100. My story: ambition, tech and the camel incident

Today, I’m doing something a bit different. As our smart community grows, I know that some of you might not know much about me, my story or how I got into this tech thing.

That’s why today, I’m sharing a little bit about me.

I’m sharing this with you so that you can see that the confusion you feel about tech, or the fear that your lack of tech knowledge will be discovered, does not have to be your permanent reality. I want you to see from my example that there are many more opportunities for you than you probably think.

You will also learn what not to wear when riding a camel.

Summary notes from this episode:

• I always wanted to have a great career, but when I graduated in 2005, tech wasn't what it is today. I started my career in the media, then worked in private equity and became a non-technical founder after my MBA.
• I planned to use my MBA to transition into a career in tech, but this was harder than I thought. Business school gave me business skills and a network, but taught me very little about tech.
• Writing for Forbes gave me access to people who succeeded in tech without technical backgrounds. Interviewing non-technical founders, investors and Big Tech executives was a better use of my time than a coding bootcamp.
• To have a great career in today's economy, you need to learn how to work with tech and product teams. This doesn't mean becoming a developer, but it does mean learning how to work with one.