Your Next Tech Startup

How can you tell if a startup will be a healthy place to work or a fast track to burnout? In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen, Host and Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment, and Dr. Matthew Jones, Startup Executive Psychologist and cofounder of Cofounder Clarity, explain how software engineers can evaluate startup culture during the interview process. Instead of relying on vague culture statements, we focus on practical interview questions that reveal how teams handle mistakes, conflict, feedback, and leadership pressure. You’ll learn: How to spot healthy vs. toxic startup culture Interview questions that reveal how teams really operate Warning signs of poor leadership and unsafe environments What engineers should look for before joining an early-stage company This episode is for software engineers considering a startup role and anyone who wants to make a smarter career decision before signing an offer. Topics: startup culture, engineering interviews, workplace culture, toxic startups, leadership, team dynamics, career advice for software engineers Guest: Dr. Matthew Jones Startup Executive Psychologist, Cofounder Clarity https://cofounderclarity.com

Isabel Rasmussen speaks the founders of New Harbor about the US Remote Sr Engineering Engineer role. We go beyond the job description to discuss great opportunities at startups in our Now Hiring episodes. Interested in this role? email Isabel at newharbor.co   Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guests: Jonathan Edward https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanedward/, Giuseppe Morgana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmorgana/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to New Harbor and Its Mission 02:12 The Need for a Senior Engineer 04:37 Technical Requirements for the Role 05:17 Building Team Culture in a Remote Environment 08:30 The Importance of Mission Alignment   New Harbor We founded New Harbor to bring foundational cybersecurity to organizations of all sizes. Today, we serve customers operating globally through our software platform and expert support. We're advancing this mission by launching a self-service platform that automates the deployment and management of security measures - making it easy for any organization to benefit from the protections proven to stop most attacks without being overwhelmed. Organizations today face an impossible problem: employees use hundreds of SaaS apps, but enforcing consistent security across them means manually configuring each one. Enterprise SSO only works if you pay premium tiers everywhere. We're building a platform that lets you approve a rule once - like "enforce multi-factor authentication" - and have it enforced everywhere possible without having to configure every application. We combine API integrations with an AI-assisted browser extension to automate security controls in any application. We're building towards our public launch. The technical challenges are real: reliably automating security controls across hundreds of different applications, building a rule engine that works across varied APIs and browser interfaces, and doing it all in a way that scales. If you're excited about building something from the ground up that solves a problem security teams actually have, we'd love to talk. Full JD https://app.dover.com/apply/New%20Harbor/6918753a-76ce-491d-8f9e-aef5918afd82/?rs=76643084   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV   #NowHiring #StartupJobs #RemoteJobs #SoftwareEngineering #EngineeringCareers #TechCareers #StartupLife #RemoteWork #WorkFromHome #CareerGrowth #SeniorEngineer #SREngineer #NewHarbor #TechStartups #HiringNow #CareerOpportunities #PodcastInterview #EngineeringJobs

In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen discusses two key roles at a Series B startup with Zach, the Director of Engineering, and Will, the Director of Product. Open Roles: Technical Lead Manager and Senior Product Manager   Interested in these roles? Please reach out directly to Isabel: [email protected] Or connect on LinkedIn: /www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luxury Presence and Roles 01:38 Technical Lead Manager Role Overview 03:39 Senior Product Manager Role Overview 05:20 Team Dynamics and Culture 07:07 Management Styles and Expectations 09:41 Candidate Profile and Ideal Qualities   Isabel is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, she brings a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. Isabel is also the host of Your Next Tech Startup, a weekly podcast where she interviews founders, engineering leaders, and software engineers about what it really takes to build and grow teams in the startup world. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this conversation, Sid Parakh, a Director of Engineering, and Isabel Rasmussen, Technical Recruiter and host of Your Next Tech Startup discuss the changes engineering teams have experienced over the last year. Many engineers have been laid off and have been job hunting for 6-18 months. Consequently, they're missing out on day-to-day changes happening in the fast-paced startup world. Not understanding how teams are now working differently puts unemployed candidates at a significant disadvantage. We discuss the transformative impact of AI on engineering teams, hiring practices, and the evolving roles of engineers. Sid emphasizes the importance of adaptability, business acumen, and the integration of AI skills in the hiring process. The discussion also highlights the significance of collaborative learning through hackathons as a means to upskill and stay relevant in the industry.   Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Siddharth Parakh https://www.linkedin.com/in/parakhsiddharth/   Chapters 00:00 The Impact of AI on Engineering Teams at Startups 05:20 The Evolution of Engineering Skills 08:02 The Importance of Business Acumen 10:28 Outcome Over Output in Engineering 12:56 AI in the Interview Process 15:40 The Need for Adaptability 18:22 Networking and Hackathons   Isabel is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, she brings a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. Isabel is also the host of Your Next Tech Startup, a weekly podcast where she interviews founders, engineering leaders, and software engineers about what it really takes to build and grow teams in the startup world. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this conversation, Isabel Rasmussen speaks with engineering leader Sven Delmas about his extensive hiring experience, focusing on two significant hiring stories. The first story highlights the challenges of hiring a former colleague, where concerns about culture fit and interview performance led to a contentious decision. The second story discusses a referral from within the company that resulted in a disastrous hire, emphasizing the complexities of relying on referrals and the importance of thorough evaluation processes. Throughout the discussion, themes of groupthink, the significance of written feedback, and the balance between team input and managerial authority in hiring decisions are explored. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Sven Delmas https://www.linkedin.com/in/svendelmas/   Chapters 00:00 Navigating Hiring Experiences 15:42 The Impact of Recommendations on Hiring Decisions 18:48 The Consequences of Poor Hiring Decisions 23:12 The Role of AI in Hiring 23:55 Key Takeaways on Hiring Practices 26:39 New Chapter   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this episode, host Isabel Rasmussen interviews Ibrah Abouhashish, a Senior Solutions Engineer at Arthur.ai, about his recent job search experience. Ibrah shares insights on navigating the job market, the importance of storytelling in interviews, and how to effectively resolve conflicts in a professional setting. The conversation also touches on the significance of finding the right cultural fit within a company and the adaptability required in today's fast-paced work environment. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Ibrahim Abouhashish https://www.linkedin.com/in/ihashish/   Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Job Market: Ibrah's Journey 02:07 The Demand for Solutions Engineers 04:47 Interviewing Insights: The Process and Challenges 06:40 The Importance of Storytelling in Interviews 08:01 Crafting Memorable Responses: A Role Play 09:30 Understanding the Role of Solutions Engineers 12:00 Bridging Gaps: Conflict Resolution in Engineering 14:53 Final Thoughts: The Art of Communication 19:13 Navigating Conflict in Client Relationships 20:45 The Importance of Cultural Fit in Interviews 22:14 Authenticity and Self-Expression in the Workplace 23:24 The Role of Storytelling in Interviews 23:25 The Balance of Technical and Non-Technical Skills 26:01 The Challenge of Hiring in Startups 28:31 Flexibility vs. Rigidity in Candidates 31:03 Finding the Right Fit: Adaptability in Hiring Isabel is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, she brings a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. Isabel is also the host of Your Next Tech Startup, a weekly podcast where she interviews founders, engineering leaders, and software engineers about what it really takes to build and grow teams in the startup world. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen and Maher Hanafi discuss the intricacies of the interview process, focusing on the importance of candidate questions and the dynamics of bi-directional interviews. Maher shares insights from his extensive experience in engineering leadership, emphasizing the need for candidates to research their interviewers and the company culture. They explore how to handle sensitive topics like layoffs and the significance of maintaining a positive energy during interviews. The discussion also touches on the importance of aligning management philosophies and the flexibility required in startup hiring. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Maher Hanafi https://www.linkedin.com/in/maherhanafi/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Interview Dynamics 00:42 Understanding the Role of Candidates 02:37 The Importance of Candidate Questions 06:37 Leveraging AI in Interview Preparation 09:50 Memorable Candidate Interactions 11:52 Assessing Work Environment Fit 12:28 Asking Difficult Questions 15:48 Navigating Layoff Conversations 17:49 Handling Glassdoor Feedback 21:26 The Energy of Interviews 26:06 Communication Skills and Candidate Behavior 28:20 Red Flags in People Management Interviews 33:15 Aligning Management Philosophies 38:13 Hiring for Flexibility in Startups Isabel is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, she brings a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. Isabel is also the host of Your Next Tech Startup, a weekly podcast where she interviews founders, engineering leaders, and software engineers about what it really takes to build and grow teams in the startup world. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️ Music by: https://www.bensound.com  Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen and Erwin Alberto discuss effective hiring strategies, focusing on the offer stage and the importance of the sell/ offer call. They explore how hiring managers can better prepare for and conduct sell calls, the significance of onboarding, and the need for clear communication about growth opportunities within the company. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of hiring and the importance of creating a positive candidate experience. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Erwin Alberto https://www.linkedin.com/in/erwin-alberto-5226b15/ Check out Erwin's Medium articles! https://medium.com/@erwinalberto Sell Call  - Vision and Mission - Team and Culture - First Day 30/60/90 - Growth Opportunities Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hiring and Offer Stage 01:50 Understanding the Offer/Sell Call 03:44 Preparing for the Sell Call 09:20 Company Vision and Mission 11:27 Team Culture and Dynamics 14:02 Onboarding and First Impressions 19:49 Growth Opportunities and Career Development Isabel is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, She brings a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. Isabel is also the host of Your Next Tech Startup, a weekly podcast where she interviews founders, engineering leaders, and software engineers about what it really takes to build and grow teams in the startup world. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️ Let’s connect if you're growing a team or want to talk startups, recruiting, or tech hiring trends. Music by: https://www.bensound.com  Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this conversation, Isabel Rasmussen and Derrick Franco discuss the take-home coding test and the evolving landscape of engineering interviews, particularly focusing on how to set candidates up for success. They explore the importance of clear communication, the role of AI in coding challenges, and the need for candidates to engage actively during the interview process. Derrick emphasizes that asking questions is a positive sign and reflects a candidate's problem-solving abilities. The discussion also highlights how AI tools have raised the bar for coding standards and the necessity for candidates to demonstrate their understanding of the code they produce. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Derrick Franco https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickfranco/ Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage for Success in Interviews 02:33 The Importance of Communication and Questions 05:21 Navigating AI in Coding Challenges 08:02 Evaluating Candidates Beyond Coding Skills 10:42 Understanding the Startup vs. Big Tech Mindset 13:04 Leveraging Content for Interview Preparation Music by: https://www.bensound.com  Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this episode of Your Next Tech Startup, the tables have turned and Dan Johnson interviews Isabel Rasmussen on the recruitment process in the tech startup landscape. They explore the challenges faced by recruiters and candidates alike, the impact of AI on hiring, the importance of ATS systems, and how to craft effective resumes. The discussion also touches on the significance of referrals, trust issues in interviews, and the need for constructive feedback in the hiring process. Ultimately, the conversation aims to provide insights for both job seekers and hiring managers to improve their experiences in the recruitment landscape. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Daniel Johnson https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielljohnson/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 02:51 The Dynamics of Recruitment 07:00 Navigating the Hiring Process 15:19 Crafting the Perfect Resume 21:47 The Power of Referrals: Warm vs Cold 23:52 Trust Issues in the Hiring Process 25:37 The Challenge of Interview Standards 26:46 The Need for Feedback in Rejections 34:17 Advice for Job Seekers in Today's Market Isabel Rasmussen is a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, I bring a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournexttechstartup 📺 🎧 Spotify: https://lnkd.in/exiBw46n 🎧 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eYsCN4y4🍎 ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://shorturl.at/NI3sq❤️ Let’s connect if you're growing a team or want to talk startups, recruiting, or tech hiring trends. Music by: https://www.bensound.com  Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen interviews Richard Lin, CEO and Co-founder of Anyreach, about a remote senior software engineer role. They discuss the unique aspects of the position, the evolution of Anyreach's AI technology, the technical challenges faced by the development team, and the interview process. Richard emphasizes the importance of curiosity, planning, and the opportunity for engineers to grow and learn in a startup environment focused on voice AI technology. Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Guest: Richard Lin https://www.linkedin.com/in/linrichard/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anyreach and the Role 01:00 The Vision Behind Anyreach 04:23 Technical Challenges and Development Approach 09:31 Engineering Culture and Team Dynamics 12:52 Hiring Philosophy and Candidate Expectations 16:24 How to Apply and Engage with Anyreach Here is the Job Description: (watch the episode to learn how to apply) Senior Software Engineer at Anyreach The Role That Will Define the Next Decade of Engineering Are you the kind of engineer who sees AI not as a replacement, but as the ultimate power tool? Do you spend more time thinking about elegant solutions than writing boilerplate code? At Anyreach, we're building the future of Voice AI, and we're looking for a rare breed: a 100x engineer who combines deep technical mastery with product intuition and leverages AI to move at lightning speed. What We're Looking For 🎯 The Product-Minded Engineer You understand that the best voice AI solves real communication problems You can translate business requirements into conversational experiences that users love You think in voice interactions, user intents, and conversation flows beyond individual features 🤖 The AI Whisperer You're already using AI tools daily and know their strengths and limitations You can prompt-engineer your way to better voice solutions faster than most people can Google You know when to lean on AI and when to roll up your sleeves and code voice systems from scratch ⚙️ The Technical Powerhouse When AI hits its limits, you don't—you're a skilled engineer who can solve hard voice AI problems You have strong fundamentals in system design, algorithms, and software architecture for real-time systems You care deeply about code quality, performance, and maintainability in voice applications 🚀 The Velocity Multiplier You're not just fast—you make everyone around you faster in shipping voice features You build tools, processes, and systems that scale beyond yourself You see inefficiencies in voice AI workflows and can't help but optimize them Technical Superpowers We Need AI Tooling Mastery: Cursor, GitHub Codex, Claude, ChatGPT, and whatever comes next Voice AI Understanding: You get the nuances of conversation design, speech processing, and real-time audio System Design: You can architect voice solutions that won't break under conversational pressure Product Thinking: You build voice features users actually want to talk to Documentation Excellence: Your docs are so good, people actually read them (even about complex voice systems) Quality Obsession: Scalable, reliable, secure, observable—no compromises for voice AI What Success Looks Like You ship voice features that users love to interact with in record time Your voice AI solutions scale effortlessly as conversation volume grows Your documentation becomes the gold standard for voice AI development on the team You identify and solve voice interaction problems before they become user frustrations You make AI work for you to build better voice AI, creating a powerful feedback loop The Bottom Line We're not looking for someone who can just code. We're looking for someone who can think, architect, and execute voice AI solutions at superhuman speed by partnering with AI. If you're the kind of engineer who gets excited about solving hard conversational problems elegantly and scaling voice experiences that matter, let's talk. At Anyreach, you'll be building the voice AI platform that transforms how people communicate. Ready to be the 100x engineer who helps us scale conversations to the next level? Ready to revolutionize voice AI with us? We want to hear from you.   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

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

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 Startup 00:26 Building a Team in the Pre-Seed Stage 01:09 The Importance of Hiring Friends and Local Talent 02:27 Challenges in FinTech Development 04:12 Hiring Philosophy and Vetting Process 05:43 Technical Deep Dives and Real-World Problem Solving 13:33 Unexpected Learnings from Hiring 15:56 Future Hiring Strategies and Conclusion   Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P.  License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV  

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

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 Hiring 01:08 The Importance of Diversity in Tech 02:56 Building Diverse Teams: Strategies and Challenges 05:06 Creating Inclusive Hiring Processes 06:51 Addressing Unconscious Bias in Interviews 10:21 Structuring Fair and Consistent Interviews 12:52 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

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

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: 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 - 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

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  

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

In this conversation, Isabel Rasmussen and Michael Cioni discuss the intricacies of hiring and team building in startups, particularly as they scale from zero to 100 employees. Michael shares his experiences and insights on the importance of hiring versatile team members, the challenges of maintaining company culture, and the necessity of flexibility in both employees and founders. They explore the Shackleton approach to hiring, the significance of cultivating talent, and the impact of remote work on company dynamics. The discussion also touches on negotiating compensation and the evolving landscape of startup culture in the face of technological advancements like AI. Host: Isabel Rasmussen   / isabelrasmussen   Guest: Michael Cioni   / michaelcioni     Music by: https://www.bensound.com Artist: Marcus P. License code: 4YKVHGTNVRLVH3BV

Join host Isabel Rasmussen and guest Daniel Schotland, COO of Linqia, as they dive into the intricacies of engineering leadership, hiring practices, and the distinctions between technical and non-technical interview processes. They explore the importance of soft skills within technical teams, the evolution of engineers into management roles, and effective interviewing strategies to assess both technical and interpersonal competencies. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:34 Engineering Hiring Practices 01:25 Importance of Soft Skills in Non-Engineering Roles 04:22 Training and Process in Hiring 05:19 Defining Engineering Culture 07:33 Effective Interview Techniques 12:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Your Host: Isabel Rasmussen 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ I'm a Fractional Head of Technical Recruitment who works directly with engineering leaders to hire top talent — from Senior Software Engineers to Directors of Engineering. With over a decade of experience recruiting for high-growth startups, I bring a strategic, hands-on approach to scaling technical teams that thrive in fast-paced environments. 🎙 Host of Your Next Tech Startup — a weekly podcast featuring founders, engineering leaders, and hiring experts on what it really takes to build and grow startup teams. Let’s connect if you're growing a team or want to talk startups, recruiting, or tech hiring trends.

In this episode, host Isabel Rasmussen talks with Matthew O'Meara, founder with extensive experience from companies like OpenTable, Practice Fusion, and Sun Basket. They discuss how AI is reshaping the role of engineers and startups. O'Meara shares his extensive experience, the importance of learning to partner with AI, and provides practical advice for young engineers and entrepreneurs.  Isabel Rasmussen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Matthew O'Meara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-omeara/

Join us as Isabel Rasmussen interviews engineering leader Manisha Sahni about her career transformation over the past 20 years. Manisha shares her experiences moving from India to the US during the 2008 recession, overcoming hurdles in the job market, and her journey from managing small to large teams. They discuss the importance of knowing your non-negotiables, evaluating company fit during interviews, and strategies for successful job offer negotiations.    Host: Isabel Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen Guest: Manisha Sahni: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manishasahni/  

Crucial tips on what to ask about startup financial health when interviewing and understanding how to join at the right time In this episode, Isabel Rasmussen, founder of Proceso Talent, interviews Rob Owen, Founder of My Runway Health , about the key considerations for assessing the financial health of startups. They dive into crucial questions candidates should ask when considering joining an early to mid-stage startup, and how to evaluate company culture and funding status. Additionally, the discussion touches on the risks and opportunities at different stages of a startup’s funding and hiring phases, offering practical advice on negotiating salary and equity. This episode is essential for anyone looking to make informed decisions in their startup career. Isabel Rasmussen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelrasmussen/ Rob Owen: myrunwayhealth.com 00:00 Introduction  00:12 Meet Rob Owen: My Runway Health 02:28 Key Questions for Startup Candidates 04:53 Understanding Company Culture 07:37 Evaluating Startup Financials 11:05 Risk Assessment in Joining Startups 12:21 Negotiating Salary and Equity 18:22 Final Tips for Startup Interviews 22:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Your Next Tech Startup we dive deep into the process of hiring software engineers with John Szeder, an engineering leader with 30 years of experience. John has directly hired between 500 and 1,000 employees and shares his wealth of knowledge on creating an effective hiring process that avoids common pitfalls. Learn why live coding interviews might be setting candidates up for failure, the importance of screening tests, and how to avoid false negatives. Discover practical strategies for revamping technical and non-technical interviews, the significance of resilience and curiosity in candidates, and why empathy in the hiring process is crucial. Whether you’re a hiring manager or a software engineer, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to improve your approach to hiring and interviewing.   Host:   / isabelrasmussen   Guest: John Szeder:   / jszeder  

Navigating the technical interview landscape can be a daunting task, both for candidates and interviewers alike. The conventional interview process often leaves much to be desired, typically failing to establish a meaningful connection between candidates and potential employers. This podcast episode explores the insights shared by host Isabel Rasmussen, CTO Kartik Lakshminarayanan, and Sr Software Engineer Levester Castaneda-Chaney, on creating an empathetic and constructive technical interview process. They emphasize the importance of moving away from a process that feels like a "firing squad" to one that resembles a genuine conversation.   Host:   / isabelrasmussen    Guest:   / kartikl    Guest:   / levesterchaney  

Welcome to Your Next Tech Startup, hosted by Isabel Rasmussen, founder of Proceso Talent. In this episode, Isabel and Mark Roddy, a fractional VP of engineering, delve into the characteristics and mindsets that enable engineers to thrive in early-stage startups. They cover common misconceptions about startup life, the importance of being product-minded, and the ability to handle ambiguity and multiple tasks. The discussion aims to provide valuable insights for engineers considering a transition to an early-stage startup environment and help them determine if it’s the right fit for their career ambitions.   Host:   / isabelrasmussen    Guest:   / markroddy   , https://www.launchit.ai/  Mark's Blog Post: https://www.launchit.ai/blog/who-succeeds-at-an-early-stage-startup