Keep Moving Forward
Welcome to Keep Moving Forward, a biweekly podcast from X-Team for tech professionals who are passionate about growth, leadership, and innovation. In this podcast, we'll talk to seasoned tech leaders, forward-thinking engineers, and visionary experts about the lessons they’ve learned on scaling high-performing teams, navigating complex challenges, and driving innovation. Subscribe now, share with your colleagues, and let’s keep moving forward together.
All Episodes
GitLab’s Tim Zallmann on Building Distributed Teams That Move Fast
In this episode of Keep Moving Forward, I sit down with Tim Zallmann, VP of Engineering at GitLab, to explore the intricacies of building fast-moving, distributed teams. Tim shares how he leads globally-distributed engineering teams while fostering a culture of trust and autonomy. We discuss the critical balance between innovation and operational stability, emphasizing the importance of clarity in communication. Tim also highlights his journey from programming as a teenager to shaping engineering practices at a leading tech company. If you're navigating the challenges of remote leadership or looking to build a scalable culture, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of engineering management in a remote world.Zscaler’s Ayesha Mahmood on Leading With Adaptability and Empathy
In this episode of Keep Moving Forward, I sit down with Ayesha Mahmood, Vice President of Software Engineering at Zscaler. Ayesha shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Pakistan to leading engineering teams in Silicon Valley. We delve into her leadership philosophy, emphasizing adaptability and empathy, and discuss how her father's encouragement shaped her perspective on independence and challenging cultural norms. Ayesha also reflects on her time at Apple, the importance of situational leadership, and how to balance immediate product needs with long-term engineering goals. As we explore the impact of AI on user experience and cybersecurity, Ayesha provides valuable insights for technical leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of modern engineering. Join us for an enlightening conversation filled with actionable wisdom and forward-thinking perspectives.Bala Muthiah: Building Teams and Cultures with Systems Thinking
In this episode of Keep Moving Forward, I sit down with Bala Muthiah, Director of Engineering at Lyft, to explore the transformative power of leadership through systems thinking. Bala shares his journey from individual contributor to leader and emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong team culture centered around purpose. We discuss how to navigate uncertainty, maintain engineering excellence, and embrace the evolving tech landscape, especially in the context of remote work. Bala's insights reveal that effective leadership is about empowering others, promoting trust, and focusing on the 'why' behind our work. This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and drive impactful results in their careers. Join us for this enlightening discussion and discover how to build resilient, innovative teams.Disney Streaming’s Brandon Lonac on Building Engineering Teams With Respect and Clear Communication
In this episode of Keep Moving Forward, I sit down with Brandon Lonac, Vice President of Software Engineering at Disney Streaming. With over 20 years of experience in shaping media consumption, Brandon shares insights on scaling engineering teams with a focus on respect and clear communication. He discusses the importance of treating every team member with dignity, fostering a culture that empowers individuals to voice their ideas. We delve into the challenges of integrating Hulu into Disney+ and the technical hurdles of supporting millions of users. Brandon emphasizes the need for autonomy balanced with standardization, and his belief that effective leadership hinges on humility and collaboration. This conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of leadership in tech. Join us for a deep dive into the intersection of technology, media, and human connection.