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The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu
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Content provided by Mehmet Gonullu. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Mehmet Gonullu or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Broadcasting from Dubai, The CTO Show with Mehmet explores the latest trends in technology, startups, and venture funding. Host Mehmet Gonullu leads insightful discussions with thought leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs from diverse industries. From emerging technologies to startup investment strategies, the show provides a balanced view on navigating the evolving landscape of business and tech, helping listeners understand their profound impact on our world. mehmet@yassiventures.com
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437 episodes
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Content provided by Mehmet Gonullu. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Mehmet Gonullu or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Broadcasting from Dubai, The CTO Show with Mehmet explores the latest trends in technology, startups, and venture funding. Host Mehmet Gonullu leads insightful discussions with thought leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs from diverse industries. From emerging technologies to startup investment strategies, the show provides a balanced view on navigating the evolving landscape of business and tech, helping listeners understand their profound impact on our world. mehmet@yassiventures.com
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1 #438 Lean Product Design: Daniel Andor on UX, Startups, and Avoiding Common Pitfalls 38:40
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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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1 #437 Smart Buildings: Marek Kozlak & Michał Szopa on AI and Digital Twins in Construction 52:13
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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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1 #436 Building the Cities of Tomorrow: Lawrence Eta on Digital Infrastructure and AI 42:37
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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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1 #435 Revolutionizing Healthcare UX: AI, Personalization, and Design Innovation with Mary Borysova 42:46
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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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1 #434 Managing AI Risks: Jim Olsen on Governance, Compliance, and Business Strategy 47:52
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“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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1 #433 Breaking the Cash Flow Barrier: Malachi Halliday on Supporting Startups and Small Businesses 38:15
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“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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1 #432 The Next Big Thing in Cybersecurity: Insights from Sentra’s CTO Ron Reiter 45:51
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“Data security is not just the next big thing—it’s the foundation for the future of cybersecurity.” – Ron Reiter In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Ron Reiter, Co-Founder and CTO of Sentra, to explore the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity, particularly focusing on data security. Ron shares his incredible journey as a tech entrepreneur and cybersecurity innovator. Together, we dive into how data security is transforming in the age of cloud computing, AI, and generative models. Key Takeaways 1. Data Security is the Future : With the exponential growth of unstructured data and AI-driven models, protecting data has become a non-negotiable aspect of cybersecurity. 2. AI Brings New Challenges : As organizations rush to adopt AI, they often overlook critical data security risks, such as unauthorized data in training models. 3. Startups Need to Think Big : Ron emphasizes solving big problems in cybersecurity—ones that CISOs are willing to pay for and that can grow into long-term solutions. What You’ll Learn • Ron’s journey from coding at age 9 to building multimillion-dollar companies. • Why data security is becoming the cornerstone of cybersecurity. • Overlooked security risks in AI adoption and how to mitigate them. • The challenges of managing unstructured data in modern enterprises. • Emerging cybersecurity threats in the era of AI and large language models. • Practical advice for aspiring cybersecurity entrepreneurs. About the Guest Ron Reiter is the Co-Founder and CTO of Sentra, a data security platform designed to help organizations protect their most critical assets. With decades of expertise in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI, Ron has a proven track record of solving complex challenges and building scalable solutions. Previously, Ron co-founded and sold Crosswise, a cross-device technology company, to Oracle for $50M. Today, he’s on a mission to revolutionize the way companies approach data security. Resources Mentioned • Sentra : www.sentra.io • Ron Reiter’s Email : ron@sentra.io Episode Highlights • [00:01:00] Ron introduces himself and his journey in cybersecurity. • [00:04:00] The founding of Sentra and why data security is the “next big thing.” • [00:14:00] The intersection of AI and data security: overlooked risks and best practices. • [00:26:00] How bad actors are leveraging AI for more sophisticated cyberattacks. • [00:31:00] Striking the balance between innovation and data security in enterprises. • [00:38:00] Advice for aspiring cybersecurity entrepreneurs: solve real, large-scale problems.…
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1 #431 From Fear to Founding: Sophia Matveeva’s Journey and Lessons for Non-Tech Entrepreneurs 58:20
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“Feel the fear and do it anyway.” These powerful words guide Sophia Matveeva’s mission to empower non-technical professionals in a world dominated by technology. In this episode, Sophia shares her inspiring journey from media and finance to becoming the founder of Tech for Non-Techies , a platform that equips non-tech founders and professionals with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age. Sophia Matveeva joins The CTO Show with Mehmet to discuss her personal story of overcoming fear, her insights on enabling non-tech founders, and how storytelling can transform your entrepreneurial journey. From prototyping with AI to the importance of asking the right questions, Sophia provides actionable advice for anyone looking to succeed in tech—without a technical background. What You’ll Learn • How Sophia turned fear into fuel to build Tech for Non-Techies . • Why non-tech founders are perfectly positioned to solve real-world problems. • Tools and strategies for using AI and no-code platforms to prototype ideas. • The role of storytelling in attracting investors and customers. • How to identify and embrace the intersection of your expertise and technology. Key Takeaways 1. Fear is natural—accept it and move forward. Fear is an evolutionary response, but it shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your dreams. 2. Prototyping has never been easier. With AI and no-code tools, you can create and test ideas quickly and inexpensively. 3. Storytelling is your secret weapon. Investors and stakeholders are drawn to founders who tell compelling stories about their vision. 4. Non-tech founders are valuable. Leverage your expertise in areas like sales, marketing, and problem-solving to build successful ventures. 5. Seek complementary relationships. Collaborate with technical professionals who align with your vision and skill set. About Sophia Matveeva Sophia has contributed to the Harvard Business Review, Financial Times, The Guardian and Forbes on entrepreneurship and technology, and hosts the top rated Tech for Non-Techies podcast. She has also guest lectured at the University of Chicago, London Business School, and Oxford University. Sophia is a start-up mentor at the Chicago Booth Polsky Center of Entrepreneurship, and has advised leading accelerators including Chicago Booth’s New Venture Challenge and the Techstars x Blackstone Launchpad. She holds an MBA from Chicago Booth, and a BSc (Hons) in Politics from Bristol. She speaks English, Russian and French. Sophia also sits on the Advisory Board to Riviter, which uses AI to predict consumer trends for the world's biggest brands. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-matveeva-556365a/ https://techfornontechies.co/ Resources Mentioned • Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers • Tools for Prototyping: Galileo, UI Wizard, Bubble, Adalo, Softr • Tech for Non-Techies Podcast : https://www.techfornontechies.com/podcast • Google Ventures Methodology for Product Testing Episode Highlights • [00:03:00] Sophia explains how fear and shame led her to create Tech for Non-Techies . • [00:07:00] The importance of asking questions—even if you feel intimidated. • [00:18:00] Why AI and no-code tools are revolutionizing prototyping for non-tech founders. • [00:34:00] How non-technical founders like Steve Jobs and Jack Ma achieved success. • [00:45:00] The power of storytelling in pitching to investors and customers. • [00:52:00] Why cultivating relationships between techies and non-techies leads to better outcomes.…
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1 #430 The Future of Search: Vikas Sehgal on AI, Fairness, and Empowering Content Creators 52:41
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“Search is evolving, but the question remains—who’s looking out for the creators of knowledge? At HyperDart, we’re putting them in the driver’s seat.” – Vikas Sehgal In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we dive into the world of search engines and innovation with Vikas Sehgal, a second-time founder and technologist with a proven track record. From co-founding the billion-dollar company Nagarro to now disrupting internet search with his new startup, HyperDart, Vikas shares his vision for a future where AI-powered search platforms prioritize fairness and empower knowledge creators. What Listeners Will Learn: • Why traditional search engines are ripe for disruption. • How HyperDart creates a more inclusive and fair ecosystem for knowledge providers. • The impact of AI on search and the future of internet interaction. • Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, from starting small to overcoming challenges. Key Takeaways: • The Evolution of Search Engines: How AI is reshaping the traditional search model. • HyperDart’s Vision: Empowering content creators and ensuring fairness in search monetization. • Challenges in the Search Space: Addressing the dominance of algorithms, SEO pitfalls, and AI-generated content. • Building a Billion-Dollar Company: Lessons from Vikas’s journey with Nagarro and how they shape HyperDart’s growth. • Entrepreneurial Insights: Wisdom for first-time and second-time founders on perseverance, scaling, and staying true to your vision. About the Guest: Vikas Sehgal is a visionary technology entrepreneur known for founding a highly successful tech startup that scaled to over a billion dollars in revenue. With a proven track record of innovation and leadership, he is now focused on building his next groundbreaking venture - hyperDart, a revolutionary internet search engine designed to reshape how people access and interact with information online. His work combines cutting-edge AI with expert-driven knowledge curation, positioning him as a key disruptor in the tech industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/vsehgal/ https://hyperdart.com/ Episode Highlights: 00:02:00 – Vikas introduces himself and shares his journey from Nagarro to HyperDart. 00:04:30 – The motivation behind HyperDart: redefining the role of knowledge creators in search. 00:07:45 – How AI is disrupting the search engine landscape. 00:10:30 – SEO challenges and how HyperDart eliminates the need for it. 00:14:00 – Tackling AI-generated content in the search ecosystem. 00:25:00 – Building HyperDart with lessons learned from Nagarro. 00:40:00 – Advice for first-time founders and the importance of perseverance. 00:48:00 – Vikas shares his vision for the future of HyperDart and the search engine industry.…
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1 #429 Unlocking MEA’s Tech Potential: Ayman Bazaraa and Bassam Sharkawy on Sprints AI 54:36
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“We’re not just building skills; we’re building futures by bridging the gap between talent and global opportunities.” – Ayman Bazaraa In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Ayman Bazaraa and Bassam Sharkawy , the visionary co-founders of Sprints AI , to discuss their mission to unlock the tech potential of the MENA and Africa regions. They share how Sprints AI is revolutionizing education and employment by equipping local talent with cutting-edge AI skills and connecting them to global opportunities. From guaranteed hiring programs to their innovative AI-powered learning platforms, Ayman and Bassam reveal how they are addressing the challenges of upskilling and employment in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. What Listeners Will Learn: • How Sprints AI is transforming education with AI-driven, project-based learning. • The importance of branding and trust in showcasing MENA and African tech talent to the global stage. • Strategies for creating sustainable employment and enabling local talent to thrive in international markets. Key Takeaways: 1. The Talent Gap in MENA and Africa: Why local tech talent is underutilized and how Sprints AI is addressing this issue. 2. Guaranteed Hiring Programs: How Sprints AI bridges the gap between education and employment with outcome-driven learning models. 3. AI’s Role in Education: Leveraging AI to personalize learning, improve engagement, and create global-standard talent. 4. Global Opportunities for Local Talent: Success stories of Middle Eastern and African talent securing roles in global tech companies. 5. Future Plans: Sprints AI’s vision to expand across more countries in Africa and the Middle East, and their bold goal of reaching 1 billion learners. About the Guests: • Ayman Bazaraa is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of Sprints AI, with over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. He has co-founded three startups, with his last venture acquired by a Fortune 100 company. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayman-bazaraa-5a750517/ • Bassam Sharkawy is a seasoned engineer and co-founder of Sprints AI. With a rich background in software development and deep tech, Bassam has worked with multinational teams across the globe, contributing to cutting-edge innovations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/bassam-sharkawy/ Resources Mentioned: https://sprints.ai/en-ae Episode Highlights: 00:02:30 Ayman Bazaraa’s entrepreneurial journey and why Sprints AI was founded. 00:05:00 Bassam Sharkawy’s experiences with deep tech and the untapped potential of African and Middle Eastern talent. 00:10:45 The challenges of outdated education systems and how Sprints AI tackles them. 00:18:00 Using AI to simulate real-world work environments and enhance employability. 00:30:00 Scaling globally: Sprints AI’s expansion plans across MENA, Africa, and beyond.…
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1 #428 Bridging Business Needs with Technology: Tom Altman on the Future of AI and Strategy 39:42
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In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we sit down with Tom Altman, a seasoned fractional CTO and founder of Altus, to explore the critical role of aligning technology with business strategy. Tom shares his fascinating journey from radio DJ to tech leadership and offers actionable insights on preparing for the AI tidal wave in 2026. Whether you’re a startup founder or a tech enthusiast, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge about future-proofing your business, fractional leadership, and the growing importance of process documentation. “2025 is the year to get your technological house in order, because 2026 will be defined by AI agents.” – Tom Altman What Listeners Will Learn • The importance of aligning technology with company strategy. • How to prepare your business for the rise of AI agents in 2026. • The value of fractional executives in driving innovation and growth. • Insights into emerging tech trends beyond AI, including cybersecurity and automation. Key Takeaways 1. Aligning Technology with Business Goals • Why aligning your tech stack with your company’s long-term vision is non-negotiable. 2. AI Readiness • Why 2025 is the year to document systems and processes for AI integration. 3. The Role of Fractional Leadership • How fractional CTOs bring specialized expertise to startups and growing businesses without the overhead of full-time hires. 4. The Cybersecurity Imperative • Understanding the risks of underestimating cybersecurity and why documentation is critical. 5. The Evolution of Remote Work • Why remote work, supported by VR and AI tools, is redefining team collaboration and innovation. About the Guest Tom Altman is a fractional CTO and founder of Altus, a firm that provides expert guidance in technology, HR, and finance. With over 15 years in e-commerce and a passion for helping companies solidify their technology foundations, Tom specializes in creating systems that bridge business needs and technical strategy. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomaltman/ https://outlook.office365.com/book/AltusCXOTomAltman-Bookings@altuscxo.com/ Episode Highlights • 00:01:00 Tom’s journey: From radio DJ to fractional CTO. • 00:03:30 The transition from traditional business to tech and e-commerce. • 00:07:00 Preparing businesses for AI agents: Why documentation matters. • 00:11:00 The role of fractional CTOs in startups and scaling businesses. • 00:19:00 Challenges and opportunities in remote-first innovation. • 00:27:00 Emerging trends in tech: Cybersecurity, automation, and gig economies.…
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1 #427 Universal Income in the AI Economy: Perspectives from Barbara Biro and Paul Dowding 56:22
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In this thought-provoking episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet , we explore the intersection of AI, blockchain, and economic systems with Barbara Biro , an award-winning expert in digital transformation and finance, and Paul Dowding , a veteran in financial infrastructure and blockchain innovation. Together, we dive deep into the challenges of legacy systems, the rise of decentralized solutions, and the pressing question of whether universal income is inevitable in the AI era. Key Takeaways 1. The Trust Issue in Finance : Legacy systems are losing trust due to inefficiencies and centralization, opening opportunities for blockchain. 2. Blockchain Beyond Crypto : Cryptocurrencies are just one application of blockchain. The true potential lies in decentralized ledgers for transparent transactions. 3. The Universal Income Debate : Barbara argues it’s a necessity for survival in the AI age, while Paul presents a more optimistic view of new job creation through technological disruption. 4. AI + Blockchain Synergy : Combining these technologies can create transparent, scalable systems for financial services and beyond. What You’ll Learn in This Episode • Why legacy systems are failing in the age of AI. • The role of blockchain in building trust and decentralization. • The case for universal income in an AI-driven economy. • Misconceptions about blockchain and cryptocurrencies. • How AI and blockchain together can create a thriving, scalable economy. About the Guests Barbara Biro is the CEO of Digit8—a trailblazing company reshaping financial and operational systems for the future. With nearly two decades of experience in the Middle East, Barbara has served as Head of Digital for major financial institutions. She is an economist with a master’s degree in data science and a recipient of the Global Finance Award. https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbarabiro/ Paul Dowding : Paul has had a prolific career in institutional financial operations, infrastructure, and blockchain innovation. He is dedicated to making the financial industry more efficient and transparent through groundbreaking blockchain solutions. Paul is Board Member at the Government Blockchain Association, blockchain strategist, and creator of the IBM Accelerator award-winning DLT solution Tapestry X. https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfdowding/ Episode Highlights [00:03:00] Barbara on why centralized systems are losing trust. [00:12:00] Paul explains the technical challenges and misconceptions of blockchain scalability. [00:25:00] Discussion on the impact of blockchain on financial systems and KYC processes. [00:38:00] Barbara’s case for universal income in the AI-driven future. [00:45:00] Paul shares how blockchain could commoditize transactions, revolutionizing finance.…
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1 #426 The EV Revolution: Visionaries Shaping the Future of Transportation with Ken Boyer 37:44
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In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into the transformative world of electric vehicles (EVs) with Ken Boyer, a seasoned researcher in supply chain management and author of The Electric Vehicle Revolution: Five Visionaries Leading the Charge. From Elon Musk’s Tesla to Vietnam’s VinFast, Ken sheds light on the visionaries driving the EV revolution, the challenges of adoption, and the impact of EVs on global economics and sustainability. Electric vehicles are more than just cars; they are the future of global transportation and sustainability.” – Ken Boyer What Listeners Will Learn • How EVs are reshaping transportation and global economics. • The strategic decisions that companies like Tesla, VinFast, and GM are making. • Insights into EV battery technology, supply chain challenges, and the role of renewable energy. • The importance of circular economies in EV production and sustainability. Key Takeaways 1. Visionaries Behind the EV Revolution: Elon Musk, Pham Nhat Vuong, Mary Barra, and other leaders are transforming the automotive industry. 2. Challenges of EV Adoption: From battery supply chains to consumer hesitations, the hurdles are real but solvable. 3. The Global EV Race: China is leading the EV market with over 50% of its cars being electric, while Western economies need to catch up. 4. Technological Innovations: Advances in battery technology, circular supply chains, and solid-state batteries are making EVs more affordable and sustainable. 5. The Role of Governments: Policies, incentives, and investments are critical for driving EV adoption and maintaining competitiveness. About the Guest Ken Boyer combines a lifelong love of cars and engineering with a career focused on management and supply chain. He's the Fisher designated professor of operations and business analytics at Fisher College of Business, Ohio State University./ He was coeditor-in-chief of the Journal of Operations Management, and served on the faculty at Michigan State and DePaul universities. Boyer is a member of the Academy of Management, Production and Operations Management Society, and the Decision Sciences Institute. Recently, he visited Vietnam to study Vinfast's rise. He's published numerous academic articles and two books. His latest is The Electric Vehicle Revolution: Five Visionaries Leading the Charge . He lives in Columbus, Ohio, and currently drives a Tesla Model 3. Learn more at gearschange.com . Timestamps • [00:00:00] Introduction and Welcome • [00:02:00] Ken Boyer’s Background and Book Inspiration • [00:05:00] The Story of VinFast and Pham Nhat Vuong • [00:10:00] Challenges in EV Adoption • [00:14:00] Battery Technology and Circular Economies • [00:22:00] Government Policies and Incentives • [00:29:00] EV Expansion Beyond Cars…
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1 #425 Transforming Fintech with AI: Hamel Kothari on Building Scalable, User-Centric Solutions 42:39
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In this insightful episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we sit down with Hamel Kothari, the Co-Founder and CTO of Brigit, a financial wellness app empowering millions of Americans to manage cash flow and avoid overdraft fees. Hamel shares his journey, the technology behind Brigit, and how the company leverages AI to create scalable, user-centric financial solutions. From the challenges of entering the highly regulated fintech space to the innovative use of cash flow analytics, Hamel provides a masterclass on building impactful products that truly make a difference. What You’ll Learn • How Brigit uses cash flow data and AI to empower its users. • Insights into building scalable financial products in a highly regulated industry. • The role of innovation and adaptability in navigating economic crises like COVID-19. • Strategies for creating redundancy in technology stacks to ensure seamless user experiences. • Why understanding regulations is critical for fintech entrepreneurs. Key Takeaways • The genesis of Brigit and the problem it solves for Americans living paycheck to paycheck. • How AI and machine learning enable Brigit to assess risk and approve more customers with high accuracy. • The importance of redundancy in fintech to ensure reliability for users. • Navigating regulatory complexities in the financial services sector. • Advice for tech entrepreneurs entering the fintech space. About the Guest Hamel Kothari is the Co-Founder and CTO of Brigit, a platform helping millions of Americans achieve financial stability. With a background in technology, Hamel has over a decade of experience, including roles at Palantir and various financial services companies. At Brigit, Hamel is on a mission to create AI-driven tools that solve short-term financial stress and build long-term financial health. Brigit Website: Brigit.com Connect with Hamel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamelkothari/ Episode Highlights 1. [00:01:00] – Hamel introduces his journey, starting from Palantir to co-founding Brigit. 2. [00:03:30] – The inspiration behind Brigit and addressing financial stress with technology. 3. [00:10:00] – How AI and machine learning drive Brigit’s predictive analytics. 4. [00:16:00] – The evolution of Brigit’s product suite, including instant cash, budgeting tools, and credit-building features. 5. [00:26:00] – Hamel’s leadership strategies for maintaining resilience during volatile economic times. 6. [00:37:00] – Hamel’s advice for aspiring fintech entrepreneurs and CTOs.…
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1 #424 From Algorithms to AGI: The AI Evolution with Rabeeh Abla 1:04:46
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In this thought-provoking episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we sit down with Rabeeh Abla, an AI pioneer, entrepreneur, and founder of CSP Solutions. Rabeeh shares his incredible journey from teaching algorithms to building AI-driven platforms, offering insights into the evolution of artificial intelligence—from early neural networks to the era of AGI (Artificial General Intelligence). Together, we explore the transformative power of AI in business and society, and what lies ahead in the rapidly advancing field. “AI is not here to replace us; it’s here to elevate us.” – Rabeeh Abla What You’ll Learn • How AI is being applied to solve business challenges today. • Why LLMs and solvers are game-changers in the AI landscape. • The role of AI in transforming industries like government, healthcare, and customer support. • Predictions for the future of AGI and its implications for humanity. Key Takeaways 1. AI Evolution: How AI has progressed from early neural networks to large language models (LLMs) and intelligent agents. 2. Practical AI Use Cases: Real-world applications of AI in speech recognition, document generation, and AI copilots for businesses. 3. The Rise of AI Workers: The transition from AI copilots to AI employees and their role in the future workforce. 4. Ethical Considerations: Why humanity must govern AI’s use to avoid societal dilemmas. 5. AGI’s Potential Impact: What Artificial General Intelligence means for innovation and business operations. About Rabeeh Abla Rabeeh Abla is the founder of CSP Solutions, a company focused on delivering AI-based optimization and automation solutions. With over two decades of experience in AI, Rabeeh specializes in LLMs, solvers, and AI agents, helping businesses unlock the true potential of artificial intelligence. Connect with Rabeeh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rabeehabla/ CSP website: https://www.cspsolutions.com/ Episode Highlights • [00:02:00] Rabeeh’s early fascination with AI and his journey in the field. • [00:10:00] The missing pieces in AI and how LLMs changed the game. • [00:24:00] AI copilots: The most in-demand solutions for businesses. • [00:40:00] Exploring AI agents and their collaborative potential. • [00:50:00] A deep dive into AGI and its opportunities and risks.…
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