The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

In this episode, Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Carina Negreanu, CTO of Robin AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal industry. From her roots in physics and machine learning to leading one of the most innovative legal tech companies, Carina shares how Robin AI is using AI to simplify contracts, enhance trust, and improve lawyer productivity.The conversation dives deep into the intersection of AI, law, and human judgment, discussing the challenges of accuracy, bias, verification, and the evolving role of co-pilots and agents in legal workflows.⸻About Carina NegreanuCarina Negreanu is the CTO of Robin AI, a fast-growing legal tech company transforming how organizations manage contracts. Before joining Robin AI, she was Principal Research Manager at Microsoft Research, where she led groundbreaking work on formula generation and co-generation for Excel. Carina holds a PhD in Physics, where she studied Einstein’s General Relativity systems — a foundation that shaped her rigorous, data-driven approach to AI.⸻Key Takeaways • AI as an Enabler, Not a Replacement – Tools should empower lawyers to verify results and enhance confidence, not automate judgment. • Verification First Mindset – Robin AI’s approach builds user trust through transparency and feedback loops. • Bridging Accuracy and Bias – Continuous improvement and human oversight are essential for ethical AI adoption. • The Build vs. Buy Debate in AI – Why enterprises should evaluate long-term maintenance, model evolution, and vendor credibility. • The Adoption Challenge – AI success depends as much on user education and expectation-setting as on the technology itself. • Legal Co-Pilots & AI Agents – The next frontier: workflow automation that simplifies contract negotiation and legal research. • Personalization is the Future – AI that understands user preferences and adapts over time will redefine the legal workspace.⸻What You’ll Learn • How Robin AI automates and verifies complex contract review workflows • The importance of human-in-the-loop AI for high-stakes decisions • Why enterprise AI adoption struggles — and how to fix it • How legal copilots and agents are redefining trust, transparency, and productivity • The role of personalization and verification in next-gen AI systems⸻Episode Highlights (Timestamps)00:02 — Carina’s journey from physics to AI leadership00:05 — How Robin AI simplifies contract workflows00:09 — Tackling accuracy and bias in legal tech00:13 — Build vs. Buy: navigating AI decision-making00:18 — Why enterprise AI adoption often fails00:27 — The rise of legal copilots and workflow agents00:34 — The future of interoperability and AI ethics00:37 — Personalization as the next big leap in AI00:39 — Carina’s advice for CTOs evaluating AI partners⸻Resources Mentioned • Robin AI: https://robinai.com/ – Learn more about Carina’s company and its Legal Intelligence Platform • Carina Negreanu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carina-suzana-negreanu/

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we sit down with Mark Vange, founder of Autom8ly and former CTO at Electronic Arts, to explore what he calls “cooperative AI.”Mark shares how decades of experience in gaming, enterprise software, and automation shaped his belief that the true power of AI lies not in replacing humans but in partnering with them.From building video games at 13 to running global tech teams at EA and now leading AI-driven automation across industries, Mark explains how trust, context, and human design principles drive adoption and ROI.⸻👤 About Mark VangeMark Vange is a technologist, entrepreneur, and founder of Autom8ly, a platform that helps businesses implement AI automation through partnerships with vertical experts.He previously served as Chief Technology Officer at Electronic Arts, guiding the company’s transition from boxed titles to online, mobile, and social games.Today, Mark focuses on bridging AI’s technical potential with real-world business outcomes — building what he calls “a post-code world” where trust and attention are the new currencies.⸻💡 Key Takeaways • Cooperative AI > Autonomous AI: The future of automation lies in AI that works with people, not instead of them. • The Post-Code World: Code is no longer the moat — trust, domain knowledge, and market access are. • Adoption Through ROI: Start with tasks nobody likes doing; deliver measurable value fast. • Agility Re-Defined: Speed today isn’t about writing code — it’s about adapting architectures, partners, and trust frameworks. • Compliance as an Enabler: Secure, compliant, and explainable AI wins enterprise adoption. • Education Before Implementation: Clarity on the “why” behind automation is more valuable than hype or dashboards.⸻🎧 What Listeners Will Learn • How Autom8ly’s partnership-driven model helps vertical experts scale with AI. • The nine-step framework for identifying automation opportunities that deliver ROI. • Why “vibe coding” is a trap — and what real engineering looks like in a cooperative AI world. • How encrypted retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) enables privacy-first healthcare use cases. • Why trust and attention now matter more than algorithms or lines of code.⸻🕒 Episode Highlights00:02 — Mark’s journey from video-game prodigy to EA CTO00:08 — How Autom8ly partners with industry experts to scale AI solutions00:15 — Defining “Cooperative AI” and why it outperforms autonomous systems00:19 — Human trust and the psychology of AI adoption00:25 — Compliance and agility: balancing speed with enterprise trust00:33 — Building configurable, LLM-agnostic AI systems00:37 — The rise of the post-code world and the new moats of trust and access00:42 — Encrypted RAG in healthcare: AI with privacy by design00:46 — Advice for founders: start with real problems, not tech trends00:50 — AI buzzwords to ignore and why clarity beats vibes⸻🧭 Resources Mentioned • Autom8ly.com — Mark’s company website  • Mark Vange on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markvange • Autom8ly on Medium: https://medium.com/autom8ly

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, host Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Pete Steege, Founder of B2B Clarity and author of Radical Clarity. Pete helps “accidental CEOs” — technical experts who suddenly find themselves leading companies — move from chaos to focus by simplifying what matters most.They explore how meaning, empathy, and intentional leadership drive business growth, why founders must rediscover their true story, and how doing less can unlock exponential results.⸻👤 About Pete SteegePete Steege is the Founder of B2B Clarity, a consultancy helping B2B tech CEOs find clarity and focus in their business strategy and messaging. A former engineer turned advisor and author, Pete guides technical leaders to uncover the “why” behind their business and communicate it with radical simplicity.He’s also the author of Radical Clarity: Simplify to Grow, which offers frameworks for CEOs to align their team, culture, and growth around purpose.⸻💡 Key Takeaways • The concept of the Accidental CEO — when expertise turns into leadership. • Why doing less often accelerates growth. • The power of defining your company’s “true story” and bullseye market. • How empathy and generosity shape authentic leadership. • Why founders should say “no” more often — and how clarity becomes their compass. • Balancing authenticity and AI in the noisy digital age.⸻🎓 What You’ll Learn • How to identify your true purpose as a founder or CEO. • Practical ways to simplify your operations and messaging. • The mindset shift from expert to leader. • How radical clarity drives alignment across culture, customers, and growth.⸻🕒 Episode Highlights • 00:02:00 — What it means to be an “accidental CEO.” • 00:04:00 — The inspiration behind Radical Clarity. • 00:08:00 — The role of empathy and generosity in leadership. • 00:12:00 — Why doing less creates space for meaning and growth. • 00:24:00 — Authenticity, intention, and generosity as a CEO mindset. • 00:39:00 — How to stay human in the AI-driven world. • 00:50:00 — The Accidental CEO Audit and how Pete works with founders.⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • Book: Radical Clarity: Simplify to Grow — https://www.b2b-clarity.com/books/radical-clarity/ • Website: https://www.b2b-clarity.com/cto— access Pete’s frameworks, audit, and contact info.

In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Federico Ramallo, founder of Density Labs and Prevetted AI, to explore how technology, culture, and human connection intersect in building world-class engineering teams.From managing nearshore teams in Mexico to scaling engineering partnerships for U.S. startups, Federico shares the secrets behind a 6-year average retention rate, and why trust, ownership, and transparent communication are the real differentiators.They also dive into how AI is reshaping technical hiring, when to trust automation, and why the human layer still matters more than ever in the future of work.⸻👤 About the GuestFederico Ramallo is a serial entrepreneur, software engineer, and founder of Density Labs, a boutique engineering firm connecting U.S. companies with top Latin American talent, and Prevetted AI, a platform using AI and human judgment to screen and match world-class engineers.He is also co-author of Open the Valve: The New Path to Creative Play and host of the Prevetted Podcast.⸻🧩 Key Takeaways • How to build remote engineering teams that last for years, not months • Why empathy and feedback loops are key to retention • How to balance human screening with AI automation • The cultural nuances that make or break nearshore success • Why honesty and transparency are non-negotiable in global teams • What AI can and can’t replace in tech hiring⸻📚 What Listeners Will Learn • The operational systems behind high-performing global teams • How startups can use AI responsibly in recruitment • The power of under-promising and over-delivering in remote work • Practical lessons for CTOs hiring beyond their borders⸻🕒 Episode Highlights (Timestamps)00:00 – Introduction and Federico’s journey from Argentina to Mexico04:00 – Building Density Labs: solving the outsourcing “trust gap”10:00 – Quality, ownership, and feedback in remote engineering15:00 – How Prevetted AI combines AI agents with human screening23:00 – The impact of culture and communication on remote success27:00 – Achieving 6-year retention in engineering teams35:00 – Training programs and building future-ready engineers43:00 – Honest conversations about AI in recruitment47:00 – Will AI replace engineers? The real answer49:00 – Lessons from cross-border collaboration55:00 – Federico’s books, podcast, and creative philosophy⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • Prevetted AI: https://prevetted.ai/ • Density Labs: https://densitylabs.io/ • Open the Valve: The New Path to Creative Play (book) • Prevetted Podcast: https://prevetted.ai/podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/framallo/

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, host Mehmet Gonullu sits down with Eckhard Jann — former commercial pilot, safety manager, author of Error One, and host of the Error One podcast — to explore how lessons from aviation safety can transform leadership, culture, and decision-making in startups.Drawing from 30 years in the cockpit and years of investigating human error, Eckhard unpacks why mistakes are inevitable but manageable, how psychological safety shapes resilient teams, and why “error culture” may be the missing ingredient in modern business leadership.⸻👤 About the GuestEckhard Jann is a business consultant, author, and former commercial pilot with three decades of aviation experience. His bestselling book Error One and his podcast of the same name bring the science and psychology of human error to a global audience. Eckhard’s mission: to help leaders, founders, and teams build systems that learn before they fail.⸻💡 Key Takeaways • ✈️ Aviation’s secret: Every procedure, rule, and checklist was “written in blood” — mistakes are teachers, not threats. • 🧠 Error chains: Big failures are never caused by one mistake — they result from small, ignored signals that compound over time. • 🗣️ Culture over blame: Teams must be empowered to talk about errors without fear; silence is the real danger. • 🤝 Psychological safety: Great leaders invite criticism, feedback, and correction from everyone — even the youngest team member. • 🚀 Startup relevance: Just like in aviation, startups thrive when they treat missteps as learning loops, not career-ending moments.⸻🎓 What You’ll Learn • The concept of “Error One” and how to identify early warning signs in teams and organizations • How aviation built a resilient safety culture and what startups can borrow from it • Why blame culture kills innovation • How psychology and systems thinking can prevent failure before it happens • The role of human creativity in an AI-driven world where automation can’t anticipate the unexpected⸻🕒 Episode Highlights (Timestamps) • 00:00 – Introduction and Eckhard’s journey from pilot to author • 03:00 – Why aviation learned safety “written in blood” • 07:00 – The inevitability of human error and how we grow from it • 11:00 – The iceberg analogy: visible accidents vs. hidden small mistakes • 14:00 – Spotting early signals: empowering teams to speak up • 18:00 – The psychology of fear and building error-safe cultures • 23:00 – What startups can learn from cockpit teamwork • 30:00 – Leadership humility and feedback loops • 33:00 – SpaceX vs. Boeing: two mindsets on risk and failure • 35:00 – Why AI can’t replace human creativity in crisis situations • 41:00 – Inside the Error One podcast and its most powerful stories • 46:00 – Final reflections: separating the error from the person⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • 📘 Error One by Eckhard Jann — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DM6Z16GL?dplnkId=c43308fc-bc40-4317-b5af-eebb9c49a3ea&nodl=1 • 🎧 Error One Podcast — https://open.spotify.com/show/09uOW1cp2kQ3Qx91kjQslG?si=4OIu_CbUS-qtdk_FkePsaA • 🌐 http://www.errorone.net/ Training: https://aviationinvestigation.com/en/willkommen-beim-aviation-investigation-training-english/ • 🔗 Connect with Eckhard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eckhardjann

In this episode, Mehmet sits down with Sebastian Gierlinger, VP of Engineering at Storyblok, to explore what it really takes to build software and teams that stand the test of time. From composable architectures to developer-first design, Sebastian shares practical wisdom for engineering leaders navigating complexity, scalability, and AI adoption.The conversation moves beyond code—into mindset, balance, and how curiosity fuels sustainable innovation in a fast-changing world.⸻👤 About the GuestSebastian Gierlinger is the VP of Engineering at Storyblok, the leading headless CMS platform empowering developers and marketers to create, manage, and scale digital experiences seamlessly. At Storyblok, Sebastian leads teams across product, design, developer experience, and infrastructure—driving the evolution of modern content architecture and developer workflows.https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgierlinger/⸻💡 Key Takeaways • Composable Thinking: Why modular architectures give freedom, flexibility, and future-proof scalability. • Developer-First Philosophy: How to balance developer experience with marketing and design usability. • AI in Engineering: Where AI adds real value—from bug hunting to workflow acceleration—and where caution is still needed. • Fighting Complexity Creep: Why simplicity in infrastructure often wins over “trend-driven” tech adoption. • Building for Tomorrow: How to leave your path open—designing systems that adapt rather than age. • Shape Up Methodology: How Storyblok keeps developer motivation high and stress low with six-week build cycles. • Leadership in Tech: From learning Rust to staying relevant—why curiosity is a core trait of modern engineering leaders.⸻🎯 What You’ll Learn • The mindset shift from monolithic systems to composable, headless architectures. • The role of developer-first platforms in scaling innovation. • Real-world examples of cost and performance gains from digital modernization. • How to lead engineering teams through AI-driven change without losing quality or morale. • Why being technology-agnostic is essential for long-term sustainability.⏱️ Episode Highlights00:00 — Introduction and guest overview02:00 — What is Storyblok and how headless CMS transforms content delivery04:30 — Moving from legacy to composable architecture06:00 — What “developer-first” really means09:00 — The secret to creating unfair advantages in engineering11:00 — When to trust AI—and when to stay cautious14:00 — The rise of “bug hunting” with LLMs15:00 — Understanding “complexity creep” in DevOps19:00 — Building today with tomorrow in mind22:00 — Customer success story: Diamond Shipyards transformation25:00 — How AI and automation are reshaping content workflows27:00 — Balancing delivery pressure and team motivation30:00 — Using Shape Up methodology for sustainable pace31:00 — How engineers can grow into leadership34:00 — Framework fatigue, tech choices, and staying agnostic40:00 — Why outdated libraries can break your security frameworks42:00 — Final advice: stay curious, stay flexible, build sustainably🧭 Resources Mentioned • Storyblok: https://www.storyblok.com/ • Shape Up Methodology by 37signals • ISO/IEC 27001 Security Certification Framework

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into the digital transformation wave reshaping businesses in the UAE and beyond. Mehmet sits down with Moosa Alavi, Founder & CEO of Techbot ERP, to explore how cloud-based ERP solutions are empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to automate operations, make smarter decisions, and embrace the future of AI-driven business.From his 25-year journey in the signage industry to founding a leading ERP implementation company, Moosa shares firsthand lessons on scaling, cost-cutting through automation, and why ERP is no longer optional for modern businesses.⸻👤 About the GuestMoosa Alavi is the Founder & CEO of Techbot ERP, a Dubai-based company that helps businesses digitize operations and optimize performance through ERP implementation.He’s also a Gold Partner of DU (Odoo) and an active member of professional communities like BNI and IPA, championing mentorship, collaboration, and SME growth across the GCC.https://www.linkedin.com/in/moossa-m-alavi/⸻💡 Key Takeaways • The UAE’s $3.5B ERP market is booming — driven by digital transformation and compliance needs. • Cloud adoption and AI integration are revolutionizing how SMEs operate and make decisions. • A well-implemented ERP can reduce manual tasks, cut costs, and increase sales performance by up to 20%. • ERP isn’t just for big corporations — it’s now affordable, modular, and scalable for SMEs. • Moosa’s story proves that innovation often starts from personal pain points.⸻🧠 What You’ll Learn • How ERP and automation streamline business workflows. • Why digital transformation in the UAE is accelerating. • How AI and analytics are reshaping ERP systems. • The importance of professional communities for SME founders. • Lessons from scaling Techbot ERP across GCC and beyond.⸻🔍 Episode Highlights with Timestamps[00:00] — Welcome to The CTO Show with Mehmet[02:00] — Moosa’s journey: from signage manufacturing to ERP founder[05:00] — Discovering the gaps that led to Techbot ERP[09:00] — Why digital transformation is more than a buzzword[11:00] — Cloud, compliance, and cost-cutting: The real ERP drivers[15:00] — How going paperless boosts credibility and customer trust[18:00] — Understanding DU partnership and Odoo implementation[24:00] — Real business results: saving time, money, and manpower[29:00] — CRM and automation’s impact on sales growth[31:00] — The rise of AI-powered ERP and predictive insights[34:00] — Techbot’s expansion plans across GCC, Asia, and Europe[36:00] — The power of mentorship and community networks[41:00] — Final advice: ERP as a growth catalyst, not a cost⸻🧰 Resources Mentioned • Techbot ERP Website https://techboterp.com/

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into one of the most pressing questions of our time: Can privacy survive in the age of AI surveillance?Joining Mehmet is Kee Jefferys, Co-Founder of Session, a decentralized, privacy-first messaging platform built on blockchain technology. Kee breaks down how Session protects users from metadata tracking, how it differs from mainstream encrypted messengers, and why the future of secure communication depends on decentralization and design — not regulation.From AI’s hunger for data to global legislative pushes for backdoors, this episode exposes the real privacy battleground — and the technologies fighting back.⸻👤 About Kee JefferysKee Jefferys is the Co-Founder of Session, a decentralized private messaging app built on blockchain technology. With over seven years in the secure communications and crypto space, Kee’s work focuses on end-to-end encryption, metadata protection, and decentralized network infrastructure that prioritizes user anonymity.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kee-j-090502157/⸻💡 Key Takeaways • Metadata is the real privacy leak: Even if messages are encrypted, metadata reveals who talks to whom, when, and how often. • Decentralization is the defense: Session’s community-run node network eliminates centralized data collection points. • AI’s new appetite — your chats: As AI companies run out of training data, chat data is the next frontier. • No phone numbers, no emails, no tracking: Session removes identity links at signup, using seed phrases for recovery. • Privacy vs. policy: Governments in the UK, Australia, and EU are moving toward “chat control” legislation that could mandate surveillance backdoors. • Session’s model: A freemium app sustained by a decentralized token economy — built to stay independent, not ad-driven.⸻🎓 What You’ll Learn • How blockchain can power real-world privacy tools • The difference between encryption and metadata protection • Why AI surveillance is escalating the privacy arms race • How decentralized infrastructure creates resilience • What “Session Pro” means for sustainability without compromising anonymity⸻⏱️ Episode Highlights • [00:02:00] Kee’s journey from crypto networks to founding Session • [00:06:00] The dangers of metadata collection • [00:09:00] Governments pushing for encryption backdoors • [00:13:00] How Session’s decentralized nodes ensure privacy • [00:19:00] Scaling to 1M+ users without phone numbers or servers • [00:25:00] AI’s growing role in surveillance and data mining • [00:30:00] Building a sustainable, non-profit, privacy-first business • [00:36:00] The frictionless onboarding experience and UX design • [00:39:00] Kee’s advice for anyone starting their privacy journey⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • Session — Private Messaging App • ProtonMail — Encrypted Email • Tutanota — Secure Mail Alternative

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, host Mehmet Gonullu welcomes Marco Benítez, Founder & CEO of Rook, a data infrastructure company powering the next generation of preventive healthcare.From martial arts discipline to building one of the most promising health data platforms in the world, Marco shares his entrepreneurial journey, the evolution of wearables, and how clean data and AI are redefining human health.⸻👤 About the GuestMarco Benítez is a biomedical engineer and serial entrepreneur originally from Mexico, now based in the U.S. His company Rook connects over 400 wearables, medical devices, and lab tests through a single API—helping organizations transform raw biometric data into actionable health insights.⸻💡 Key Takeaways • How Rook’s API integrates 400+ devices to deliver real-time health intelligence • The evolution from fitness tracking to Medicine 3.0 and preventive care • Why data normalization and security compliance (HIPAA, GDPR) are core to scaling health tech • The role of AI in making wearable data truly meaningful for longevity and wellness • Marco’s founder mindset — how discipline, persistence, and transparency drive success⸻🎓 What You’ll Learn • Why the future of medicine lies in prevention, not reaction • The intersection of biomedical engineering, AI, and human behavior • How startups can leverage clean data to power reliable AI models • Lessons on raising capital in the U.S. health tech ecosystem⸻🕒 Episode Highlights00:00 – Intro & Marco’s journey from Mexico to Miami05:00 – The story behind Rook and its wearable integrations10:00 – Overcoming data privacy and compliance challenges18:00 – The shift from fitness apps to clinical-grade health platforms24:00 – Medicine 3.0 and the power of preventive data27:00 – AI’s role in transforming wearables into insights37:00 – Building a B2B SaaS model for health tech scalability40:00 – Marco’s advice for founders raising in the U.S.44:00 – The future of health data and Rook’s vision⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • Rook Official Website: https://www.tryrook.io/ • Medicine 3.0 by Peter Attia (book reference) 

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Steve and Melissa Fultz — founders of The Fultz Group, authors of Family Business Facelift, and consultants helping family businesses unlock hidden revenue and embrace digital transformation.From uncovering inefficiencies worth hundreds of thousands to guiding owners through AI adoption, Steve and Melissa share practical strategies for future-proofing businesses while keeping the human touch at the core.Whether you’re a founder, family business owner, or investor, this conversation will open your eyes to how technology and automation can transform businesses without losing what makes them human.About the GuestsSteve & Melissa Fultz are co-founders of The Fultz Group. Melissa brings decades of Fortune 500 leadership experience in healthcare and automation, while Steve combines family business roots with psychology and marketing expertise. Together, they help business owners scale, modernize, and find freedom through systems and technology. They are co-authors of Family Business Facelift.Key Takeaways • Why many business owners wear “velvet handcuffs” — and how to break free. • The hidden revenue formula that uncovers $50K–$100K without extra marketing spend. • How AI and automation can serve as a “board of advisors” for small businesses. • Why tech readiness assessments are the first step to digital transformation. • The importance of human connection in a tech-driven world.What You’ll Learn • How to identify inefficiencies and hidden revenue streams in your business. • Practical ways family businesses can modernize without massive budgets. • How to overcome resistance to technology and build team-wide adoption. • The role of coaching, community, and mentorship in digital transformation.Episode Highlights • [00:05] The “velvet handcuffs” problem: when businesses own their owners. • [00:12] Why many companies resist modernization — and how to overcome it. • [00:20] How to set realistic expectations for AI adoption. • [00:28] Coaching, community, and group learning as transformation catalysts. • [00:35] Case study: helping a business owner scale and pursue her passion. • [00:45] Future of AI, automation, and the importance of the human touch.Resources Mentioned • Family Business Facelift (Book + Workbook) – https://a.co/d/jfvef06 • Steve’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefultzphd/ • Melissa’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahufffultz/https://bizgrowthmatters.com/

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Lori Crooks, CEO of Cadra, to explore the evolving world of compliance and cybersecurity. From FedRAMP and SOC 2 to the latest AI regulations, Lori breaks down why compliance matters, where companies often go wrong, and how startups can use compliance as a competitive advantage.We also dive into Lori’s entrepreneurial journey as a solo founder in a male-dominated industry, her lessons learned in building Cadra, and her advice for the next generation of founders and leaders.About Lori CrooksLori Crooks is the founder and CEO of Cadra, a consultancy specializing in cybersecurity compliance. With 20+ years of experience spanning government, accounting, and technology, Lori helps organizations navigate complex frameworks such as FedRAMP, SOC 2, ISO, PCI DSS, and HIPAA. Beyond compliance, she is passionate about mentoring women in cybersecurity and building the next wave of leaders in the field.Key Takeaways • Why compliance is more than just checking a box • The most misunderstood aspects of frameworks like FedRAMP, SOC 2, and HIPAA • The hidden risks of third-party vendors and supply chains • How startups can prepare for compliance before selling to enterprise or government customers • The role of training programs in preventing human-factor breaches • The cultural balance between security and productivity • How AI and automation are reshaping compliance audits and regulations • Lori’s entrepreneurial lessons as a solo founder in cybersecurityWhat You’ll LearnListeners will gain practical insights into: • Building and maintaining compliance readiness year after year • Protecting customer data as a startup or SME • Evaluating and managing third-party vendor risks • Implementing effective employee security awareness programs • Understanding emerging AI compliance frameworks like ISO 42001 and NIST’s AI Cybersecurity Framework • Finding your niche and building credibility in a competitive industryEpisode Highlights • [00:04] Lori’s journey from accounting to cybersecurity • [00:07] Why FedRAMP is the toughest compliance framework today • [00:11] The ongoing nature of compliance (not a one-time project) • [00:13] Third-party vendor risks and real-world examples • [00:17] Security training programs that actually stick • [00:21] Balancing compliance with company culture • [00:23] AI and automation in compliance audits • [00:26] Are we ready for AI regulation? • [00:29] Data leaks, LLMs, and employee training • [00:30] Lori’s entrepreneurial journey as a solo founder • [00:33] Competing with Big Four consultancies by finding a niche • [00:36] Encouraging more women in cybersecurity • [00:38] Advice for startup founders on what not to neglectResources Mentioned • Cadra – www.cadra.com • Connect with Lori Crooks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-crooks/

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I’m joined by Chad Link, Co-Founder & CEO of Swyvvl, and Rob Brower, Co-Founder & CTO. Together, they share their journey of building Swyvvl — a PropTech startup that’s reimagining how real estate transactions are done by shifting power back to buyers, sellers, and agents.We dive into how Chad’s 18 years in real estate brokerages revealed systemic inefficiencies, how Rob turned that vision into a scalable platform, and why disrupting a legacy industry like real estate requires both grit and tech innovation.About the Guests • Chad Link – Co-Founder & CEO of Swyvvl. Veteran real estate broker with 18+ years of experience, founder of multiple brokerages, and passionate about fixing broken incentives in home buying and selling. • Rob Brower – Co-Founder & CTO of Swyvvl. A lifelong technologist, serial entrepreneur, and digital media veteran who transformed Chad’s vision into a nationwide PropTech platform.Key Takeaways • The hidden cost of middlemen in real estate — and how Swyvvl is solving it. • Lessons from living out of a car to keep a brokerage alive. • Why building PropTech is harder than it looks: from data access to compliance. • How AI and blockchain will play a role in the future of real estate platforms. • The importance of finding co-founders who believe rather than just earn.What You’ll Learn • How PropTech startups can challenge entrenched industry giants. • Why emotional decision-making in home buying matters as much as logical filters. • The grind and sacrifices behind turning a brokerage pain point into a tech startup. • Insights into scaling Swyvvl from beta to a national platform.Episode Highlights • (00:02:00) Chad’s journey from real estate broker to startup founder. • (00:04:00) Rob on how a client relationship evolved into a co-founding story. • (00:10:00) The problem with referral fees and why buyers/sellers never see the value. • (00:18:00) The tech stack challenges of building a national real estate platform. • (00:29:00) Using AI to match emotional preferences in home searches. • (00:41:00) Exploring future revenue streams and blockchain possibilities. • (00:47:00) How investors are viewing PropTech today. • (00:51:00) Advice for PropTech founders: leave your ego at the door, embrace the grind.Resources Mentioned • Swyvvl Official Website: https://www.swyvvl.com/ • Contact Chad: chad@swyvvl.com • Contact Rob: rob@swyvvl.com

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Jeff Greenfield, CEO of Provalytics, to unpack one of the biggest shifts in marketing: moving from click-based attribution to AI-driven attention analytics.From the death of cookies to the rise of connected TV, podcasts, and non-click channels, Jeff explains how marketers, CFOs, and entrepreneurs alike can avoid wasting ad spend, uncover the real ROI of campaigns, and navigate a marketing world where “less wrong” beats the illusion of precision.⸻👤 About the GuestJeff Greenfield is the CEO of Provalytics, an AI-driven attribution platform helping brands and finance leaders understand what’s really working in their marketing. A pioneer in multi-touch attribution, Jeff previously co-founded C3 Metrics and has decades of experience working with some of the world’s largest marketers.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/⸻💡 Key Takeaways • Why clicks are misleading and why attention is the metric that matters. • How the cookie collapse is reshaping marketing measurement. • The hidden 15–25% revenue drop companies face without new attribution models. • Why CFOs, not just CMOs, must own marketing accountability. • The role of AI and machine learning in running “micro-experiments” for smarter spend. • The overlooked power of creative and emotional resonance in ad effectiveness.⸻📚 What You’ll Learn • How to future-proof your marketing in a cookie-less, non-click world. • How Provalytics uses AI-driven incrementality modeling to unlock true ROI. • Why a holistic view of marketing beats fragmented channel-by-channel ROI. • The B2B angle: how startups and enterprises alike can apply these methods.⸻🕑 Episode Highlights00:02 – Jeff’s journey from marketer to attribution pioneer.00:06 – Life after cookies: what marketers still get wrong.00:12 – How the cookie collapse leads to a 15–25% revenue drop.00:16 – Rise of non-click channels: CTV, podcasts, digital out-of-home.00:20 – Provalytics’ AI approach to impressions and incrementality.00:28 – Moving from deterministic to holistic ROI.00:31 – Why CFOs are now central to marketing accountability.00:37 – Creativity, emotions, and the forgotten power of messaging.00:40 – How B2B companies can still apply these insights.00:43 – Resources and Jeff’s free attribution certification course.⸻🔗 Resources Mentioned • https://provalytics.com • GetProva.com • Free Attribution Certification Course (via Provalytics Resources)

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we dive into the future of management with Jack Skeels, CEO of Agency Agile and author of Unmanaged. Jack shares why traditional command-and-control structures are outdated, how hidden dysfunctions cripple organizations, and what it takes to unlock true productivity in the age of AI.We explore why overmanagement is slowing teams down, the warning signs leaders should watch for, and how AI can either reinforce bad habits—or transform organizations when paired with agile, human-centric practices.Key Takeaways • Why most management practices are outdated—and what to do instead • The “plateau of optimism” and “chasm of despair” in projects and transformations • How to spot hidden dysfunctions that derail productivity • Why AI won’t fix bad processes—and how to redesign work for real impact • The power of asking why and questioning the status quoWhat You’ll Learn • How to move from bureaucracy to agility in your organization • Practical techniques to boost productivity and reduce rework • Why unleashing talent beats overmanaging • How AI is reshaping teams, value chains, and leadership rolesAbout Jack SkeelsJack is the founder and CEO of Agency Agile, where he has worked with nearly 200 organizations to help them run faster, better, and happier. With a career spanning programming, project management, consultancy, and research at the RAND Corporation, Jack brings a unique perspective to modern leadership. His award-winning book Unmanaged offers a blueprint for rethinking how teams thrive.https://www.amazon.com/Unmanaged-Master-Creating-Empowered-Organizations/dp/B0CLSJJJ49https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackaskeels/Episode Highlights • [02:00] Jack’s journey from programmer to RAND researcher to Agency Agile founder • [07:00] Why outdated management persists and the role of education in leadership • [12:00] Warning signs of overmanagement and how to measure real productivity • [18:00] Why CEO buy-in is non-negotiable for transformation • [20:00] The “plateau of optimism” and “chasm of despair” in projects • [24:00] How AI changes management—and why undoing structures is key • [31:00] Trust and manipulation in AI decision-making • [37:00] Jack’s book Unmanaged and its core lessons • [40:00] Advice for the new generation of leaders: think different and always ask why

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, Angela Thomas shares her extraordinary journey from growing up in East Germany to building award-winning businesses, reinventing her career, and now helping entrepreneurs scale in Dubai.We dive into the misconceptions about scaling, the role of authenticity, why reinvention is critical, and why Dubai has become a global hub for entrepreneurs.Key Takeaways • Why authenticity is a non-negotiable asset when scaling a business • The difference between scalable and non-scalable models (time vs. value detachment) • How value ladders unlock sustainable growth • Why founders must invest in their own development before their businesses can grow • Dubai’s rise as the “Disneyland for entrepreneurs”⸻What You’ll Learn • How to reinvent yourself without abandoning your past achievements • Strategies to avoid stagnation and overcome plateaus • The importance of lead magnets, trust-building, and tiny challenges in client acquisition • Why moving to Dubai offers unique opportunities for global foundersAbout Angela ThomasAngela Thomas is the founder of Angel Success Consulting, a Dubai-based entrepreneurial family office that helps founders, doctors, and service providers scale sustainably and internationally. With nearly 30 years as a serial entrepreneur, Angela has built and sold businesses across industries – from retail and real estate to aviation, healthcare, and luxury.Today, she is known as Europe’s #1 Scaling Expert and the visionary behind high-impact programs like Skillionair, Skillionize, and Dubai Docs Fast Track – a relocation success model for physicians entering the UAE market.https://www.angelsuccess.consulting/https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-thomas8/Episode Highlights • [00:02:00] Angela’s entrepreneurial roots in East Germany • [00:07:00] Reinvention and overcoming the fear of leaving success behind • [00:13:00] Why authenticity matters more than ever in business • [00:16:00] Business doesn’t grow unless the founder does • [00:21:00] Scalable vs. non-scalable business models • [00:26:00] The process Angela uses to help founders find growth • [00:33:00] Why she calls her boutique setup a “Family Office 2.0” • [00:36:00] Dubai as the Disneyland for entrepreneurs

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Rob Matzkin, a serial entrepreneur, investor, and connector who has built and exited multiple companies and now advises startups on scaling, fundraising, and execution.Rob shares the hard truths of entrepreneurship — why execution beats hype every time, what founders get wrong about investor readiness, and how AI is reshaping startup moats. We also dive into founder burnout, the myth of overnight success, and the importance of building authentic relationships.Key Takeaways • Why most founders are not actually investor-ready • How to show traction and de-risk your pitch to investors • The double-edged sword of AI in fundraising and positioning • Why execution > ideas (and how to prove it) • How to avoid burnout and build a sustainable founder journeyWhat You’ll Learn • The stages of fundraising explained clearly (friends & family, pre-seed, seed, Series A) • The signals investors actually look for — beyond hype and storytelling • How startups can think about moats in the age of AI • The role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadershipAbout Rob MatzkinRob has founded and led 16 different companies, with multiple exits across sectors. Today, he consults founders on reaching product–market fit, scaling to millions in ARR, and navigating capital raising. He is also the host of the Purpose-Driven Summit and a recognized global connector across business, sports, and the arts.https://robmatzkin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-j-matzkin-06027634/Episode Highlights • (00:04:50) Why founders think they’re unique (but they’re not) • (00:09:30) The truth about being “investor-ready” • (00:14:00) Risk vs reward: how investors really decide • (00:22:00) AI hype vs real AI companies — what matters now • (00:30:00) Product–market fit and why most founders misunderstand it • (00:33:30) Burnout, balance, and the myth of working 16-hour days • (00:44:30) Why most public stories about success are PR illusions

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Tomas Navickas, Co-Founder and CTO of myTU, a digital-first financial institution known for running an entire bank on less than €1,000/month in cloud costs. We explore how efficiency, AI, and smart architecture are redefining the future of digital banking and fintech.Tomas shares how myTU built efficiency into its DNA, why fraud prevention requires more than rules, and how APIs and AI are reshaping payments. This conversation is packed with insights for founders, CTOs, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, regulation, and finance.Key Takeaways • How efficiency became myTU’s moat in a competitive fintech landscape • Lessons from running a bank on €1K/month in cloud costs • The role of AI in fraud prevention — from reactive to real-time decisioning • Why APIs are the future of B2B payments • Cloud-native vs. legacy banking systems: what traditional banks can’t solve • The next wave of digital banking innovation: conversational interfacesWhat You’ll Learn • Practical strategies for scaling efficiently without massive infrastructure spend • How AI is transforming fraud detection and compliance in fintech • The regulatory realities of building a cloud-first bank • Why support can be minimized by design before AI automation • Where fintech is heading in the next decadeAbout Tomas NavickasTomas Navickas is the Co-Founder and CTO of myTU, a European fintech building cloud-native digital banking solutions. With over two decades of experience in software, engineering, and financial systems, Tomas brings deep expertise in building efficient, scalable, and secure platforms.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ntomas/https://www.mytu.co/Connect with The CTO Show • Subscribe to the newsletter: MEA Tech & Startup Digest • Follow Mehmet Gonullu on LinkedIn • Share this episode with founders, CTOs, and investors who care about fintech innovationEpisode Highlights • [00:03:00] Tomas’s journey from coding at age 6 to CTO and fintech founder • [00:05:00] Running a bank on €1K/month — architecture decisions that made it possible • [00:10:00] AI’s role in fraud prevention and customer protection • [00:17:00] Cloud-native vs. legacy banks: why traditional migration fails • [00:29:00] Reinventing B2B payments with APIs • [00:40:00] How AI could automate compliance, support, and even development • [00:46:00] Predicting the next wave of digital banking innovation • [00:50:00] Tomas’s advice for founders and aspiring fintech builders

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Soha Ashrafian, co-founder of Temis and a fearless serial entrepreneur who turned early challenges into a global track record of business building. From launching her first startup at 21 in Iran—against social resistance and financial restrictions—to building ventures across Dubai, Soha’s journey is a powerful lesson in resilience, creativity, and the true drivers of business success.We dive deep into why distribution and execution matter more than ideas, the art of storytelling in marketing, and how entrepreneurs can use MVPs to test and scale quickly without over-engineering. Soha also shares her perspective on empowering women entrepreneurs in the MENA region, embracing creativity in branding, and navigating opportunities in the AI era.Key Takeaways • Why execution beats ideas every time • The importance of MVP testing before investing heavily in product development • How storytelling makes marketing memorable • Lessons on resilience and determination when society doubts your path • The role of distribution and partnerships in sustaining growth • Why fearlessness and boldness are essential traits for entrepreneurs⸻What You’ll Learn • How Soha built her first company with zero money, zero experience, and 1000+ clients • Why focusing on distribution and marketing is more critical than a polished product in the early stages • The mindset shifts entrepreneurs need to push past societal expectations and barriers • How to apply story-selling instead of hard selling to build lasting brands • Where the biggest opportunities lie for marketers and creators in MENAAbout the GuestSoha Ashrafian is a Dubai-based entrepreneur and co-founder of Temis. She has founded and invested in multiple ventures, from digital marketing and beauty to mobile gaming and SaaS platforms. Her passion lies in marketing, distribution, and creating sustainable, profitable businesses. With a background that spans Iran, Italy, and Dubai, Soha brings a global mindset to building and scaling ventures.Connect with Soha:https://www.linkedin.com/in/soha-ashrafiyan/https://www.instagram.com/soha_ashrafian/https://www.temisbranding.com/Episode Highlights⏱️ 00:02 – Growing up in Iran and dreaming beyond limitations⏱️ 00:07 – Launching a business at 21 despite resistance⏱️ 00:16 – Why distribution beats product and brand⏱️ 00:18 – Testing ideas with low-cost MVPs in 48 hours⏱️ 00:24 – Storytelling vs selling in marketing⏱️ 00:28 – Lessons from Apple and Steve Jobs’ branding approach⏱️ 00:39 – Advice to her younger self: Be fearless and bold⏱️ 00:42 – Future opportunities in marketing and AI

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, I sit down with Jon Sabes, Founder & CEO of Longevity FP, serial entrepreneur, and author of Healthy Wealthy Longevity. We explore how the intersection of health, wealth, and technology is reshaping our future. From the basics of extending healthspan to the economic implications of an aging population, Jon shares practical wisdom and groundbreaking insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in living longer — and better.📌 Key Takeaways • Why longevity is the missing piece in financial planning. • How healthspan and wealthspan must align for a fulfilling life. • The basics of longevity — movement, nutrition, purpose, and connection. • Journaling as a tool for focus, clarity, and stress reduction. • The rise of the longevity economy and opportunities for entrepreneurs. • How AI and wearables will transform financial services and healthcare.⸻🎧 What You’ll Learn • How to prepare financially for a longer life expectancy. • The role of purpose and human connection in aging well. • Practical daily habits to extend both healthspan and wealthspan. • Why entrepreneurs must treat health as the antidote to stress. • The macro-trends driving growth in the global longevity economy.👤 About the GuestJon Sabes is a serial entrepreneur and CEO of Longevity Financial Partners (Longevity FP). With a career rooted in financial services and life insurance, Jon has become a leading voice on how longevity science impacts financial planning, retirement, and human well-being. He is also the author of Healthy Wealthy Longevity: The Good Things in Life for as Long as Possible.https://linktr.ee/jsabeshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-sabes-14368257/Episode Highlights (Timestamps)00:02 — How Jon transitioned from financial services into longevity science00:06 — Why retirement planning is broken and the real “magic number” for savings00:10 — Healthspan vs. lifespan: why the difference matters00:14 — The Blue Zones and the fundamentals of longevity00:18 — Stress, entrepreneurship, and why movement is medicine00:22 — Journaling as a tool for clarity and resilience00:29 — The risks of ignoring health and self-care in pursuit of success00:34 — Rethinking wealth and happiness beyond money00:38 — The longevity economy: a massive demographic shift00:42 — AI, wearables, and the future of financial services00:46 — Final thoughts: preparing for a longer, healthier, wealthier life

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, Derrick Girard shares his remarkable journey from financial services advisor to tech founder — despite having no technical background. Derrick opens up about scaling his company without a traditional sales team, surviving multiple lawsuits, and ultimately selling his business. His story is one of grit, resilience, and what he calls the FIO (Figure It Out) mindset — a framework every founder and leader can adopt to overcome obstacles and drive success.🚀 Key Takeaways • Why excuses are never the solution in entrepreneurship • How Derrick scaled without a traditional sales team • The importance of validating an idea in a resistant market • Lessons from navigating three simultaneous lawsuits • Why success is “stairs, not an elevator” — and the reality check founders need • Building a culture of ownership and resilience inside growing teams⸻🎧 What You’ll Learn • Practical strategies for validating and scaling a startup in regulated industries • How to compartmentalize challenges and stay focused under extreme pressure • The difference between the victim mindset and the solution mindset • Why documenting agreements — even with family and friends — is critical for founders • How to instill the Figure It Out mindset across teams and organizations👤 About Derrick GirardDerrick Girard is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker who built and exited a tech company in the highly regulated financial services sector. With no formal background in technology, he relied on persistence, problem-solving, and the FIO mindset to navigate challenges that included investor disputes, lawsuits, and industry resistance. Today, Derrick helps founders and leaders embrace resilience, take ownership, and build solutions-driven cultures. He is also the author of Put to the Test: The FIO Mindset.https://derrickgirard.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickgirard/https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966190581?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_W4Z0S11X2YDG28CRKE17&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_W4Z0S11X2YDG28CRKE17&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_W4Z0S11X2YDG28CRKE17&bestFormat=true&newOGT=1Episode Highlights • (02:30) Derrick’s unlikely path from finance to tech entrepreneurship • (05:00) Scaling without a sales team and replacing it with relationship managers • (07:30) Validating the idea through networks, questions, and conferences • (11:00) Navigating three lawsuits while scaling the company • (18:30) Why “success is stairs, not an elevator” • (23:00) The danger of excuses and the rise of the victim mentality • (27:00) Applying the FIO mindset to teams and organizations • (31:00) Reality checks every founder should do before starting up • (38:00) Redefining entrepreneurship: problem solvers vs. titles • (44:00) Derrick’s mission today and how to connect with him