Leaders In Tech

In a world where technology shapes the future, Valerie and Codi Gharagouzloo stand out as pioneers, using their expertise to revolutionize healthcare. Through their company Imaginastics, they're leveraging quantum physics to enhance MRI capabilities, offering new hope for medical diagnostics. Their story, filled with perseverance, innovation, and faith, is a testament to what's possible when passion meets purpose. Dive into their journey and discover how they're poised to change the landscape of medical technology.

Here’s more about Imaginostics:

Imaginostics is a health tech startup developing a breakthrough longevity technology for precision medicine located in Lake Nona Medical City, Orlando, FL. The company’s QUTE-CE MRI methodology provides vascular imaging biomarkers that can non-invasively assay vascular structure and function in high resolution anywhere in the body, providing clinicians and scientists new endpoints for early detection and enhanced characterization of complex diseases.

https://imaginostics.com/

In this episode of the Leaders in Tech Podcast, host David Manilla sits down with Claus Torp Jensen, Chief Innovation Officer at Teladoc Health, to delve into the intersection of technology, leadership, and healthcare innovation. Claus shares his journey from a curious student in Denmark to a transformative leader in global healthcare. If you’re eager to learn about leadership strategies, navigating career changes, and the profound impact of technology in healthcare, this episode is a must-listen.

Here’s more about Claus Torp Jensen:

“C-Suite leader with 2 decades of transformation and technology experience. Proven track record of driving strategic planning, differentiation and optimization. Build, lead and inspire diverse teams that innovate and collaborate to achieve critical organizational goals. Ability to synthesize complicated organizational challenges from diffuse conversation to crisp agreed upon milestones that make significant impact both operationally and strategically to companies as they scale.

Operating partner with P&L responsibility for business and technology development. Savvy executive leader with a track record of success in unlocking significant revenue growth, cost-savings and operational efficiencies. Media experienced, strong communication and storytelling skills. Widely recognized as a healthcare and technology thought leader, with several publications and a number of patents. Deep understanding of the leading edge art of the possible.

I am a critical thinker that provides valuable perspective to a company and to a Board. Curious and agile lifelong learner, with demonstrated ability to span roles and industries. Inspiring change agent, storyteller and entrepreneur, I am passionate about people. What motivates me, and is embodied in our biggest achievements, is developing a better team, a better company and a better world.

When I am not solving complex problems at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and our 13 year old dog. We love traveling the world, experiencing new cultures and environments; the sunset picture at the top of my profile is from one of our US road trips.”

In a world increasingly driven by technology, effective leadership has never been more essential. The Leaders in Tech Podcast aims to uncover the wisdom of exceptional leaders who are using technology to create a better world. In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with John Rathje, Vice President and CIO of Kent State University, a visionary leader with a remarkable journey in technology and leadership.

Here’s more about John Rathje:

“Objective, professional and strategic leader. I seek outcomes which improve process, enhance user experience and reduce complexity. Operational excellence is the expectation.

Teams that think creatively and value difference and diversity energize me. I appreciate challenges that invite innovation, collaboration and fresh perspectives.

Foundations shaping strategy include:

- Workforce and Leadership Development

- Enhancing Top of Line Revenue

- Maximizing Investments & Improving Margin

- Reducing & Managing Risk

- Innovation & Creativity”

Company description: Kent State University is the highest-ranked public university in northern Ohio on the Top Public Schools and Best National Universities lists by U.S. News & World Report. Kent State also holds the esteemed distinction of being one of only five institutions in Ohio to be recognized as an R1 top-tier research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

In this episode of Leaders in Tech, host David Mansilla interviews Richard Billington, CTO of Netcall, to explore the cutting-edge advancements in customer engagement and intelligent automation. Richard delves into how Netcall’s innovative platforms empower businesses to meet the modern demands of digital transformation while creating a seamless experience for customers and employees alike. From his early days in web development to becoming a technology leader, Richard shares valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolution of the tech landscape.

Here’s more about Richard Billington:

“I thrive on working with new technologies, many self-taught, and have proven my ability to define strategy, manage significant programs and lead teams. Throughout my career I have focused on web development and have over 20 years’ experience in this speciality.

If you’re a c-suite looking for technology to improve customer experience, fast, Liberty is where it all comes together. An all-in-one cx platform that includes all the low-code and contact centre solutions you need to make huge, transformational changes, fast.

Enter Liberty Create. A solution that has revolutionised the way we work, and our customers. I’m proud to have been involved in its development from the start. It’s a new breed of “low-code” tech that’s quick to learn, easy to use and requires less IT. You can configure and deploy new applications in days rather than months, without coding. And while we designed Create for business users, we didn’t skimp on tools for career developers. So there’s something for everyone across the business.

Don’t just take my word for it. I’ve worked with customers to successfully deliver many low-code and digital transformation projects. Companies like Vodafone, Nationwide Building Society, Thomas Cook, Department for Education, ITV, Network Rail and many others. And more recently we were named a “most significant platform in the Forrester Wave™ report: Low-Code Development Platforms for AD&D Pros, Q1 2019.

A self-confessed sports/festival and romcom nut, as CTO for Netcall I’m responsible for ensuring our solutions maintain their recognised industry-leading positions. I’m always interested to hear from other like-minded CTOs to share experiences that drive transformation, so get in touch. “

Company description: Our quick app development, smart automation, and user-friendly tools are a hit with business leaders and front-line teams. Seamlessly connect systems, break down data barriers, and make processes work better and faster – all on your own timeline.

In a rapidly changing technological landscape, leaders who embrace innovation and remain adaptable are the driving forces behind groundbreaking advancements. In this insightful conversation, we delve into the mind of a seasoned tech leader and entrepreneur. From the challenges of leading startups to the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, we uncover lessons in leadership, innovation, and problem-solving that resonate across industries.

Here’s more about Joseph Smarr:

“I want to transform the world for the better by building intelligent technology that empowers people to solve everday problems. Before the industrial revolution, humans had to do many menial/dangerous physical tasks because machines couldn't do them. The same is now true with information-processing tasks, and it's time for another revolution! Most of my professional experience is working for startups designing and building web applications and AI systems (SGI, WebEx, MedExpert, Plaxo). I also spent 12 years inside Google, helping start Google+, Google Photos, and building core components of the conversational engine for Google Assistant. I'm now happily back in startup land as CTO of Triller.”

Triller Inc. an AI-powered music video app that allows users to create professional-looking video in a matter of seconds: VERZUZ, the live-stream music platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland; Amplify.ai, a leading customer engagement and messaging platform; FITE, a premier global PPV, AVOD, and SVOD streaming site; and Thuzio, a leader in B2B premium influencer events and experiences.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Leaders in Tech podcast! In this episode, host David Manel interviews Reshma Ombase, a Senior Director in Technology Product Management at Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group. Reshma shares her journey of resilience, adaptability, and leadership—an inspiring story for anyone striving to make an impact in the tech industry. Her story is one of perseverance, seizing opportunities, and breaking barriers. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from the conversation.

Here’s more about Reshma Ombase:

“I'm an experienced leader and strategist with a proven track record of successfully managing teams and product solutions that have delivered exceptional results. I currently oversee the Directed Spend Product portfolio for the Optum Financial Consumer Payments business and have the privilege to lead a group of talented people, who strive to build consumer centric products, capabilities, and experiences.

I'm expert in assessing market opportunities, competitor analysis, drafting product vision/roadmap, system analysis, setting up AGILE development processes, product management, portfolio management, business process engineering, and software development life cycle management. Including system design, development, testing and implementation of software applications. Adept at building long range plans, tracking plan to budget, delivery, and measuring ROI/NPS.

I've worn many hats in my career -- programmer, business analyst, system analyst, SME, agile product owner, product manager, portfolio manager, team lead, and business technology platform lead! Which has helped develop my ability to manage a vast and complex business/product/technology portfolio.

To me commitment is crucial and execution is key in everything I do!”

Company description: Optum is a health services and innovation company on a mission to help people live healthier lives and to help make the health system work better for everyone.

In this episode of the Leaders in Tech Podcast, we uncover the transformative power of leadership, culture, and innovation through the lens of David Reid, a dual-role leader serving as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at NOV. Reid shares his incredible journey, offering a masterclass in balancing creativity, humility, and human connection while leading within one of the most dynamic industries.

This conversation dives deep into leadership philosophies, uncovering how culture, empathy, and an unrelenting drive for improvement can not only fuel organizational success but also change lives. It’s a refreshing exploration of how to thrive in business without losing your humanity.

Here’s more about David Reid:

A growth catalyst for business, products, teams, people & culture. Unique business and technology leader with a proven record of eliminating large corporate inefficiencies & building effective, dynamic, communities that deliver the impossible. Skilled at motivating large groups, technology, strategy, market development, new business model change, leadership growth and all forms of development.

Experienced with organizations ranging from small to large teams, 30-60k people, and working with businesses from $10M to $25bn of product and service business, with personal experience in innovation, rapid prototyping, global business, negotiation, cultural sensitivity, marketing, acquisition, sales, integration, standardization, large project change, new product development, drilling rig architecture and drilling automation.

"My goals have kept me driving towards roles that are pioneering and fun for myself and the people I take with me."

Current board positions President of redM, Redeemed, UofH Energy Advisory Board, previously on the NOV/Schlumberger JV IntelliServ Board, IADC VP Services and Technical Director on the SPE Board and an officer of NOV reporting to the CEO.

Previous roles include IADC Executive Committee as VP of Services Division, founder and chairman of the IADC Advanced Rig Technology Committee and a founding member of the SPE Drilling Systems Automation Technical Section. Many strategic industry roles include; multiple keynote speaker, panelist and moderator roles in technology/energy/industrial/leadership, SPE forum development committee, SPE forum chairman, panel moderator, executive committee member, event planning committees, lecturer, motivational speaker, technical subject matter expert & business coach.

Pioneered redM in February 2018, a pro bono movement of professionals started in Houston, expanded nationally and globally with over 4000 professional volunteers donating their skills to help women recover from the trauma of sex trafficking.

A committed christian serving in the church for many years in a range of leadership roles, currently with Hope City.

Company description: NOV delivers technology-driven solutions to empower the global energy industry. For more than 150 years, NOV has pioneered innovations that enable its customers to safely produce abundant energy while minimizing environmental impact. The energy industry depends on NOV’s deep expertise and technology to continually improve oilfield operations and assist in efforts to advance the energy transition towards a more sustainable future. NOV powers the industry that powers the world.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, leadership is about more than just understanding the latest innovations. It’s about people—their needs, challenges, and aspirations—and crafting solutions that drive meaningful change. Paul Donohoe’s journey from a trainee business analyst to a chief technology officer exemplifies the value of blending technical expertise with visionary leadership. This guide captures insights from our conversation, offering lessons for aspiring leaders in technology.

Here’s more about Paul Donohoe:

I am an experienced CTO / Product / Portfolio Manager working with C-level teams and their staff groups to create and deliver new solutions to market, addressing Go To Market strategies, customer adoption, and managing successful internal change and benefit realisation. I have an extensive track record in the Financial Services industry, including as an early entrepreneur and architect of what is now called Robo-Advice and more recently in biomedical research technology, where I have led the development and commercialisation of innovative and paradigm shifting RFID and digital data management solutions for this industry sector.

I currently advise and support a range of established, scale up and start up management teams on technology strategies and app developments as either an Interim Executive or Business Consultant.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping industries and solving real-world challenges. Balancing innovation, business strategy, and resilience can feel overwhelming, especially in a rapidly changing digital age. In this blog, we explore lessons from a successful tech entrepreneur who shares how faith, strategic thinking, and adaptability have guided his journey. Whether you’re a tech leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone seeking insights into navigating challenges, this story will inspire and inform your path.

Here’s more about Kevin Fafinski:

CEO of Liberty Security & Technology - a national MSP and cyber security company dedicated to stopping cyber threats before they happen.

I acquired Computer Danamics in Rochester, MN in November 2022 to expand our offerings to Southeast Minnesota. We are the leading boutique Managed Services Provider in Downtown Rochester.

Company description: Helping businesses by preventing cyber attacks BEFORE they happen.

Hello and welcome to another episode of Leaders in Tech, where we shine a spotlight on the trailblazers revolutionizing the world of technology. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Scott Bendle, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Raku, a company specializing in x-ray analytical equipment for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to semiconductors. Scott shares his unique journey from quality engineer to CIO, offering insights into leadership, adaptability, and the future of tech. Let’s dive into Scott’s incredible story and the lessons we can learn from it.

Here’s more about Scott Bendle:

●Highly motivated and experienced business leader with expert proficiency in defining and guiding information systems vision, strategy, and execution for SMB organizations.

●An effective subject matter expert, capable of transforming business needs into technological solutions, adding value through the focused application of suitable technology while engaging in large-scale IT operations management.

●Regarded for the ability to deliver outstanding results with the highest degree of expertise and professionalism.

Areas of Expertise:

●Technology Leadership

● Project Management

● Team Leadership

● Process Improvement

●IT Strategy and Vision

● Operations Management

● Critical Thinking

● IS/QS 9000 Implementation

Career Achievements:

●Rigaku Americas Corporation. Oversees network services used by 450 employees across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland. Successfully managed through a crisis scenario where all network knowledge and passwords were lost, assembling a team of contractors to regain access and restructure the network as a scalable resource.

●Rigaku Innovative Technologies. Managed operations, with authority over departments that included Engineering, Manufacturing, Deposition, Facilities, Production Control, and Shipping and Receiving.

●Magnequench International Inc. Excelled in labor relations, managing a unionized workforce in a 24/7 operating environments; managed 225 production team members in a $125MM manufacturing company.

Company description: Since its inception in 1951, Rigaku has been at the forefront of analytical and industrial instrumentation technology. Today, with hundreds of major innovations to their credit, the Rigaku Group of Companies are world leaders in the fields of general X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin film analysis (XRF, XRD and XRR), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF, EDXRF and WDXRF), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), protein and small molecule X-ray crystallography, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray optics, semiconductor metrology (TXRF, XRF, XRD and XRR), X-ray sources, computed tomography, nondestructive testing and thermal analysis.