CIO Mastermind: Building a Vendor-Free Tech Community

CIO Mastermind: Building a Vendor-Free Tech Community

In this episode of *Heartbeat*, host Mike Sommer sits down with Scott Smeester, founder of CIO Mastermind, to discuss how mid-market CIOs are breaking free from vendor-driven models and creating powerful peer communities.

Scott shares the story behind CIO Mastermind—a vendor-free, executive-led network built to combat isolation, foster strategic collaboration, and support outcome-driven leadership.

👉 Topics include:

The rise of peer-based IT leadership
Why traditional consulting is falling short
Fractional leadership and outcome-focused collaboration
Navigating AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation with clarity

If you're a CIO or tech leader looking to lead with greater purpose, this conversation offers fresh perspective—and a roadmap toward a more connected, agile future.

🔗 Subscribe for more insights into the evolving role of IT leadership.

#CIOLeadership #DigitalTransformation #PeerCommunity #TechStrategy #VendorFree #MidMarketCIO #CIOPodcast

00:00 Introduction to the Heartbeat Podcast

00:13 Meet Scott Mester: Founder of CIO Mastermind

00:51 The Vision Behind CIO Mastermind

01:21 Challenges Faced by CIOs and CTOs

03:13 Creating a Vendor-Free Community

04:25 The Unique Value of CIO Mastermind

05:29 Evolving Role of CIOs in the Mid-Market

06:52 Addressing AI and Technology Risks

10:33 The New Consulting Reality

14:43 Engagement and Loyalty in CIO Mastermind

18:28 Future of CIO Mastermind

19:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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