Hot-in-Tech

About Hot-in-Tech

Hot-in-Tech goes beyond the headlines to explore the people and signals behind what’s actually hot in technology. Through candid conversations with top VCs, founders, and executives, we unpack how they got into the rooms that matter, the bets that paid off (and the ones that didn’t), and what’s coming next, long before it becomes consensus. Less hype. More signal.

Publisher

David Leichner

Category

business · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Feb 2026

Latest episode

6 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Sept 2026

   Building AI Companies That Last: Strategy, Trust, and Responsible Innovation with Einat Metzer

   The advice to “just move fast” can quietly wreck a startup, a corporate team, and even a breakthrough AI product. Einat Metzer reveals the harder truth: enduring businesses are built by constantly reworking strategy, aligning operations to KPIs, and protecting culture when pressure hits hardest.A veteran of venture capital, startup founding, and Fortune 500 leadership, Einat has seen what most leaders miss. She built Emedgene into a global leader in explainable AI for clinical genomics, negotiated its acquisition by Illumina for a 10x return to early investors, and then helped lead post-merger integration inside a large public company. In this episode, we explore: Why founders and executives need to treat strategy as a living, breathing system The hidden cost of corporate integration when a startup moves into enterprise scale How explainable AI earned trust in healthcare before the modern LLM boom Why human-in-the-loop design matters when patient outcomes are on the line What Einat sees as truly “hot” in tech as AI adoption collides with broken operating models

2. 

   20 Aug 2026

   AI Security After Black Hat: What Comes Next? with Yitzy

   AI is changing cybersecurity at extraordinary speed, but what does that mean for the people building, buying, and securing the next generation of technology? In this episode, my co-host Yitzy Tannenbaum joins us fresh from Black Hat to unpack the biggest shifts happening across AI security, from the growing convergence of data security and AI security to the race among startups and tech giants to define this emerging market. We discuss Cyera’s launch of Agent Guardian, why understanding the intent of AI agents is becoming critical, and how rapidly evolving AI capabilities are forcing security teams to rethink traditional approaches. Yitzy also shares his perspective on the importance of deep domain expertise, the build-versus-buy debate, and why automation won’t eliminate one of cybersecurity’s most valuable assets: human ingenuity. A wide-ranging conversation about where AI security is today, where it’s heading, and what security leaders should be paying attention to next.

3. 

   29 Jul 2026

   How Peer Reviews Are Reshaping Enterprise Software Buying in the AI Era

   Russell Rothstein, CEO and founder of PeerSpot, joins Hot in Tech to explain how enterprise software buying has evolved and why trusted peer insights remain essential, even as AI transforms the decision-making process. Russell discusses the complex committees behind enterprise purchases, the value of detailed, long-form reviews, and why buyers still rely on the real-world experience of their peers rather than AI-generated recommendations alone. He also shares how PeerSpot works with AWS Marketplace and Google Cloud Marketplace, how AI is changing review collection and content optimization, and what founders and technology professionals should focus on as the AI era accelerates.

4. 

   16 Jul 2026

   Investment, Innovation, and the Future of Tech - Insights with Daniel Ziv

   What do investors really look for in a founder, and can Buddhist principles lead to better investment decisions? In this episode, Daniel Ziv, Investment Manager at Glilot Capital Partners, shares how his experience in product management and startup founding shapes the way he evaluates companies and supports entrepreneurs. Daniel discusses why founder energy, consistency, and instinct can matter more than early metrics, how investors can guide founders without limiting their independence, and how principles such as kindness and non-attachment help him make clearer decisions. The conversation also explores Israel’s expanding role in global technology, AI’s impact through 2026, the potential cybersecurity challenges created by quantum computing, and why human judgment remains essential in an increasingly AI-driven world. Listen to discover why the most valuable quality in technology and investing may not be intelligence, experience, or data, but the ability to remain curious, trust people, and “try to be as kind as possible.”

5. 

   26 May 2026

   Why AI Won’t Replace Humans (But Will Change Every Job) | Gary Survis, Insight Partners

   In this episode of hot-in-tech, David Leichner and Yitzy Tannenbaum sit down with Gary Survis, Operating Partner at Insight Partners. Gary shares why AI is the biggest technological shift of our lifetime, why he compares it more to electricity than software, and what every leader must do to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. The conversation explores why Gary remains firmly on “Team Human” despite AI’s rapid advancement, arguing that the future belongs to those who embrace change rather than resist it. He explains why three uniquely human capabilities, judgment, empathy, and verification, will become even more valuable as AI reshapes work, and why authenticity will matter more than ever in a world increasingly flooded with AI-generated content. David, Gary, and Yitzy also discuss how AI is transforming business models, from startups to enterprise software, and why the future competitive moat may lie in contextual intelligence and proprietary data rather than technology alone. Gary shares his perspective on the evolution of SaaS, the rise of agents, and why domain expertise will continue to matter deeply even as AI becomes more capable. The discussion also expands beyond software into infrastructure, exploring the growing energy and water demands of AI, why data center power challenges are more about grid modernization than energy scarcity, and where venture-backed opportunities may emerge in areas such as battery storage, grid orchestration, and water monitoring. From marketing transformation and “job rebundling” to the future of education and work itself, Gary offers a pragmatic, optimistic, and deeply informed perspective on how individuals and companies can thrive in the age of AI.

6. 

   20 May 2026

   The Future of Product Security: AI, Leadership, and Secure-by-Design with Oleg Yusim

   What does it take to build secure products in a world increasingly shaped by AI? In this episode of hot-in-tech, we sit down with Oleg Yusim to explore the evolution of product security, the growing convergence of R&D and cybersecurity, and what leaders must do to adapt as AI reshapes the way products are built, secured, and maintained. Oleg shares his perspective on how product security has matured from an afterthought into a business-critical function deeply integrated into the product lifecycle. We discuss the shift toward secure-by-design thinking, the increasing complexity of modern product environments, and why security can no longer operate in isolation from engineering and product teams. The conversation also dives into one of the most transformative forces impacting technology today: artificial intelligence. From AI-assisted development to security implications, Oleg unpacks where AI is already delivering value, where organizations should proceed carefully, and how leaders can separate hype from practical implementation. We explore how AI is accelerating software development, changing workflows, and creating both opportunities and new security challenges. Beyond technology, this episode is also about leadership. Oleg discusses the mindset shifts required for leaders navigating rapid technological change, why technical expertise alone is no longer enough, and how communication, collaboration, and people skills often determine long-term success in product security leadership roles. Whether you work in cybersecurity, product development, engineering leadership, or simply want to understand how AI is reshaping modern technology organizations, this conversation offers practical insights into where the industry is headed and what skills will matter most in the years ahead.

7. 

   14 May 2026

   AI Leaves the Screen: Welcome to the Age of Physical AI

   In this episode of 𝘩𝘰𝘵-𝘪𝘯-𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘩, we sit down with Zach Greenberger, CEO of Nexar, to explore the rise of physical AI and how real-world data is reshaping entire industries. Zach shares how Nexar is building a global intelligence layer for the physical world by processing billions of miles of driving data, powering everything from autonomous vehicles to smart cities and real-time risk insights. We dive into why simulation alone isn’t enough, the critical role of real-world edge cases, and how high-quality data is becoming the true competitive moat in AI. Zach also breaks down the future of mobility, why autonomous vehicles are inevitable, and the real barrier to adoption: trust. From insurance and city infrastructure to robotics and transportation, this conversation explores how understanding the real world in real time is unlocking the next wave of innovation. If you want to understand where AI is actually heading next, this episode is a must-listen.

8. 

   1 May 2026

   Leading at AI Speed: Building Fearless Teams & Beating Complexity in Cybersecurity

   Most companies miss a powerful growth lever: their leadership principles. Anand Oswal, EVP at Palo Alto Networks, shares how to build bold, autonomous teams ready for the toughest cybersecurity challenges. In this episode, he breaks down how passion, clarity, and trust drive high performance. Learn why aligning every role to a clear vision fuels motivation and speed. Discover the leadership habits that spark innovation at scale, hiring for attitude, embracing experimentation, and turning failure into momentum. Anand also tackles a core problem in tech: complexity. He explains how a platform approach simplifies security, reduces risk, and accelerates execution. We dive into the future of cybersecurity in the AI era, from managing shadow AI to securing intelligent agents and staying ahead of rapidly evolving threats. Perfect for tech leaders, founders, and cybersecurity pros, this episode is packed with practical strategies to scale teams, cut through noise, and lead with confidence in an AI-driven world. With 100+ US patents and deep expertise in networking, Anand blends technical brilliance with sharp leadership insight. If you want to build a culture that adapts, innovates, and wins, this is a must-listen.

9. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Hagit Oren, CEO of TaxRay: How AI is Transforming Tax Compliance and Risk Management.

   In this insightful episode, Hagit Oren, CEO of TaxRay, discusses how AI is transforming tax compliance and risk management. She shares her journey from law to AI-driven solutions, the importance of explainability in regulated spaces, and the future of domain-specific autonomous systems in tax.

10. 

    23 Mar 2026

    Pioneering Preemptive Cybersecurity with Sivan Tehila

    In this episode, Sivan Tehila shares her journey from military service to becoming a leader in cybersecurity innovation. She discusses the shift from reactive to proactive security models, emphasizing the role of AI and machine learning in predicting and preventing threats. Sivan highlights the importance of cybersecurity education, especially for young women, and the evolving role of security analysts in an AI-driven landscape. Listeners will gain insights into the future of cybersecurity, including industry disruptions expected by 2026 and the significance of dynamic governance. Sivan's passion for fostering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals shines through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and security.

11. 

    11 Mar 2026

    AI, Venture Capital, and Startup Resilience with Charlie Federman

    In this episode of Hot in Tech, hosts David Leichner and Yitzy Tannenbaum sit down with Charlie Federman, partner at SilverTech Ventures, to discuss how startups can succeed in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. Charlie shares lessons from his decades in technology and venture capital, explaining why strong relationships, trust, and mentorship are essential to building successful companies. The conversation explores the growing impact of AI on business models, the realities of raising and deploying capital, and why resilience and capital efficiency matter more than ever for founders. They also discuss SilverTech’s founder first philosophy, the role of community in supporting entrepreneurs, and how startups can navigate shifting market conditions while building sustainable long term growth.

12. 

    4 Mar 2026

    Quantum Computing Is Closer Than You Think | Tal David, Quantum Art

    In this episode of hot-in-tech, (www.hotintech.com) hosts David Leichner (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidleichner)and Yitzy Tannenbaum (linkedin.com/in/yitzyt) interview Tal David (linkedin.com/in/tal-david-5340b423a), CEO of Quantum Art, (https://www.linkedin.com/company/quantum-art-tech/) a pioneering quantum computing company that recently raised $100 million in a Series A round. Tal shares his background in quantum physics, government-led innovation, and applied research, and discusses how quantum computing is evolving from academic theory into practical applications. The conversation explores the rapid progress in the field, the growing interest from investors, and what it will take to reach true quantum advantage.

13. 

    24 Feb 2026

    𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 8 $𝟭𝗕+ 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀? 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗻 𝗡𝘆𝗲

    🔥𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 $𝟭𝗕+ 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀? 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗻 𝗡𝘆𝗲🔥 In our latest 𝘩𝘰𝘵-𝘪𝘯-𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘩 episode, Yitzy Tannenbaum (https://www.linkedin.com/in/yitzyt/) and David Leichner (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidleichner/) sat down with Benjamin Nye (https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminnye/), six-time Forbes (https://www.linkedin.com/company/forbes-magazine/) 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁 investor and Managing Partner at Venture Guides (https://www.linkedin.com/company/venture-guides/), who has helped launch and scale eight companies that reached $𝟭𝗕+ 𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀. Ben has helped build category-defining companies including LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/linkedin/), Docusign (https://www.linkedin.com/company/docusign/), Rapid7 (https://www.linkedin.com/company/rapid7/), and IBM SevOne (https://www.linkedin.com/company/sevone-inc/). What makes his perspective especially powerful is his optimism grounded in real experience. After multiple technology cycles, he sees enormous opportunity ahead, especially for founders building with intention rather than hype. Three ideas that stood out: • Every new technology wave creates space for entirely new category-defining companies • The strongest founders win by obsessing over customers and building exceptional teams around a clear mission • AI is enabling a new generation of software companies designed from day one for speed, learning, and scale If you are serious about customers, building exceptional teams, and thinking big, Ben would love to hear from you at Venture Guides (https://www.linkedin.com/company/venture-guides/).

14. 

    12 Feb 2026

    Before the Startup Nation Had a Name: David Assia on Building Tech History

    From founding Israel’s first NASDAQ-listed software company to shaping the next generation of founders, David Assia shares hard-earned insights on building companies, spotting real innovation, and understanding what’s coming next in technology.

15. 

    12 Feb 2026

    From Tesla Hacker to Cybersecurity Founder: David Colombo on AI and Building What Matters

    In this episode of Hot in Tech, David Colombo shares his unconventional journey from a young Tesla hacker to the founder of Alaris Security. He discusses the transition from technical curiosity to making a global impact in cybersecurity, the advantages of non-traditional paths for founders, and the importance of communication in tech. David also explores the future of AI in cybersecurity, the challenges of operationalizing new technologies, and the need for innovation over imitation in AI solutions.

16. 

    12 Feb 2026

    Less Hype, More Signal: Introducing Hot-in-Tech

    In this kickoff episode, Yitzy Tannenbaum and David Leichner introduce Hot-in-Tech, a podcast focused on real conversations with the people shaping technology. They share what they’re building, why now is the moment, and how the show cuts through noise to focus on what actually matters.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.