In this enlightening episode of Real Career Talk, titled "Lessons Learned from a Tech Leader," we delve deep into the early inspirations and mentors that shaped the career path of our guest, Kartik Kumar, former Vice President of Digital Engineering and Customer Experience at AT&T. Kartik shares the pivotal moments and influential figures that guided his journey, debunking common misconceptions about leadership along the way. He provides a nuanced perspective on the essential skills needed to be an effective leader and the mindset required to drive success and innovation. Listeners will gain a profound understanding of the importance of mentorship, the realities of leadership, and the strategies to foster a dynamic and resilient leadership approach. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to lead in the tech industry, offering rich insights and practical wisdom from one of the field's most respected voices. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that promises to inspire and empower.