In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes talks with Sepehr Mohammadi, AI and Machine Learning Tech Lead at Apotea, Sweden’s first full-scale online pharmacy. Sepi shares his journey from hands-on engineering to technical leadership, offering a candid look at the challenges of hiring in AI, building high-performing teams, and designing real-world machine learning solutions. 

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to AI and Machine Learning in E-commerce

(01:14) Seppi Mohamedi's Journey: From Engineering to AI Leadership

(06:20) Challenges in Transitioning to Leadership Roles

(07:33) Hiring for AI and Machine Learning: Evolving Criteria

(13:26) Assessing Candidates: Skills and Continuous Learning Mindset

(14:12) Building and Scaling High-Performing Machine Learning Teams

(20:54) Designing Machine Learning Platforms vs. Traditional Software

(23:52) Cloud Technologies and Their Impact on Machine Learning Platforms

(26:28) Common Mistakes in Designing Machine Learning Platforms

(27:19) The Importance of a Solid Data Layer

(28:22) Shifting Business Expectations of AI

(30:48) Bridging the Gap Between Technical and Business Teams

(35:03) Innovative Machine Learning Products at Apotea

(38:48) Future Opportunities in AI-Driven Automation

(42:30) Building Foundations for Innovation

(44:12) Leadership Qualities in AI and Machine Learning

(46:04) Listening to Your Team for Success

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Mina Boström Nakicenovic, CTO of Flightradar24, to explore her transition from developer to tech leader in one of the world’s most data-rich aviation platforms. Mina shares her insights on self-leadership, building high-performance engineering teams, and aligning technology with business strategy. She also discusses the critical role of data quality, sustainable growth, and collaboration in innovation. Learn how Flightradar24 uses flight data to shape the future of aviation and what emerging technologies are set to transform the industry.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Mina Boström Nakicenovic

(01:09) Mina's Career Journey and Transition to Leadership

(03:07) Influence of Diverse Experiences on Leadership

(04:26) The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership

(07:11) Cultivating Self-Leadership in Teams

(09:43) Integrating Business Strategy with Technology Leadership

(12:56) Hiring for Technical Roles: Key Qualities

(14:35) Building High-Performance Teams vs. Local Champions

(18:10) Models of Optimal Company Growth

(24:43) Achieving Sustainable Growth Without Sacrificing Culture

(26:34) The Helicopter Pilot Metaphor for Leadership

(27:38) Managing Expectations in a Growing Company

(30:35) Data as a Product Strategy

(33:24) Diverse Customer Segments and Their Needs

(37:36) Technical Challenges in Data Infrastructure

(41:43) Collaboration Between Technical and Non-Technical Teams

(43:43) Balancing Data Quality with Innovation

(45:11) Emerging Technologies and Future Trends

(48:15) Advice for Aspiring Technical Leaders

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes chats with Aron Tanos, backend developer and robotics expert from the Proxify network. They explore Aron’s journey from a childhood fascination with tech to his work across startups and major corporations. Aron shares unique insights into the rise of humanoid robots, cultural resistance to robotics, and the real impact of AI on jobs.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Aron's Background

(03:01) Balancing Leadership and Hands-On Work

(05:39) Experience Leading Teams and Working in Different Sectors

(07:38) Preference for Startup Environment

(10:32) Applying High Performance Mindset to Technology Solutions

(14:06) Exciting Developments in AI and Robotics

(16:08) Limitations of Humanoid Robots

(18:45) Psychological and Cultural Barriers to Acceptance of Robots

(22:44) The Future of AI and Robotics

(24:29) The Decline of Junior IT Positions

(26:47) The Potential of Robots in Healthcare and Elderly Care

(28:34) Addressing the Emotional Needs of Individuals

(31:09) Advice for Aspiring Developers

(35:22) The Unique Perspective of Being a Developer and Customer

Senior Data Manager at Booking.com, Mahmoud Yassin, shares how to build a data-driven culture, improve data quality, and balance AI with human judgment. Learn about data governance, hiring for data roles, and driving change in a fast-paced, regulated environment.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Data Leadership

(00:56) Mahmoud's Journey in Data Management

(05:05) Current Role at Booking.com

(05:40) A Day in the Life of a Data Manager

(08:14) Data-Driven Customer Experience

(12:12) Ensuring Actionable Insights

(15:52) Avoiding Data Paralysis

(18:33) Balancing AI and Human Judgment

(21:14) Guardrails for Machine Learning Models

(23:43) Adapting to Regulatory Changes

(25:26) Navigating Data Management and Regulation

(27:20) Fostering a Data-Centric Culture

(30:42) Overcoming Resistance to Data-Driven Change

(32:41) Hiring for Data Roles in a Competitive Landscape

(36:06) Balancing Soft Skills with Technical Expertise

(38:45) Emerging Trends in Data and AI

(41:29) Skills for Aspiring Data Leaders

(44:35) Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Innovations

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Annie von Heijne, Manager of Data & Analytics Transformation at EcoGroup. Annie shares her journey in business transformation and how data plays a pivotal role in driving strategic decisions. They dive into the importance of collaboration between tech and business teams, overcoming misalignment, and the value of data quality in uncovering operational truths.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Annie von Heijne and EcoGroup

(01:28) Annie's Career Journey and Passion for Analytics

(03:47) The Role of Data and Analytics Transformation

(06:40) Understanding EcoGroup's Business Model

(08:02) Technological Transformations in Customer Experience

(10:30) Analytics as a Strategic Asset

(12:44) Fostering Collaboration Between Tech and Business

(16:29) Challenges of Misalignment in Teams

(20:03) Team Structure and Ownership in Transformation

(23:11) Approaching Business Transformation with Analytics

(25:56) Data Quality and Business Process Transformation

(27:55) Insights from Analytics: Aha Moments

(31:24) Strategic Initiatives in AI and Data

(34:41) Leadership's Role in Data-Driven Culture

(38:39) Future Trends in Retail Analytics

(44:58) Practical Advice for Early Analytics Journeys

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes talks with Olof Granberg—AI strategist and founder of DataMentor Consulting—about the realities of adopting AI in enterprise settings. With a rich background in data and AI leadership, Olof shares lessons from working with large organizations and the critical role of data readiness, metadata, and culture in enabling successful AI initiatives. The conversation dives into the evolution of data management, the rise of agentic AI, and why collaboration between business and data teams is essential. Olof also explores the contrast between startups and enterprises in leveraging AI and offers insights on staying adaptable amid rapid AI innovation.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to AI Strategy and Consulting

(05:56) Standout Moments in AI Adoption

(12:05) The Impact of Big Data Hype

(18:03) Enterprise vs. Personal AI Adoption

(24:02) Data Readiness for AI Implementation

(30:03) Data Mentor Consulting's Mission

(35:19) The Rise of Agentic AI: Predictions for 2025

(40:52) Integrating Machine Learning in Data Preparation

(49:39) Building Effective Data Teams: Skills and Roles

(57:50) Startups vs. Enterprises: Different Approaches to AI

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes sits down with Nuno Pereira, Co-founder and CEO of Paynest, to explore his journey from aerospace engineering to FinTech entrepreneurship. Nuno shares how Paynest is transforming employee financial wellbeing through AI-powered solutions and a holistic platform that integrates seamlessly into daily work life. The conversation covers the importance of financial literacy, success metrics from real-world implementations, and Paynest’s vision for expansion across Europe. Nuno also reflects on navigating the fast-paced world of fintech startups, balancing growth with ethical responsibility, and building a company culture rooted in purpose. Whether you’re a founder, fintech enthusiast, or advocate for employee wellbeing, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Paynest and Nuno Pereira’s Journey
(02:59) The Founding Story of Paynest
(05:57) Understanding Paynest’s Mission and Challenges
(08:52) Balancing Technical and Human Aspects in FinTech Leadership
(11:51) Navigating Early Challenges and Funding Success
(15:09) Expanding Paynest’s Reach and Financial Literacy
(17:58) The Importance of Financial Wellbeing for Employees
(20:55) Differentiating Paynest in the FinTech Landscape
(23:39) Integrating Financial Wellness into Daily Work Life
(24:20) Success Stories: Measuring Financial Health Improvements
(27:10) Leveraging AI for Expense Management Efficiency
(30:06) Building a Holistic Employee Finance Platform
(32:49) Vision for Paynest: Expanding Across Europe
(34:23) Challenges and Opportunities in the FinTech Landscape
(36:49) The Role of AI in Reshaping Financial Services
(38:59) Data Privacy and Security in FinTech
(43:32) Balancing Fast Growth with Ethical Responsibility
(45:31) Emerging Trends in FinTech
(48:08) Advice for New FinTech Founders

In this episode of Builders by Proxify, Lee Haynes talks with Jesper Fredriksson, lead AI engineer at Volvo Cars, about his path from neuroscience research to shaping the future of AI in the automotive industry. Jesper shares what it’s like to move from startups to a global enterprise, lead AI innovation at scale, and harness generative AI to transform user experience. The discussion covers AI-driven personalization, ethical AI, data privacy, and the evolving landscape of autonomous driving. Jesper also offers career advice for aspiring AI engineers and emphasizes the importance of curiosity and adaptability in a fast-changing tech world.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to AI in Automotive

(01:09) Jesper's Journey: From Brain Research to AI

(03:40) Transitioning from Startups to Volvo Cars

(06:30) The Role of AI in Enhancing Digital Experience

(10:25) Building and Leading AI Teams

(13:00) Challenges in Team Building and Agility

(18:29) Generative AI Applications at Volvo Cars

(23:18) AI-Driven Personalization in User Experience

(25:25) Navigating User Experience and Data Privacy

(27:29) AI in Startups vs. Enterprises

(29:58) Risk Tolerance in Innovation

(31:02) Ethical Challenges in AI

(33:25) The Future of Autonomous Driving

(39:31) Advice for Aspiring AI Engineers

(46:35) Preparing for Rapid Changes in AI

In this episode, Lee Haynes sits down with Kirill Groshkov, CTO of Natural Cycles—the first FDA-cleared birth control app—to explore his journey from coding in the USSR to leading innovation in women’s health tech. Kirill dives into the role of AI in product development and code reviews, the art of hiring for niche tech roles, and why soft skills matter as much as technical ones. He shares insights on data privacy in health apps, building collaborative teams, and making bold long-term tech decisions. Plus, learn what’s next for Natural Cycles as they expand products and integrate AI. A must-listen for developers, tech leaders, and health tech enthusiasts.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Kirill Groshkov and Natural Cycles
(02:58) Kirill’s Early Journey in Tech
(05:47) Transitioning to Professional Software Development
(09:03) First Experiences with International Clients
(12:08) Understanding Natural Cycles’ Unique Approach
(15:10) The Role of a CTO in a Growing Company
(17:59) Building and Leading Engineering Teams
(20:52) Hiring Practices and Company Culture
(24:07) The Future of Development in the Age of AI
(27:28) Navigating AI Challenges in Code Review
(28:56) Hiring in a Niche Industry
(30:57) Understanding Job Titles and Market Needs
(31:46) Fostering Team Collaboration and Purpose
(35:11) Data Privacy in Health Apps
(39:00) The Rewards of Long-Term Technical Bets
(41:21) Future Plans and Product Expansion
(44:06) AI’s Role in Business Evolution
(47:11) Advice for Aspiring Developers and Tech Leaders

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes talks with Lele Cao, Senior Principal AI/ML Researcher at Activision Blizzard King (King at Microsoft), about the evolving role of AI and machine learning in game development. They explore applied AI research, hiring for AI roles, ethical considerations, and the importance of curiosity and persistence in tech careers. Whether you're into software development, gaming, or the future of AI, this episode offers expert advice and fresh perspectives on building with intelligence.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to AI in Gaming

(01:16) Lele Cao's Journey into AI

(03:31) Intersection of Research and Real-World Applications

(05:26) AI Transforming Game Development

(09:53) Retrieval Augmented Generation in Gaming

(21:03) Challenges of AI in Gaming

(24:59) Hiring Challenges in AI and Machine Learning

(29:18) Interactive Interview Techniques

(31:45) Common Misconceptions in AI Careers

(34:50) The Importance of Curiosity and Persistence

(38:00) The Evolving Role of AI in Software Development

(41:34) Ethical Considerations in AI Research

(47:50) Future Trends in AI and Machine Learning

(51:45) Advice for Aspiring AI Professionals