2023 — A Remarkable Year!

In 2023, I was fortunate to collaborate with some extraordinary folks. As I reflect back, the overarching sentiment is gratitude for those I worked with, and those who shared their time with me. It was a busy year — let’s dig in.?

Without a doubt, the highlight of my year was joining database luminary and serial entrepreneur J Chris Anderson , working with Meghan Sinnott and the team at Fireproof . This product is perfectly tailored to several high-growth market segments, including GenAI. We have wonderful prospects, a strong community, and are off to a fantastic start. More exciting announcements on the way!

That's enough for a great year right there, but so much more happened. In many ways, this year has been about collaborative discovery. Working with a variety of people on their amazing products, services, and ideas was immensely rewarding. Here are a few favorites:

• Dharmendra Kumar , plotting and strategizing, just like old times!
• Behnam Bozorgi & Turbo Hires — LOVE this product
• Erica Y. Woods , who does incredible work in People Ops & Exec Coaching
• Jim Hodapp — what he’s built is inspirational, with more to come!
• Jeffrey Barber , Adama Platform Engineering is something else, check it out
• Adarsh Shah & CloudKnit , learn something new every time we talk
• Rob Laroche , excited to see his ideas grow and take flight?

Whether it was charting out a multi-year growth plan, powering through a series of small tactical challenges, or just trading ideas and brainstorming, I've loved being involved with each and every one of you.?I’m humbled and amazed at the opportunities that came my way.

Joining Fractionals United was another highlight, Karina Mikhli and her team do a fantastic job running this community. Everyone I’ve encountered has been supportive, friendly, helpful, and kind. Strongly recommend them to all you fractional leaders out there. I'm also grateful for the wonderful folks that make up greater Seattle’s vibrant startup & tech community.?Shout-outs to Levi Reed & Startup425 , Andrew B. & Leaner Startups , the folks at Venture Mechanics , and last but definitely not least Mark Petersen , the ISSA Puget Sound , and Peter Nelson for that first invite.

I want to close by giving a special thanks to those who offered their advice, coaching and mentorship throughout the year. Words are not sufficient to express my gratitude towards Michael Gale , Martin McKendry , Alison D. , Troy Trenchard , Ryan Baldwin & Matt Kayhoe .?

To anyone who made it this far, you rock! I know it feels tough out there, but there are still plenty of opportunities waiting for you. The seeds we’ve planted in 2023 will be sprouting soon!