Podcast: Dissecting Popular IT Nerds

Jeff Schmidt Starting with a crashed DOS system in 1990, Jeff Schmidt has grown through roles in software development, data warehousing, and infrastructure management. Currently serving as Vice President of Information Technology and Security at a healthcare company, he brings practical experience in balancing innovation with security requirements. Risk Assessment and Business Value: Jeff Schmidt’s…

Paul Knight Currently serving as VP of Information Technology and CISO at Turntide Technologies, Paul Knight brings 25 years of experience across various IT disciplines. His unique background includes roles in defense, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing, bringing both operational and security expertise to startup environments. Balancing IT and Security Leadership in Startups How do you…

Sarfraz Shaikh Starting in marketing communications, Sarfraz Shaikh has spent 14 years at OneMesa, evolving into the Director of IT role. His unique background combines communications expertise with technology leadership, managing IT operations across four distinct business units in the oil, gas, and drilling industries. Leading IT Through Business Growth and Transformation What does it…

Mark Ellestad Mark Ellestad serves as Director of IT and Digital Transformation at Moses Lake Industries, a chemical manufacturing company supporting the semiconductor industry. He is also co-founder of Better Tools LLC, providing consulting and coaching services. With experience as both an educator and technology leader, Mark brings unique perspectives on learning, leadership and digital…

Gavin Megnauth  With a career spanning from British Airways to his current role as CIO at MedPro Staffing, Gavin Megnauth has honed his skills in navigating complex IT landscapes. His expertise lies in leveraging technology to solve critical business challenges, particularly in healthcare staffing. Gavin’s approach emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business…

Butchi Pinnamaraju Butchi Pinnamaraju serves as the Director of IT Supply Chain at BridgeBio, an early-stage pharmaceutical company. With a background in mechanical engineering and industrial engineering, Butchi has held leadership roles at major organizations including Google, the United Nations, and SAP. His global experience spans India, Europe, and the United States, giving him a…

Jacob Jones Jacob Jones serves as Vice President of Information Technology at Sellars, bringing experience from Fortune 500 companies like Foot Locker and Manpower Group. With a background spanning healthcare, manufacturing, and retail industries, Jacob brings valuable insights on leading technology teams in different organizational contexts. Jacob Jones on Leading IT Through Different Company Sizes…

Darin Ward With a background in telecom technology and extensive experience in managing PBX systems, Darin Ward brings expertise in navigating the challenges of the industry. From discussing security awareness to highlighting the potential benefits of telecom advancements, Darin offers valuable insights into optimizing operations and leveraging modern solutions for improved efficiency. Optimizing Your Legacy…

Seth Yeack on Relevancy in IT and Connecting with End Users & Future of IT How can IT professionals stay relevant in a rapidly changing tech landscape? In this episode, Seth Yeack, IT Manager at Dazpak, shares his journey from Army cabling to managing IT for a packaging company. Seth offers insights on understanding business…

Yash Murali Yash Murali is the Chief Technology Officer at Therabody, a leading wellness technology company known for inventing percussive massage therapy devices. With experience as both a CIO and CTO, Yash has a track record of leading technology teams in private equity-backed companies, driving growth and efficiency. He brings expertise in areas like e-commerce,…