In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Vladimir Baranov, an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach. With experience spanning fintech, wealth tech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies, he has co-founded and scaled multiple companies, including AdvisorEngine, later acquired by Franklin Templeton. Now, through Human Interfaces, he helps founders and executives improve leadership skills to run businesses effectively.
Vladimir shares why technologists struggle in leadership, the most common mistakes founders make, and how to develop leadership skills for long-term success.
Listen to the episode HERE.
Why Technologists Struggle with Leadership
Many highly skilled technologists face challenges when stepping into leadership roles. While they excel in problem-solving and technical execution, leadership requires a different skill set—one that involves managing people, fostering collaboration, and making strategic decisions. Without proper guidance, many find themselves overwhelmed or uncertain about how to lead effectively. In this episode, Vladimir explains why this transition is so difficult and how companies can better support their emerging leaders.
Developing Leadership Skills That Drive Impact
For technologists aspiring to leadership roles, the key is to develop essential skills beyond their technical expertise. This includes improving communication, understanding team dynamics, and learning to delegate effectively. Leadership is not just about technical decision-making—it’s about inspiring and guiding a team toward a common goal. Vladimir provides actionable insights on how to cultivate these skills, avoid common pitfalls, and build a leadership mindset that leads to long-term career success.
Key Topics Covered
How technologists can transition into leadership.
How to identify high-potential leaders in technical teams.
How leadership development is often overlooked.
How communication affects leadership success.
How perfectionism holds back technical founders.
How personal branding impacts leadership and hiring.
Episode Highlights
[00:57] Vladimir Baranov’s background and leadership expertise.
[02:25] How technologists struggle when stepping into leadership.
[06:13] How to identify and develop future leaders.
[08:44] How temporary leadership roles test managerial fit.
[14:30] How to demonstrate leadership skills early.
[20:32] How Vladimir transitioned from technologist to coach.
[24:26] How fintech vs. aerospace leadership styles differ.
[26:58] How perfectionism slows down founders.
[29:19] How communication strengthens leadership.
[31:51] How personal branding helps attract top talent.
[35:54] How technologists can take control of career growth.
[38:15] How founders can align their leadership teams.
[39:18] How to connect with Vladimir for coaching.
About Vladimir Baranov
Vladimir Baranov is an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach with two decades of experience in fintech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies. Through Human Interfaces, he helps founders and executives scale businesses and develop leadership skills.
📌 Connect with Vladimir:
🔗 Human Interfaces – Book a free discovery session
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