The CTOx Podcast

This episode challenges the myth that AI can “eat the vegetables” of a fractional CTO practice. Marissa and Lior break down the non-delegable work—discernment in prospecting, trust-building in sales, and real-time leadership—while showing where AI truly accelerates: prep, polish, and follow-up. Listeners get a clear, practical lens for balancing automation with human judgment, focusing efforts for...

Going solo as a Fractional CTO may feel bold, but in reality, it’s often the slow and costly route. In this episode, Marissa and Lior explore why doing everything yourself isn’t a badge of honor—and how community, proven frameworks, and mentorship can accelerate growth. They break down the hidden opportunity costs of trial-and-error, the common traps solo founders fall into, and why accountability...

Sales can feel intimidating—especially for technical founders and Fractional CTOs who don’t see themselves as “salespeople.” In this episode, Marissa and Lior reframe selling from something uncomfortable into a powerful act of service. They break down the psychology behind why sales often feels icky, and offer practical mindset shifts to help you move from fear to confidence. From building trust t...

This episode tackles impostor syndrome for fractional CTOs, with Marissa and Lior breaking down why even seasoned leaders feel it—and how to move through it. They reframe confidence around proven activities, not titles or encyclopedic knowledge, and highlight leadership as creating new capabilities, not doing all the hands‑on work. Expect practical tools like an “evidence folder,” the “experience...

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, host Marissa sits down with Lior to unpack what it really means to leave corporate tech and step into the life of a Fractional CTO. Far from abstract theory, this conversation dives into daily rhythms, mindset shifts, and the systems that create both freedom and sustainability. From structuring client relationships with intention to balancing delivery with pipe...

Making the leap from a W2 job to a fractional CTO role isn’t just about swapping paychecks—it’s about redefining value, outcomes, and freedom. In this episode, Marissa Brassfield and Lior Weinstein unpack the realities of leaving traditional employment and stepping into the autonomy of fractional work. They explore the mindset shifts needed to thrive, how to build trust and relevancy in your netwo...

In this episode, Lior Weinstein reframes how we think about AI—not as robots blindly following scripts, but as drivers navigating toward a mission. Using the powerful metaphor of AI agents as drivers, Leor explains why discernment, alignment, and judgment matter more than speed. From redefining automation to avoiding the trap of “artificial intimacy,” this conversation explores how fractional CTOs...

This episode of the CTOx Podcast explores how fractional leadership extends beyond technology into the very core functions of business. Marissa and Lior unpack why roles in legal, finance, and marketing have long operated fractionally, even if not called that, and how this perspective helps founders and CEOs better understand the value of a Fractional CTO. With clarity and candor, the discussion r...

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, Marissa and Lior tackle the critical difference between consultants and Fractional CTOs—and why true leadership is about ownership, not just deliverables. Using memorable metaphors like sit-ups versus six-packs and firefighters versus sprinkler systems, they illustrate how consultants provide advice while Fractional CTOs embed within the business, lead teams, a...

Building Your Olympic Gold Medalist Leadership Team as a Fractional CTO | w/ Chris Johnson   In this episode, we sit down with leadership strategist and hiring expert Chris Johnson to explore how Fractional CTOs can build what he calls an “Olympic gold medalist leadership team.” Whether you’re scaling a startup or leading a tech transformation in a legacy company, assembling a world-class team is...

Today we dive into how you manage your cash flow as a Fractional CTO

In this episode of the CTOx Podcast, we explore how fractional CTOs can position themselves as high-value leaders by building a magnetic personal brand. Learn how to differentiate yourself in a crowded market, communicate your unique value, and attract ideal clients without chasing them. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your consulting business, this conversation will give you...

Today we dive into how to scale your business and not lose your freedom.

Today we discuss functional technology framework, unclogging, de-risking, and scaling tech teams.

Today we discuss sales tactics that Fractional CTOs can use to grow their business

In this brutally honest episode, Lior and Marissa break down why so many talented fractional CTOs stay broke—or worse, burn out. If you’ve ever felt stuck trading time for dollars, this one’s for you. From mindset to messaging to model, learn what actually drives revenue in a successful fCTO business (and what keeps most people spinning their wheels). No fluff. Just facts, frameworks, and a roadma...

Today we discuss security breaches, startups, and scaling.

Today We Discuss A Better Way to Lead Tech Teams

Today we discuss why the best leaders go fractional first.

Today we talk about ways to unlock revenue as a Fractional CTO

Today we discuss the key ways to build trust with CEOs

Today we discuss how the right community can change everything for your career.

Today we discuss ways to activate your network

Today we discuss the importance of a menu of offerings for potential clients.

Today we discuss how to choose a great niche for your fractional CTO business.