Episode 45: The World of Technology Leadership with Benjamin Johnson

Synopsis

Episode 45. What does it take to build the technology behind the leading software companies of today? The simple answer is a good CTO (Chief Technology Officer), which is the expertise and experience of Benjamin Johnson.

Ben is the CEO and Founder of Particle41, a global software consultancy that offers end-to-end product development services. If you’re a business looking to develop technology, they are the engine behind it, whether that be across software/app development or building the tech stack for your operation.

Ben is skilled at taking complicated technology and simplifying it for people who aren’t as well-versed in the nuances of software. Not only does he know the industry well, but he’s also connected with some of the most talented individuals within it. This has allowed him to navigate and find success in the tech space by focusing on finding great matches first. In this conversation with host Greg Martin, they dive into the world of technology.

Key Takeaways and Discussion

  • How Ben found his way into the world of software consultancy.

  • What Ben excels at the most and how it helps him fit into unique spaces in businesses.

  • Why he emphasizes stage-appropriate discussions and holds back from “geeking out.”

  • Finding balance between building a business and product development.

  • What Ben looks for before he commits to a partnership as a co-founder.

  • The unique origin of Particle41 and how Ben came to join as a co-founder.

  • Common barriers of technology and how Particle41 helps businesses overcome them.

  • Signs it’s time for a business owner to reach out and invest in third party support.

  • How discovering a company's core values helps you find the right professional fit.

  • How the landscape of the workplace has changed over the last decade.

  • The core evidence that makes Ben feel fulfilled and successful in the work he does.

  • Why he chooses to focus less on their offers and more on their client’s unique needs.

  • The most efficient way to solve a problem—and the approach that doesn’t work as well.

Ben’s Background

  • Benjamin took Computer Science at Colorado School of Mines, then out of college went to help start a variety of businesses covering the online travel world, and then as technical cofounder across a variety of other businesses

  • Today at the company he founded, Particle41, Ben has a pure focus on serving his network as a technical leader

  • Learn more about Particle 41 or find him on Linked-In directly

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Episode 46: Beware and Avoid Getting “Trapped” in a Career with Karthik Suresh

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Episode 44: How Work Has Changed Over the Decades with Jose Palomino