I’ll tell ya something I learned within the last couple years. When I started TrustedSec and Binary Defense I had no idea wtf I was doing but I’m extremely obsessive and learn what I need to in order to push through and be successful. One thing I’ve learned is when you hire leader positions from the outside - 9/10 these folks have no idea what they are doing and were at the right place at the right time. I was naive into thinking that I didn’t know what’s best for the companies and other people know more than I do. That’s total bullshit and I kick myself in the ass when I look back in history. The truth is you know your area of expertise better than anyone. Believe in yourself. If you don’t know it, learn it. If you focus on three core pillars: Customers - the reason why you’re here. Culture - your people is what makes the company - and if you have a shit culture and you don’t care intimately about your folks you produce shit people. Innovation - change what you do and never be satisfied of where you’re at. If you focus on those three things you will be successful. You will overcome whatever challenge you have. What I’ve learned is when people in suits come in with these polished presentations, confidence on changing your company - it’s all bullshit and pre canned templates they’ve used in very specific circumstances that do not apply to you. TLDR: Believe in yourself, if you don’t know it, learn it - promote from within from the people you know. Trust your people. Build and earn loyalty. Don’t stop being technical and hang your hat up to be a leader - be a leader that also pumps out cool ass shit everyday. I don’t see myself as a CEO I see myself as a peer with every employee - one of the guys/gals grinding it everyday for a mission. Willing to roll my sleeves up with pneumonia and a 103 degree temp to talk to a customer and having to go off camera to throw up or to get in 27 merge requests in (happened today). Relentless is the word. Be relentless. Focused. Kick some ass and take names. Most importantly and I’m talking to myself as I type this: fuckin believe in yourself and always lead with truth, honesty, best intentions, and making the world a better place.