Your Next Tech Startup

JUST HIRED How to Become a Lead Engineer Candidate: guest Afshan Martin

In this episode, host Isabel Rasmussen speaks with Afshan, a lead software engineer who shares her journey of navigating the job market after experiencing a layoff. They discuss the challenges of job searching, the importance of crafting an effective resume, and strategies for mastering the interview process. Afshan emphasizes the significance of building confidence, overcoming anxiety, and the value of networking in her career development. Through her experiences, she highlights personal growth and the lessons learned along the way.
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Afshan Martin https://www.linkedin.com/in/afshan-aman/
 
Chapters 00:00 Navigating Job Applications in a Changing Landscape
09:44 Crafting an Impactful Resume
14:58 The Interview Process: Challenges and Strategies
17:26 The Journey to Effective Interviewing
24:06 Overcoming Introversion in Interviews
31:39 Networking and Building Connections
33:09 From Candidate to Lead Engineer
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Pre-Seed Startup Hiring - Founder Interview with Preston Lee

In this episode, host Isabel Rasmussen interviews Preston Lee, the founder of Tribe Money. They discuss the unique aspects of hiring and building a startup team at the pre-seed stage. Preston elaborates on his strategy of hiring friends or friends of friends within the U.S., the importance of having multiple eyes on complex FinTech code, and the significance of passion and curiosity in engineering, aside from technical skills. The conversation delves into Preston's unconventional hiring approach that emphasizes project-based interviews over traditional coding tests and explores his experiences and insights on building a robust engineering team from the ground up.
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Preston Lee https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonwlee/
00:00 Welcome to Your Next Tech Startup00:26 Building a Team in the Pre-Seed Stage01:09 The Importance of Hiring Friends and Local Talent02:27 Challenges in FinTech Development04:12 Hiring Philosophy and Vetting Process05:43 Technical Deep Dives and Real-World Problem Solving13:33 Unexpected Learnings from Hiring15:56 Future Hiring Strategies and Conclusion
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P. 
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV
 

Startup Interview Advice from a VP of Engineering

In this episode, we speak with Sameer, the VP of Engineering at Tellius, about the current challenges in hiring engineers with AI experience. Sameer shares his experiences as a hiring manager, discussing the evolving expectations and skill gaps caused by the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. He highlights the importance of core engineering fundamentals and provides advice for early-career software engineers on how to effectively grow and prepare for roles in AI-focused companies. The conversation includes tips on self-improvement, learning key AI concepts, and the importance of in-depth understanding despite the availability of advanced tools.
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Sameer Mangalampalli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameermangalampalli/
 
00:00 Introduction to the Interview
00:29 Challenges in Hiring AI Engineers
03:53 Core Fundamentals for Engineers
05:19 Advice for Aspiring AI Engineers
07:31 Understanding AI Tools and Concepts
10:00 Final Thoughts and Interview Tips
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Recruitment Strategies to Boost Women in Tech

In this conversation, Isabel Rasmussen and Kelly Kaplan discuss the importance of fair and consistent hiring practices, particularly in the tech industry. They explore the challenges of building diverse teams, the necessity of intentional hiring efforts, and the impact of unconscious bias in interview processes. The discussion emphasizes the need for structured interview environments and effective debriefing practices to ensure fairness in hiring decisions.
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Kelly Kaplan https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-kaplan/
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fair and Consistent Hiring01:08 The Importance of Diversity in Tech02:56 Building Diverse Teams: Strategies and Challenges05:06 Creating Inclusive Hiring Processes06:51 Addressing Unconscious Bias in Interviews10:21 Structuring Fair and Consistent Interviews12:52 New Chapter
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV
 
Keywords
fair hiring, consistent hiring, diversity in tech, women in tech, intentional hiring, unconscious bias, interview processes, recruitment strategies, engineering teams, hiring practices

Now Hiring: Chicago Full Stack Engineer (Javascript) at Cameo

In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen interviews Dom Scandinaro, the CTO of Cameo, discussing the current hiring for a senior full stack engineer role. Dom shares insights about his journey to Cameo, the company's growth and stability, technical challenges, unique engineering culture, and the interview process. The conversation highlights the exciting opportunities at Cameo and the importance of understanding the product for potential candidates.
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Dom Scandinaro https://www.linkedin.com/in/dom-scandinaro/
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Role at Cameo
01:07 Dom Scandinaro's Journey to Cameo
04:21 Core Values and Growth Opportunities
05:32 Current Landscape and Challenges at Cameo
07:23 Technical Challenges and Engineering Focus
10:08 Engineering Culture and Onboarding Process
11:17 Interview Process and Candidate Preparation
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Networking in Tech: Insights from a VP of Engineering

Maximizing Networking for Engineering Hires: Insights from Randy Chong, VP of Engineering @ Healthcare.com
In this episode, we sit down with Randy Chong, VP of Engineering at Healthcare.com, to discuss the power of networking in making successful hires. Drawing from his extensive experience with over 100 hires and countless interviews, Randy shares compelling stories and practical advice. Learn how he utilizes LinkedIn, personal connections, and even board game nights to build a strong team. Whether you're an engineering leader or a job seeker, discover valuable tips on leveraging your network effectively. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with real-world examples and actionable takeaways!
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Randy Chong https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-chong/
 
00:00 Introduction to the Interview
00:56 Utilizing Your Network for Hiring
01:23 Networking Through Board Games: The Story of Alvin
03:46 Networking Through Board Games: The Story of Simon
10:47 Networking Through Board Games: The Story of Theodore
18:28 General Networking Tips and Conclusion
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

How to Hire People who Build Awesome Products

How to Hire People who Build Awesome Products: Insights from SERV Founder Nickhil Bhave
Blog: How to Hire People who Build Awesome Products https://bhave.substack.com/p/hire-product-people-that-build-awesome?sd=pf
 
Join Isabel Rasmussen as she sits down with SERV founder Nickhil Bhave to discuss his extensive hiring experiences across various stages of company growth—from Amazon to late-stage startups to founding his own startup. They discuss the importance of a rigorous and competent hiring process. The key parts to a great hiring process are defining the must haves, training and aligning the hiring team, and focusing the debrief around the requirements. This is a great episode for startup leaders who need to hire people to build awesome products.
 
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
Guest: Nickhil Bhave https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickhil-bhave/
 
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:46 Nickhil's Background and Experience
02:09 Challenges of Startup Hiring
03:41 Importance of Mission Alignment
07:07 Effective Interview Planning
09:47 Debriefing and Feedback
15:17 Final Thoughts and Advice
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Now Hiring: US Remote Lead Engineer at Thrizer

Now Hiring: US Remote Lead Engineer at Thrizer - An Interview With CEO Raunak Sharma.
In this episode of 'Your Next Tech Startup,' we dive into the exciting opportunity for a Lead Engineer at Thrizer. Host Isabel interviews Thriver's CEO Raunak Sharma about their mission to make mental health services more accessible, their bootstrapped growth strategy, and the unique challenges and rewarding aspects of the role. The discussion covers Thrizer's origins, the company's commitment to mental health, and the collaborative, mission-driven team environment. For those passionate about mental health with expertise in full-stack development and infrastructure, this is a must-watch episode. Visit my LinkedIn page to view the job posting and apply!
 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Faster Hiring Through Trust with Amey Desai

In this conversation, Isabel and Amey discuss the intricacies of the engineering hiring process, focusing on the importance of defining the ideal candidate, structuring take-home challenges, and fostering trust and transparency throughout the hiring journey. They explore how to evaluate candidates effectively while ensuring a positive experience, especially in a startup environment. Amey shares insights on the significance of communication, the role of coding interviews, and the impact of AI on hiring practices.
Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen
Guest": Amey Desai https://www.linkedin.com/in/amey-desai-a414221a8/
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV
 

Engineering Leadership Hiring Stories: Philip Gollucci

Join host Isabel Rasmussen as she engages in an insightful conversation with engineering leader Philip Gollucci about hiring in the tech world. Philip shares compelling stories from his extensive experience, providing invaluable tips for both hiring managers and job seekers. 
Isabel Rasmussen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/Philip Gollucci: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgollucci/
 
Music by: https://www.bensound.com
Artist: Marcus P.
License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV