Tech Journeys: From Early Internet Days to AI and Beyond

In this episode, hosts Scott Porad and Brad Hefta-Gaub share their extensive career journeys in the tech industry, revealing their paths from early consumer-facing internet roles to leading engineering teams at high-growth startups.

Scott discusses his rise from building websites at the University of Washington to heading engineering at TaskRabbit, highlighting his ventures in online media, e-commerce, social media, and gig economy businesses. He also touches on his evolving perspectives on AI and the distinctive culture at TaskRabbit's parent company, IKEA.

Brad recounts his tenure at RealNetworks, his experience with VR ventures, his adventures in the mountains, and his current role focusing on remote work technology.

Both hosts share insights on the challenges of transitioning from engineering roles to CTO positions and the importance of balancing business acumen with technical expertise.

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Announcement

• 00:41 Meet Scott: Career Journey

• 01:32 Early Career and Internet Boom

• 02:52 Successes and Failures in Startups

• 04:24 Working with Brad and Healthcare Challenges

• 08:12 Current Role at TaskRabbit

• 10:03 Insights on IKEA and Company Culture

• 14:17 Brad's Career Path and Early Successes

• 20:56 Lessons from Startups and Fractional CTO Work

• 31:06 The Role of a CTO in Startups

• 37:38 Conclusion and Future Episodes