The Tech Trek

How a Lawyer Became a Tech CEO


Listen Later

In this inspiring episode, Amir Bormand chats with Matt Martin, Co-Founder of Clockwise. Matt shares his unique career trajectory, transitioning from being a lawyer to a self-taught software engineer, and ultimately, to a tech entrepreneur. They discuss the challenges, self-doubt, and triumphs of making a bold career pivot, as well as insights into the future of technology and software development. Whether you're contemplating a career change or simply curious about what it takes to thrive in the tech world, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Key Takeaways:

  1. The Courage to Pivot: Matt discusses the fears and uncertainties of leaving a secure legal career to pursue his passion for technology.

  2. Building Skills from Scratch: The self-taught path is tough, but Matt explains how enthusiasm and resilience helped him break into the tech industry.

  3. Diverse Backgrounds in Tech: How Matt’s legal training provided him with a unique perspective as a leader in the tech world.

  4. Future of Coding: Thoughts on how large language models and automation tools could democratize software development.

  5. Startup Lessons: The value of scrappiness, enthusiasm, and hiring for potential over traditional qualifications.

  6. Timestamped Highlights:

    • [00:00:00] Introduction: Meet Matt Martin and his journey from lawyer to tech entrepreneur.

    • [00:01:41] From Politics to Law: How Matt’s passion for public policy led him to law school.

    • [00:04:21] The Big Decision: Why Matt chose to leave a secure legal career for the uncertain path of technology.

    • [00:09:03] Early Challenges: Matt’s struggles to land his first tech job and the resilience it required.

    • [00:13:00] Hiring Insights: How Matt’s non-traditional background influences his views on diversity in hiring.

    • [00:18:00] The Role of AI in Coding: Matt’s perspective on how tools like LLMs are reshaping software development.

    • [00:23:28] Legal Skills in Tech: The pros and cons of Matt’s legal training in his entrepreneurial journey.

    • [00:26:09] Closing Thoughts: Matt’s advice for aspiring career changers and tech enthusiasts.

    • Featured Quote:

      "The magic of large language models isn't just faster code completion; it's their ability to teach you along the way." – Matt Martin

      Connect with Matt Martin:

      • LinkedIn: Matt Martin on LinkedIn

      • Call to Action:

        If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone exploring a career pivot or interested in technology. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your thoughts!


        ...more
        View all episodesView all episodes
        Download on the App Store

        The Tech TrekBy Elevano

        • 5
        • 5
        • 5
        • 5
        • 5

        5

        74 ratings


        More shows like The Tech Trek

        View all
        Up First from NPR by NPR

        Up First from NPR

        56,419 Listeners

        HousingWire Daily by HousingWire

        HousingWire Daily

        168 Listeners

        Hard Fork by The New York Times

        Hard Fork

        5,471 Listeners

        The AI Daily Brief: Artificial Intelligence News and Analysis by Nathaniel Whittemore

        The AI Daily Brief: Artificial Intelligence News and Analysis

        586 Listeners