while raising critical questions about privacy, ethics, and executive accountability. With over 200 exhibitors, 500+ speakers, and thousands of attendees, HumanX brings together executives, policymakers, and technologists who are actively shaping how AI will be deployed and governed.
2025-03-2623 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeCreative Anarchy: How Shelby Ring Turns Rebellion into Powerful Brand StorytellingFrom yacht chef to underwater filmmaker to award-winning creative director, Shelby Ring’s path into video production is anything but conventional—and that’s exactly what fuels her success.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Shelby, founder of Ruby Riot Creatives, to explore how rebellious thinking, adaptability, and storytelling instincts translate into unforgettable brand narratives. Shelby shares how filming underwater with a GoPro sparked her passion, how wedding filmmaking trained her to thrive under chaos, and why creative “rules” exist primarily to be questioned.
The...
2025-03-1933 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge100 Episodes In: 10 Leadership Lessons Every Tech Leader Must MasterReaching 100 episodes is more than a milestone—it’s a moment to reflect on what truly separates good leaders from exceptional ones.
In this special episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney distills insights from 100 conversations with founders, executives, technologists, and leadership experts into 10 practical leadership lessons you can apply immediately. Rather than revisiting highlights for nostalgia, this episode focuses on patterns that consistently showed up across industries, company sizes, and leadership roles.
From embracing emerging technologies like AI and automation, to optimizing processes, building personal brands, and...
2025-03-121h 08
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy Mental Health Is a Leadership Issue—Not an HR InitiativeTech leaders obsess over productivity, innovation, and growth—but too often overlook the one factor that makes all three sustainable: mental health.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike is joined by Sarah Harris, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, to unpack what it really means to build a well-being culture inside high-pressure tech organizations. Sarah challenges the idea that mental health is something to “prioritize,” arguing instead that wellness is the culture—embedded in policies, communication norms, leadership behavior, and everyday decisions.
The co...
2025-03-0530 min
Gaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThe Leadership Advantage You’re Ignoring: Listening to Your BodyWhat if the key to better leadership, clearer communication, and sustained performance isn’t another framework—but your own body?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Ruth Cummings, a body–mind coach with over 50,000 hours of experience working with CEOs, professional athletes, and high-performing teams. Ruth explains how stress, pressure, and unresolved emotions show up physically—and why most leaders ignore those signals until performance, relationships, or health begin to break down.
The conversation explores how CEOs and elite athletes respond to stress i...
2025-02-2631 min
The Best You - A Coaching Podcast: Personal Growth Through Real ConversationsWork-Life Balance for High Achievers with Mike MahonySend us a textWelcome to The Best You – Interview Series, where I engage in conversations with a variety of interesting people!For this episode I'm joined by Mike Mahony, founder of Top Tier Coaching Services, who is a leadership expert, business coach, and host of his popular podcast, and the host of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge. Mike’s main specialism is in decentralized management and leadership—a system he developed after transforming his own career. Mike used to work over 100 hours a week, barely seeing his family, and was on the v...
2024-12-0435 min
Taking Back MondayThe Power of Decentralized Leadership: Letting Your Team Thrive feat. Mike MahonyIn this episode, we dive deep into decentralized leadership with Mike Mahony, a former CTO turned leadership coach, who shares how empowering your team is the key to unlocking true growth. Whether you’re a leader who’s struggling with delegation or you’ve found yourself bogged down in day-to-day tasks, this conversation provides practical strategies to step back, trust your team, and foster a culture where everyone thrives. If you're looking for actionable advice on leading with less stress and more impact, this episode is for you.Mike also introduces his PACE system, a proven method for al...
2024-10-1727 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeWhy AI Tools Can Cut Your Work Time by 50%Mike from Focus-Biz joins GTLE to break down what AI actually looks like when it’s used responsibly inside a real business.
Starting from his background running an award-winning wedding DJ company, Mike shares how automation, marketing systems, and AI tools allowed him to work fewer hours while improving output. Today, those same principles guide his work helping small businesses improve lead generation, sales conversion, and customer experience.
Rather than positioning AI as a replacement for people, Mike frames it as a force multiplier. He explains why businesses should au...
2024-10-1630 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeFrom Blockbuster Failures to AI Triumphs: Insights from Talila MillmanIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Talila Millman, fractional CTO, executive advisor, and author of The TRIUMPH Framework: Seven Steps to Leading Organizational Transformation.
Talila has led transformations across large enterprises, scale-ups, and early-stage startups. She explains why most change initiatives fail—not because teams can’t execute, but because leaders misidentify the real problem. Using examples from her own career, Talila walks through the TRIUMPH framework, starting with the first and most critical step: thinking deeply enough to identify the true root cause before acting.
2024-05-1536 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSnap Build's Secret to Slashing Construction Times by 25%!In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Brian Galad, a technology mentor who has spent the last six years helping professionals—especially immigrants—navigate tech careers, interviews, and leadership growth.
Brian shares the defining moment that changed his life. In May 2020, during a daily standup in a toxic organization, he shut his laptop mid-meeting and decided he would never return. Despite fear and uncertainty during the pandemic, he chose to pursue what gave him meaning: mentoring professionals. With his wife’s cautious support and a promise not to put his fa...
2024-05-0831 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThe Critical Role of IoT in Modernizing Manufacturing and Bridging Technology GapsIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike talks with Adam Livesay, founder of Elevate IoT, about what it really takes to modernize industrial and manufacturing companies with connected technology.
Adam shares how IoT adoption began with smarter machines—but stalled because organizations weren’t ready to handle the data. Early customers didn’t have APIs, data governance, or security models in place, and the underlying cloud tooling was still immature. Elevate IoT stepped in to bridge that gap, especially for off-highway and mid-tier OEMs that couldn’t afford massive internal IoT teams.
2024-05-0136 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSnap Build's Secret to Slashing Construction Times by 25%!In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Matt Merritt, CEO of Snap Build, about building a fintech platform that removes friction from construction lending while operating inside a highly regulated environment.
Matt shares his unconventional path from finance and accounting into ERP implementations, large-scale operations, and eventually fintech leadership. He explains how Snap Build tackles one of the biggest challenges facing small and mid-sized home builders: cash flow delays caused by traditional draw management. Instead of waiting four to five weeks for reimbursement, Snap Build enables continuous draws and...
2024-04-2432 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeBreaking Barriers in Tech as Executive Champions Real DEI ChangeIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Crystal L. Arch to explore leadership, product thinking, and what meaningful DEI looks like in practice—not just in policy statements.
Crystal shares her unconventional path into tech, starting with early programming experience in COBOL, Fortran, and Pascal before shifting into product strategy to influence how technology gets built. She reflects on one of her most complex programs: a three-year initiative replacing Manitoba’s casino transaction server infrastructure across hardware, firmware, operating systems, and gaming cabinets—coordinating teams across multiple countries before...
2024-04-1729 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeFormer Yahoo Executive Spills The Secrets To Startup SuccessIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Eric Grafstrom, founder of ExitGuide, about startups, scale, and the quiet crisis facing small business owners who don’t know how—or if—they can ever exit their companies.
Eric shares why he walked away from a senior role at Yahoo, realizing that large organizations removed the uncertainty and white space he needs to do his best work. Drawing on nearly three decades in Silicon Valley, he explains why technology alone doesn’t make a business viable and why most startups are simply e...
2024-04-1026 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow One Woman's Idea Is Crushing Tech's Biggest Barrier | Women in Technology | StaffingIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Tracy Hill, founder and CEO of A Woman Up, to unpack the realities women still face in technology—and what actually helps move careers forward.
Tracy draws on more than two decades in tech staffing, recruiting, and HR leadership to explain how bias has evolved but not disappeared. She shares candid stories from her early career, including having to remove identifying information from resumes and even hiring a “face of the office” to get clients in the door. While progress has been m...
2024-04-0329 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThis Tech Leader's Life in Hawaii Unlocks the Future of Community BuildingIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with community strategist Brie Lever to unpack what actually makes communities work—and why most fail.
Brie shares her experience launching and scaling communities, from building a multimillion-dollar ambassador program for a fashion brand to helping Heartbeat relaunch its paid customer community during rapid growth. She explains why many communities struggle when they’re treated as a marketing tactic instead of a product, and why charging for access fundamentally changes engagement, accountability, and value.
The conversation dives into...
2024-03-2731 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeFrom Coding at Age 8 to Shaping the Future of Tech Leadership | Mergers & AcquisitionsIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Hutton Henry about what really determines success in technology-driven mergers, acquisitions, and scale-ups—and it’s not just the tech stack.
Hutton shares how he began coding at age eight, joined Ford as a teenager, and spent ten years working on global systems serving hundreds of thousands of users. That experience shaped his belief that technology change succeeds or fails based on people, culture, and leadership—not tools alone.
Now working closely with private equity investors and invest...
2024-03-2031 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeShocking Truths About Hospital Efficiency Exposed by Tech Genius! | Technology | Asset ManagementHospitals don’t lose equipment because people are careless—they lose it because saving lives comes first.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Sam Yarua, founder and CEO of PI Cube, to unpack the hidden complexity of technology and asset management inside modern hospitals.
Sam explains how hospitals operate more like living ecosystems than traditional organizations. With thousands of staff, multiple shifts, massive physical footprints, and constant emergencies, simple asset-tracking assumptions break down quickly. When a critically ill patient arrives, the priority shif...
2024-03-1331 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnlock Overnight Productivity With This Secret Tip | InnovationWhy do some SaaS companies lose—even when they’re first to market, well funded, and growing fast?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Dan Spearing, founder of Aligned Software, to unpack a hard-earned lesson from Dan’s career: growth alone doesn’t win markets—focus does.
Dan shares how he spent seven years helping scale an early-stage SaaS company by nearly 10x, only to watch a later competitor overtake the market and eventually go public. Through deep win–loss analysis, he uncovered th...
2024-03-0627 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeMastering Communication in the Boardroom: Tips for Tech ExecutivesStrong technical leaders don’t fail because they lack knowledge—they fail because their message doesn’t land.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike is joined by Brendan Gumarasami, founder of MasterTalk, to break down why communication is often the missing skill holding technology executives back.
Brendan explains how many leaders rise through the ranks by being deeply technical, only to struggle when their role shifts toward influencing boards, peers, and nontechnical stakeholders. The issue isn’t expertise—it’s language. Jargon-heavy explanations that work within engin...
2024-02-2826 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow This Tech Startup Made Standing in Lines ObsoleteWhat if technology didn’t replace human interaction—but actually made it better?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Nathaniel Smith, founder and CEO of Blue Nova Technology, to explore how seamless digital experiences can remove friction while keeping people at the center.
Nathaniel shares how Blue Nova started with a simple idea: allowing customers to shop, order, and engage in physical venues directly from their smartphones. From there, the company expanded into membership-based technology services that guide business owners through infrastructure, secu...
2024-02-2135 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeAlexander De Ridder's Bold Predictions for the Intersection of AI and WorkAI is changing more than software—it’s reshaping how we work, create, and define value.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Alexander DeRidder, founder of SmythOS, about the rise of AI agents and what they mean for the future of work. Alexander explains how agents differ from traditional AI by taking real action—collaborating with other agents, interacting with tools like CRMs, and operating as true digital teammates rather than passive assistants.
Alexander shares how SmythOS was born after ChatGPT disrupted his prior...
2024-02-1429 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow Slowing Down Became Brad's Superpower in the Fast-Paced Tech WorldWhat happens when a technologist learns to slow down?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Brad Messer about his journey from applied mathematics and data science into enterprise AI work—and eventually into entrepreneurship. Brad shares how his early exposure to big data and AI at Clarkson University led him to nearly a decade working in analytics and AI strategy, before stepping into executive and startup leadership roles.
Brad reflects on the emotional side of entrepreneurship, including the fear that delayed his transition an...
2024-02-0727 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeIs Decentralization the Future of Tech Leadership? Shocking Insights Revealed!What does it really take to manage developers—and why does decentralization matter beyond crypto?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Roberto Capodieci, a technologist and entrepreneur with decades of experience across software development, leadership, and decentralized systems. Roberto shares how he grew up coding from an early age, launched businesses as a teenager, and built a career spanning multiple industries through software.
A central theme of the conversation is people. Roberto explains why managing developers requires understanding how they think, learn, an...
2024-01-3134 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeCybersecurity expert discusses common breaches and best practices for protectionMost cybersecurity breaches don’t happen because of sophisticated hackers—they happen because of basic mistakes.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with cybersecurity consultant Mike Andrews of Yastis to break down why the majority of security incidents still rely on phishing, weak authentication, and poor access controls. Drawing from over 20 years in the Department of Defense and private-sector consulting, Mike explains how attackers consistently exploit human processes rather than advanced technical flaws.
Using real-world examples like the MGM breach, the conversation shows how...
2024-01-2430 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeShocking AI Strategies That Are Redefining Entire Industries!AI isn’t just a content tool—it’s an operating system for modern business.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Matt Falk, enterprise software veteran and founder of AIX Network, about how AI is reshaping marketing, recruiting, and knowledge sharing. Matt explains why most companies are underutilizing AI by limiting it to copywriting, rather than applying it to decision-making, data aggregation, and ecosystem growth.
The conversation breaks down how AIX Network uses AI to power collaborative business ecosystems built on three pillars: lead g...
2024-01-1727 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow Technology Evolution is Secretly Changing the Business World – Stay Ahead or Get Left Behind!Why do so many successful companies eventually fail?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Sid Mohassib—entrepreneur, investor, and author—to unpack why businesses struggle to evolve, even when they have strong leadership and market position. Drawing on decades of experience advising Fortune 500 executives, Sid explains how ego, profit obsession, and resistance to change quietly erode competitiveness.
Sid reframes business as a series of exchange relationships: with customers, employees, partners, investors, and society. He argues that leaders don’t “empower” people—employees already have...
2024-01-1038 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeMind-Blowing AI Innovations You MUST See to Believe!Cloud costs are rising—and for many companies, FinOps isn’t enough.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with John Julia of Pinnacle AI about how artificial intelligence is being used to modernize cloud environments and bring runaway cloud spending under control. John explains why many organizations enter the cloud expecting savings, only to discover unpredictable costs tied to legacy architectures and inefficient designs.
The conversation breaks down Pinnacle AI’s approach to cloud modernization using AI and machine learning. Instead of manually evaluating hundre...
2023-12-2727 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnlocking the Power of Lift Leader's Advice for Team Management Success!What actually motivates teams—and why do so many leaders get it wrong?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Alyssa Nolte, Chief of Staff at Lyft, about leadership, culture, and the realities of motivating teams when budgets are tight and expectations are high. Alyssa shares her journey from joining a pre-revenue startup—earning just $1,200 in her first year—to scaling that company into a multimillion-dollar business acquired by Lyft.
The conversation explores why leadership is less about authority and more about authenticity. Alyssa explai...
2023-12-2033 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnlocking the Secrets of Harmony in Tech: How 'The Architect Way' is Redefining Leadership!What if better leadership decisions didn’t come from more data—but from better philosophy?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Darryl Canaus, author of The Architect Way, to explore how ancient Taoist principles can be applied to modern technology leadership, system architecture, and decision-making. Darryl explains how his book adapts the Tao Te Ching—a foundational text of Taoist philosophy—into a practical framework for designing sustainable systems and leading teams with less friction.
The discussion dives into why prioritization is one of t...
2023-12-1339 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSkyrocket Your Small Business Success with a Game-Changing Customer Journey Strategy!Growing a small business shouldn’t mean working longer hours with more stress—but for many owners, that’s exactly what happens.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Pete Romano, founder of Segwick, about how small and medium-sized businesses can scale by designing frictionless customer journeys and sustainable operations. Pete shares how Segwick helps business owners step out of reactive, day-to-day firefighting and instead view their companies through the perspective of a single customer moving through every touch point.
The conversation covers why growth...
2023-12-0630 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThis COO's Secret Formula to Skyrocket Your Business Will Blow Your Mind!When leaders know something is wrong in their business—but can’t identify why—throwing new technology at the problem rarely fixes it.
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike talks with Amanda Russo, COO of Cornerstone Paradigm Consulting, about how organizations can uncover the real causes behind operational breakdowns. Amanda explains how Cornerstone works across four interconnected pillars—people, processes, technology, and customer experience—to diagnose issues that show up as high attrition, customer churn, or stalled growth.
Amanda shares why most leadership teams focus on symptom...
2023-11-2928 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnlock a World-Class IT Career in Months, Not Years – Discover NGT Academy's Secret!In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney speaks with Terry Kim, founder of NGT Academy, about why traditional IT education often fails both students and employers—and what leaders can do differently.
Terry shares his background as a former Air Force network engineer and instructor, and how that experience shaped his belief that hands-on, project-based training beats expensive degrees. He explains why many colleges charge $85,000–$100,000 for IT-related bachelor’s degrees while graduates still struggle in the job market, and contrasts that with NGT Academy’s four-to-six-month vocational model.
...
2023-11-2231 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThe Ultimate Guide to Building Strong Teams and Achieving Breakthrough SuccessIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney is joined by Atlas Altman, a retired Air Force technologist, leadership speaker, and five-time bestselling author. Atlas brings nearly three decades of experience leading technical teams in some of the highest-stress environments imaginable—from combat zones to the White House.
Atlas explains why great technologists often struggle as leaders and why communication, not technical skill, is the real differentiator. He shares how leaders unintentionally burden themselves by micromanaging experts they hired to do a job, and why trust and placement matter more than ta...
2023-11-1536 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeY Combinator Alumnus Discusses the Impact of Change in the Tech IndustryIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney sits down with Nash Sichon, a technologist and startup founder whose company, SciSpot, was accepted into Y Combinator. Nash walks through what it actually takes to move from idea to execution when building a product in a highly complex and regulated space like life sciences.
Nash explains how SciSpot set out to reduce drug development timelines—typically 12 to 15 years—by automating research workflows. Early research suggested that 40–45% of these workflows could be automated, but customer discovery revealed a more immediate problem: data wasn’t even d...
2023-11-0828 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeModern Revenue Strategies Founder Discusses the Importance of Automation in MarketingIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney talks with Mark Osborne, founder of Modern Revenue Strategies, about why most B2B SaaS and technology companies struggle to grow—even with automation, data, and modern marketing tools.
Mark breaks down how revenue really works as a system that spans marketing, sales, and customer success. He explains why automation only creates leverage when it is built on strong foundations—and how chasing growth hacks, shiny tools, or poorly targeted leads often makes things worse. Drawing on decades of experience and recognition as an A...
2023-11-0132 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeRevolutionizing Small Business Marketing with Virtual StorefrontsIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney talks with Tobin Brognier, inventor of Virtual Storefronts, about a different approach to putting Main Street businesses online—without websites, domains, or ongoing technical work.
Tobin explains why traditional digital tools fail small, locally owned businesses. In a pilot across western North Carolina, 68% of businesses had no website—not from lack of interest, but from lack of time. Virtual Storefronts replaces the need for a traditional website with a subscription-based digital storefront that is built for the business, indexed for search, and optimized for...
2023-10-2540 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeZach Ratner on Mastering Remote Work, Talent Retention, and Productivity OptimizationIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney speaks with Zach Ratner, CTO and Co-Founder of Yembo, about scaling an AI company without burning out—or falling for AI hype.
Zach explains how Yembo uses computer vision to help movers and insurance companies perform visual estimates, replacing manual, error-prone walkthroughs with structured video analysis. While the technology is powerful, Zach is clear about its limits: AI accelerates work, but it doesn’t replace human judgment, trust, or relationship-building.
The conversation dives into Yembo’s growth during COVID...
2023-10-1830 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeCreating a Neuro Inclusive WorkplaceIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney speaks with Shea Belsky, CTO of mentra, about neurodivergent leadership, inclusive management, and what it actually takes to build equitable teams in today’s remote and hybrid workplaces.
Shea shares how neurodivergent leaders bring unique perspectives, risk assessments, and problem-solving approaches—but often receive little support once they move into leadership roles. While many organizations focus on hiring neurodivergent talent, far fewer invest in helping those individuals grow into managers and executives.
The discussion explores practical ways leaders can...
2023-10-1137 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeEric Girard's Proven Strategies for Unlocking Tech Leadership ExcellenceIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney speaks with Eric Girard, a management development expert with more than 30 years of experience helping new managers succeed. The conversation focuses on why the transition into management is so difficult—and why most organizations do little to prepare people for it.
Eric explains that many new managers are promoted because they were exceptional individual contributors, only to discover that what made them successful before no longer applies. Instead of doing more tasks, managers must learn to lead people, build trust, and get results th...
2023-10-0429 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeEmbracing the Power of Automation and Personal Branding in the Tech WorldIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney sits down with Brian Kelly—entrepreneur, automation expert, and creator of Peak Connector—to discuss how automation and live video can transform both businesses and personal brands.
Brian shares his journey from writing classified software in the corporate world to becoming an entrepreneur focused on helping leaders save time, eliminate repetitive work, and scale their impact through automation. He explains why automation isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about consistency, professionalism, and freeing humans to do what humans do best.
...
2023-09-2736 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeA Deep Dive into Virtual Speech with Sophie ThompsonIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney speaks with Sophie Thompson, Co-Founder and CEO of VirtualSpeech, about how virtual reality and AI are changing the way people learn communication and workplace skills.
Sophie shares how VirtualSpeech began as a personal experiment to overcome social anxiety and fear of public speaking, and how it quickly evolved into an award-winning learning platform used by Fortune 500 companies and nearly 100 universities. By combining e-learning with practice exercises in VR and online environments, VirtualSpeech allows people to rehearse real-world scenarios—such as presentations, job interviews, le...
2023-09-2037 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnveiling Coach Kitch's Game Changing Recipe for Leadership MasteryWhat if peak performance isn’t about doing more—but doing the fundamentals better?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike talks with David Kitchen, known as Coach Kitch, founder of Edge Leadership Academy and former Division One coach, about how elite performance systems from sports translate directly to leadership, culture, and results in business.
Coach Kitch explains why most executives struggle not because of a lack of talent, but because they skip foundational work. Drawing on his background in sports psychology and leadership development, he brea...
2023-09-1337 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnlocking Your Potential: How to Navigate Neurodiversity in Tech and BusinessWhat if underperformance isn’t a motivation problem—but a systems problem?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney sits down with Jeremy Nagel, a neurodivergent software developer, startup founder, and product manager, to unpack what technology leaders need to understand about ADHD, autism, and building environments where people can actually do their best work.
Jeremy shares the story behind selling his first startup, Smooth Messenger, to MessageMedia in 2022—and how the intense stress of that process led to the creation of his second company, Focus...
2023-09-0634 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeJeffrey Hines and the Art of Hiring Right CWhy do so many sales teams miss quota year after year—and why do companies keep hiring the wrong people?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney sits down with Jeff Hines, a seasoned sales executive and partner with Objective Management Group, to break down what actually drives sales performance and how leaders can eliminate costly sales mistakes.
Jeff shares a practical, data-driven approach to evaluating sales teams and candidates, explaining why traditional tools like Myers-Briggs and DISC fail to predict sales success. Instead, his me...
2023-08-2338 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHire Right with Peter HeyerWhy can’t you find great tech talent—even after layoffs flooded the market?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike Mahoney talks with elite recruiter Peter Hire about how today’s best AI, ML, and IT professionals aren’t applying to your job postings—and why that’s actually normal.
Peter explains that top-tier technologists are drawn to purpose, culture, and meaningful work—not just compensation or brand names. He breaks down how companies unintentionally repel strong candidates by overselling roles, misusing buzzwords like “DEI,” or hiring expensiv...
2023-08-1635 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeTrish Pandya Explains How to Hire Tech Resources While Injecting HumorWhy do so many tech roles stay open for months—and why do so many “great hires” fail?
In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike talks with Trish Pandia, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at Alluxio, about what’s really broken in tech hiring—and how leaders unknowingly create their own talent problems.
Trish explains why gut-based hiring is one of the most damaging habits in tech leadership, how it fuels bias, and why it leads to teams full of people who think the same way. She walks...
2023-08-0932 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeTurning Your Team Into LeadersIn this solo episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike breaks down why training your staff to be leaders is one of the most important responsibilities of a technology executive.
As technology evolves faster than ever, organizations that rely on a small group of decision-makers struggle to scale, adapt, and retain talent. Mike explains reminded explains why leadership development is not about titles or promotions—it’s about building capability throughout the organization.
The episode covers the real business benefits of leadership development, including higher employee engagement, stronger coll...
2023-07-2616 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow John Horner is Revolutionizing Tech ConsultingIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike is joined by John Horner, a technology consultant with more than two decades of experience helping organizations solve real business problems with the right technology—not just the latest tools.
John shares how many companies fall into the trap of chasing solutions like ERP platforms, cloud migrations, or AI without fully understanding the root challenges they’re trying to solve. Instead of starting with technology, John explains why explaining why effective consulting starts by working backward—asking why a solution is needed, who it helps...
2023-06-2137 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnveiling the Perils of AI: Garik Tate Shares Critical InsightsIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike is joined by Garrick Tate, an AI futurist and serial entrepreneur whose work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, human IQ, and emotional intelligence.
Rather than framing AI as a threat, Garrick offers a grounded perspective on how technology has historically amplified human capability—and why this moment is no different. The conversation explores why humans remain essential as context-setters, truth-checkers, and decision-makers, even as AI systems become more capable at pattern recognition and content generation.
Mike and Ga...
2023-06-1439 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSteve Kelley is Revolutionizing Cloud-Based Deployments: The Tech Maverick's Secrets Revealed!In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike is joined by Steve Kelly, a longtime technology executive and founder of Argentil, to explore a problem most organizations underestimate: software deployment.
Steve shares lessons from his career at Motorola, Cisco, and as a founder of early managed service and deployment-focused companies. He explains why many organizations unknowingly spend more time deploying software than writing it—and why deployment scripts are often treated as disposable instead of valuable intellectual property.
The conversation dives into how deployment challenges multiply in hy...
2023-06-0725 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeJessie Liu and Parenting in the Technology EraIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Jesse Liu, founder of Digital Parenting Coaching, to discuss one of the most urgent challenges facing modern families: raising children safely and responsibly in a digital world.
Jesse shares how her background in cybersecurity—and the sudden shift to online learning during the pandemic—revealed serious gaps in how parents approach screen time, device access, and online safety. She explains why strict restrictions often backfire, leading to resistance, secrecy, and damaged relationships between parents and children.
Inst...
2023-05-3132 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeContent Creation Strategies with Raj Goodman AnandIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Raj Goodman Anand, founder of Goodman Lantern, to explore how content creation can drive long-term business growth—when it’s done with intention and strategy.
Raj shares how his background in engineering and AI led him into marketing, where he helped scale technology companies by using storytelling, thought leadership, and SEO-focused content. He explains why content marketing is not about posting more, but about planning first, understanding the audience, and creating content that offers a unique voice and real value.
2023-05-2434 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeFractional Leadership: Empower Your Business with Ram Prasad of Delence Fractional CPO/CTO ServicesIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Ram Prasad, CEO of Dellens, to unpack how fractional CPO and CTO services help SaaS companies scale without overextending themselves.
Ram works primarily with enterprise SaaS companies ranging from $1M to $20M in revenue that need senior product and technology leadership but are not ready—or willing—to hire a full-time executive. He explains what a fractional Chief Product Officer and Chief Technology Officer actually do, how companies typically save 70–75% compared to a full-time hire, and why even just 1–2 hours per week of...
2023-05-1731 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUnbelievable Tech Strategy Secrets Revealed by Eugene Shafronsky!In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Eugene Schaffronsky, Head of Strategy at ThinkTum, for a deep dive into how technology is transforming the insurance industry—from customer experience to underwriting speed and profitability.
Eugene explains why traditional insurance processes no longer align with how people consume products today. Customers expect digital access, personalization, and transparency, yet underwriting and policy approval can still take weeks. Drawing on his background in insurance and technology, Eugene shares how no-code platforms, automation, and AI can radically simplify these workflows without sacrificing accuracy or co...
2023-05-1035 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeJeremy Lasman discusses the power of passion and the future of technology.In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks with Jeremy Lassman, founder and CEO of The Passion Company and former SpaceX technologist, about an unconventional—but increasingly relevant—idea: passion as the fuel that powers human and organizational performance.
Jeremy shares how his time at SpaceX, including working directly with Elon Musk during the company’s earliest launches, shaped his thinking around intensity, innovation, and execution. From helping relocate SpaceX infrastructure with zero downtime to producing a music video commemorating the company’s first successful launch, Jeremy experienced firsthand what happens when hum...
2023-05-0331 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeBob Cotton: Technology Coach and Expert on the Power of Embracing ChangeIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Bob Cotton, a seasoned technology executive and advisor with decades of experience leading global SaaS, cloud, and digital transformation initiatives.
Bob has worked across cultures, industries, and boardrooms, helping organizations deliver mission-critical systems while developing leaders who can sustain performance under pressure. Together, Mike and Bob explore why communication, work-life balance, and people value are the three most persistent challenges facing technology executives today.
The conversation digs into why tech leaders often struggle to communicate effectively with CEOs...
2023-04-2642 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeMark Herschberg on Gaining the Technology EdgeIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Mark Hirschberg, CTO of Vodx, MIT educator, and author of The Career Toolkit, to explore why communication is one of the most underestimated skills in technology leadership.
Mark explains why technical leaders often struggle to get buy-in—not because their ideas are wrong, but because they’re communicated in the wrong language. Engineers, executives, sales leaders, and frontline staff all process information differently, and asking people to mentally “translate” technical thinking reduces attention, trust, and alignment.
The conv...
2023-04-1234 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeSPICE and Project Success Management With Dave FraidinIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Dave Fradin, a former Apple executive, HP-trained product manager, and founder of Spice Catalyst, to unpack why so many products fail—and how leaders can dramatically improve their odds of success.
David shares insights from decades of experience launching and managing products at scale, including his work bringing the first hard disk drive to a personal computer and training global organizations like Cisco. He introduces the SPICE framework—Strategy, Process, Information, Customer, and Employees—as a practical system for building products that a...
2023-04-0537 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeEXEC Has All the Deals With Scott PoniewazIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Scott Ponywas, a seasoned executive and entrepreneur with deep experience in travel, daily deals, and growth strategy. Scott is the founder of Exec, a premium membership platform offering executives access to over 400 travel, business, and lifestyle benefits.
Scott shares how Exec was built during the uncertainty of COVID, leveraging industry disruption to negotiate elite hotel upgrades, airline perks, and luxury travel benefits at scale. The platform now supports more than 20,000 members, serving individual executives, leadership teams, and exclusive professional organizations.
2023-03-2232 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeUncover the Secret to Outsourcing Easily - with Ken CoyneIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Ken Coyne, Head of Growth and Technology at Ops Talent, to break down what technology leaders need to know about outsourcing—and why it succeeds for some companies and fails for others.
Ken shares how Ops Talent delivers multilingual customer support and technology development services from Poland, one of Europe’s leading outsourcing hubs. With nearly 500 employees and an industry-leading 5% turnover rate, Ops Talent has built its growth around employee engagement, culture, and long-term retention.
The disc...
2023-03-1532 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeCTO Stories That Need to be ToldIn this solo episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike speaks directly to CTOs and technology leaders about one of the most overlooked parts of the role: educating non-technical executives.
Most executive teams control budgets and priorities—but they often lack the technical context needed to properly evaluate technology requests. Mike shares real stories from his career to show how this gap leads to frustration, stalled projects, and missed opportunities. From fixing a broken fax server that was sending orders to the wrong restaurants, to explaining why voice-enabled websites weren’t feasible in the...
2023-03-0811 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHiring and Retaining Top Talent with Dave EricksonIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Dave Erickson, CEO and co-founder of Screenbox, to explore what it really takes to build successful digital products—and why most technology projects fail before they even start.
Dave has bootstrapped twelve startups across multiple industries and brings a business-first mindset to digital development. He explains why clients often ask for the wrong solution, such as rebuilding a website when the real issue is lead generation, backend automation, or operational inefficiency. At Screenbox, every engagement starts with one question: “What business prob...
2023-03-0135 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeAsh Kakish Tells Us About Curating KnowledgeIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Ash Kakish, founder of Smartology Tech, to explore how business leaders can stay informed about technology—without needing an engineering degree.
Smartology Tech publishes a weekly newsletter that condenses a full week of technology news and trends into a five-minute read designed for sales, marketing, and business professionals. Ash explains why most tech media is inaccessible to non-technical audiences and how Smartology bridges that gap by translating complex topics like AI, ChatGPT, and generative search into clear, practical insights.
2023-02-2241 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeHow to Hold Effective Staff MeetingsIn this solo episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike breaks down how to run weekly staff meetings that actually work—without wasting time or frustrating your team.
Many technology leaders hold meetings out of habit, but poorly structured meetings often drain productivity and create confusion. Mike explains why regular staff meetings are essential for keeping teams informed, aligned with leadership priorities, and engaged in decision-making. When done right, meetings strengthen collaboration, accountability, and execution.
The episode walks through practical best practices, including setting and sticking to a cl...
2023-02-1511 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeThe Motown of Technology with William A. AdamsIn this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with William Adams, former Technical Advisor to Microsoft CTO Kevin Scott, to explore technology evolution, leadership challenges, and engineering culture at one of the world’s largest tech companies.
William shares behind-the-scenes insight into Microsoft’s early XML rollout and why XML struggled with adoption despite its technical strengths. He explains how overengineering, complex standards, and ignoring the needs of everyday developers led to simpler alternatives like JSON winning out. The conversation highlights a critical leadership lesson: users don’t care about format...
2023-02-0838 minGaining the Technology Leadership EdgeGame Theory with Noah HealyIn the very first episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike welcomes Noah Healey, a game theorist working on better economic and consensus systems, to explore how strategy, data, and decision-making shape real-world outcomes.Noah breaks down game theory in practical terms, starting with the Stable Marriage Algorithm—best known for matching medical residents with hospitals—and explains how first-mover advantage influences results in everything from economics to chess. The discussion reveals why mathematically “stable” systems are not always fair or ideal, and what that means for leaders designing organizational or market structures.The conversation then shifts t...
2023-02-0145 min
Your Favorite BlockheadEpisode #109: YFB and Guest #11: Mike Mahony of the Nightly Rant PodcastMike Mahony and the CEO: Yogi from the Nightly Rant podcast stop by tonight for a fun conversation with YFB and the Blockhead Nation!All links and notes for this episode can be accessed via the blog page provided below:https://yourfavoriteblockhead.com/2019/10/19/episode-109-yfb-and-guest-11-mike-mahony-of-the-nightly-rant-podcast/
2019-10-1954 min
The Tom O Mahony Show28 - Mike SheridanFrom the basement of The International Comedy Club I finally snag a chance to get chatting to the all conquering Mike Sheridan. Mike has transformed himself from an ultra marathon runner to mma fighter while juggling with his job as editor for Entertainment.ie and being a gas bastard.We get talking about his chats with John Favro and the late Paul Walker to lessons for life on how not to be a bollix.Mike is the co-founder of TheFourthWall.ie where his alter ego comes to the fore.Follow Mike on Twitter: @immikesheridanInstagram: @immikesheridan
2017-10-041h 39