Software is changing the world in many powerful ways. This podcast aims to understand the impact of software from an evolutionary perspective - what came before, what is now and what will be in the future. The Story of Software is a bi-weekly podcast looking at the people and technology that have transformed our world. It is hosted by Ricky Hill, Commercial Director at Zartis.
Sandra Trittin, Co-Founder and CGO of Beebop, discusses grid flexibility, consumer centric innovation, and scaling cleantech solutions.The Guest:Sandra Trittin brings more than a decade of cleantech leadership experience spanning energy flexibility, virtual power plants, and distributed energy innovation. After beginning her career in Switzerland’s telecommunications sector, she transitioned into energy with the founding of Tiko Energy Solutions. There she helped pioneer residential flexibility well before the market was ready. Today she is the Co-Founder and CGO of Beebop, an AI powered grid flexibility platform, and serves on multiple boards across the European energy ecosystem.The Topic:This episode explores the evolution of residential flexibility, lessons from scaling early stage energy platforms, and the market conditions that shaped the launch of Beebop. It also examines how Beebop approaches grid and trading optimisation, why consumer centricity remains a barrier, and what is required to accelerate adoption across global markets.Some of the episode highlights include:Why early flexibility ventures struggled to find product market fit in the absence of market awareness and connected assets.The shift from technical proof points to commercial and consumer engagement challenges across the energy transition.How Beebop uses AI to optimise real time flexibility and integrate diverse sub VPPs into trading systems.What growing an international cleantech team requires during high growth phases.Why risk appetite, communication simplicity, and fact based information shape the pace of adoption. Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company.We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
12/12/2025 • 28:15
Priya Mishra, Director of Technology at Carelon Global Solutions Ireland, shares a practitioner’s perspective on scaling innovation and preparing organisations for the future of work. The Guest:Priya Mishra is Director of Technology at Carelon Global Solutions Ireland, where she leads the design of transformative, cloud-native solutions that are reshaping healthcare systems. Honored with the Women in STEM – Technology award, she is passionate about people, culture, and reimagining how engineering teams work in the age of AI. With deep global experience in R&D, product development, and team leadership, Priya brings a practitioner’s perspective on scaling innovation and preparing organisations for the future of work.Together, we unpack the move from rigid hierarchies to fluid, networked teams, the rise of “super generalists,” and why empowered experimentation, psychological safety, and observability matter more than ever. Priya shares her perspective on cognitive overload, the redefinition of software roles, and the real blockers to AI-enabled transformation - especially leadership reluctance and fear of failure. It’s a grounded, practitioner-led look at what the future of work actually requires, far beyond the hype.Some highlights of this episode include:AI’s Impact on Team Culture & Ways of WorkingThe Evolution of Roles: From Specialists to “AI Orchestrators”Managing AI Adoption: New KPIs & Leadership ChallengesTraining for the Future: New Literacies & AI FluencyChange Management & Transformation Strategy in the AI Era Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
27/11/2025 • 36:06
Richard Bell, Head of Engineering at CoinShares, shares insights on how to successfully lead large-scale transformations and motivated teams.The Guest:Richard Bell is a seasoned technology leader with deep experience in financial services and large-scale transformations. Over his career, he has led major projects in organisations such as large international banks, building and scaling teams across geographies while tackling some of the toughest technology and organisational challenges. Richard joins us to talk to us about how to successfully lead large-scale transformations and build motivated teams.Some highlights of this episode include:What makes large-scale transformations succeed or failHow to build and motivate teams over long, tough programsThe mix of personalities and skills needed for big transformationsLeadership philosophy and hard choices as a managerThe impact of AI on software work and careers Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
13/11/2025 • 44:06
Chris Bernkopf, CEO of Podero, shares how they help utilities optimise energy use and offers advice on growing in the cleantech sector. The Guest:In this episode, we are joined by Chris Bernkopf, Co-Founder and CEO of the Austrian energy flexibility startup, Podero. With a background that spans physics, edtech, and electric mobility, and experience at CERN and Y Combinator, Chris brings a rare mix of scientific insight and entrepreneurial drive to the clean energy sector. Under his leadership, Podero develops software that helps utilities optimise device control, trade energy more efficiently, and reduce costs and emissions.Chris shares how the rise of renewables is transforming the way we consume and manage power, and why this shift demands smarter, more adaptive systems. He reflects on his journey from physics and Y Combinator to tackling one of the biggest challenges in climate tech, discussing how technology, markets, and user behaviour are converging to accelerate the clean energy transition. The conversation delves into Europe’s evolving energy landscape, the business and climate benefits of flexibility, and what it takes to build resilient solutions in a sector shaped by regulation and rapid change.Some highlights of this episode include:The shift in energy flexibility focusPodero's three-part business modelThe "Positive Flywheel" of decarbonisationBuilding resilient solutions in a sector shaped by regulation and rapid changeAdvice on overcoming sector overwhelm Listen to the Story of Software on:Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, & any other podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
30/10/2025 • 21:42
Lee Provoost, CTO at Flagstone, talks about his journey growing into technical leadership, from leading high-stakes projects while learning on the job, to navigating imposter syndrome and finding his footing as a leader.The Guest –Lee Provoost, CTO at FlagstoneToday we are joined by Lee Provoost, the CTO at Flagstone, a UK-based Fintech company helping clients get better returns on their savings. In this episode, Lee reflects on his journey growing into technical leadership, from leading high-stakes projects while learning on the job, to navigating imposter syndrome and finding his footing as a leader.Some highlights of this episode include:Non-linear path to CTO Learning on the job & being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” — Startup vs. corporate reality Leadership self-care & transparencyAI’s impact on product engineering Q: In your leadership journey, have you ever experienced imposter syndrome? If so, how do you deal with it?"Yeah, it’s something that lingers in the back of your mind all the time, but it lessens over time. I still feel it quite regularly, but I remind myself that I got this role because I clearly bring something to the table and the people around me have recognized that. It’s also why, three years later, I’m still the CTO of this business—you need to remind yourself of that regularly.When I ran my own business many years ago, I printed a meme as a massive poster in the office: a Labrador sitting at a keyboard with the caption, ‘I have no idea what I’m doing.’ I did it to normalize that none of us really knows everything—we’re all learning.Surround yourself with good coaches or mentors, and with peers on your leadership team. It can be lonely, and occasional validation from peers—‘that was a great job’ or ‘you handled that well’—definitely helps" Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
15/10/2025 • 37:22
In this episode, we’re joined by Ali Elgamal, EVP and CTO at Tamara, one of Saudi Arabia’s three fintech unicorns and a market leader in the buy now, pay later (BNPL) space. The Guest: Ali Elgamal, EVP and CTO at TamaraAli takes us through his journey that led to Tamara, sharing his leadership philosophy, strategies for building top tech talent, and insights into navigating BNPL in a regulated environment. He also offers his vision for the transformative role of AI in the future of fintech.Some highlights of this episode include:Career journey and experienceHypergrowth challenges and lessons learnedLeadership and talent strategyCultural and regional differences in techAI and the future of software development Q: With AI, how do you see software development changing over the next four or five years?"When it comes to AI and software development, I see it as something that will significantly improve developer experience and productivity. It will become a standard expectation that engineers have AI support. I also foresee a fundamental shift in how some solutions are designed and built. For example, you mentioned agents and MCPs. We are already experimenting with MCPs internally — we’ve created our own agent that is used for debugging. If someone has an issue, such as understanding what’s happening with a specific order, the agent gathers data from different internal sources and produces an analysis, like: the customer exceeded the debt burden ratio allowed by the regulator, and so on. This fundamentally changes how we work. Software that was once designed in a very traditional way — service-oriented, REST APIs, microservices architecture — will gradually shift to being more agent-based. It’s only a matter of time, and I’ve already seen systems being built in this way.I’m not just talking about the obvious use cases, like agentic workflows or IDE assistants, because everyone is experimenting with those. The real change will come from a deeper shift in software design and architecture, and I believe that’s where we’re heading." Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
02/10/2025 • 28:27
Discover the current and future state of the renewable energy sector with Brenda Park, COO of the ground-breaking Scottish energy storage business, StorTera. The Guest:Brenda is a seasoned operations leader with a PhD in Physics and over a decade of experience in the renewable energy sector. As COO and Director at StorTera—an Edinburgh-based energy storage innovator—she has been instrumental in building and leading the company’s core team of scientists and engineers, propelling the development of groundbreaking Single Liquid Flow Battery (SLiQ) technology and the StorAI platform Brenda’s expertise spans agile project management, renewable systems, and the commercialization of innovative energy storage solutions, making her a key force in advancing the mission towards a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.Some highlights of this episode include:The Problem of Wind and Solar CurtailmentLimitations of Lithium-Ion BatteriesSustainability and Circular Economy PracticesCommunity Energy Projects and AI-Enhanced Smart Grids Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
11/09/2025 • 24:52
Jad Sayegh, Co-Founder & CTO at Sarwa, joins us to reflect on his journey in building Sarwa and how his role has evolved as the company has matured.The Guest:Jad Sayegh is Co-Founder & CTO at Sarwa, a leading fintech company in the UAE that is transforming wealth management with accessible, technology-powered investment solutions. In this episode, Jad reflects on his journey from telecoms and high-speed trading in Canada to launching Sarwa in Dubai, and how the company has evolved from a prototype to a one-stop investing platform. He shares insights on building for a new market, navigating regulation, attracting and retaining global talent, and how his role as CTO has shifted as Sarwa scaled to 100+ people. We also touch on the challenges and opportunities of innovating in a fast-moving Fintech ecosystem, and the leadership lessons Jad has drawn from mentors and books along the way Some highlights of this episode include:The Origin Story of SarwaPioneering Regulatory Change in the UAEBuilding and Retaining Talent in a Transient MarketThe Evolution of the CTO RoleCustomer Feedback, Product Coherence, and Experimentation Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
28/08/2025 • 31:38
In this episode, Kevin shares his journey from founding engineer to senior leadership, reflecting on the challenges of transitioning from hands-on coding to enabling teams and departments to succeed. The Guest:Kevin Holditch is VP of Engineering at Form3, a leading provider of payment infrastructure powering real-time, secure transactions for banks and Fintech companies worldwide. We discuss Form3’s cloud-native payment infrastructure, the balance between innovation and regulatory demands, and their deliberate approach to hiring top-tier talent globally, even pre-COVID. Kevin highlights the company’s engineering achievements, including a multi-cloud platform capable of processing payments seamlessly across AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, and offers insights into scaling remote teams, nurturing internal leadership, and maintaining job satisfaction.Some highlights of this episode include:Transition from Engineer to LeaderBuilding a Multi-Cloud Active-Active-Active Payment PlatformHiring Philosophy & Talent StrategyOperating in a Regulated Financial Environment While Staying InnovativeImpact and Caution Around AI in Software DevelopmentListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
18/08/2025 • 39:19
Philip Gill, CTO at Smartbox Group, speaks about his experience in leading globally distributed blended teams. The Guest:Philip Gill has over a decade of experience in cultivating high-performing multinational software teams. He is now the CTO at Smartbox Group, a European leader in experience gifting, offering curated travel, dining, and adventure packages across multiple countries. Phil shares the evolution of his career from QA engineer to CTO, and the operational philosophies that have shaped Smartbox’s growth. He discusses the company’s blended team model, the importance of cultural fit, building trust across borders, and how rigorous processes have enabled major software rollouts under pressure. Phil also offers a grounded view on the current and future impact of AI in software development, highlighting both its promise and its hype.Some highlights of this episode include:Building and Leading Globally Distributed, Blended TeamsCulture-First Hiring and Team PsychologyCycle Time and Quality Engineering MetricsPractical View on AI in Software DevelopmentListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
31/07/2025 • 38:10
Molly Webb,Founder of Energy Unlocked and Co-Founder of PeerCo, shares her 20+ year journey at the intersection of digital innovation and climate action. Molly Webb is the Founder of Energy Unlocked and Co-Founder of PeerCo, with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of technology and climate policy. She works to accelerate inclusive energy transitions by supporting startups, shaping policy, and enabling data-driven financing for electrification. Her focus spans demand-side flexibility, urban decarbonization, and creating tangible climate impact beyond tech hype.Molly shares the origins and evolution of Energy Unlocked’s mission to empower Cleantech startups and influence policy, and how that work led to Peerco; a venture tackling the challenge of financing small-scale urban decarbonisation projects through innovative use of energy attribute certificates. From city farms in London to solar projects in Lagos, Molly offers a grounded perspective on the realities of system change, the need for robust verification in carbon markets, and the importance of collective action as we push toward 2030.Some highlights of this episode include:The Origin Stories of Energy Unlocked and PeercoInclusive Energy Transition & Urban DecarbonizationMaking Behind-the-Meter Interventions Financially ViableTech Industry’s Ethical RoleListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
24/07/2025 • 36:11
Jorge Belenguer, Head of Software Engineering and Data at BWT Alpine F1 Team, joins us to talk about the role of software in an F1 team, how the industry has evolved, and how software can be used as a competitive advantage for racing teams.The Guest :Jorge Belenguer has over 15 years of experience in the software industry, 10 of which has been spent working for Formula 1 teams. He is now the Head of Software Engineering and Data at BWT Alpine Formula One Team. With over a decade in F1, Jorge shares how software powers everything from car design to race strategy, and how it serves as a crucial competitive differentiator, even in a sport dominated by mechanical engineering. He explains why the F1 software ecosystem is so unique, how data and AI are shaping the future of racing, and what kind of tech talent thrives in this high-speed, high-stakes environment. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, motorsport fan, or just curious about the intersection of elite sport and software, this episode delivers insight at full throttle.Some highlights of this episode include:Role of software in F1Competitive edge and secrecy in hiringSoftware as a strategic investment vs. the carUse of AI and simulations due to on-track limitationsCultural fit in F1: Startup vs. corporate mentalitiesListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
17/07/2025 • 26:20
Michael Zucker, VP of Engineering at UNiDAYS, joined us today to discuss some of the parallels in coaching athletes vs software engineers. The Guest:Michael Zucker is a software executive with over 20 years of experience in the field. Today, he is the VP of Engineering at UNiDAYS, a platform offering exclusive discounts and deals from top brands to students, as well as providing student verification services to the likes of Apple, Meta and other large companies. In addition to this, he has also successfully coached ice hockey teams for the same amount of time throughout his career. In this episode, Michael joins us to explore the parallels between coaching athletes and managing software engineering teams. Michael shares insights from his unconventional career path, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence, resilience, and a growth mindset in leadership roles. Listen in as we discuss how effective feedback, clear strategies, and genuine care for individual growth are crucial whether you're on the ice or in the office. Some highlights of this episode include:Parallels Between Coaching Athletes and Managing EngineersThe Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership Why Great Engineers (or Athletes) Don’t Always Make Great ManagersFeedback Culture: Athletes vs. EngineersFuture Trends in Software Development (Beyond AI) Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
10/07/2025 • 23:35
Craig Hughes, CTO at Nas Neuron Health Services, speaks about the role and importance of emotional intelligence in tech leadership. The Guest:Craig Hughes is a software executive with over 20 years of experience in leading large scale digital transformations, mainly in the banking sector. He is now the CTO at Nas Neuron Health Services, UAE's largest group of health insurance third-party administrators. In this episode, Craig dives deep into the critical role of emotional intelligence in tech leadership, drawing on lessons from his global career and personal experiences, including pivotal moments of insight. From defining what emotional intelligence looks like in engineering teams to the pitfalls of promoting purely on technical merit, this conversation explores how empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills shape effective leadership, team cohesion, and organisational health in today’s tech landscape.Some highlights of this episode include:Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in Tech LeadershipHow to Identify Future LeadersTechnology, Isolation, and the Decline of EQBuilding EQ Without FrameworksThe Future of Software and the Loss of FundamentalsListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
03/07/2025 • 25:24
Oliver Spragg, Advisor at Postera Capital and the ex-CTO of Plan A, talks about the growth of the company, from technical architecture and team structure to strategy and culture. The Guest:Oliver Spragg is an Advisor at Postera Capital, and the previous CTO of Plan A, which enables global brands such as BMW, KFC, and Visa to measure, report, and reduce their emissions. Over the last 5 years, he led the engineering organisation at Plan A through a period of rapid growth, shaping everything from technical architecture and team structure to strategy and culture. He’s especially interested in applying machine learning principles to build high performing teams and drive operational excellence.Some highlights of this episode include:The evolution of a CTO's role in startupsThe pitfalls of over-optimising metricsBuilding high-performing engineering teamsAI’s role in measuring and enhancing developer experienceThe future of software development: from code to domain expertiseListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
26/06/2025 • 31:59
Eric Matteson, CTO at Accurx, talks about his career history and rebooting a company’s culture.The Guest :Eric Matteson is a seasoned engineering executive with over 25 years of industry experience. He is now the CTO at Accurx, a company dedicated to optimising communication between healthcare professionals and patients. In this episode, we interview Eric, who shares his dynamic 25-year career journey from early leadership roles at Microsoft, Amazon, Blizzard and several startups before joining Accurx. Eric discusses his leadership approach to building effective cultures, highlighting that every company requires a unique blend of principles tailored to its people, product, and context—rather than simply replicating past playbooks.Some highlights of this episode include:Cultural Challenges & Rebooting Culture at AccurxAdapting Leadership Principles to Fit the OrganizationRe-architecting Systems & Cultural ChangeAI’s Role in Engineering & the Future of WorkListen to the Story of Software any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
12/06/2025 • 38:43
Larsen Mabika, CEO & Co-Founder at Maiven, talks about the journey that led him to co-found his company, and the challenges and opportunities he sees in climate tech.The Guest:Today’s guest is Larsen Mabika, the Co-Founder and CEO of Maiven, an AI-powered platform that helps businesses navigate the rapidly changing world of climate policy. With a background in data and carbon markets, Larsen brings a unique perspective on how technology can cut through the noise, highlight risks and opportunities, and help organizations stay ahead in the sustainability space. In this episode, we’ll explore the journey that led him to co-found Maiven, the challenges and opportunities he sees in climate tech, and how AI is shaping the future of policy-driven decision-making.Some highlights of this episode include:Navigating the overwhelming pace of climate policy changeThe origins of Maiven: insights from working in carbon marketsThe power of combining diverse expertise in Maiven’s leadershipUnlocking opportunities through climate policiesHarnessing ai for timely, global insightsListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
05/06/2025 • 21:16
Marko Maunula, CTO at BeeHealthy talks about the importance of having diversity in software teams.The Guest:Marko Maunula is the CTO at BeeHealthy, a Helsinki-based healthcare company providing digital tools to make patient care more accessible and efficient.In this episode, Marko shares insights from decades in tech leadership, reflecting on how to build high-performing, diverse teams in a regulated industry. From aligning organisational structure with product strategy to balancing compliance-minded engineers with boundary-pushing innovators, Marko offers a candid look at what makes teams click and where things can go wrong. We also explore the ethical and technical challenges of embedding AI in healthcare, the realities of hiring for complexity, and why a little internal friction might be exactly what a strong team needs.Some highlights of this episode include:Intentional Team DiversityBalancing Speed and ComplianceAI Integration in HealthcareHiring Philosophy and ProcessThe Role of Conflict in High-Performing TeamsMixed Reception of AI Co-pilots in EngineeringListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
30/05/2025 • 29:41
Jerry Randall, Founder of Wind Pioneers, talks about how Wind Pioneers are leveraging technology to power the future of clean energy.The Guest:In this episode, we explore the transformative world of wind energy, site optimization, and sustainable development with Jerry Randall, the Founder of Wind Pioneers. Based in Bangalore, Wind Pioneers has redefined wind farm design and prospecting, offering innovative solutions to emerging markets across Southeast Asia, Africa, and beyond.Jerry shares his inspiring journey from a small town in Norfolk to leading global wind projects, driven by a passion for sustainable energy and strategic site identification. He dives deep into the challenges of scaling wind energy in new markets, the changing role of geography in site selection, and how Wind Pioneers are leveraging technology to power the future of clean energy.Some highlights of this episode include:International wind and Cleantech market explorationEmerging markets as the focus for wind energyTechnological advancement that enabler the use of more clean energy resourcesWind Pioneers’ software solutions—Windquest and WindcheckFuture of renewable energy and grid challengesListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
22/05/2025 • 31:04
Marcus Wang, Partner at Coda Global Ventures, talks about advising companies in venture capital and global market entry in multiple sectors.About The Guest:Marcus Wang is a Partner at Coda Global Ventures, his expertise lies within helping early-stage companies scale, and mature companies optimise for successful exits. He also co-founded and exited ZytoGen, a precision medicine company, and launched Under Armour’s operations in China. Most recently, he worked with a venture studio to commercialise cutting-edge technologies in sustainability and materials science, and is currently advising multiple companies in venture capital and global market entry in multiple sectors. In the public sector, Marcus is also a State Health Commissioner for Maryland, bridging public and private interests to drive societal impact. About The Topic:Marcus brings a global and cross-sector perspective to scaling companies, driving innovation, and aligning stakeholder incentives. We explore the realities of tech transformation in both early-stage startups and legacy enterprises, how to assess and modernise tech stacks for maximum ROI, and why AI isn’t replacing people; it’s empowering them. From hands-on team interventions to future-proofing through culture and capability, this conversation is a masterclass in operational excellence.Some highlights of this episode include:Role of an Operating PartnerChallenges and Successes in VC and PEAssessing and Optimizing Technology in Portfolio Companies:AI Integration and Future of Work:Team Building and Performance OptimizationListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
15/05/2025 • 33:03
Denis Canty, Senior Director of Software Development at VelocityEHS, talks about his career history, scaling teams and the future economics of software development. The Guest and Topic:Denis Canty is an accomplished technology leader with vast experience in multinational and startup environments. He is now Senior Director of Software Development at VelocityEHS, a leading provider of environmental, health, and safety software solutions. Denis joins us to talk about his career history, scaling teams and the future economics of software development. Some highlights of this episode include:Global Team Scaling and Cultural NuancesOutsourcing and the Evolution of Strategic PartnershipsThe Economics of Software & Metric-Driven DevelopmentLow Code / No Code Tools & AI as a Software EqualizerShifting Developer Roles and the Future of Software CompositionListen to the Story of Software on any other podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
09/05/2025 • 36:05
Omar Halabieh, Director of Software Development at Amazon, talks about personal development as a leader. The Guest:Omar Halabieh is a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience in tech leadership. As Director of Software Development at Amazon, he leads the Technology function for payments across the Middle East and Africa. Throughout his career, Omar has delivered award-winning transformational initiatives that have created competitive advantage, enabled business growth, and exceeded customer expectations.In this episode, he shares a compelling journey through two decades of tech leadership - from early days in the energy sector to scaling Amazon Payments Services in the Middle East. With a focus on personal and professional growth, Omar unpacks his servant leadership style, the value of mentorship, and how to adapt leadership strategies across cultures and team dynamics. He also explores the necessity of continuous learning—highlighting communication and generative AI as current development priorities—and the importance of redefining success to include well-being, intentional reflection, and sustainable impact as a leader.Some highlights of this episode include:Leadership style and evolutionThe importance of mentorshipSituational leadership and wearing “multiple hats”Personal development through reflectionWhat success means as a leaderGenAI and leadership relevanceListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
24/04/2025 • 33:59
Amin Manzouri, Founder & Managing Partner of Axis Growth Advisory, talks to us about Value Creation in the M&A processes.The Guest:Amin Manzouri is Founder & Managing Partner of Axis Growth Advisory, a strategic advisory firm with a focus on value creation through strategy, enterprise-wide transformation and strategic M&A. He is a senior level transformation leader and operating partner with over 17 years of experience gained from working for some of the world's leading organisations such as Bank of America, JPMorgan, PwC, Accenture and KPMG. He also holds an MBA from London Business School and joins our podcast to talk about portfolio value creation in the investor market. Some highlights of this episode include:The 60-30-10 value creation frameworkLow-hanging fruit in SaaS value creationImportance of culture in value creationThe role of technology and AI in efficiency & scaleExit planning from day oneListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
16/04/2025 • 43:16
Tarvo Õng, Founder and CEO of Fusebox, talks about his career history, founding Fusebox, and navigating rapid growth in the energy sector. The Guest:In this episode of The Story of Software, we dive into the world of virtual power plants, energy flexibility, and clean tech innovation with Tarvo Õng — Founder and CEO of Fusebox. Based in Estonia, Fusebox has grown from a local disruptor to a pan-European leader in helping businesses optimise energy consumption and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.Tarvo shares his personal journey into clean tech, the challenges of expanding across diverse energy markets, and his mission to build a cleaner, more resilient energy future. Whether you’re curious about demand response, AI in energy, or the geopolitical shifts reshaping the grid — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Some highlights of this episode include:The Concept and Impact of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs)Behind-the-Meter Energy Flexibility and Commercial/Industrial Use CasesNavigating Diverse Energy Markets and Regulatory EnvironmentsThe Role (and Hype) of AI in Energy Management Founding Motivation and Long-Term Vision for Clean TechListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
10/04/2025 • 24:01
Shane Lynn, CEO and Founder of EdgeTier, talks about his career history, founding EdgeTier, and navigating rapid growth. The Guest:Shane Lynn is the CEO and Founder of EdgeTier, a company providing advanced AI-driven solutions for businesses to automate and optimise customer service operations. Today he joins us to talk about his career history, founding EdgeTier, and navigating the rapid growth his company went through. Growth, AI, and Strategy: In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, growth doesn’t just happen — it’s engineered. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, the most successful companies are those that can balance innovation with intentional strategy. Growth powered by AI isn’t just about adopting the latest tools — it’s about knowing when to scale, how to structure your teams, and where to apply intelligence for the greatest impact.Whether you're leading a startup, building a product team, or rethinking your company’s direction, understanding the interplay between growth, AI, and strategy is essential. In this episode, we explore how forward-thinking companies are leveraging AI to drive smarter decisions, streamline operations, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.--Listen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
03/04/2025 • 41:58
Kenneth Munson, CEO and Founder of Rhythmos, talks about the critical role of grid edge technology in the rise of e-mobility, and the innovative solutions Rhythmos is developing.The Guest:Kenneth Munson, is the CEO and Founder of Rhythmos, a company at the forefront of optimising EV charging costs on the grid. Today, we'll delve into his journey, the critical role of grid edge technology in the rise of e-mobility, and the innovative solutions Rhythmos is developing to harmonise the growing demand for electricity with our existing infrastructure. Modernising the Grid for the EV Era:In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of clean energy and the technologies driving smarter, more sustainable power systems. From the rise of grid edge technology and virtual power plants (VPPs) to the growing importance of dynamic grid optimisation, we discuss how the energy sector is adapting to meet the demands of a decarbonised future. We also discuss the growth of EVs, the increasing adoption, and the impact on energy flexibility, and the ongoing challenges like price sensitivity, system-wide adoption lag, and infrastructure readiness.Some highlights of this episode include:Grid optimisation & grid visibility problemsVirtual power plants (VPPs) and derms evolutionTime-of-use pricing vs. dynamic grid optimisationUse of AMI (advanced metering infrastructure) data for aggregated load forecasting Challenges and misconceptions in early cleantech adoptionListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
27/03/2025 • 29:48
Peter Kisel is the CTO & Co-Founder of Finlay, an AI-driven talent management platform. Today he joins the podcast for the second time, the first being in September 2022. This episode will cover the changes Peter has experienced over the past 2 years including co-founding a startup and the role of AI in recruitment.Co-Founding a Startup in the Age of AI-Driven Recruitment:Co-founding a startup is both exhilarating and challenging—especially when it comes to building the right team from the ground up. As AI technology rapidly evolves, it has the potential to radically transform how startups identify and recruit their most valuable asset: talent. In this episode, we explore the early-stage experiences of launching a company, the hurdles involved in securing venture capital, and why AI-driven hiring platforms are poised to eliminate the inefficiencies, biases, and frustrations so often associated with recruitment. Whether you’re a founder, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the future of work, read on to discover how AI can revolutionize the way we build and scale startups.Some highlights of this episode include:Co-founding a startup & career transitionAI in recruitmentRaising Venture Capital (VC) fundingBias in AI & ethical hiringStaying innovative with AIListen to the Story of Software any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
20/03/2025 • 26:45
Jordan Brompton, Co-founder and Board Director at myenergi, talks about her career journey leading up to managing a multinational cleantech business.The Guest:Jordan Brompton is a Co-Founder and Board Director at myenergi, cleantech entrepreneur, angel investor and all-round green force of nature. From humble beginnings to leading a multinational cleantech business, Jordan's story is one of passion, and perseverance. Jordan is a pioneer in smart home energy technology, empowering consumers to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs.The Power of Energy Independence:In the ever-evolving landscape of cleantech, few stories stand out as boldly as that of Jordan Brompton, Co-Founder of myenergi and a true innovator in the push towards a greener future. In the first episode of The Story of Software: Cleantech Creators, Jordan shares insights into her entrepreneurial path, the challenges of scaling a business in the renewable energy sector, and the misconceptions surrounding EVs and green energy. She also speaks about the importance of decentralising energy, empowering consumers to take control of their own power sources, and breaking stereotypes in an industry historically dominated by men.Jordan’s perspective challenges the status quo and highlights why clean tech is not just an environmental necessity, but also an economic and practical shift that benefits everyone.Listen to the Story of Software any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
13/03/2025 • 37:15
Anatolii Zotin, Executive VP of Software Development at Exinity, talks about his career history, his experience in merging 2 tech teams into 1 and bridging the gap between engineering and business. The Guest:Anatolii Zotin is the Executive VP of Software Development at Exinity, a global fintech company offering innovative trading and investing products for emerging markets. Today he joins us to talk about his career history, his experience in merging 2 tech teams into 1 and bridging the gap between engineering and business. Bridging Tech and Business: Aligning Innovation with Strategy:In today's fast-paced digital landscape, the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders can lead to misalignment, missed opportunities, and inefficiencies. While engineers focus on building scalable, reliable solutions, business leaders prioritize speed, market fit, and ROI. The key to success lies in effective communication, shared goals, and a collaborative mindset. In this episode, we explore strategies for bridging the gap between tech and business, ensuring that innovation aligns with strategic objectives for long-term growth.Some highlights of this episode include:Bridging the Gap Between Engineering and BusinessBuilding and Managing High-Performing TeamsChallenges of Team Formation and CollaborationThe Role of Team Augmentation in Scaling Development TeamsThe Impact of AI on Software DevelopmentListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
06/03/2025 • 35:36
Andre Carlucci, CTO at Lepaya, talks about his career history and his views on culture and creating a learning environment in tech teams. The Guest:Andre Carlucci co-founded and was the CTO of Way2 Technology for 15 years. He has also been a Microsoft most valuable professional for almost a decade and he is still part of the Microsoft Director Program. Currently, he works as the CTO for Lepaya, a leading learning and development platform delivering personalised employee training experiences. Fostering a Learning Environment in Tech Teams:In the fast-evolving world of technology, continuous learning isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. In a recent episode of The Story of Software podcast, Andre Carlucci, CTO of Lepaya, shared his insights on building a strong learning culture within tech teams. Drawing from his experience leading engineering teams across startups, large enterprises, and consulting firms, Andre highlighted the importance of creating an environment where knowledge-sharing, upskilling, and adaptability are embedded in the company’s DNA.From pair programming and coding dojos to structured mentorship and company-wide alignment on learning objectives, fostering a culture of learning drives both individual and business success. But what are the key ingredients to making this work? Some highlights of this episode include:The Value of Pair Programming in Knowledge Sharing and CollaborationThe Role of Engineering Alignment Meetings in Team GrowthWhy a Product Mindset is Essential for DevelopersTracking and Measuring Learning to Align with Business GoalsHow Company Culture Shapes a Strong Learning EnvironmentListen to the Story of Software on any podcast platform of your choice. The Story of Software Podcast is produced by Zartis, a software services company. We hope you enjoy listening to this tech podcast and feel free to share any feedback with us: podcast@zartis.com
20/02/2025 • 35:55