Senior VP at Truist Bank Michelle Foley (Truist Cloud Center of Excellence) joins the Four Fs Podcast for an Authentic Conversation about career pivots (pre‑med → IT → 18 years at Microsoft), frontline support and incident response (DART), practical cybersecurity habits, and the humble power of showing up.

What you’ll hear (quick bullets)

• Real Microsoft support stories: Windows 2000 surge support, mass‑reimage prevention, and product supportability wins
• Boots‑on‑the‑ground incident response: Nunavut ransomware recovery and community impact
• Straightforward security advice: password managers, MFA, patching cadence, and attack‑surface reduction
• Career and mentorship lessons: saving thank‑you notes, building credibility, and enacting quiet advocacy

Chapters 00:00 Intro and episode summary01:23 Marshall, Texas — childhood and family roots03:29 Pre‑med to tech pivot; first IT role11:21 Windows 98 rollout; teaching faculty to use computers20:54 Windows 2000 surge support — first‑day stories41:03 Small Business Server and multi‑product phone support50:05 Program manager for System Center readiness01:00:00 Supportability win: preventing mass reimages01:04:03 Transition to cloud/security supportability01:11:53 DART incident response — Nunavut ransomware case01:15:41 Reflections on Microsoft culture and change01:23:53 Truist Cloud Center of Excellence — mission and scope01:28:37 Practical security tips for individuals01:35:11 Attack surface reduction and IoT guidance01:37:18 Volunteer work, DigiGirls, mentorship, and rescues01:43:57 Mentorship impact — a mentee’s journey to Microsoft and advocacy01:46:46 Career advice — the “wins” folder and confidence building01:49:23 CBT for insomnia — health and performance01:54:45 Closing reflections

Listen if you want actionable security steps, real incident‑response stories, and practical mentorship advice from a leader who’s done the work and stayed human while doing it.

Links From Show Topics:

Case Study about Nanavut: Theday Nunavut went dark – Microsoft Unlocked

Michelle on the Today Show: https://youtu.be/Km6Unhybhsg?si=VwGrqrXxwhpBvzFS

Definition of STIG: SecurityTechnical Implementation Guide - Wikipedia

You can read more about Michelle or get in touch with us here: https://www.fourfspodcast.com/guests/michelle-foley/

Follow along here: https://www.fourfspodcast.com/follow/

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Goal Digger Podcast (Jenna Kutcher) , Dare to Lead (Brené Brown) , The Lex Fridman Podcast, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, The Tim Ferriss Show, Female Startup Club

Tags: Authentic Conversations, Cloud Center of Excellence, Truist, Women in Tech, Mentorship in Tech, Tech Leadership, Career Pivot Stories, Microsoft Alumni, Professional Development, Podcast for Leaders, Community Impact, Volunteerism in Tech, Digital Hygiene, Cybersecurity Leadership, Cloud Governance, Cloud Security Best Practices, Security Program Management, Supportability Stories, Tech Support to Product, Empathy in Leadership, Inclusive Tech, DigiGirls, Female Founders Spotlight, Resume and Interview Tips, Career Confidence, Wins Folder Strategy, Trust and Advocacy, Employee Advocacy, Organizational Integrity, Incident Response Leadership, DART stories, Ransomware Response, Nunavut ransomware, SolarWinds insights, Boots on the Ground Response, Security Operations, Threat Actor Insights, Password Manager, Multi Factor Authentication, MFA, Patch Management, Attack Surface Reduction, IoT and Home Security, System Center, Configuration Manager, Windows 2000 stories, Windows 98 nostalgia, Practical Cyber Hygiene, Tech Podcast, Authentic Conversations Podcast, Listen and Learn, FFFF, zero Fs to give, No Fs left, leadership.

What happens when a near-death experience reshapes your perspective on leadership and life? Join us in this riveting episode of the Four Fs Podcast as host Jeff engages in an authentic conversation with Rich Kaplan, a former Microsoft executive whose remarkable journey includes pivotal moments like the launch of Windows 95 and the monumental Y2K compliance initiatives. Rich’s insights on leadership challenge the notion that charisma is the key to success; instead, he emphasizes the critical importance of clarity in guiding teams through high-stakes environments.

Rich shares personal stories that reveal the discipline and freedom required to navigate the complexities of leading diverse teams without direct authority. His experiences with Steve Ballmer and the chaos surrounding Y2K preparations provide invaluable business insights that resonate deeply in today’s fast-paced world. Listeners will gain valuable leadership insights as Rich reflects on the necessity of creating a common mission among team members, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, and the power of effective communication.

The Four Fs Podcast dives into the intersection of technology discussions and personal development, showcasing how Rich’s journey is not only about corporate success but also about purpose-driven career choices. His near-death experience prompted a profound shift toward faith, health, family, and service, illustrating the life lessons that can emerge from overcoming failure. Rich’s story serves as a powerful reminder that success is not just about achieving milestones, but about the impact we have on others and the legacy we leave behind.

Listeners will find themselves inspired by Rich’s mindset and success strategies, as he shares his thoughts on entrepreneurship lessons and the significance of accountability in a high-pressure environment. This episode is a treasure trove of startup advice and remarkable people stories, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in career development and social impact. Tune in to the Four Fs Podcast for an engaging exploration of leadership, technology, and the human experience, and discover how to navigate your own path with clarity and purpose.

(00:00:07) - Introduction to Rich Kaplan and His Legacy

(00:00:17) - The Art of Leadership: Clarity Over Charisma

(00:00:36) - Navigating High-Stakes Meetings with Steve Ballmer

(00:00:42) - Personal Priorities After a Near-Death Experience

(00:00:56) - Lessons from Y2K: Leadership and Accountability

(00:01:14) - Influencing Without Authority: Building a Common Mission

(00:01:21) - The Importance of Clarity in Communication

(00:01:30) - Crafting Messages for Diverse Audiences

(00:01:46) - Running Effective Meetings: Setting Objectives

(00:02:00) - Understanding Different Team Dynamics

(00:02:30) - The Impact of Feedback and Guidance

(00:02:57) - Navigating Personal and Professional Advice

(00:03:06) - Creating a Supportive Team Environment

(00:03:33) - The Role of Faith and Health in Leadership

(00:40:06) - Y2K: A Collective Responsibility

(00:48:40) - Influence and Respect in Leadership

(00:58:32) - Choosing the Right People for Your Team

(01:09:35) - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom With Chris Williamson, The Tim Ferriss Show.

Tags: leadership, leadership insights, authentic conversations, four fs podcast, purpose-driven career, personal stories, overcoming failure, career development, technology discussions, discipline and freedom, personal development, executive interviews, business insights, entrepreneurship lessons, remarkable people, mindset, and success.

Have you ever wondered how the art of negotiation can transform your career and personal life? Join host Jeff Cluff on the latest episode of the Four Fs Podcast, where he engages in an authentic conversation with Professor Stacey Lee, a renowned law and ethics expert from Johns Hopkins University. Together, they unpack the psychological intricacies of negotiation, revealing how preparation and empathy can serve as your greatest strategic advantages in both business and personal realms.

Stacey’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her aspirations of becoming a senator to her extensive experience as a securities litigator and corporate counsel, she highlights the pivotal moments that shaped her career. Her transition into academia has allowed her to share invaluable insights on negotiation, arbitration, and litigation, emphasizing how these elements are interconnected in the pursuit of successful outcomes. The Four Fs Podcast dives deep into the challenges of negotiating with difficult individuals, offering listeners practical strategies for overcoming failure and fostering better relationships through direct communication.

One of the key takeaways from this episode is Stacey's unique healthcare-specific negotiation framework, designed to empower professionals in high-stakes environments. This framework is not just for lawyers or corporate leaders; it’s a vital tool for anyone looking to make impactful decisions in their career. As listeners, we are encouraged to adopt a mindset of empathy and active listening, which is essential for understanding the perspectives of others and ultimately achieving success in negotiations.

Throughout the conversation, Stacey shares personal stories that illuminate the importance of discipline and freedom in our professional lives. Her insights into leadership and social impact resonate deeply, making this episode a treasure trove of business insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established leaders alike. By applying the lessons learned in this episode, you can enhance your personal development and career growth, regardless of your industry.

As the episode wraps up, Jeff and Stacey provide actionable tips for improving your negotiation skills in everyday situations. Whether you’re negotiating a salary, navigating a challenging conversation, or seeking to foster collaboration in your team, the skills discussed in this episode are universally applicable. Tune in to the Four Fs Podcast for an enlightening conversation that promises to equip you with the tools for success, empowering you to take charge of your negotiations and transform your career path.

More info here: https://www.fourfspodcast.com/guests/stacey-b-lee-jd/

Leave a voicemail : https://www.fourfspodcast.com/voicemail/

Check out the book : https://a.co/d/eKLtTuq

Subscribe to Stacey’s Substack: https://staceyblee.substack.com/subscribe

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-b-lee/

Chapters:

(00:00:15) - Introduction to Professor Stacey Lee

(00:01:30) - Stacey's Journey: From Lawmaker Aspirations to Legal Practice

(00:02:26) - The Transition from Law to Academia

(00:04:28) - Negotiation vs. Litigation: The Importance of Direct Communication

(00:05:43) - Building Relationships Through Negotiation

(00:11:40) - Tackling Difficult Negotiations and Strategies

(00:14:20) - Emotional Intelligence in Negotiations

(00:19:40) - Practical Tips for Everyday Negotiations

(00:37:11) - Learning from Failures and Big Decisions

(00:48:23) - Conclusion: The Power of Preparation in Negotiation

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom With Chris Williamson, The Tim Ferriss Show.

#authenticconversations, #overcomingfailure, #leadershipinsights #careerdevelopment

What does it take to revolutionize an entire industry while staying true to your roots? Join host Jeff Cluff in this captivating episode of the Four Fs Podcast as he engages in an authentic conversation with Matt Alston, a dynamic entrepreneur from McGrath, Alberta, Canada. Matt's inspiring journey from a small-town upbringing to the helm of a successful tech business, Surex, offers invaluable entrepreneurship lessons that resonate with anyone looking to make their mark in the world.

Throughout this episode, listeners will be drawn into Matt's personal stories, where he reflects on how his early experiences in sports and door-to-door sales instilled a strong work ethic and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. Discover the grit required for bootstrapping a startup in a close-knit community, as Matt candidly discusses the challenges of hiring and layoffs, emphasizing the importance of leading with integrity. His insights into the discipline and freedom that come with entrepreneurship serve as a powerful reminder of the commitment needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

Matt also sheds light on the role of mentorship and community support in shaping a purpose-driven career, sharing his vision for a future nonprofit aimed at empowering aspiring entrepreneurs in developing countries. This episode is not just about business insights; it’s a rich tapestry of leadership insights and life lessons that highlight the social impact of entrepreneurship. As Matt navigates the complexities of technology discussions and the nuances of business law, he offers practical startup advice that can help aspiring entrepreneurs overcome failure and thrive.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the mindset and success strategies that can propel them forward in their professional growth. This episode of the Four Fs Podcast is more than just an interview; it’s a masterclass in entrepreneurship that emphasizes the intersection of business, family, and community service. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a remarkable person who embodies the spirit of innovation and social responsibility, and learn how you can apply these lessons to your own journey in entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re an established entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights that will motivate you to pursue your dreams while making a positive impact in the world. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from Matt Alston’s experiences and be inspired to take your own entrepreneurial journey to the next level!

Chapters:

(00:00:00) - Introduction to the Episode and Guest

(00:00:19) - Matt's Background and Small Town Roots

(00:00:49) - The Impact of Sports on Work Ethic

(00:01:20) - Starting a Tech Business in a Small Town

(00:01:45) - Challenges of Hiring in a Close-Knit Community

(00:40:05) - Transitioning from Entrepreneurship to Nonprofit Work

(01:58:45) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom With Chris Williamson, The Tim Ferriss Show.

Tags: entrepreneurship, personal stories, four fs podcast, authentic conversations, business insights, leadership insights, startup advice, career development, discipline and freedom, mindset and success, overcoming failure, personal development, technology discussions, social impact, purpose-driven career, remarkable people, executive interviews, professional growth, zero fs to give, no fs left

What do broken surfboards, cattle ranches, and spreadsheets have in common? For David Porter, a senior executive at ServiceNow and former U.S. Army Ranger, they each taught him something essential about resilience, decision-making, and the pursuit of purpose.

In this episode of The Four F’s Podcast, host Jeff Cluff sits down with David to trace an unconventional path — from surfing the North Shore of Oahu to leading elite teams in combat and now steering global operations in tech.

David shares candid insights about engineered failure, the power of solitude, knowing what you don’t want to be, and how running toward fear can unlock your potential. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, rebuilding after a setback, or simply searching for clarity, this conversation will resonate deeply.

👉 Listen for stories that move from wild to wise — and lessons you won’t hear in any MBA program.

If you want a chance to ask David a question about leadership, tech, how the surf is breaking in Southern California, or whatever else is on your mind, drop a voicemail for a chance to hear David answer in Part 2! https://www.fourfspodcast.com/voicemail/

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Jeff introduces David Porter and sets the stage for a conversation spanning surfing, the military, and leadership in tech.

03:00 – Growing Up “Lord of the Flies” Style: David reflects on his chaotic yet formative childhood in Southern California and lessons learned from a big family.

06:00 – Surfing, Broken Boards & a Wake-Up Call: A near-drowning and shattered knee in Hawaii change everything — and spark an unexpected return to school.

14:00 – Solitude on the Cattle Ranch: David’s time as a ranch hand in Northern Arizona brings discipline, reflection, and the unexpected power of silence.

20:00 – From Econ to the Army: How academic curiosity, grit, and a spreadsheet led to a career-defining pivot into the military.

29:00 – The Option 40 Contract & Engineered Failure: The grueling process of earning his Ranger slot — and how “engineered failure” became a philosophy for life.

38:00 – Lessons from Leadership & Redemption: From being told he’d “never make it” to becoming the Iron Warrior — how David turned setbacks into momentum.

46:00 – Facing Fear as a Compass: Why running toward fear became David’s decision-making framework — from military life to executive leadership.

58:00 – The Spreadsheet That Saved a Career: How one small act of initiative inside airborne school reshaped his trajectory and exemplified fieldcraft in action.

1:10:00 – From Ranger to Tech Leader: How the mindset forged in failure and fieldcraft translates into success at Microsoft and ServiceNow.

1:20:00 – Closing Reflections: David and Jeff unpack what it really means to “know what you don’t want to be.”

If you listen to Shawn Ryan or Lex Fridman you'll love this.

Tags: must-listen podcast episode, failure as fuel, turning failure into success, resilience in action, leadership lessons, purpose-driven leadership, military mindset, Ranger Regiment lessons, military transition to civilian life, ServiceNow executive story, Microsoft leadership insights, career pivot advice, tech leadership, entrepreneurial podcast, podcast for founders, podcast for entrepreneurs, authentic conversations, unscripted wisdom, storytelling that sticks, practical life lessons, decision making framework, fear as a compass, overcoming setbacks, grit and grit training, mental toughness, solitude and growth, redemption arc, knowing what you don’t want, actionable advice, productivity and habits, small wins strategy, fieldcraft wisdom, lessons from the field, surf to service journey, ranch and resilience,behind the scenes podcast, podcast about failure, podcast about leadership, podcast about resilience, podcast about career change, inspirational podcast episode, personal growth podcast, leadership for managers, high-stakes decision making, emotional honesty in leadership, authentic conversations, heuristic

What does it take to reinvent yourself six times—and still lead with purpose?In this episode, Jeff sits down with Gina Tesla, a global tech executive and social impact leader whose journey has taken her from Queens to the Peace Corps to leading corporate social responsibility at IBM, Microsoft, and Coupa Software.Gina opens up about:💡 How her humble start and community college education shaped her global career🌎 Life lessons from two years in the Peace Corps in Panama🏢 Building IBM’s Corporate Service Corps, often called “the corporate Peace Corps”💬 What leadership, service, and listening really mean in a corporate world🔥 Reinvention in the age of AI—and how to thrive through every transition🫱 How volunteering and board service unlock unexpected opportunitiesThis is a powerful conversation on purpose-driven leadership, resilience, mentorship, and the art of staying adaptable in an ever-changing world.🎧 Tune in if you’re interested in leadership, sustainability, or how to build a meaningful career that still delivers business results.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations about leadership, purpose, and reinventionChapters

⁠00:00⁠ Introduction to Gina Tesla

⁠02:34⁠ Navigating Different Worlds: Urban vs. Rural Life

⁠05:28⁠ The Value of Education and Community College

⁠09:45⁠ From Community College to the Peace Corps

⁠13:08⁠ Career Transitions: From Advertising to Corporate Citizenship

⁠15:32⁠ The Importance of Reinvention in a Changing World

⁠18:19⁠ Soft Skills: The Key to Effective Leadership

⁠18:49⁠ The Essence of Effective Leadership

⁠20:04⁠ Learning from Failure

⁠22:32⁠ Cultural Insights from the Peace Corps

⁠28:06⁠ Navigating Challenges in the Peace Corps

⁠32:19⁠ Transitioning to Corporate Social Responsibility

⁠36:04⁠ Building a Career in Corporate Responsibility

⁠39:47⁠ Global Impact Through Micro Projects

⁠42:42⁠ The Role of Nonprofits in Community Engagement

⁠45:06⁠ The Benefits of Volunteerism

⁠46:54⁠ Board Service and Career Progression

⁠49:32⁠ Transitioning to Microsoft

⁠52:06⁠ Navigating Corporate Social Responsibility During COVID

⁠54:07⁠ Building ESG Initiatives at Coupa

⁠58:20⁠ Driving Change Through the Equal Air Initiative

⁠59:19⁠ Air Quality Disparities and Community Impact

⁠01:01:13⁠ Collaborative Solutions for Air Inequality

⁠01:02:39⁠ Corporate Responsibility and Shareholder Interests

⁠01:05:01⁠ Risk Mitigation and Climate Strategies

⁠01:07:51⁠ The Importance of Mentorship

⁠01:10:16⁠ Finding and Cultivating Mentors

⁠01:12:14⁠ The Power of Vulnerability in Professional Relationships

⁠01:15:10⁠ Reflecting on Small Moments and Their Impact

⁠#Leadership⁠ ⁠#WomenInTech⁠ ⁠#CorporateResponsibility⁠ ⁠#ESG⁠ ⁠#PeaceCorps⁠ ⁠#CareerReinvention⁠ ⁠#Fourfspodcast⁠ ⁠#Podcast⁠

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, The Tim Ferriss Show.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform curiosity into a thriving career in entrepreneurship? Join us on this captivating episode of the Four Fs Podcast as host Jeff sits down with Kevin Schreck, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Elevate Consulting and Elevate Innovations. Kevin's journey from a math-loving child in Southern California to a successful entrepreneur managing multiple startups is not just inspiring; it’s a masterclass in resilience and innovation.

Throughout this authentic conversation, Kevin shares his personal stories that shaped his path, including his education in computer engineering at UC Santa Barbara and his pivotal role at Northrop Grumman. Here, he contributed to a groundbreaking project that enhanced situational awareness for military operations, showcasing how discipline and freedom can lead to remarkable achievements. This episode dives deep into entrepreneurship lessons that highlight the significance of adaptability and perseverance in the face of challenges.

As we explore Kevin's experiences in business school and his courageous decision to launch Elevate, listeners will gain valuable business insights and leadership insights that are crucial for anyone looking to make their mark in the tech industry. Kevin emphasizes the importance of building relationships and fostering a purpose-driven career, reminding us that the journey of entrepreneurship is as much about the connections we make as it is about the goals we achieve.

Moreover, the conversation delves into the evolving landscape of technology, particularly the impact of AI on various sectors. Kevin urges entrepreneurs to focus on specific problems to effectively leverage these advancements, making this episode a treasure trove of startup advice for aspiring innovators. By sharing his mindset and success strategies, he provides listeners with a roadmap for personal development and career development in the fast-paced world of tech consulting.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from a sustainability expert who is not only shaping the future of consulting but also making a social impact through his work. Tune in to the Four Fs Podcast for an episode filled with life lessons, overcoming failure, and the remarkable stories of a leader who embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, Kevin's insights are sure to inspire and motivate you to reach new heights.

More info on Kevin here: https://www.fourfspodcast.com/guests/kevin-schreck/

About Elevate Consulting: https://elvt.io/

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom with Chris Williamson The Tim Ferriss Show.

Tags: entrepreneurship, leadership insights, personal development, startup advice, technology discussions, authentic conversations, entrepreneurial journey, business insights, career development, overcoming failure, mindset and success, purpose-driven career, remarkable people, executive interviews, four fs podcast, future of tech consulting, zero fs to give, ffff, personal stories, discipline and freedom

How is the economy being reshaped by the dual forces of AI technology and shifting educational priorities? Join host Jeff Cluff as he engages in an authentic conversation with Dr. Gordon Bodnar, a renowned expert in international finance and esteemed professor at Johns Hopkins University and the Wharton School. This episode of the Four Fs Podcast dives deep into the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education and the economy, revealing how students today are redefining their paths toward personal development and career success.

Dr. Bodnar highlights a generational shift among students, showcasing a significant change in their priorities and a growing reluctance to adhere to traditional academic rigor. As technology discussions take center stage, he emphasizes the critical need for students to cultivate essential thinking skills, moving away from rote memorization. This pivot is not just a trend; it’s a necessity for navigating the complexities of an evolving economy.

The conversation further explores the implications of AI on job markets, particularly in entry-level positions within finance and accounting. As we look toward the future, the insights shared in this episode serve as vital leadership insights for educators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs alike. The discussion also unpacks the intricate world of tariffs and their economic effects, shedding light on how consumers ultimately bear the burden of these taxes—a topic that resonates deeply in today’s economy.

Additionally, Dr. Bodnar offers a glimpse into the current state of digital currencies, discussing the potential of stablecoins to revolutionize financial transactions. This exploration of digital innovation aligns perfectly with the Four Fs Podcast's mission to provide listeners with valuable business insights and entrepreneurship lessons that can drive social impact and professional growth.

Listeners can expect to gain remarkable perspectives on the evolving landscape of education, finance, and the economy, urging them to reflect on the long-term implications of these changes. This episode is not just about understanding trends; it’s about fostering a mindset for success in a world where discipline and freedom coexist. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in the field and discover how these insights can empower your own purpose-driven career.

Join us for this enlightening episode that promises to inspire and inform, as we navigate the intersection of technology, education, and the economy together.

Chapters

00:00: Episode intro and guest bio - Dr. Gordon Bodnar is Professor of International Finance at the Johns Hopkins University.

01:20: AI in higher education impact

03:50: AI limits in quantitative courses

05:44: Rethinking online assessment

12:58: AI in corporate finance

16:56: Business uncertainty and investment

18:15: Recent GDP trends explained

20:25: Long‑run growth drivers

28:23: Tariffs and consumer prices

45:26: Sovereign debt mechanics

52:41: Fiscal risk and deficit scale

55:38: Crypto Stablecoins and banking strategy

01:10:52: Dollar dominance and alternatives

01:20:05: Current work and research on GDP vs stock market study

01:28:55: Episode summary and takeaways

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom With Chris Williamson, The Tim Ferriss Show.

Tags: economy, education reform, AI in education, workforce development, stablecoins, critical thinking skills, digital currencies, finance education, international finance, personal development, leadership insights, career development, technology discussions, discipline and freedom, overcoming failure, remarkable people, business insights, zero fs to give, no fs left, ffff

What does it take to transform from a Texas tennis player into a tech trailblazer in the world of cybersecurity? Join host Jeff Cluff on the Four Fs Podcast as he dives deep into an authentic conversation with Andreae Pohlman, a remarkable cybersecurity expert and Air Force veteran, affectionately known as Dr. Dre. Andreae's inspiring journey is a testament to resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of a purpose-driven career in technology.

From her early fascination with gadgets to her impressive rise through the ranks at Microsoft, Andrea shares personal stories that highlight the importance of mindset and success in overcoming failure. As they explore the significance of nicknames and the value of failing fast, listeners will gain valuable insights into the world of cybersecurity and the challenges faced by women in tech. Andreae's commitment to empowering others shines through her work with the Women's Society of Cyberjitsu, where she advocates for social impact and professional growth in the cybersecurity field.

This episode is packed with leadership insights and entrepreneurship lessons that resonate with anyone looking to navigate the complexities of a career in technology. Andreae sheds light on hacker culture, demystifying the often misunderstood world of cybersecurity while providing practical tips for everyday users to enhance their online safety. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, the lessons shared in this episode will inspire you to take control of your cybersecurity practices.

Listeners will leave with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable advice on how to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With discussions that range from business insights to career development, this episode serves as a masterclass in resilience and personal development. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's leading voices and discover how to make a meaningful impact in your own life and career.

Join us for an engaging and insightful episode that promises to empower, educate, and inspire. Tune in to the Four Fs Podcast and unlock the secrets to success in cybersecurity and beyond!

https://womenscyberjutsu.org/

Chapters:

(00:00:15) - Introduction to Andreae Pohlman (Dr. Dre)

(00:00:29) - Early Influences and the Casio Magic Diary

(00:00:41) - The Importance of Failing Fast

(00:00:46) - Cybersecurity Culture: DEF CON and Black Hat

(00:00:55) - Women in Tech: Challenges and Empowerment

(00:01:00) - Masterclass in Grit, Growth, and Giving Back

(00:01:19) - Practical Cybersecurity Tips for Everyday Users

(00:01:25) - Navigating the Workplace: Tactical Empathy and Nicknames

(00:21:51) - The Role of AI in Cybersecurity

(01:34:55) - Conclusion and Resources for Cybersecurity Enthusiasts

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love this episode: The Diary of a CEO (Steven Bartlett), The Shawn Ryan Show, The Lex Fridman Podcast, Masters of Scale with Reid Hoffman, How I Built This with Guy Raz, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Modern Wisdom With Chris Williamson, The Tim Ferriss Show.

Tags: cybersecurity, personal stories, four fs podcast, technology discussions, overcoming failure, leadership insights, discipline and freedom, purpose-driven career, remarkable people, executive interviews, personal development, career development, entrepreneurship lessons, authentic conversations, zero fs to give, no fs left, ffff, professional growth, women in tech, tactical empathy, Dr. Dre

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Mike Owen—a former Microsoft engineer whose 18+ year tech career started in a unionized grocery store and ended with an unexpectedly powerful final act. Mike shares how he rebounded from a rare “zero rewards” performance review, how a blood transfusion changed his life (and his commitment to donating), and why he became a vocal advocate for salary transparency, mental health, and reverse mentorship at one of the world’s biggest tech companies. 

From surviving ulcerative colitis and hospital stays, to transforming Friday virtual happy hours into safe spaces for honesty, Mike’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical generosity. We also dive into imposter syndrome, the impacts of the pandemic, coaching younger engineers, and how personal accountability—and community—can change your trajectory. 

This conversation is a masterclass in redefining success beyond titles and bonuses. If you’ve ever felt unseen at work, struggled with burnout, or questioned your place in tech, this episode is for you. 

You can connect with Mike on his LinkedIn, and check out his financials presentation as mentioned, that helped guide industry transparency on salary. 

00:00 Introduction to Mike Owen's Journey 

10:12 Navigating Career Challenges and Growth 

20:12 The Importance of Salary Transparency 

30:10 Reflections on Longevity and Vulnerability in the Workplace 

37:55 Mentorship and Learning 

38:48 The Importance of Coachability 

39:30 Salary Transparency and Its Challenges 

41:24 Defining Self-Worth Beyond Numbers 

43:17 Overcoming Bad Reviews and Resilience 

50:17 Personal Struggles and Recovery 

58:21 Reflections on Layoffs and Job Security 

01:02:07 The Case for Unionization in Tech 

01:11:30 Advice for Young Professionals in Tech