Drowning In The Talent Pool

Navigating Career Pathways and Leadership Insights with Andy Ellis

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Today I welcome Andy Ellis, partner at Wild Ventures, to discuss career journeys, leadership challenges, and the essence of inclusion in the workspace.

Andy shares his unique professional path from his time at Akamai Technologies to the Air Force and beyond, offering insights into leadership and personal development.

We also explore the dynamics of hiring for startups versus established companies, the importance of engaging and retaining talent, and strategies for effective management.

Additionally, Andy talks about his book, '1 Percent Leadership,' and how it distills essential leadership lessons into practical advice.

00:00 Introduction

00:23 Guest Introduction: Andy Ellis

00:58 Andy's Career Journey

02:09 Life Lessons and Early Jobs

03:42 Family and Financial Lessons

05:52 The Importance of Inclusion

07:00 Writing the Leadership Book

09:13 Leadership and Inclusion Insights

14:43 Interview Tips and Personal Development

20:26 The Role of Interviews: Saying No

20:44 Navigating the Interview Process

21:26 Interviewing Founders vs. Executives

22:20 The Startup Ecosystem and Team Dynamics

23:30 Hiring Executives for Immediate Needs

24:37 Challenges in Talent Sourcing and Leadership

30:31 The Importance of Team Alignment

31:35 Developing Future Leaders

35:16 Mismanagement of Expectations

39:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbr2th/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbr2th.techtalent/

Find Out More at SBR2TH: https://www.sbr2th.com/podcast/

Learn More About Andy Ellis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/csoandy/

How to Navigate Post-Election Economic Shifts and Talent Strategies with Alex Chausovsky

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0000

Today I am joined by Alex Chausovsky, Director of Analysis and Consulting at the Bundy Group. The discussion delves into the implications of the post-2024 election landscape on the market, including economic trends, the labor market, and industrial shifts.

Alex shares insights on his career journey from market intelligence to economic forecasting and talent strategy, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in business. The episode also covers strategies for companies to attract and retain talent, the impact of remote work, and the necessity for businesses to adapt to evolving economic conditions.

The conversation underscores the importance of treating employees as partners to enhance engagement and retention.

00:00 Introduction

01:52 Alex Chausovsky's Career Journey

07:51 Economic Landscape Post-2024 Election

18:40 Impact of Policies on Business and Labor Market

22:39 Labor Market Challenges in Construction and Agriculture

24:02 The War for Talent: Strategies for Companies

26:01 Navigating the Competitive Landscape for Professionals

26:46 Adapting Hiring Processes for Efficiency

27:48 The Importance of Communication and Transparency

29:38 Remote Work and Workforce Stratification

40:53 Treating Employees as Partners

43:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbr2th/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbr2th.techtalent/

Find Out More at SBR2TH: https://www.sbr2th.com/podcast/

Learn More About Alex Chausovsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexchausovsky/

Flexibility and Trust: Transitioning Leadership Roles with Norma Tirado-Kellenberger

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000

Today, I sat down and interviewed Norma Tirado-Kellenberger, CHRO of Access Community Health Network. We discuss the unique career transitions Norma has made across multiple C-suite roles, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, trust, and leadership.

The conversation delves into how talent management, personal relationships, and fostering a strong organizational culture have influenced her career, exploring the significance of asking the right questions, building trust, aligning team goals, and the emotional connection needed to drive organizational success.

00:00 Introduction

00:54 Norma's Career Journey

03:33 The Importance of Relationships in Leadership

04:40 Leadership and Asking the Right Questions

08:26 Curiosity and Flexibility in Leadership

22:34 Respectful Disagreement and Trust

29:04 The Power of Purpose and Emotional Connection

35:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbr2th/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbr2th.techtalent/

Find Out More at SBR2TH: https://www.sbr2th.com/podcast/

Learn More About Norma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/normatiradokellenberger/

Aligning Revenue Operations and Company Culture for Sustainable Growth With Steve Busby

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today, I sat down with Steve Busby, founder and managing partner of Slate Point Partners and discussed the critical elements for achieving effective revenue operations in today's evolving market.

Steve emphasizes the importance of aligning company culture, processes, and technology with revenue goals. The conversation covers the role of cross-functional communication, the significance of onboarding and employee engagement, and how to overcome challenges in large and small organizations.

Steve also shares insights on measuring hard-to-quantify aspects like employee belief in core values and management's role in fostering a customer-centric approach.

00:00 Introduction

00:38 Meet Steve Busby: Founder of Slate Point Partners

00:59 Understanding Revenue Benchmarking

04:44 The Importance of Culture in Revenue Operations

05:25 Aligning Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service

08:37 Challenges in Implementing Revenue Operations

16:57 The Role of Cross-Functional Training

18:23 Revenue Operations in Small vs. Large Companies

21:07 Overcoming Resistance to Change

29:17 Key Indicators for Revenue Operations

34:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbr2th/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbr2th.techtalent/

Find Out More at SBR2TH: https://www.sbr2th.com/podcast/

Learn More About Steve: linkedin.com/in/steve-busby-8a1a826

Navigating the AI Frontier: A Conversation with VP of Engineering Alec Lazarescu on the Future of AI and NLP

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today I get to speak with Alec Lazarescu, VP of Engineering with a deep focus on conversational AI and NLP.

Alec shares his journey, from stumbling upon conversational AI at a 2016 event to creating a successful meetup group and working on AI-based messaging. We cover the current state and future potential of AI, including its limitations, practical applications, and its profound impact on both job seekers and hiring processes.

Alec provides insights into the importance of human oversight in AI applications, the challenges of integrating AI into traditional systems, and the evolving landscape of skills needed to thrive in the AI industry.

00:00 Introduction

00:58 Alec's Journey into Conversational AI

02:59 The Current State of AI in 2024

04:51 AI's Limitations and Human Oversight

05:49 AI in Recruitment and Job Applications

11:53 Challenges and Ethical Considerations in AI Screening

14:00 Skills and Mindset for a Career in AI

24:21 Future of AI and Its Impact on Work

34:11 Personal Insights and Future Plans

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Navigating Tech Evolution and Talent Acquisition with Yosef Haas

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today I interviewed Yosef Haas, the Vice President of Product at ShipHero. Haas shares his journey from being a computer programmer in the early 2000s to developing advanced e-commerce and warehouse management systems.

We discuss the rapid evolution of technology, specifically the role of AI and its impact on the job market and business operations. Haas also provides insights into effective talent acquisition strategies emphasizing the importance of networking, referrals, and building trust within remote teams.

The conversation touches on the changing nature of work and the importance of understanding foundational technology shifts.

00:00 Introduction

00:34 Yosef Haas' Journey to Ship Hero

02:53 Evolution of Technology in E-commerce

04:42 Impact of AI and Future Job Market

06:57 Challenges and Opportunities in Remote Work

29:05 Hiring Strategies and Talent Acquisition

33:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Growing Through Challenges: Katee LaPoff's Journey in Leadership

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today, I sat down with Katee LaPoff, CTO of Oak View Group. Katee shares her career journey, from humble beginnings in Texas to her current leadership role. She emphasizes the importance of community, introspection, and continuous self-improvement.

Katee recounts pivotal moments, including valuable lessons from setbacks and the influential mentorships that helped shape her path. We talk about topics such as talent development, the impact of criticism, and the necessity of evolving with technology. Katee’s story is a testament to resilience, the importance of support systems, and the power of intentional growth.

00:00 Introduction

01:33 Katee LaPoff's Career Journey

03:09 Early Life and Inspirations

04:11 Navigating the Tech Industry

05:36 Embracing Change and Growth

08:09 Challenges and Support Systems

13:04 Reflections on Failure and Success

13:53 Mental Toughness and Resilience

19:02 Career Path and Development

21:08 Moving to Colorado and Early IT Career

22:24 First Job in IT and Rapid Technological Changes

23:44 Climbing the Corporate Ladder

25:27 Facing Professional Challenges and Feedback

27:52 Personal Growth and Leadership Lessons

35:04 Reflecting on Career and Mentorship

37:09 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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Revenue Operations: How the Top 1% Develop Talent - With Stephen Diorio

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today we talk to Stephen Diorio, Executive Vice President Growth Strategy at Green Thread, Managing Director at The Revenue Enablement Institute and Author "Revenue Operations" with profound expertise in revenue enablement and operations. This engaging discussion explores Stephen’s background, the evolving nature of job roles in the tech industry, and the increasing importance of digital skills and data-driven decision making.

We cover the transformation from traditional sales models to modern data-centric approaches, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of growth and the need for a holistic understanding of marketing, sales, finance, and analytics.

Stephen outlines the foundation of a successful revenue operations strategy, stressing the importance of understanding the 'math of growth' and designing efficient commercial models.

The episode provides insight into how both small and large companies can leverage these concepts to stay competitive in the rapidly changing tech landscape.

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Stephen’s Diverse Background and Revenue Enablement

02:01 Evolution of Sales and Marketing

04:26 The Digital Transformation of Sales

10:30 The Changing Job Market and Skill Requirements

13:10 Revenue Operations and Organizational Structure

24:44 The Importance of Commercial Architecture

35:11 Talent Acquisition and Development

41:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Empowerment and Growth in Startups: Insights from Sarah Brown

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

John Light talks with Sarah Brown, a marketing executive and author of 'Lead Upwards,' a book addressing the roles and challenges of joiners in startups and the VC space. Sarah shares her background and the motivation behind writing her book, emphasizing the importance of growth, learning opportunities, and building meaningful relationships in the startup ecosystem. The discussion covers a range of topics including the unique culture of startups, the gap in resources for non-founder employees, and strategies for personal and professional growth in fast-paced startup environments. Both John and Sarah explore the nuances of leadership, the value of understanding board member perspectives, employee recognition beyond titles and compensation, and the significance of aligning personal goals with company growth. The conversation also touches on the importance of graceful departures and the power of empathy and connection in driving productivity and success in the tech industry.

00:00 Intro

00:25 Introducing Sarah Brown: Author and Marketing Executive

00:58 The Genesis of the Podcast and Its Mission

02:21 Sarah's Journey in the Startup Ecosystem

02:52 The Unique Challenges and Opportunities for Startup Joiners

05:30 Navigating Career Growth in the Startup World

06:49 Cultural Fit and Adaptability in Startups

08:00 The Impact of Market Dynamics on Talent Acquisition

15:14 Strategies for Personal and Professional Growth

18:32 The Dynamics of Leaving and Joining New Ventures

21:11 Maintaining Professional Relationships and Graceful Exits

22:53 Navigating Career Transitions and Notice Periods

23:37 The Importance of Graceful Exits and Preparing for Sudden Departures

24:26 Empathy in Difficult Conversations and Personal Loss

27:38 Understanding and Valuing Empathy in Business and Personal Growth

34:55 Exploring the Impact of Recognition and Growth Opportunities at Work

38:55 The Journey of Writing and the Next Steps After 'Lead Upward'

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Navigating Success: Overcoming Adversity and Building Your Personal Brand

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' John converses with Adriana Cowdin, a notable personal branding expert, executive career coach, and entrepreneur celebrated among the top 1 percent of women's small business owners in America. They discuss the importance of overcoming adversity, the impact of personal branding in career development, and strategies for job hunting in the modern landscape. Adriana shares her journey from being ousted at 17 to climbing the corporate ladder and facing immense health challenges, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. The conversation also delves into practical advice for individuals at various career stages, including leveraging one’s achievements to enhance their personal brand, understanding the nuances in coaching across different career levels, and the significance of aligning personal and business values for meaningful career progression.

00:00 Welcome to the Tech Talent Pool: Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Underdogs

00:47 Introducing Adriana Cowdin: A Journey of Resilience and Success

02:34 Adriana's Story: From Hard Knocks to Executive Coaching

03:27 Embracing Challenges: Health Battles and Personal Triumphs

05:42 Creating Memories and Defining Personal Brand

09:05 The Essence of Personal Branding in Career Development

11:26 Navigating the Job Market: Strategies for Personal Branding

18:52 Practical Tips for Enhancing Your Personal Brand

24:34 Nostalgia for Old Tech and Learning Curves

25:16 The Evolution of Communication and Learning

26:11 Adapting to Modern Job Market Expectations

27:58 The Realities of AI in the Workplace

28:53 Navigating Applicant Tracking Systems and Personal Branding

34:41 The Importance of Cultural Fit in Job Searches

39:48 Leveraging Personal Branding for Career Success

44:44 Passion for Knowledge Sharing and Legacy

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Blending Passions and Professions

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' John Light interviews Jayme Hong, the founder and CEO of Pivodio, an ad tech messaging platform that empowers artists through micro learning by connecting them with award-winning professionals for short video message-based coaching. Starting from Jayme’s initial dream of becoming a rock star, transitioning to corporate America, and finally founding Pivodio, the discussion explores the concept of micro-learning and its potential to democratize access to professional coaching for artists worldwide. With a focus on making personalized coaching affordable and accessible, Pivodio aims to support artists' dreams and create a new standard for professional artists' incomes. The conversation also delves into Jayme’s personal journey, the challenges of tech talent acquisition for startups, and the broader implications of micro-learning for various industries.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

01:18 Jamie's Journey and Pivodio's Mission

03:20 The Concept of Micro Learning and Pivodio's Expansion Plans

04:30 Jamie's Personal Journey and Pivodio's Inception

09:02 The Importance of Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth

10:39 The Future of Learning and the Role of Pivodio

13:06 Challenges in Tech Talent and Building a Company Culture

18:34 The Importance of Internal Motivation and Aligning Personal and Work Culture

23:41 Conclusion: The Future of Artists and the Role of Pavodeo

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Navigating Startups and Equity: Insights from 'The Startup Lottery'

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool', John Light Presiden dialogues with Gus Bessalel, a serial entrepreneur and author of 'The Startup Lottery'. Gus shares his journey from a management consultant to a successful entrepreneur, highlighting the misconceptions startup employees have about equity and the complexities behind it. He explains the risk and reward dynamics in startups, and how equity works, and offers advice on how employees and employers can navigate the startup ecosystem, especially regarding compensation and risk assessment. Gus underscores the startup failure rates and emphasizes the need for realism and transparency in the startup world. He also delves into the challenges faced by startups in fundraising, especially in a tight venture capital market, and the impact on underrepresented founders. Wrapping up, Gus talks about his passion projects, including mentoring and supporting non-profits, and his efforts to empower the next generation in the startup and non-profit sectors.

00:00 Welcome to Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool

00:43 The Startup Lottery: A Journey from Serial Entrepreneur to Author

01:59 Navigating Equity and Compensation in Startups

08:07 The Reality of Startup Success Rates and the Importance of Cash Flow

10:15 Innovative Ventures vs. Sustainable Business Models

18:25 The Proof Continuum: Assessing Startup Stages and Risks

24:52 Personal Risk Assessment and Career Decisions in Startups

28:25 Navigating the Current Venture Capital Landscape

40:15 Gus's Passion Project and Giving Back to the Community

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Building Creator Land

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' John Ligh interviews Brian Freeman, founder and CEO of Creator Land. They discuss the inception of Creator Land, a platform likened to LinkedIn but designed for the creative economy, addressing the unique needs of content creators, influencers, and talent managers. Freeman shares his journey from starting a female-focused dating app to pivoting towards serving the creator economy through manually executed campaigns, leading to the conception of Creator Land. The conversation delves into the challenges of talent acquisition in the tech industry, the importance of understanding and catering to your audience, and how to approach hiring and building a team with a focus on culture, cognitive diversity, and creativity. Freeman emphasizes the significance of self-awareness in leadership, the evolving workforce dynamics influenced by content creators, and the value of a 'give first' mentality among founders.

00:00 Welcome to Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool

00:31 Introducing Brian Freeman and Creator Land

01:58 The Journey from Dating App to Creator Land

08:27 Challenges and Strategies in Building Creator Land

12:39 The Importance of Hiring the Right Talent

20:08 Navigating the Creator Economy and Talent Acquisition

30:08 Embracing Creativity and Continuous Learning

34:02 Brian's Passion Project and Closing Thoughts

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Innovative Ideation: The Drive for Collective Creativity

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' host John Light, engages in a captivating dialogue with Nick Jane, CEO of Idea Scale. They explore Nick's unique career journey from finance in New York to leading a company born from a White House initiative. Idea Scale, termed as a CRM for ideas, serves as a platform for large organizations such as NASA, McKinsey, and Comcast to harness and prioritize creative proposals from employees globally. The conversation delves into the ways technology, particularly AI, is transforming Idea Scale's operations, fostering a culture of innovation across geographical and organizational barriers. Nick shares an anecdote involving a major restaurant chain's crowdsourced menu innovation via Idea Scale, highlighting the platform's impact. Further, they touch upon the challenges of adapting to a rapidly evolving job market, the critical need for business acumen among tech professionals, and the personal growth that comes from embracing failure and risk management, drawing parallels to Nick's interest in poker. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of nurturing a transparent, idea-driven organizational culture but also reflects on technology's role in shaping future talents and innovations.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

00:41 Nick Jane's Journey and Idea Scale

02:27 The Concept of CRM for Ideas

03:49 Innovation in Complex Organizations

04:28 Success Stories and Use Cases of Idea Scale

07:13 The Role of AI in Idea Scale

15:35 The Impact of Evolving Job Market on Idea Scale

17:25 The Importance of Business Acumen and Skill Development

29:32 Nick's Passion Project: Poker

35:45 Conclusion: Embracing Failure and Learning

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Where Personal Development Meets Tech, and Talent

Tue, 28 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' host John Light talks with Hirbod Bigvan, a serial entrepreneur in the tech space, about the challenges and excitement of entrepreneurship, the balance between passion and discipline, and the innovative use of technology in personal development. Hirbod shares his journey from arriving in the U.S. with nothing to building successful startups. The conversation covers resilience in entrepreneurship, the impact of AI on the job market, and Hirbod's current venture, Cassius, which offers one-on-one dating coaching to men to improve their confidence and happiness. They also discuss the broader implications of technology in facilitating human connections and the importance of giving back to the community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

02:10 The Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship

05:04 The Importance of Discipline and Focus

07:03 The Role of Technology in Entrepreneurship

07:53 Introducing Cassius: A Dating Coaching Platform

08:57 The Impact of Confidence and Expectations

19:13 The Role of AI in Cassius

20:22 The Art of Interviewing and Self-Improvement

22:40 The Impact of AI and Technology Trends

24:17 The Influence of Tech Giants and Elon Musk

25:01 The Risks and Rewards of AI in Customer Service

26:25 The Role of AI in Dating and Building Communities

27:35 The Power of Real-Life Interactions and Community Building

28:31 The Future of Entrepreneurship and Startups

29:32 The Impact of Social Media on Real-Life Interactions

31:17 The Importance of Treating Others Right

32:30 The American Dream and the Role of Politics

35:10 The Power of Sacrifice and Giving Back

36:19 The Role of Politics in Local Communities

37:15 The Importance of Honesty and Vision in Politics

37:53 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

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Navigating the Fusion of Talent and Technology with Ole Gjerde

Tue, 14 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool', host John Light chats with Oli Journey, the CEO of True North Dynamics. Ole shares his journey from a computer science student to becoming a prominent figure in the tech service industry. He discusses the inception of his company, its name's origin, and the decision to split his business to better cater to the needs of its clients. Ole highlights the impact of AI and machine learning on business applications and the consulting industry's future, emphasizing the importance of adapting to technological advancements and adopting a client-centered approach to service delivery. The conversation also delves into the evolving tech talent landscape, the shift towards a remote working model, and the intrinsic value of human connection in a digital age. Ole and John also explore the challenge of maintaining a blend of technical and interpersonal skills in the workforce and the significance of continuous learning and adaptation in personal and professional growth.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:43 Journey into the Tech Industry

02:24 Challenges and Lessons from Mergers

03:19 Adapting to Remote Work and Company Rebranding

06:29 The Future of Technology in Business

08:07 The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Business

12:26 The Shift from Creator to Innovator Economy

19:04 The Importance of Talent Acquisition in a Changing Market

22:42 Understanding Your Organization and Its Culture

23:05 The Importance of Context in Talent Acquisition

25:04 The Philosophy of Finding the Right People

27:03 The Transition to a Remote Work Environment

28:01 The Challenges of Virtual Collaboration and Innovation

29:04 The Future of Technology and Its Impact on Business

30:43 The Evolution of Service Delivery Models

36:13 The Personal Journey of an Introverted Leader

39:41 The Passion for Continuous Learning and Embracing Change

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Evolving Communication Through AI with Julian Guthrie

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' host John Light interviews Julian Guthrie, the co-founder and CEO of Alphy, about their AI application Reflect AI. Julian discusses her journey from a word-obsessed child and a 20-year journalist at the San Francisco Chronicle to founding a tech startup aimed at improving communication. Reflect AI is designed to help mitigate the risk of harmful communications by prompting users to reflect before they hit send, focusing on reducing toxic, discriminatory, and potentially litigious language in professional settings. Guthrie also delves into broader themes of ethical communication, the transformative power of listening, and the importance of empathy, respect, and confidence in effective communication. The conversation touches on the significant costs associated with toxic communication in the corporate world and the role of AI in fostering better human interactions.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

01:08 Julian Guthrie's Journey to Alphy and Reflect AI

01:35 The Power of Language and Communication

06:23 The Role of AI in Enhancing Communication

09:39 The Impact of Communication on Relationships and Business

13:20 The Importance of Ethical Communication

17:18 The Challenges and Rewards of Running a Tech Startup

20:58 The Future of AI and Communication

34:56 The Intersection of Personal and Professional Life

37:44 Conclusion: The Ingredients of Life, Communication, and Soup

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Driving Success in the Tech Talent Pool with Justin Helmig

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool,' host John Light interviews Justin Helmig, CEO of Implan, a SaaS company specializing in economic analytics. They discuss Implan's focus on analyzing economic changes and their impacts, growth opportunities, and the critical role of talent in successful execution. With a background in growing, creating, and exiting companies in the SaaS space, Helmig shares insights into Implan's operations, including their support for 546 industries and ability to analyze down to ZIP codes. They delve into the complexities of modern work environments, touching on remote work, talent acquisition, and the importance of company culture. Helmig’s personal drive for business growth, rooted in early career experiences, highlights the overarching theme of learning from failure and embracing growth challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:55 Understanding Implant and its Role in the Market

02:47 The Importance of Talent in Business

08:50 The Impact of Remote Work on Business Culture

12:18 The Future of Work and Business Relationships

16:19 The Challenges and Opportunities in Growing a Business

20:18 The Role of Failure in Personal and Business Growth

33:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Revolutionizing Savings: The Secrets Behind Get Spendly's $2500 Per Employee

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode of the Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool podcast, John Light interviews Matthew Godley, the founder and CEO of Get Spendly. Matthew shares his insights on understanding market trends and leveraging technology to address financial pressures. He highlights how Get Spendly automates finding better service offers, potentially saving up to $2500 per employee annually. Matthew also discusses the significance of a skilled team and partnerships with industry leaders like Acrisure and JPMorgan Chase, emphasizing the importance of delivering value and balancing savings with quality.

Timestamps:

[00:03:35] Automated platform saves businesses money.

[00:06:06] Spendly helps businesses save on expenses.

[00:09:18] Tech challenges: backend, frontend, UX design.

[00:12:01] Identifying data points, scaling challenges ahead.

[00:15:37] Growing property casualty insurer, focusing on quality.

[00:19:19] Six kids, circus, attitude and effort.

[00:22:31] Passionate about financial freedom and efficiency.

[00:25:41] Passion drives success, burn the boats.

[00:28:38] Building a successful tech company together.

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Empowering Employees Globally: Trust, Accountability, and Meaningful Work

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0000

Tune in to this exciting episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, where John Light interviews Mark Abbott, the brilliant mind behind ninety.io. Explore the fascinating world of technology and humanity as Mark discusses the evolution of useful information and its impact on human connection and productivity. Discover the secrets to creating fulfilling work environments, building high-trust relationships, and achieving self-actualization through meaningful work. Mark's platform, ninety.io, is revolutionizing the way businesses operate by focusing on leadership, company culture, and aligning products with customer needs. Learn how to drive trust and accountability within organizations and empower employees globally through small and mid-sized businesses.

Timestamps:

[00:03:08] Fascination with people, systems, and evolution.

[00:06:26] Book recommendation: Road to Serfdom.

[00:10:11] Improve self-esteem and love what you do.

[00:14:43] Cloud-based system for productive, humane workplaces.

[00:18:14] Drive productivity, accountability, and value impact.

[00:20:42] Agreements create accountability and alignment.

[00:24:49] Strong talent acquisition key to success.

[00:28:47] Passion for helping people thrive.

[00:32:32] Helping small and mid-sized businesses thrive.

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From Darts to Tech: Dylan Robbins' Journey of Passion and Success

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, host John Light interviews Dylan Robbins, founder and CEO of Lucra Sports. He discusses his company's innovative platform that allows users to engage in various sports and activities through their app. They discuss the challenges of acquiring and retaining quality tech talent, the importance of building proprietary technology, and the potential impact of AI in the future. They also delve into the importance of defining roles and hiring processes, and Dylan's passion for darts and his recent experience at a world championship tournament.

Timestamps:

[00:04:38] Lucra Sports offers a gamified experience for various activities and sports.

[00:08:37] Challenges in acquiring and retaining tech talent.

[00:11:56] AI can't replace human qualities.

[00:15:38] Tech recruiting is challenging without clear benchmarks and understanding of roles.

[00:19:03] Improved structure and process for hiring.

[00:21:58] Hiring manager sets up interviews efficiently.

[00:25:51] Summary: Balancing technical screening with other assessments.

[00:28:59] Interviews should assess cultural fit first.

[00:30:32] Passionate darts player shares tournament experience.

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Mastering Contemporary Software Development with Dave Todaro

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool' Dave Todaro, CEO and founder of Ascendle, takes us on a thrilling journey through the tech industry. From his early fascination with technology to his groundbreaking work in software development for the construction industry, Dave shares his challenges and triumphs. He also delves into the world of artificial intelligence, discussing its applications and value, while emphasizing the importance of clear problem definition. Join us as we explore the future of AI and its potential impact on different job roles.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Importance of delivering value through technology.

[00:03:48] Helping software companies deliver business value.

[00:07:13] AI applications are becoming increasingly critical in business operations.

[00:12:17] Building capabilities for deeper customer experience.

[00:15:30] Understanding customer needs before implementing AI.

[00:18:57] AI advancements may replace certain job roles.

[00:22:05] Contemporary software development leverages pre-built components.

[00:25:22] Balancing people, process, and tools is crucial for success.

[00:28:27] Continuous collaboration, upskilling, and happiness at work.

[00:32:43] Building what customers want, being helpful.

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From Expert Systems to Genesis AI with Tony Rhem

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In this exciting podcast episode, John Light and Tony Rhem delve into the potential of AI in industries such as healthcare, law, and finance. They discuss how AI can improve patient intake and healthcare delivery, assist lawyers in research, and aid in predictive analysis for investment decisions. The conversation also highlights the need for ethics and responsible use of AI, as well as the demand for AI experts in different industries. Tony Rhem's passion project involving AI in developing better treatments for non-small cell lung cancer is also explored.

Timestamps:

[00:03:27] Genesis AI and generative AI platforms emerging.

[00:07:11] Books on ethics, governance, AI, information architecture, and knowledge management.

[00:10:39] Advancements in AI will automate tasks.

[00:14:51] AI can help close the pay gap and increase productivity, but subject matter experts are still needed and ethical considerations must be taken into account.

[00:19:05] AI will create demand in healthcare, law, and finance.

[00:23:03] AI expertise in law is rare. Quality control and ethics are critical in AI development. Vendors and users must prioritize ethical standards.

[00:27:14] Tailor AI for organization goals, manage risks, monitor and adapt, new job opportunities, passion project: using AI for better cancer treatments.

[00:30:33] AI evolution, leveraging data for lung cancer analysis.

[00:33:50] AI used to solve healthcare problems.

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Unlock the Potential of AR with Anna Belova

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Anna Belova, an expert in augmented reality (AR). Anna explains the differences between AR and virtual reality (VR), and shares her story of how she got to where she is today. She talks about her platform, MyWebAR.com, which allows anyone to create AR experiences without technical skills. Anna emphasizes the potential of AR to increase customer loyalty, provide instructions, and target customers who don't use digital channels. She encourages people to be creative and innovative with technology.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Augmented Reality: Exploring Technology, Successfully.

[00:04:15] Augmented Reality for everyone: MyWebAR.com

[00:07:36] Bringing digital world to reality.

[00:12:21] Augmented reality changes communication, shopping.

[00:15:32] Augmented Reality: Amplifying Interaction

[00:19:16] Interpersonal interaction over AI tech.

[00:22:22] Augmented reality superpowers humans.

[00:25:32] Explore AR with imagination.

[00:32:49] Explore world, share knowledge, make better.

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The Power of Soft Skills

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light and Gianna Driver, the CHRO of Exabeam, discuss the importance of looking for potential in candidates rather than specific experiences when hiring. They reference a study that found 82% of the time, it was soft skills that caused hires to fail. They also discuss the need for reskilling, diversity of thought, and quantifiable results on resumes. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of adding value to relationships and creating a psychologically safe work environment.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Tech talent pool success: Love work, stay secure, be authentic.

[00:04:14] Understand value, quantify impact, demonstrate results.

[00:06:10] Finding potential in candidates.

[00:11:09] Find right candidate through structured process.

[00:14:31] Reinventing yourself: yes, diverse skillset needed.

[00:18:29] Diverse career paths, effort, attitude, time.

[00:20:40] Improve self, seek joy, build career.

[00:23:52] Empower self, align mission, gain confidence.

[00:27:25] Exchange value to build relationships.

[00:31:06] Making impact in Philippines: Project Pearl.

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Creating Your Digital Persona: Peter Saddington's Advice for the Younger Generation

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Peter Saddington, a second-generation race car driver, perennial entrepreneur, and venture capitalist. Peter shares his experience of growing up during the economic downturn of the late 70s and early 80s, and encourages the younger generation to focus on finishing rather than just starting. He also shares his five-point rubric for evaluating ideas and emphasizes the importance of being oneself and having fun when pitching to venture capitalists.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Ten years effort for success.

[00:08:34] Endure business cycles, finish, not start.

[00:14:09] Create personal brand in AI era.

[00:19:42] Grow with tech, control digital persona.

[00:25:14] Investing in experienced entrepreneurs over forty.

[00:33:14] Expertise, empathy, AI: career success.

[00:37:42] VCs seek imminent need, experience, expertise, capability, storytelling.

[00:42:52] Navigate AI to conquer talent acquisition.

[00:47:59] Fuel humans: AI won't replace us.

[00:51:43] Orphan succeeds through hard work.

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Unlocking the Secrets of Talent Management with Sunaina Lobo

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool', John Light interviews Sunaina Lobo, a CHRO extraordinaire. Sunaina shares her journey of growing up in Mumbai, India, and then moving to Australia to pursue an advanced masters in Human Resources. They discuss the current job market, the need to be innovative and think outside the box when it comes to recruiting and talent management, and the importance of leveraging relationships in the job search process.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Non-traditional recruiting, talent management.

[00:04:06] Innovative Talent Acquisition Drives Diversity

[00:08:05] Employees face uncertain job market.

[00:11:44] Discover alignment, partnership, belonging.

[00:16:38] Invest in understanding, assess fit, build resilience, seek opportunity.

[00:20:02] Resourcefulness key for hiring success.

[00:23:00] Assess non-traditional success for diversity.

[00:25:56] Never underestimate relationships.

[00:29:28] Education, relationships, AI.

[00:33:17] Empowering girls globally through education.

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Automation and Upscaling with Jacob Silber

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Jacob Silber, CEO of Hermes Ventures Group. Jacob shares his insights on the importance of access to customers, automation, cloud computing, and upskilling for success in the tech industry. He emphasizes the need to learn how to 'learn' and gain experience in order to stay competitive in the rapidly changing economy.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Find tech talent, stay afloat.

[00:02:40] Data drives customer acquisition.

[00:04:58] Data manipulation made easier.

[00:07:31] Data access, talent need evolves.

[00:09:36] Communicate, automate, upskill, stay current.

[00:14:01] Upskill with AI and automation.

[00:18:55] Reinvent yourself, find new job.

[00:22:26] Learn to learn, get reps, focus on rule.

[00:25:28] Tinkering, learning, failing, and hockey.

[00:30:41] Lifelong learning: passion, interest, strategy.

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Creating a Balanced Value Proposition

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000

John Light interviews Nick Colisto, the Chief Information Officer at Avery Dennison, on Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool. Colisto talks about his journey to the C-suite, the potential of generative AI, the concentration of AI talent in 15 cities, and the challenge of hiring high-tech talent for non-tech industries. He also shares his passion project to help Asian women promote their careers.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Tech talent pool resource: Stay ahead of competition.

[00:04:43] Journey from humanities to IT success.

[00:10:45] Reinventing self, fusion roles, AI job displacement.

[00:15:49] AI overhiring leads to expensive ROI

[00:21:38] AI in fifteen cities: debate good or bad?

[00:25:52] Augmenting jobs with AI: Loop & Learn

[00:32:19] Tech companies now: Six words

[00:37:23] Find tech talent in unexpected places.

[00:41:57] Diverse workforce, internal growth, AI, passion project.

[00:46:26] Elevating Asian women's careers globally.

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The Power of Thought Partnership with Kelly Haydu

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0000

John Light interviews Kelly Haydu, VP of Information Security and Technology at CarGurus on Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool. Haydu shares her journey from an internship to her current role, and the importance of diversity in the workplace. They also discuss the need for soft skills, thought partnership, and taking risks to add value to oneself and the team.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Navigate tech challenges, prove chops: Perseverance, determination.

[00:06:36] Elevate, give back, learn, succeed.

[00:12:48] Diverse backgrounds bring different perspectives.

[00:19:04] Surround self with smart people, learn along way.

[00:24:51] Teamwork, collaboration, ownership, impactful story.

[00:30:40] Partnering to empower career growth.

[00:37:00] Seasons of change: embrace opportunity.

[00:42:13] Learning, growing, and achieving success.

[00:47:55] Adding value, giving back, journey of impact.

[00:54:24] Inspiring journey, amazing people, tech talent pool.

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The Risks and Rewards of AI

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Angela Cheng-Cimini, Chief Human Resources Officer of Harvard Business Review, about the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the job market. They discuss the potential for AI to be used for malicious purposes, the need to be aware of the bias and prejudice that AI can propagate, and the need to provide oversight when using AI.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] AI threatens human jobs: Six words

[00:04:25] AI: Overhyped, Garbage In Garbage Out.

[00:08:34] AI learning, biases, and implications.

[00:12:32] AI replacing human jobs.

[00:17:57] AI replacing human jobs, curation over generation.

[00:22:34] Protecting individual data in AI.

[00:27:32] AI-driven entrepreneurialism, upskilling, HBR research.

[00:31:26] Swim in tech talent pool, win culture war.

[00:34:41] Advancing Asian American women: teaching, speaking, podcasting.

[00:38:49] Impacting lives through tech: success.

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The Resume is Just the Beginning: Crafting Your Value and Paying it Forward

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Steve Maasch, Vice President of Human Resources at First Interstate BancSystem. Steve discusses the flux in the past few years, the challenges of getting an executive team to buy into a machine learning project, and the need for a well-crafted resume. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context of a job opportunity, and encourages candidates to lead with their value and pick their lane. He also encourages employers to look beyond the resume and have conversations with candidates.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Finding tech talent in flux.

[00:05:47] Adapt to succeed: Soft skills gap in tech.

[00:11:13] Leadership gap hinders AI success.

[00:17:52] Align individual and team priorities.

[00:23:33] Crisis management: velocity, adapt, pivot, proactive.

[00:28:23] Proactive awareness of business ecosystem.

[00:34:10] Find value-driven candidates: "Have value of actions lead you"

[00:38:29] Find right fit for job success.

[00:44:24] Building, mentoring, consulting, advising, coaching.

[00:50:16] Building people to succeed: warm and fuzzy.

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From AI and Urban Mining to the Power of Battery Recycling With Jamie Lee

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of 'Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool', John Light interviews Jamie Lee, the Chief Information Officer at Ecobat. They discuss the importance of creating compelling job descriptions and resumes, as well as the potential for a recycling competition in the future. Jamie also talks about the role of technology, such as machine learning and AI, battery design and development, and the challenges as well as opportunities it all presents.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Urban mining, circular economy, batteries, CIO, tech, AI.

[00:04:34] Apply tech to circular economy: Six words

[00:09:18] Continuous learning, curiosity, growth mindset.

[00:14:04] Deliver value, impact, and passion.

[00:18:47] Reuse natural resources: How Ecobat does it.

[00:22:44] Tech revolutionizing circular economy.

[00:26:18] Talent marketplace evolves to AI use

[00:31:21] Humans discern between threats and bias.

[00:35:14] Don't buy lottery tickets: CIO success

[00:38:52] Serve people, take apart machines, study money.

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The Rebranding of Company Culture

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Alice LeClair of Ascendion. They discuss the potential of AI to revolutionize talent acquisition, the impact that the pandemic has had on the way people work, and rebranding company culture. They explore how AI can help to assess the skills needed for entry to mid-level roles and predict success in roles.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Elevating tech talent, performance, culture.

[00:05:06] Upgrade society with talent, culture, performance.

[00:10:00] Creating community for successful hires.

[00:15:49] Culture reflects truth, decide great companies, partnership, never slow down.

[00:21:55] Culture rebranding: values manifested, respected, experienced.

[00:27:13] Empathy, curiosity, optimism, ally ship.

[00:33:17] Partner with generative AI, create human connection: Six words.

[00:37:48] Maximize value, make own decisions.

[00:44:08] AI revolutionizes talent acquisition.

[00:49:37] AI-driven hiring for success.

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Unlocking the Secret to Quality Hiring: ENAVATE's CXO Shares Their Story

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, John Light interviews Eve Cline, Chief Experience Officer at ENAVATE. They discuss the importance of aligning core values and the onboarding process to ensure successful hires, the challenges of identifying and acquiring the right talent, and the need for continued alignment after the hire.

Timestamps:

[00:00:01] Recruiting world: Drowning in tech talent pool.

[00:04:18] Talent journey, marketing, trust, connection.

[00:08:27] Candidate experience improved through storytelling.

[00:13:22] Leadership, team members, communication, growth, social proof, offboarding.

[00:17:57] Inspiring positive reviews, hard to achieve.

[00:22:16] Invest in onboarding success: Six words

[00:26:59] Assess, educate, empower, refine, repeat.

[00:32:05] Improving quality of hire: Hire, onboard, track, measure.

[00:36:38] Align core values for successful hires.

[00:41:07] Building culture through people journey.

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Unleashing the Power of Tech Talent: Exploring AI, Machine Learning, and Medical Breakthroughs

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this captivating episode of the podcast, John Light welcomes Dr. Mark Lenox as his guest. Dr. Lenox, an engineer, scientist, and pilot, shares his extensive experience in the med tech industry and his involvement in developing the first PET scanners. He discusses the importance of not only solving problems but also ensuring the application and impact of the solutions in healthcare. Lenox's current project utilizes MR spectroscopy and machine learning to diagnose Alzheimer's disease, aiming to revolutionize the field.

Timestamps:

00:00:01 - Explore, engineer, scientist, pilot, med tech, impact.

00:04:42 - Retired, bored, professor, medical imaging, ultrasound, machine learning.

00:10:07 - AI accelerating diagnosis: Six words

00:15:37 - Cross US faster: trains, roads, planes.

00:20:59 - Hire skilled, inquisitive, good people.

00:25:06 - Teamwork, deep scientific skills, mission-driven.

00:30:51 - Solving problems, making difference, capital finds talent.

00:35:53 - Survived grind, sold plane, Zoom calls, charter captain, making difference.

00:40:29 - Clinical trials struggling, data science helps.

00:45:36 - Tech revolution: positive and negative effects.

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From Amazon to Sears: A Journey Through the World of Startups and Legacy Companies

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool, Host John Light invited Mo Dastagir on to discuss challenges of attracting and retaining top talent in companies like Amazon, Sears, and more. They delved into the importance of defining the 'why' for both the organization and the candidate, and how it plays a vital role in talent acquisition and retention. They also shared insights on the evolving strategies for talent attraction and retention, drawing from their experiences at companies like Novartis and a cannabis startup.

Timestamps:

00:00:01 - Twenty years of recruiting: Drowning in Tech Talent Pool.

00:04:44 - Transitioning from Amazon to Sears: Wildly Different Experiences.

00:09:10 - Transform legacy to digital age.

00:13:50 - Retain talent, motivate, re-skill, upskill, evolve culture.

00:18:05 - Attracting, retaining talent: define why.

00:22:26 - Find top talent, set expectations.

00:26:35 - Set expectations, articulate value, tell story, define culture.

00:30:24 - Align values for successful culture.

00:34:25 - Challenge, transformation, learning, leap, vision, execute.

00:38:30 - Explore culture through cuisine.

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Trailer

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0000

Get ready for an exhilarating season of Drowning in the Tech Talent Pool with your host, John Light. In this podcast, John shares his extensive knowledge and experience in the world of tech talent recruitment. From understanding the candidate and hiring manager journey to predicting the future of tech talent, this podcast is your ultimate guide. Join the rising stars in talent acquisition as they discuss effective strategies and tactics for meeting your organization's needs without drowning in the tech talent pool. Don't miss out on this valuable resource to save your company and revive dying projects.

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