HockeyStick #5 - Think Like a CTO

HockeyStick Show

Navigating the World as a CTO: Insights & Strategies with Alan Williamson

Miko Pawlikowski hosts a comprehensive discussion on the role, challenges, and insights of being a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with expert guest Alan Williamson, author of 'Think Like a CTO' and partner at New Harbor Capital. Williamson shares his journey into the CTO role, the misconceptions about the job, and the critical importance of understanding beyond just technology to succeed. Key topics include the vital first 100 days, the evolution from technical expert to strategic leader, building and managing teams, making impactful tech decisions, and preparing for company growth or acquisition. This episode is a guide for current and aspiring CTOs on navigating their roles, leveraging their positions for business success, and evolving with their companies.

00:00 Welcome to Hockey Stick: Unveiling the CTO Role

00:51 Alan Williamson: From CTO Struggles to Author

02:18 The Real Scope of a CTO's Role and Challenges

08:12 The Evolution from Startup CTO to Corporate Leader

21:55 Does Every Company Need a CTO? Debunking Myths

29:16 The CTO's Journey: From Vision to Execution

37:43 Harnessing Thought Leadership in Tech

37:58 The Power of Blogging for CTOs

41:24 Strategic Hiring and Team Building Insights

51:31 Navigating Technical Decisions and Open Source

01:03:56 Effective Documentation Strategies

01:12:01 Closing Thoughts and Resources

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