Writing

Latest thinking

Field notes from 25 years in vertical software and four years of production AI.

Behind the Build · 7 min read

Why I Sell Graduation, Not Retainers

The honest version of how a fractional CTO engagement should end. Why I structure every retainer to compress over time, how the math works for both sides, and what most consultants won't say out loud.

AI & Tech · 7 min read

What Aftermarket Operators Are Getting Wrong About AI in 2026

Pattern observations from twenty-five years in vertical software and four years building production AI — specifically what mid-market aftermarket distributors are missing as the consultants flood in.

Behind the Build · 6 min read

NT0 Is Now a Fractional CTO + AI Practice

A month ago I rebuilt Networkzero around AI-native development. Here's what changed in the next four weeks of conversations, and where the practice is actually landing.

AI & Tech · 5 min read

What Three Years of Production AI Actually Taught Me

I've been building AI-powered systems since March 2022. Here's what working in production taught me that tutorials and demos don't.

Behind the Build · 3 min read

Why I'm Rebuilding Networkzero

After 25 years in tech, I'm repositioning Networkzero around AI-native development. Here's why, and what that means.

Building Products · 4 min read

The Solo Builder Advantage in the Age of AI

Why a single experienced engineer with AI tools can outperform larger teams — and what that means for founders building MVPs.

Building Products · 5 min read

How to Go From Idea to MVP in 6 Weeks

A step-by-step framework for turning a raw idea into a working product, based on 25 years of shipping software.