Tech with Newton

Newton Ameh

Tech with Newton is an informative technology podcast for tech enthusiasts, newcomers to tech, tech professionals, and anyone looking to break into the industry.

It is a podcast committed to educating and empowering technology careers worldwide.

In each episode, the host, Newton, a seasoned IT consultant, explores the latest interesting technology news, trends, insights, and innovations, as well as career development tips and tricks to turbocharge careers in tech.

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Episodes

Women in Tech: Career Success Strategies | with Limor Bergman
Oct 19 2024
Women in Tech: Career Success Strategies | with Limor Bergman
In this episode, Newton sits down for a conversation with Limor Bergman Gross, a former Director of Engineering at DigitalOcean and now a career coach for ambitious women in tech. With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, Limor shares actionable insights and strategies for women looking to advance their careers and navigate the unique challenges they face in today's fast-paced world.This episode explores a wide range of pertinent topics, from overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence, to the delicate balance of maintaining a side business while holding down a full-time job. They also dive deep into the critical decisions women (and men) face in tech: whether to pursue a management role or remain an Individual Contributor, and how to recognize when it's time to move on from a job that no longer brings fulfillment.Whether you're a woman striving to break barriers in the tech world or simply someone looking for career growth, this episode is packed with practical advice that can help you thrive.Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of valuable takeaways, regardless of where you are in your tech career journey!About the Guest: Limor is a former Director of Engineering at DigitalOcean with over 20 years of experience in the tech industry. She is now a career coach for ambitious women in tech that want to get to the next level in their careers and achieve more through a result-oriented coaching process. Limor is married with four children; she loves running and working out at the gym while listening to electronic music.Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
Are Your Soft Skills Limiting Your Tech Career? | with Vladimir Baranov
Sep 16 2024
Are Your Soft Skills Limiting Your Tech Career? | with Vladimir Baranov
In this insightful episode, Newton is joined by Vladimir Baranov, an Executive Coach for Founders and Technical Leaders, to explore the growing importance of soft skills in the tech industry.Together, they dive into the critical role that communication, interpersonal skills, and emotional intelligence play in building a successful career in tech today.They discuss the widening soft skills gap within the tech space, the communication challenges faced by engineers and IT managers, and how these issues can limit personal growth and career advancement. They also offer practical strategies for upskilling, improving social skills, and overcoming career stagnation.Tune in to learn how mastering soft skills can lead to promotions, leadership opportunities, and a more fulfilling career in the tech industry.ABOUT THE GUEST:Vladimir is an Executive Coach for Founders and Technical Leaders. He coached and mentored at various U.S. and U.K. incubators and accelerators, with a primary focus on launching, developing, and sustaining startups. Vladimir champions innovation, particularly in transforming ideas into tangible businesses (zero-to-one approach). He also focuses on integration of frequently misaligned perspectives of business and technical challenges. He's a serial entrepreneur, having founded three companies with successful exits in fintech and spacetech, demonstrating proficiency in scaling businesses through various funding stages. His entrepreneurial journey, encompassing roles such as Founder, CTO, COO, and CISO, lends him a comprehensive perspective on creating optimal data and technology services.Vladimir holds MBAs from Columbia and London Business Schools and dual degrees in Computer Science and Computer Engineering from Stony Brook University, where his studies spanned software development and robotics. He is passionate about enhancing communication strategies, studies organizational and social behavior, and is an avid reader."Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
A Mathematician En Route to Revolutionize the Financial Markets | with Noah Healy
Aug 19 2024
A Mathematician En Route to Revolutionize the Financial Markets | with Noah Healy
In this insightful episode, host Newton sits down for a conversation with Noah Healy, a tech entrepreneur, mathematician, and visionary in the realm of market design. Noah, the founder of Coordisc (coordisc.com), is a professional algorithm developer, a recreational mathematician, and an expert in game theory and marketplace design.The conversation dives deep into Noah's pioneering work on his patent-pending system—the Coordinated Discovery Market (CDM)—which has the potential to supersede traditional commodity markets. CDM is a novel system designed to transform how commodities are priced and traded. Noah explains that traditional commodity markets often rely on a first-come, first-served basis for pricing, which can be exploited by larger players, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of transparency. In contrast, his CDM leverages game theory, specifically "negotiation games," to create a dynamic and adaptive pricing mechanism that aims to democratize market access and ensure fairer outcomes for all participants.The conversation delves into fascinating and complex concepts spanning mathematics, physics, finance, AI. and the intricacies of current patent laws and regulations.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of Technology, Mathematics, Physics, Economics, and Market dynamics. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a professional in the finance sector, or simply curious about innovations that could shape the future of trading, Noah Healy's insights offer a compelling look at how new technologies can challenge and improve existing systems.Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
Future Scenarios: A Powerful Way to Manage Uncertainties | with Ursula Eysin
Jul 9 2024
Future Scenarios: A Powerful Way to Manage Uncertainties | with Ursula Eysin
In this episode, Newton sits down with the multitalented Ursula Eysin, founder and CEO of Red Swan, a Vienna-based consultancy that specializes in developing future scenarios. Ursula shares her fascinating journey from a show host and producer in opera, musical, film, and television to becoming a passionate technology consultant and communication professional. With her vast experience in tech, media, business, and politics, Ursula offers unique insights into the world of future scenarios and Generative AI.The conversation delves deep into the concept of future scenarios, as Ursula explains how these scenarios can help organizations and individuals navigate uncertainties and make informed decisions. Her work with notable organizations, including Technology Ministries and the European Commission, underscores the importance and impact of future scenario development in shaping technological advancements and policies.A significant portion of the discussion centers around Generative AI and its implications in modern times. The episode explores the transformative potential of Generative AI, acknowledging its benefits and the threat it poses to the jobs of creatives. It discusses how AI can augment creativity, but also the ethical and practical challenges it introduces, particularly in industries reliant on human artistic talent.Tune in to navigate the complexities of future scenarios, the evolving landscape of Generative AI, and the balance between uncertainties, innovation, and preservation of creative jobs in this thought-provoking episode.Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
Why a Career in IT is the Smartest Move for the 21st Century
May 31 2024
Why a Career in IT is the Smartest Move for the 21st Century
In this compelling episode, Newton shifts the focus from last week's deep dive into the challenges of IT workplaces to illuminate the myriad benefits that make a career in technology an exceptional choice for the 21st century. Newton explores how starting a career in IT is remarkably accessible, requiring no formal qualifications or substantial financial investment, and discusses the lucrative salaries that make IT one of the highest-paying industries globally.Listeners will gain insights into the entrepreneurial opportunities within IT, where skills are easily transferable and the barrier to entry for launching a startup is low, supported by eager investors. The episode also highlights the growing trend and benefits of remote work, offering IT professionals unprecedented work-life balance and the ability to work from anywhere in the world.Furthermore, Newton emphasizes the inherent "cool" factor of IT careers, where professionals are at the forefront of cutting-edge innovations like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing. These roles not only keep the job exciting but also ensure continuous learning and growth. By showcasing how IT professionals directly impact various industries and enjoy a revered status as tech wizards, Newton makes a compelling case for why pursuing a career in IT is not just a wise decision, but an exhilarating journey.Tune in for a thorough examination of why IT stands out as the best career choice of this century, promising growth, excitement, and a future-proof path in an ever-evolving digital landscape.Tune in to understand why this field is considered the epitome of modern professions!Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
More Unspoken Pitfalls of Working in IT
May 23 2024
More Unspoken Pitfalls of Working in IT
In this compelling continuation from the previous episode, the host Newton delves deeper into the often unspoken challenges faced in the IT industry. This episode highlights six more critical issues that IT professionals might encounter in their careers: Sexism - Newton discusses the persistent issue of sexism in the tech industry, highlighting the underrepresentation of women and the subtle yet impactful ways sexism manifests in the workplace. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these biases to create a more inclusive environment. Bullying and Control - Bullying isn’t just a high school problem; it exists in IT workplaces too. Newton sheds light on how experienced employees sometimes misuse their power, creating toxic environments that stifle growth and innovation. Quantity over Quality Problem - The pressure to produce large volumes of work quickly often undermines the quality of output. Newton explains how this relentless pace can diminish the joy and satisfaction derived from one's work. Use Them or Lose Them Skills - IT professionals must continually practice their skills to remain proficient. Newton highlights the challenge of skill degradation over time, especially in roles that don't require the regular use of core competencies. Language Barriers and Silos - Communication issues within IT teams can create significant obstacles. Newton discusses how different jargon between IT management and engineers, along with the prevalence of information silos, hampers effective collaboration and decision-making. The Illusion of Job Security - In an industry marked by rapid change and frequent layoffs, job security is often an illusion. Newton warns of the dangers of complacency and the ever-present risk of being replaced. The episode is concluded with an invitation to listeners to share their experiences and suggest additional challenges that might warrant a follow-up discussion. Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
12 Challenges No One Tells You About Working in IT
May 9 2024
12 Challenges No One Tells You About Working in IT
In this episode, Newton delves into the often-overlooked challenges of working in IT organizations, emphasizing the need for transparency about these issues, and aiming to equip listeners with the awareness needed to navigate these challenges and foster resilience in the IT workplace.Firstly, Newton explores the prevalence of office politics in IT, highlighting how favoritism and loyalty to managers can overshadow competence and hinder career progression. Next, he discusses the monotony of repetitive tasks in the industry, citing studies linking boredom to decreased mental health and physical well-being.Newton also delves into the inefficiencies of meetings in corporate IT, where productivity is often hindered by excessive opinions and lack of focus. He then sheds light on the disguised stagnation in IT careers, where professionals may be kept in the same role for years under the guise of social benefits and fancy titles.Another challenge highlighted is the constant need for upskilling and reskilling due to frequent changes within IT organizations. This perpetual cycle of learning can be overwhelming for long-term employees who find themselves constantly adapting to new tools and processes.Newton also addresses the “Dream Abattoir” phenomenon, where ambitious aspirations often succumb to the demands and time constraints of full-time IT jobs. Many professionals find themselves unable to pursue side hustles or entrepreneurial endeavors due to the all-consuming nature of their IT roles.Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
Tech Layoffs: Why You Should Be Concerned
Apr 28 2024
Tech Layoffs: Why You Should Be Concerned
In this episode, Newton delves into the alarming wave of job cuts sweeping through the tech industry, shedding light on the staggering numbers. The narrative zooms in on major players like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, PayPal, and others, all announcing significant layoffs, some doing so under the guise of cost-cutting. The episode highlights Tesla's recent mass layoffs, drawing attention to the human toll behind corporate decisions.Since the beginning of this year, and that's been only four months:- DELL has laid off 8,000 employees, - PAYPAL has laid off 9% of its employees (2,500 headcounts) - MICROSOFT has silently bid goodbye to 1,900 of its employees.- GOOGLE axed 1,000 employees,- SAP axed 8,000 employees, - CISCO axed 4,250 employees,- XEROX axed 3,000 employees, - AMAZON axed 400 employees, - TWITCH axed 35% of its workforce, - APPLE axed 614 employees,- SNAP axed 10% of its workforce, - SALESFORCE axed 700 employees, - TIKTOK axed 250 of its employees, - ZOOM axed 150 employees…  Newton questions the ethics of sudden job terminations, emphasizing the potential impact on employees and their families. He scrutinizes the disconnect between profitability and job cuts, hinting at possible ulterior motives, some driven by Wall Street pressures. The podcast raises concerns about the moral responsibility of companies towards their employees, advocating for a more compassionate approach to workforce management. It also issues a call to action for upskilling and reskilling in the face of technological disruption, offering insights into future-proofing one's career. The episode serves as a wake-up call to some of the tech industry's harmful practices and urges listeners to stay vigilant amidst the changing landscape. Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON
The Origin of Information Technology
Apr 14 2024
The Origin of Information Technology
In this episode of Tech with Newton, the focus is on laying down the fundamentals of information technology in a jargon-free manner. Newton emphasizes the podcast's commitment to simplicity and clarity, aiming to make it accessible even to non-tech enthusiasts.He starts by addressing the misconceptions surrounding IT, clarifying its definition and distinguishing it from computer science. Newton breaks down IT as the utilization of computerized systems to manage electronic data to fulfill human needs, emphasizing the importance of data in the field.The episode traces the origins of IT back to ancient civilizations, particularly highlighting the contributions of the Sumerians, who invented writing for effective communication. Newton guides listeners through the evolution of IT from the pre-mechanical era to the digital age, mentioning key inventions like the Antikythera Mechanism and the emergence of electricity.Furthermore, he discusses the electromechanical era and the electronic era, marked by significant advancements in data processing devices and the coining of the term "Information Technology" in 1958. Newton concludes by reflecting on the current technological landscape, showcasing the advancements in supercomputing, AI, and quantum computing.Throughout the episode, Newton maintains a conversational tone, making complex concepts understandable to all listeners. He concludes with an invitation for listeners to continue exploring related topics in subsequent episodes, emphasizing the importance of supporting the podcast to spread knowledge about technology.Send a message to TECH WITH NEWTON