u/Alive_Mind_

I’m an experienced senior technology leader based in the US with 30+ years of experience, almost entirely with Fortune 100 technology companies, focused on industrial automation, AI/ML, enterprise software, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

I currently do expert-network consulting/advisory work and typically charge $250/hour. I do get calls and engagements at that rate, but the volume isn’t as high as I’d like.

For those with experience in expert networks or independent consulting:

Is $250/hour reasonable for this level of experience, or would lowering the rate materially increase the number of engagements? And if so, what is the optimal rate?

I’m not looking to maximize the hourly rate at the expense of volume, but I also don't want to discount 30 years of senior-level experience unnecessarily.

Would appreciate perspectives from other experienced folks doing expert-network advisory work.

Looking for recommendations for a good Mexican or Thai restaurant along Route 1 or Route 130 between Hamilton and North Brunswick for Sat lunch.

We're looking for a place with good food and a nice atmosphere where we can comfortably have a conversation for a couple of hours. Not looking for a hole-in-the-wall spot, but also not an upscale or fine-dining restaurant. Something in the middle with decent ambiance, comfortable seating, and reasonable noise levels.

Any favorites in that area?

Stayed at Dedeman Istanbul this week for 2 nights of free accommodation as part of the Turkish Airlines Stopover in İstanbul program. Overall, mixed experience.

Positives first — the staff were very friendly and courteous, the breakfast buffet was extensive with a live omelette station, and the in-house restaurant was actually pretty good.

Location-wise, the hotel is convenient for airport access since the M11 metro from the airport is only about a 5–7 minute walk away. But getting to the main tourist areas/Old City requires the M2 metro line, which is closer to a 15-minute walk from the hotel.

Negatives - The biggest issue was the air conditioning situation, as there is no AC in the rooms. The lobby and restaurants were air-conditioned, but the guest rooms were not. The manager told me they don’t turn on the AC until mid-summer. My room became uncomfortably warm at night, and I eventually had to switch rooms because sleeping was difficult. I spoke with a few guests who complained about no AC in the rooms as well.

Weak to no WiFi - There was no Wifi signal on the higher floors, and you need to come down to the lobby to use Wifi

Noise - If you stay here, try to avoid lower floors because the road noise is very noticeable, and you can hear traffic clearly even late into the night.