The CTO Playbook
Join Adam Horner, a CTO with over 30 years in the tech industry, on The CTO Playbook — the podcast dedicated to helping CTOs excel. Perfect for CTOs and tech leaders navigating the complexities of their roles, each episode offers clear insights, innovative strategies, and practical advice from top leaders in tech. With Adam’s extensive experience mentoring engineers and tech leaders, and over a decade as a CTO, you’ll gain the tools and knowledge to build and refine your own CTO playbook. Whether you're tackling complex projects, fostering innovation, leading teams, or shaping your company's tech strategy, this podcast is your go-to resource. Adam’s journey from engineer to strategic CTO was challenging. He learned through the school of hard knocks, making avoidable mistakes and facing countless challenges. Often out of his comfort zone and wishing for more guidance, he created this podcast to provide the support and advice he once lacked. Tune in for engaging interviews, leadership tips, and the latest in technology strategy. Each episode is designed to help you lead with confidence and level up as a CTO. Listen now to start your journey with The CTO Playbook and build your own playbook to excel in your role.
Latest Episodes
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108: Your Most Valuable Executive Relationship Is the CFO
SEPTEMBER 01, 2026
Ask a CTO which executive relationship matters most, and they'll name the CEO, but my guest today would send you to the CFO instead.Build your own CTO Playbook at
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107: The Controlled Re-Entry: A CTO Playbook for Coming Back from Holiday
AUGUST 25, 2026
I nearly turned my own summer into the cautionary tale. The thing that saved me was a last-minute week in the Swedish mountains.Build your own CTO Playbook at
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106: Trust, temper, override: managing the AI you don't control
JULY 28, 2026
One CTO spent two weeks tearing frontier models out and ended up back where they started. Another spent a few days building a tested escape route for what actually mattered.Bu...
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