#278: Ben Johnson — Building Teams, Products, and the Future of Tech

This week, Mike is joined by Ben Johnson, CEO and Founder of Particle 41, for a sharp, energizing look at what it really takes to lead in today's tech world. With more than 20 years of software experience and over $30 million raised across five startups, Ben brings the hard-earned lessons only a seasoned builder can offer. Ben breaks down the traits of effective tech leadership—setting a clear vision, empowering teams, and avoiding micromanagement. He shares candid stories from his early days as a founder, including a memorable misunderstanding of "burn rate." He explains why learning to speak the language of investors is essential for every entrepreneur. The conversation dives into what it takes to build strong, predictable teams through communication, structure, and proven frameworks like Scrum, Kanban, and the "Cone of Certainty." Ben also highlights the importance of starting with an MVP, validating demand, and iterating quickly—illustrated through the growth of Forte, an online music lesson platform that found success through smart, agile execution. Ben also opens up about the four pillars that ground his life—faith, family, fitness, and finance—and shares a touching story about helping his son conquer a fear of heights, a moment that shaped his own philosophy on courage and leadership. Ben then previews Particle 41's new AI Transformation service, designed to help companies integrate AI through smarter workflows and human-like digital agents. His perspective is clear: AI isn't a threat—it's a tool every business can harness to unlock its next level of performance. Packed with practical insights and inspiring lessons, this episode is a must-listen for anyone building products, leading teams, or stepping into the future of tech.   IN THIS EPISODE: 🚀 Vision-Driven Leadership: Why the Best Tech Leaders Empower Teams 🧠 Using Smarter, Faster Workflows: Unpacking Scrum, Kanban, and the "Cone of Certainty"  💡 Building What Customers Want: The Power of MVPs, Validation, and Product-Market Fit  🤖 AI as Your Advantage: How AI-Augmented Workflows Can Transform Business Operations    📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY: Leadership isn't only a professional skill—it's a personal practice. The same principles that build strong teams also shape strong families: clear communication, guiding without micromanaging, and creating space for others to grow. Ben's story about helping his son face a fear of heights shows that the best leaders don't only develop products or companies—they develop people, starting at home.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Particle Accelerator Podcast Particle 41's AI Tools HabitTrove Forte: Live Online Music Lessons "Traction" by Gino Wickman "Measure What Matters" by John Doerr Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results  Rise Up Kings Collective 54   Connect with Ben & Particle 41:  Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube    Connect with Mike: Linktree   SPONSORS: Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast   AFFILIATES: Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside   Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? Email mike@socialchameleon.us   Copyright © 2025 Mike'D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email mike@socialchameleon.us