The CTOx Podcast

Sales can feel intimidating—especially for technical founders and Fractional CTOs who don’t see themselves as “salespeople.” In this episode, Marissa and Lior reframe selling from something uncomfortable into a powerful act of service. They break down the psychology behind why sales often feels icky, and offer practical mindset shifts to help you move from fear to confidence. From building trust through curiosity and storytelling to anchoring pricing in real business outcomes, this conversation shows you how to embrace selling as part of your identity as a leader. If you’ve ever struggled with the discomfort of pitching your value, this episode will give you the clarity, tools, and confidence to transform sales into one of your biggest strengths. You'll learn: Why many Fractional CTOs fear selling—and how to reframe it as service Practical ways to build trust through curiosity, listening, and giving value early How to use storytelling and “yes, and” thinking to connect and build rapport Why clarity in messaging and discovery drives stronger pricing confidence How to position your services authentically without sounding salesy Sales doesn’t have to feel like a battle—it can be the most meaningful way you serve clients and help them realize their vision. If you’re ready to shift your mindset and lead with confidence, keep following the CTOx Podcast. 🔔 Subscribe today and join the conversation shaping the future of Fractional CTO leadership #FractionalCTO #MindsetMatters #SalesMindset #CTOLeadership #StartupGrowth 

This episode tackles impostor syndrome for fractional CTOs, with Marissa and Lior breaking down why even seasoned leaders feel it—and how to move through it. They reframe confidence around proven activities, not titles or encyclopedic knowledge, and highlight leadership as creating new capabilities, not doing all the hands‑on work. Expect practical tools like an “evidence folder,” the “experience & impact inventory,” an Uber-inspired “in charge, not in control” model, and a strong bias to action that turns outreach into contracts.   You’ll learn: Why impostor syndrome shows up even for experienced leaders—and why niche context matters more than titles. How to build confidence assets: an evidence folder plus an experience & impact inventory that documents wins and outcomes. The leader’s real job: create new capabilities, orchestrate “who not how,” and allocate the best people instead of being hands‑on. A practical mindset shift: be “in charge, not in control,” using the Uber back‑seat analogy to scale impact across clients. Why action beats analysis: outreach → conversations → contracts; optimize for more at‑bats, not perfect swings.   For Fractional CTOs and tech leaders ready to trade analysis paralysis for decisive leadership, this conversation offers clear next steps—build evidence, lead from the back seat, and take action now. 🔔Subscribe for more playbooks tailored to Fractional CTO leaders.   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Mindset #ImposterSyndrome #TechStrategy

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, host Marissa sits down with Lior to unpack what it really means to leave corporate tech and step into the life of a Fractional CTO. Far from abstract theory, this conversation dives into daily rhythms, mindset shifts, and the systems that create both freedom and sustainability. From structuring client relationships with intention to balancing delivery with pipeline building, Lior shares a transparent look at what it takes to thrive in this entrepreneurial career path. Listeners will come away with clarity on how to design a fulfilling workweek, avoid burnout, and build a practice that supports not just business growth but also personal wellbeing.   You’ll learn: How to reframe your identity from “corporate leader” to entrepreneur in control of your day Why the right client mix creates stability, scalability, and resilience in your practice Practical routines for structuring your week to balance work, health, and family time A delegation framework that helps CTOs avoid burnout and focus on outcomes over firefighting Why consistent pipeline building is essential—even when you’re fully booked If you’re a Fractional CTO—or any kind of visionary leader—this conversation is a must-listen.   🔔 Subscribe for more insights on tech leadership.   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Hiring #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth

Making the leap from a W2 job to a fractional CTO role isn’t just about swapping paychecks—it’s about redefining value, outcomes, and freedom. In this episode, Marissa Brassfield and Lior Weinstein unpack the realities of leaving traditional employment and stepping into the autonomy of fractional work. They explore the mindset shifts needed to thrive, how to build trust and relevancy in your network, and why your first 30 days can make or break your trajectory. Whether you’re weighing the leap or already navigating early contracts, this conversation delivers the clarity, tools, and frameworks to approach the transition with intention and confidence. You’ll learn: Why outcome—not effort—is the foundation of fractional success How to convert your current employer into your first client The role of trust, relevancy, and content in building your pipeline How to frame compensation and scope to avoid hourly traps The critical moves to prioritize in your first 30 days as a fractional If you’re a Fractional CTO—or any kind of visionary leader—this conversation is a must-listen. 🔔 Subscribe for more insights on tech leadership   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Hiring #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth

In this episode, Lior Weinstein reframes how we think about AI—not as robots blindly following scripts, but as drivers navigating toward a mission. Using the powerful metaphor of AI agents as drivers, Leor explains why discernment, alignment, and judgment matter more than speed. From redefining automation to avoiding the trap of “artificial intimacy,” this conversation explores how fractional CTOs can integrate AI in ways that elevate human strengths instead of replacing them. You’ll hear examples of how agentic workflows are transforming business processes, what risks to avoid when automating high-stakes interactions, and why the future of tech leadership lies in designing capabilities that adapt and grow alongside human decision-making.   You’ll learn: Why AI agents differ fundamentally from traditional automation and RPA How judgment, alignment, and discernment shape responsible AI adoption Practical ways to identify workflows where agents create the most value The risks of over-automating communication-heavy or high-stakes interactions How leaders can grow organizations without over-hiring by leveraging AI agents   If you’re a Fractional CTO—or any kind of visionary leader—this conversation is a must-listen.   🔔 Subscribe for more insights on tech leadership   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Hiring #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth

This episode of the CTOx Podcast explores how fractional leadership extends beyond technology into the very core functions of business. Marissa and Lior unpack why roles in legal, finance, and marketing have long operated fractionally, even if not called that, and how this perspective helps founders and CEOs better understand the value of a Fractional CTO. With clarity and candor, the discussion reframes fractional work as efficient leadership, not part-time labor, offering practical ways to rethink organizational design. You’ll learn: • Why “fractional” refers to financial structure, not leadership quality • How legal and finance functions set the precedent for fractional leadership • The role of identity and industry history in shaping perceptions of fractional executives • Practical frameworks for deciding which roles should be fractional versus in-house • Signals that indicate a business is misaligning full-time and part-time talent This conversation challenges traditional assumptions about full-time leadership and highlights how fractional executives drive efficiency across core business functions. Fractional CTOs and tech leaders looking to reimagine their value in the modern economy won’t want to miss these insights.  🔔 Subscribe to the CTOx Podcast for more strategies to thrive as a FractionalCTO. #FractionalCTO #TechLeadership #BusinessStrategy #StartupGrowth #OrganizationalDesign

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, Marissa and Lior tackle the critical difference between consultants and Fractional CTOs—and why true leadership is about ownership, not just deliverables. Using memorable metaphors like sit-ups versus six-packs and firefighters versus sprinkler systems, they illustrate how consultants provide advice while Fractional CTOs embed within the business, lead teams, and stay accountable for outcomes. The discussion dives into how shifting from deliverables to responsibilities transforms trust, efficiency, and long-term impact. Whether you’re positioning yourself in the market or navigating client expectations, this conversation offers clarity on what it really means to lead as a tech executive. You’ll learn: • Why consultants focus on solving problems while Fractional CTOs define and own them. • How shifting from deliverables to responsibilities builds deeper client trust. • The role of accountability in creating long-term leadership impact. • Practical ways to position yourself beyond “consultant” language. • How to design efficient systems that prevent firefighting and protect your time. If you’re a Fractional CTO—or any kind of visionary leader—this conversation is a must-listen.   🔔 Subscribe for more insights on tech leadership   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Hiring #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth

Building Your Olympic Gold Medalist Leadership Team as a Fractional CTO | w/ Chris Johnson   In this episode, we sit down with leadership strategist and hiring expert Chris Johnson to explore how Fractional CTOs can build what he calls an “Olympic gold medalist leadership team.” Whether you’re scaling a startup or leading a tech transformation in a legacy company, assembling a world-class team is the difference between burnout and breakthrough.   Chris shares: •What elite hiring actually looks like •How to spot A-players before your competition does •Why most tech leaders hire too fast and regret it •The mindset shift needed to lead at the highest level •Tactical frameworks to assess leadership fit and cultural alignment   If you’re a Fractional CTO—or any kind of visionary leader—this conversation is a must-listen.   🔔 Subscribe for more insights on tech leadership   #FractionalCTO #Leadership #Hiring #TechLeadership #StartupGrowth

Today we dive into how you manage your cash flow as a Fractional CTO

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, we explore how fractional CTOs can position themselves as high-value leaders by building a magnetic personal brand. Learn how to differentiate yourself in a crowded market, communicate your unique value, and attract ideal clients without chasing them. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your consulting business, this conversation will give you the tools and mindset to elevate your visibility, credibility, and demand as a technology leader.

Today we dive into how to scale your business and not lose your freedom.

Today we discuss functional technology framework, unclogging, de-risking, and scaling tech teams.

Today we discuss sales tactics that Fractional CTOs can use to grow their business

In this brutally honest episode, Lior and Marissa break down why so many talented fractional CTOs stay broke—or worse, burn out. If you’ve ever felt stuck trading time for dollars, this one’s for you. From mindset to messaging to model, learn what actually drives revenue in a successful fCTO business (and what keeps most people spinning their wheels). No fluff. Just facts, frameworks, and a roadmap to making your tech skills pay off.

Today we discuss security breaches, startups, and scaling.

Today We Discuss A Better Way to Lead Tech Teams

Today we discuss why the best leaders go fractional first.

Today we talk about ways to unlock revenue as a Fractional CTO

Today we discuss the key ways to build trust with CEOs

Today we discuss how the right community can change everything for your career.