Join us today with another interview in our blog series: Authenticated Answers! We sat down with Kenneth Schwartzman, Director of Sales Engineering at Valimail.
At Valimail, we take our work seriously but try not to take ourselves too seriously. This value inspires us to get to the heart of what makes people unique and how it affects their careers to provide valuable advice, inspiration, and insights to people working with email daily.
In this lighthearted interview series, we connect with experts from the email, IT, security, ISP, and authentication spaces to learn more about them and their experiences.
About Kenneth Schwartzman
Kenneth Schwartzman is originally from San Antonio but has lived in San Francisco for a very long time.
He’s worked in the email authentication space for over ten years and currently leads the Sales Engineering team at Valimail. When he’s not working, he’s usually cooking or riding his bike.
How do you stay motivated when learning something challenging or frustrating?
I try to step back and look at the bigger picture when I encounter challenges. It’s hard for me to do this, but I’m working on it. I tend to fixate on the small things so zooming out helps.
What was the last wall you crashed through?
I’m not sure I crashed through it but I borrowed a ladder and I had a boost from some mentors who helped me be a better people manager. I’m more of a do-it-myself type of person, so delegating was hard for me. I’ve learned to let go more and get the right people around me.
What’s your favorite way to show gratitude?
Usually by cooking for someone or opening some wine for someone (or both). Or simply saying thank you – which I can forget to do as often as I should.
What’s the funniest mistake you’ve made, and how’d you handle it?
Sometimes I mispronounce words if I’m nervous. I usually don’t know when I’ve done it but sometimes I catch myself and chuckle, take a deep breath and move on.
What’s the smallest hill you are willing to die on?
Hawk Hill is just north of San Francisco in Marin County. I can max out my heart rate on it, and it’s 923 feet up and has a beautiful view. Anything smaller would be sad. Or did you mean something funny? If so – white chocolate is hot garbage.
What’s your favorite part about working in the email space?
Actually protecting domains – and seeing things happen live!
How would you explain DMARC to your grandparents, friends, or relatives?
DMARC is like the TSA at the airport. They check your ID (SPF) and your ticket/boarding pass (DKIM), and if they match to who you are, you can walk on in. They’ll still X-ray your carry-on, but they authenticate who you are.
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