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The Tech Trek
By ElevanoTechnology
The Tech Trek episodes
- Grounded Leadership in Data
In this episode, host Amir sits down with Amit Sahani, Global Head of Data at StoneX, to delve into data leadership's practical and strategic aspects. Amit shares invaluable insights on building robust data solutions, tackling data quality challenges, and fostering alignment between data engineering and business objectives.
Listeners will gain practical advice on the importance of data governance, leveraging technological advancements like cloud computing, and incorporating feedback loops to drive continuous improvement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to bridge the gap between data and business.
Highlights
00:56 – Grounded Leadership in Data
Amit shares his philosophy on leadership and its role in successfully implementing data-driven solutions.
02:30 – Challenges in Delivering Business Solutions
Insight into the common hurdles organizations face when aligning data initiatives with business needs.
04:57 – Garbage In, Garbage Out
A deep dive into the critical issue of data quality and its impact on achieving high-fidelity business delivery.
10:00 – Adoption and Feedback Loops
Why continuous feedback loops are essential for improving data solutions and driving adoption across teams.
13:35 – Investment in Data Quality and Governance
Exploring the importance of prioritizing data governance to create a strong foundation for successful data strategies.
22:15 – The Role of Technology in Data Solutions
How advancements like cloud computing are shaping the future of data engineering and management.
Key Takeaways
- Data Quality is Everything: Poor data leads to poor outcomes. Investing in data quality is a non-negotiable for success.
- Feedback Loops Drive Improvement: Continuous feedback ensures that data solutions remain relevant and effective.
- Governance is Critical: Establishing strong data governance practices enables scalability and compliance.
- Technology is an Enabler: Leveraging tools like cloud computing enhances efficiency and flexibility in data solutions.
- Alignment is Key: Successful data solutions bridge the gap between engineering capabilities and busi
Guest:
Amit Sahani is the Global Head of Data at StoneX, with nearly two decades of experience in business transformation, cloud adoption, and international expansion across the US, South America, EMEA, and India. At StoneX, he has built a global data team, launched an in-house data aggregator, and established a market data services group, positioning data as central to the company’s digital transformation. With expertise in regulated industries and global operations, Amit drives transformative change through empathy, strategic insight, and a sharp focus on business outcomes, effectively engaging stakeholders at all levels.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asahani/
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28 min - SW Engineering Career Growth: The I.C. and Manager Relationship
In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir sits down with Shawn Stewart, VP of Engineering at Apartment List, to unpack the complex dynamics between individual contributors (ICs) and managers. Shawn offers a deep dive into career progression, fostering growth, and building aligned high-performing teams.
This episode is packed with actionable insights for ICs and managers striving to improve their professional relationships, promote effectively, and maintain team cohesion.
Episode Highlights:
Understanding Manager-IC Dynamics (00:10) Shawn explains the nuances of the relationship between ICs and managers, highlighting mutual responsibilities for growth and success.
Career Progression and Managerial Roles (01:41) Managers play a crucial role in shaping the career paths of their team members. Shawn delves into how managers can act as career enablers, providing guidance, feedback, and opportunities.
Challenges in Manager-IC Relationships (03:59) Navigating conflicts, differing goals, and maintaining alignment between ICs and managers is key to a harmonious workplace.
Importance of Calibration and Objective Evaluations (10:45) Shawn emphasizes the need for managers to calibrate team performance and conduct objective evaluations to avoid bias and ensure fairness.
Promotion and Growth Strategies (16:52) Shawn shares strategies for promoting ICs effectively and highlights the importance of setting clear growth paths and expectations.
Actionable Advice for Managers and ICs (20:58) Practical tips for managers to build trust and lead with empathy, and for ICs to communicate effectively and take ownership of their growth.
Key Takeaways:
Manager-IC Relationships Are a Two-Way Street Both parties must invest in understanding, trust, and open communication to thrive.
Managers Are Career Enablers Their primary role is to align team goals with individual aspirations while providing mentorship and support.
Calibration Ensures Objectivity Regular alignment on evaluations helps maintain fairness and prevents biases in promotions and feedback.
Career Growth Requires Deliberate Effort Both ICs and managers must plan and execute career development strategies actively.
Tune in to hear Shawn’s expert insights and practical advice for navigating the challenges of the modern workplace. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network!
Shawn Stewart is a seasoned software engineer and entrepreneur with a track record of innovation and success. He began his career running his own software business and contributing to multiple startups with successful exits. As a software engineer at Sportline.com, later acquired by CBS to become CBSSports.com, Shawn earned over 15 software patents and contributed to major platforms like NFL.com, MLB.com, and the Emmy-winning March Madness on Demand. He has since led critical development initiatives at Fidelity Investments, LinkedIn, Ultimate Software, and Gusto. Currently, Shawn leads engineering at Apartment List, leveraging machine learning and generative AI to revolutionize the renter experience.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irietek/----
Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player.
Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com
Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests?
Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)
25 min - Lowering the Cost of Curiosity in Data
In this episode of The Tech Trek, Amir Bormand is joined by Neil Bhandar, VP of IT Enterprise Data Analytics and Innovation at Generac Power Systems, to discuss the evolving role of data in business strategy and decision-making. Neil shares his insights on aligning technical capabilities with strategic goals, reducing the "cost of curiosity," and the transformative power of generative AI.
Key Discussion Points:
Aligning Business Strategy with Technical Capabilities:
Neil emphasizes ensuring technical capabilities align with business goals, enabling organizations to create meaningful value.The Role of Data in Decision-Making:
Data’s ability to maintain a balanced perspective is crucial for making informed, strategic business decisions, especially in dynamic environments.Generative AI and Business Transformation:
Neil explores how generative AI reshapes industries and why business leaders must develop a deeper understanding of its potential to stay competitive.Reducing the "Cost of Curiosity":
Learn how organizations can make exploring insights easier and more affordable, fostering innovation without escalating costs.Future of Data Technology
Neil discusses where data technology is headed, including its pivotal role in corporate strategy and innovation.Takeaways:
This episode offers actionable insights for data leaders and executives looking to:
- Foster alignment between strategy and technology.
- Embrace AI as a competitive differentiator.
- Build data-driven cultures that empower informed decision-making.
- Drive innovation while managing operational costs effectively.
Tune in to hear Neil's expert perspectives and practical advice for navigating the ever-evolving data and technology landscape.
Guest:
Neil Bhandar is the Vice President of IT Enterprise Data Analytics and Innovation at Generac Power Systems. With over two decades of experience in data analytics, business intelligence, and IT strategy, Neil specializes in transforming technical capabilities into strategic business outcomes. He has a proven track record of driving innovation, optimizing operational processes, and leading cross-functional teams to harness the power of data in decision-making. Neil is passionate about aligning technology with business goals to foster growth and efficiency, making him a respected leader in enterprise data analytics.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/NeilBhandar/
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Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player.
Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com
Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests?
Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)
37 min - Navigating AI Governance
In this episode, Amir sits down with Jim Olsen, CTO of ModelOp, to explore the essential role of AI governance in today's organizations. Jim shares practical insights into managing foundational models, emphasizing their impact on regulatory compliance, business performance, and innovation.
The conversation delves into the distinct challenges of implementing AI solutions, how governance aligns AI with business objectives, and the critical role of regulations. Learn how to navigate this evolving field and position AI as a strategic enabler for your organization.
What you'll learn:
Understanding AI governance:
Why it’s critical for managing risks, ensuring compliance, and aligning AI with business goals.Building an AI model inventory:
The first step in AI governance—tracking and maintaining an inventory of all AI models to enable better control and oversight.Managing the lifecycle of AI models:
From design to retirement—how to ensure models stay effective, compliant, and valuable throughout their lifecycle.The business case for governance:
How strong governance practices support performance metrics, innovation, and long-term ROI.Highlights:
- 01:20 The unique challenges of implementing foundational AI models
- 04:07 Defining the framework for AI governance
- 07:09 Why governance is essential for risk management and compliance
- 14:14 Measuring the performance and ROI of AI solutions
- 19:19 Practical examples of AI governance in action
- 21:48 What the future holds for AI governance
This episode is packed with actionable advice to help business leaders and technologists navigate the complexities of AI governance. Tune in to learn how to make AI work smarter for your organization.
Guest:
Jim Olsen is the Chief Technology Officer at ModelOp, where he leads the design and development of ModelOp Center, a cutting-edge product for AI Governance. With over 40 years of experience in software across a wide range of industries, Jim brings a wealth of expertise to his role. Currently, he works remotely from his off-grid cabin in Colorado, exemplifying his unique approach to innovation and technology leadership.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimolsen/
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Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player.
Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com
Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests?
Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)
28 min - Engineers as Innovators: Beyond Just Writing Code
In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir Bormand talks with Ken Kao, VP of Engineering at Rad AI, about the evolving role of engineers in driving business innovation. They explore how tech differentiation can give companies a competitive edge and how engineers can act as problem solvers and creative artists beyond just writing code.
Key Takeaways:
Tech Differentiation for Competitive Edge: Learn how technology-driven innovation can set companies apart.
Engineers as Artists and Problem Solvers: Engineers can move beyond code by creatively solving business problems.
Shifting Engineers Left: Involve engineers earlier in the business process to unlock more strategic value.
Business-Driven Tech Conversations: Bridge the gap between tech and business by fostering mutual understanding.
Future Engineering Skills: Develop critical thinking, business awareness, and adaptability to stay competitive in tech.
Episode Highlights:
01:40 - The Role of Engineering in Company Differentiation
02:42 - Real-World Examples of Tech Differentiation
06:50 - The Dynamic Nature of Tech-Driven Innovation
09:37 - Empowering Engineers for Business Impact
10:39 - Shifting Engineers Left in Business Discussions
11:47 - Competitive Edge Through Generative AI
12:47 - The Evolving Role of Software Engineers
13:19 - Engineers as Problem Solvers
14:38 - Engineers as Creative Artists Beyond Coding
16:54 - Bridging the Gap Between Tech and Business
17:43 - Future-Ready Skills for Engineers
20:40 - Automation and the Future of EngineeringListen now for expert advice on fostering tech innovation, empowering engineers, and driving business growth through strategic tech leadership!
Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)
23 min - Redefining Tech Debt: Conscious Decisions and Agile Engineering
Guest: Jordan Kaye, Head of Technology at Belvedere Trading
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Jordan Kaye redefines technical debt through a practical lens, emphasizing the importance of conscious decision-making and its impact on engineering velocity, quality, and business outcomes. He explains how technical debt should be approached like financial debt—intentionally incurred with clear trade-offs. Jordan also shares strategies for balancing agility and long-term system stability, offering actionable advice for tech leaders and engineering teams navigating high-impact projects.Key Takeaways:
- Redefining Tech Debt: Tech debt isn’t just “bad code” — it’s a conscious decision made to accelerate progress while accepting future challenges.
- Quantifying Debt: Use tools like issue boards to track, visualize, and manage tech debt over time.
- Business-Driven Engineering: Tech teams should align with business goals to ensure solutions drive meaningful outcomes.
- Balancing Quality and Speed: Prioritize flexibility over perfection, focusing on scalable and maintainable systems.
- Avoiding Premature Problem-Solving: Use "just-in-time scoping" to prevent wasted work and maintain agility.
Episode Highlights:
01:00 - Redefining Tech Debt as a Conscious Decision
03:45 - How to Quantify and Manage Tech Debt
07:10 - Business Context and Engineering Trade-Offs
10:50 - When Legacy Code Is Not a Problem
13:15 - Organizational Buy-In for System Maintenance
16:50 - Quality vs. Velocity: Finding the Right Balance
18:30 - Building Agile and Flexible Engineering Systems
22:00 - Avoiding Premature Problem-Solving through Just-in-Time ScopingConnect with Jordan Kaye:
- LinkedIn: Jordan Kaye on LinkedIn
- Personal Website: jordankaye.dev
Listen, learn, and redefine how your engineering team approaches tech debt! Share this episode with tech leaders and developers ready to rethink their approach. 🚀
28 min - Building Startup Resilience
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Amir Bormand sits down with Amnon Mishor, CTO of Gynger, to discuss startup resilience, founder mindset, and navigating tough economic times. Drawing from his experience building multiple startups during challenging market conditions, Amnon shares actionable insights on responsible growth, managing existential risks, and staying focused on core business goals.
Key Takeaways:
1. Redefining Resilience in Startups
Resilience isn’t about merely surviving tough times; it’s about positioning the company for long-term success.
The most successful companies have faced existential crises but persevered by adapting.
2. Founders’ Mindset During Tough Times
Founders must focus on what they can control, ignoring unpredictable macroeconomic shifts.
Avoid betting on the market or altering the company’s mission based on fleeting economic trends.
3. Responsible Growth vs. Rapid Expansion
Growth must be deliberate and grounded in clear, data-driven metrics.
Avoid hiring too quickly or building unnecessary features based on external pressures.
Always evaluate ROI on new product features and hiring decisions.
4. Navigating Investor Challenges
Finding the right investors who align with long-term goals is critical, even when funding is scarce.
Be ready to walk away from unfavorable deals to maintain strategic focus.
5. Managing Risks and Staying Focused
Founders often face the temptation to diversify products prematurely, risking dilution of the company’s core mission.
Focus on the startup’s superpower, avoiding the pitfalls of overextension.
Episode Highlights:
01:12 What Gynger Does: Embedded Financing for Tech Purchases
03:00 Defining Resilience Beyond Just Survival
04:23 Challenges of Building Startups During Market Downturns
06:38 Importance of Finding the Right Investors
10:45 Balancing Responsible Growth with Market Pressures
14:28 Avoiding the Trap of Overexpansion and Product Dilution
18:33 Why Startups Need to Stay Lean and Focused
20:29 Defining Responsible Growth in Practical Terms
25:55 Core Lessons from Founding Two Startups
Final Thoughts:
Amnon emphasizes that while founders can’t control market dynamics, they can build resilient companies through strategic decision-making, responsible growth, and unwavering focus. His experience in building startups during difficult economic periods offers valuable lessons for founders, investors, and tech leaders alike.
Connect with Amnon:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amnonmishor/
Email: [email protected]
Subscribe & Share:
Like this episode? Share it with your network and subscribe for more insightful conversations with tech leaders.
32 min - Leveling Up: Engineering Leadership and Career Progression
Join us for a deep dive into career progression in tech with Anant Gupta, SVP of Engineering and Data Science at Included Health. This episode explores the skills, decisions, and reflections that shape a fulfilling career in technology.
Anant shares lessons from his journey through senior engineering roles and leadership positions at companies like LinkedIn and Uber, offering practical advice on balancing technical mastery with leadership ambitions. Whether you're navigating transitions or striving for career happiness, this conversation provides actionable insights for every tech professional.
Episode Highlights
The Chef Analogy for Career Growth (02:33) Anant explains how career progression is like becoming a great chef—mastery comes from honing your craft, not just moving up the ladder.
Skills Beyond Engineering (03:45) Essential skills such as coaching, mentoring, and communication are crucial for leaders, extending beyond technical expertise.
Transitioning to Leadership Roles (05:22) Discover the nuances of moving from IC to management and the importance of helping teams succeed.
Finding Fulfillment (15:49) Insights on finding joy in your chosen career path and focusing on impact over titles.
Key Takeaways
Hone Your Craft: Focus on building deep expertise in your area, whether technical or managerial. Excellence is the foundation for growth.
Leadership Is About Others: Effective leaders focus on enabling their teams, creating a shared vision, and coaching for success.
Pursue Skills, Not Titles: Career happiness often comes from skill mastery and meaningful work, rather than chasing hierarchical promotions.
Reflect Often: Regularly assess where you find joy and impact, ensuring your career aligns with your values and goals.
Guest:
Anant Gupta is the SVP of Engineering and Data Science at Included Health, leading technology initiatives to redefine healthcare. Anant believes in the transformative power of technology to fundamentally alter how we live and interact with the world around us. He oversees initiatives that harness AI, comprehensive data platforms, and consumer technology to make healthcare more predictive, personalized, and accessible—aligning with the company's vision of personalized, all-in-one healthcare.
Before joining Included Health, Anant held significant roles at pre-IPO giants such as Uber and LinkedIn, managing large, multidisciplinary teams. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to leveraging technology for impactful solutions and a dedication to team development. By fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, Anant consistently drives substantial innovations, reinforcing his commitment to transforming how we experience and benefit from advanced technology.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anantgupta1/
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Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Tech Trek. We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to rate and review us on your favorite podcast player.
Want to learn more about us? Head over at https://www.elevano.com
Have questions or want to cover specific topics with our future guests?
Please message me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirbormand (Amir Bormand)
26 min - Navigating AI Models and Business Security
In this episode of The Tech Trek, host Amir Bormand sits down with Ron Williams, founder and CEO of Kindle, to explore the evolving world of AI models and their business implications. The conversation dives into how companies can securely leverage AI, the emerging risks tied to AI adoption, and the shift from cloud-centric models to AI-driven infrastructures. Ron shares valuable insights on managing these challenges while maximizing the potential of generative AI.
Key Takeaways:
AI as a "Smart Intern":
AI models are more than tools—they’re like smart interns who learn, adapt, and act on data.
Companies must be cautious about the risks of exposing data and intellectual property to AI systems.
Data Security in the AI Era:
AI presents risks beyond traditional data breaches as it learns and retains insights from sensitive information.
Organizations must rethink their security policies to address these new vulnerabilities.
The Future of SaaS and AI:
AI is reshaping software workflows, potentially reducing reliance on traditional SaaS platforms.
Companies must prepare for a shift toward personalized AI models that improve operational efficiency.
Ownership of AI Models:
Businesses need to invest in their own AI models rather than relying solely on third-party solutions.
Owning AI models ensures control over future capabilities and reduces dependency risks.
Highlights:
[00:00] Introduction Amir introduces Ron Williams and the focus of the episode: navigating AI and business security.
[01:00] What Kindle Does Ron explains Kindle’s role in AI orchestration and how it helps businesses manage AI capabilities securely.
[03:00] Comparing Cloud and AI Risks Discussion on how AI risks differ from traditional cloud data risks and the importance of understanding these nuances.
[06:00] AI and Competitive Risk Insights into how large companies and startups are navigating AI’s impact on competition and innovation.
[09:00] AI Models in the WorkplaceHow companies are deploying AI models to augment and, in some cases, replace traditional roles like customer service.
[12:00] Apple’s On-Device AI and Future TrendsThe benefits of localized AI models, such as privacy and operational independence, as exemplified by Apple’s approach.
[18:00] The Importance of Custom AI ModelsWhy building proprietary AI models is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in the future.
[24:00] Closing ThoughtsRon emphasizes the significance of AI in shaping the future of business and offers actionable advice for leaders.
Call to Action:
Share this episode with tech leaders who are navigating the complexities of AI adoption. Remember to subscribe and leave feedback on what topics you'd like us to cover next!
26 min - Data-Driven Innovation and Empowering Engineers
In this episode, Amir Bormand speaks with John Coles, VP of Data Science and Analytics at ACV Auctions. They dive into what it means to lead with a data-first mindset, empower engineering teams, and foster a culture of innovation through hackathons. John shares insights on balancing profitability, ROI, and innovation while addressing the critical role of context and flexibility for team success.
Key Takeaways
Data-First Culture: Building with data in mind from the start enables both immediate and future business opportunities.
Empowering Engineers: Providing context and flexibility allows engineers to innovate and adapt to rapidly evolving technologies.
Hackathons as Innovation Drivers: Structured and collaborative hackathons foster creativity, experimentation, and peer recognition.
ROI-Driven Decision Making: Embedding analytics within teams ensures alignment between business goals and engineering efforts.
Highlights
[00:01:00] - Introduction to ACV Auctions and its data-first approach to the automotive wholesale market.[00:04:00] - How providing context and flexibility fosters innovative solutions in engineering teams.
[00:07:00] - The role of hackathons in driving innovation and their integration into ACV's product roadmap.[00:08:00] - Importance of peer-driven recognition in hackathons to elevate impactful ideas.
[00:14:00] - Balancing innovation with business priorities: How ACV manages hackathon outputs and roadmaps.[00:17:00] - The role of upskilling and team enablement to turn hackathon ideas into actionable products.[00:20:00] - Examples of hackathon projects that have transformed into production solutions at ACV Auctions.[00:23:00] - The importance of embedding analytics into teams to measure ROI and drive insights.
Episode Quote
"Insight without delivery doesn’t result in value in a business. It’s interesting, but it doesn’t move you forward." — John Coles
This episode offers invaluable insights for tech leaders looking to balance innovation and business outcomes while empowering their teams to lead from any position within the company.
Guest:
John Coles, Ph.D. is the Vice President of Data Science and Analytics at ACV, where he leads data infrastructure, machine learning and data analytics strategy.
Prior to joining ACV, Dr. Coles held many leadership roles, including Chief Technology Officer and Chief Product Officer of Bronze Trident Inc., a startup in Buffalo, New York, where he designed the business model and product plan for an automated tax challenge software.Dr. Coles was recently recognized as an Auto Remarketing ‘40 Under 40’ Honoree (2021) and was awarded the Koopman Prize from the Military Appreciations Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS)—among other accolades.He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University at Buffalo, a Master of Engineering from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in Operations Research from the University at Buffalo.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-coles-28311015/
26 min
About The Tech Trek
From the publisher's feed
The Tech Trek is a podcast about how founders, operators, and technology leaders build and scale technology companies.
Each episode explores the decisions behind building products, teams, and technical organizations, with conversations spanning engineering, AI, data, product, hiring, leadership, and growth.
Guests share what they are building, what they are learning, and how they are navigating the challenges that come with turning technology into a successful company.