What does it take to balance innovation with reality when AI moves faster than your market? In this episode of Shift & Thrive, Natalie Nathanson sits down with Yossi Carmon, CEO of Accelario, to unpack what it really means to lead through transformation in the age of AI. Drawing on his early startup lessons and his experience leading tech companies, Yossi explores how founders and CEOs can stay rooted in customer needs while effectively harnessing cutting-edge technology. He also shares how authenticity is redefining go-to-market strategies and reflects on the personal side of leadership.
Takeaways:
- Don’t fall in love with your technology. Yossi reminds leaders that ideas only matter when they deliver real value. Falling for the tech instead of the problem leads to missed opportunities.
- Let technology be part of the journey, not the destination. Founders who treat AI as a partner rather than a replacement for judgment will build stronger, more relevant products.
- Listen before you build. Asking customers what they truly need may reveal that only a fraction of your original idea is necessary to succeed.
- Stay on your toes. The business landscape, especially with AI, is shifting daily. Leaders must constantly reassess strategy, pricing, and messaging to stay relevant.
- Lead with clarity and heart. Yossi’s approach to leadership emphasizes honesty, fast decision-making, and transparency as keys to building trust and culture.
- Be authentic in your marketing. With AI flooding channels with content, customers crave human connection and genuine experiences more than ever.
- Know when to step aside, or level up. Strong founders bring in people who are smarter than they are in key areas. Growth requires courage and humility.
Quote of the Show:
- “Your startup cannot be just about your technology. It has to be about searching for and understanding the true value for your customer. Otherwise, you end up building something that’s irrelevant for customers.”
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This show is sponsored by Magnetude Consulting, bringing you the thinking-Power of a Growth Consultancy and the Getting-It-Done Power of a full-service B2B Marketing Agency.
Learn more at: https://www.magnetudeconsulting.com
