Product Coffee

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin sits down with Liz Steblay, a two-time entrepreneur, solopreneur advocate, and founder of PICA (Professional Independent Consultants of America) and the ProCo Agency. Liz shares her insights from over 20 years of consulting experience, including her six keys to solopreneur success, advice on pricing, and strategies to build wealth while doing work you love. 🎙 Topics Covered: Overcoming fear, uncertainty, and doubt (the “FUD Monster”). The importance of narrowing your niche and being memorable. How to grow and nurture your professional network for long-term success. Why running your solopreneurship like a business is essential. Tips for setting rates, pricing strategies, and transitioning to fixed pricing models. Building wealth as a solopreneur through smart tax and financial practices. Emerging trends in fractional leadership and productizing services. 📌 Episode Highlights: 6 Keys to Solopreneurship: Practical steps to thrive in self-employment. Vanquishing FUD: Identify and tame the fears holding you back. Be Known and Memorable: Tips for creating a distinct brand and reputation. Networking Insights: The power of outreach and building trust over time. Wealth-Building Tactics: Tax strategies, retirement planning, and financial management. Future Trends: The rise of fractional executives and solopreneur-friendly tools. 💡 Listener Homework: Try Liz’s “More Of/Less Of” exercise: Draw a circle on a piece of paper. Write “MORE OF” inside the circle and “LESS OF” outside. Jot down tasks and activities over the next week to clarify what energizes or drains you. 📚 Resources & Links: Liz’s Book: Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth. Learn More: Visit sixkeys.info for Liz’s courses, book, and more. Platforms Mentioned: Thinkific, Kajabi, Squarespace. ☕ About the Show: Product Coffee is your go-to podcast for insights, stories, and advice from product management leaders, served with a side of caffeine. Got Feedback? Share your thoughts, questions, or ideas for future episodes at ProductCoffeePodcast.com. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

Discover how Khurram Javed Mir, Co-founder and Chief at Kualitatem, is revolutionizing quality assurance (QA) and software testing with automation and AI. In this insightful episode, Khurram shares his 15+ years of experience building a global QA consulting and product company, achieving TMMI Level 5 certification, and integrating AI into testing workflows. Learn about his journey from software test engineer to entrepreneur, the importance of embedding quality in every stage of product development, and how AI-driven test case generation and reporting can transform QA processes. Perfect for product managers, QA professionals, and aspiring founders, this episode offers actionable insights into problem-solving, team building, and the future of quality assurance. Connect with Khurram Mir: Khurram on LinkedIn Support Product Coffee: Merch: Get your Product Coffee mug and stickers at ProductCoffeePodcast.com. Feedback: Share ideas or questions via a voice message—your input might be featured in an episode! Subscribe & Review: Don’t miss an episode! Follow Product Coffee on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Timeline: 00:28 Meet Khurram Javed Mir: QA Powerhouse 01:00 The Journey to Kualitatem 02:40 Challenges in QA and Testing 05:00 The Importance of Early Testing 06:48 Automation in QA 08:26 AI's Role in Testing 12:39 Future Trends and Opportunities 20:42 Founding Kualitatem: A Personal Journey 23:44 The Importance of Complementary Skills in Co-Founders 24:23 Securing the First Customer: A Journey of Persistence 26:39 Innovative Business Models and Customer Confidence 28:44 Learning from User Feedback and Product Evolution 32:05 The Role of Intuition in Product Management 33:29 Future Horizons: AI and Reporting Innovations 42:13 Balancing Work and Personal Growth 44:39 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Founders 46:05 Conclusion and Homework

In this episode of Product Coffee, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Bob Ainsbury, Chief Product Officer at Granicus, for an engaging conversation on trust, team dynamics, and navigating complexity in the GovTech space. Bob shares his journey from software engineer to CPO, leading Granicus through remarkable growth—from a small team of 90 to over 2,200 people globally. Discover how Bob approaches platform strategies, integrates AI/ML to deliver customer outcomes, and fosters trust within government systems and communities. The discussion dives deep into leadership insights, including empowering teams, managing ADHD in high-stakes roles, and balancing long-term vision with short-term priorities. If you’re curious about scaling organizations, building trust in products and people, or actionable advice for leaders looking to make an impact, this episode is packed with takeaways for product managers at every level. Takeaways this week: • Challenge yourself to simplify and focus: What can you remove from your roadmap or scope to create more impact? • Reflect as a leader: How can your actions better inspire and empower your team? Tune in, level up, and discover how to lead with intention and adaptability. Resources: Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Bob Ainsbury on LinkedIn 📍 Visit ProductCoffeePodcast.com for merch, voice messages, and more episodes!

In this exciting episode of Product Coffee, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Brendan Fortune, Director of Product at Customer.io. Brendan shares his unique journey from the music industry to product leadership, how Customer.io scaled from 60 to nearly 300 employees, and the key role OKRs play in aligning teams for success. They also explore the concept of flywheels, managing product roadmaps, and the challenges of remote work. Brendan was nice enough to share his Annual Planning via Product Flywheel Miro board. Check it out here! 📅 Episode Timeline: [00:00] – Welcome & introduction to Brendan Fortune [00:34] – Brendan’s career journey: From music to product management [01:25] – Why Brendan thrives in startup & mid-sized companies [02:00] – Life in Minnesota: Remote work, family time, & hobbies [03:09] – Music-making with kids & the joys of Kung Fu [04:00] – The growth of Customer.io: From 60 to 300 employees [05:32] – Brendan’s challenge: Building OKRs that align with real outcomes [07:25] – Introducing the concept of a flywheel strategy [10:00] – How Customer.io's flywheel aligns data, messaging, & influence [14:21] – Structuring product squads & assigning objectives [20:00] – Using Prometheus & Mixpanel to track metrics & influence behaviors [25:19] – Combining annual & quarterly planning cycles [30:00] – Leadership’s strategic pillars & their impact on product teams [33:50] – Brendan’s "rock tumbling" ritual: Collaborative product reviews [37:00] – Navigating budgeting & resource allocation [41:29] – The shift from CapEx to OpEx & its impact on product planning [45:20] – Brendan’s advice: Discovering your flywheel & measuring success [46:26] – Where to connect with Brendan Fortune --- 📩 Got a question or comment? Send it our way, & we might feature it on a future episode! ➡️ Where to Connect with Brendan: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/bfortune34 Resources Mentioned: Good to Great by Jim Collins Measure What Matters by John Doerr Platform Revolution by Geoffrey G. Parker, Marshall W. Van Alstyne, Sangeet Paul Choudary Hooked by Nir Eyal Reforge resources on growth loops & flywheels Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to rate, review, & subscribe to Product Coffee on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! ☕ Grab some Product Coffee merch! Visit productcoffeepodcast.com to order your mug or sticker.

This episode is packed with insights from Nick McEvily, who takes us on a journey from his studies in human-centered design to founding and leading multiple startups. 🚀 Nick drops wisdom on how to build customer-focused products, explaining core principles like empathy in design, the Jobs-to-be-Done framework, and how to nail those all-important customer interviews. He also shares stories from his work with Mode Mobile and Relivable, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at both the wins and the lessons learned. 💡 To cap it all off, Nick discusses his current role as a fractional product leader and dishes out practical advice on turning customer insights into actionable strategies. You won’t want to miss his tips on building the right product-market fit muscle or his heartfelt take on balancing fatherhood with leadership. 👨‍👧‍👦 Resources: Nick McEvily on LinkedIn Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn 🕒 Timeline: 00:56 - Meet the Guest: Nick McEvily 01:13 - Nick's Career Journey 01:59 - Deep Dive into Human-Centered Design 02:52 - Nick's Startup Ventures 04:09 - The Evolution of Mode Mobile 07:56 - User Acquisition & Marketing Hacks 15:38 - Design & UX Tips 18:16 - Collaborating with Engineering Teams 21:13 - Scaling & Retention Strategies 23:31 - Joining Accelerator Programs 24:17 - Starting Further, Faster: Nick's New Venture 24:29 - Building That Product-Market Fit Muscle 💪 25:14 - Crafting a Curriculum for Founders 26:08 - The Art of Customer Discovery 26:36 - Effective Interview Techniques 27:06 - How to Make Data Believable 📊 31:56 - Success Stories from Further, Faster 34:52 - Fatherhood Meets Leadership 36:43 - The Role of a Fractional Product Leader 39:19 - New Ventures on the Horizon 43:11 - Homework: Synthesis Methodology ✏️ 46:14 - Wrap-up & Final Thoughts Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy this caffeinated dose of product! ☕ Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

In this episode, Kevin chats with Rani Al Hajji, a seasoned expert in consumer goods and marketing, about the importance of staying focused on the end user. Rani shares insights from his career at L'Oreal and Colgate, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer needs and maintaining a balance between product obsession and customer feedback. He also discusses his transition to advising startups, helping them define and articulate their value propositions. The conversation touches on the art and science of innovation, the significance of diverse perspectives, and practical steps for founders and product managers to stay customer-obsessed in their development process. Resources: Rani Al Hajji on LinkedIn Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Timeline: 00:32 The Importance of Customer Focus 02:52 Rani Al Hajji’s Background & Experience 05:35 Challenges & Insights in Startups 08:58 Balancing Innovation & Customer Feedback 14:55 Corporate Innovation at L'Oreal & Colgate 25:41 Advising Startups: Value Proposition & Market Fit 42:16 Practical Advice for Founders & Product Managers Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

Kevin chats with the amazing ✨ Jason Fraser ✨, a well-known author and advisor, about his journey from linguistics to product management. Jason shares leadership tips from his popular book 'Farther, Faster, and Far Less Drama,' co-authored with his wife Janice. He talks about team transformation, creating a software lab for the Air Force, and the importance of feeling safe at work. Jason also covers key ideas from his book like being honest, focusing on results, using team skills, and making lasting decisions. The episode ends with advice on staying well in tough times. If you're into leadership and product management, you'll get great tips from this chat. Episode Resources: Leverage the Brains - Jason’s YouTube Channel Jason Fraser on LinkedIn BUY JASON’S BOOK: Farther, Faster, and Far Less Drama: How to Reduce Stress and Make Extraordinary Progress Wherever You Lead Kevin on LinkedIn Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Jason Fraser 00:53 Jason's Unique Background 01:58 Current Ventures and Future Plans 02:49 Musical Journey and Learning 03:41 About the Book: Farther, Faster, and Far Less Drama 06:07 The Four Leadership Motions 09:03 Implementing Leadership Motions 13:18 Challenges with Goaling Systems 16:50 Transforming Organizational Culture 21:48 Balanced Teams and Design Integration 26:27 Prioritization Decisions in Product Management 29:36 Understanding Organizational Missions 32:58 Navigating Organizational Transformations 40:25 The Power of Collaboration and Partnership 44:07 Self-Care and Personal Growth 46:10 Final Thoughts & Plugs Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

Kevin Gentry welcomes back David Pereira, who shares insights about his new book Untrapping Product Teams. They delve into David's journey from a software engineer in Brazil to a leadership role in Germany, touching on his experiences and learnings in product management. David discusses the core themes of his book, including facing reality, overcoming dangerous traps, and remaining untrapped. He also shares practical advice on writing, leadership, and team management, offering valuable perspectives for product leaders and managers. Resources: Untrapping Product Teams on Amazon David’s Website David Pereira on LinkedIn Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Timeline: 00:00 Introduction & Welcome 01:07 David Pereira's Background 01:54 Introduction to the Book: Untrapping Product Teams 03:56 The Writing Journey 15:10 Collaborative vs. Coordinative Work 20:51 Investing in Capital Projects 21:25 Driving Change in a Startup 21:50 Evaluating Team Performance 22:53 Experimenting with Outcome-Focused Teams 23:41 Overcoming the Interest Trap 24:33 The Ingredients of Product Management 26:58 Learning from Top Restaurants 29:06 Adapting Strategies for Success 30:47 Remaining Untrapped with Health Checks 35:08 Leadership and Hard Decisions 38:56 Practical Homework for Listeners Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

This week on Product Coffee ☕️, Kevin chats with guests Leslie Kee and Paul Ballenger about their journey in building businesses like Auctus Security and Ally Assist. They cover military and business leadership, work-life balance, adaptability, and teamwork in high-stress environments. Leslie and Paul share tips on planning, delegation, and work-life balance for new entrepreneurs and product pros. Resources: Paul Ballenger on LinkedIn Leslie Kee on LinkedIn Auctus Security Ally Assist Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Product Coffee Podcast 00:28 Meet Leslie Key & Paul Ballinger 00:59 Paul's Background & Journey 02:07 Leslie's Background & Partnership with Paul 03:22 The Dynamics of Their Partnership 05:03 Challenges & Successes in Entrepreneurship 07:45 Military Influence on Business Leadership 09:55 Building Effective Teams & Maintaining Morale 12:22 Adapting to Virtual Work Environments 15:53 Current Ventures & Future Plans 21:51 Automating Business Processes 22:35 The Importance of Delegation 22:50 Assessing Executive Team Strengths 23:12 Building Effective Teams 25:59 Challenges Faced by Small Businesses 28:20 Tailored Solutions for Business Needs 32:03 Measuring Success & Client Feedback 36:15 Balancing Work & Personal Life 39:42 Conclusion & Final Thoughts Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

This week on Product Coffee, Kevin Gentry talks with Matt LeMay, a product leader, consultant, and author known for his work with Google, Mailchimp, Spotify, and Bitly. Matt shares his journey from musician and music journalist to product management, highlighting how his communication and team-building skills from his music career translated into tech. They discuss the importance of goal clarity, embracing facilitative roles in product management, and balancing creative work with business needs. Matt also previews his upcoming book on 'Impact First Product Teams,' offering advice on setting high impact, high specificity goals to drive team success. The episode ends with Matt reflecting on the challenges and joys of writing his new book and his broader views on maintaining balance between professional and personal creative projects. Episode Resources: Kevin Gentry on Linkedin Matt LeMay’s Website Timeline: 00:23 Meet Matt LeMay: Product Leader & Author 02:00 Matt's Journey into Product Management 03:25 From Musician to Product Manager 09:20 Career Growth & Key Lessons 12:25 Embracing Facilitative Work in Product Management 21:07 Challenges & Insights in Agile Transformation 28:00 Resource Allocation & Team Collaboration 28:09 High Specificity in Goal Setting 28:51 Consulting Insights on High Impact Goals 30:42 Challenges of Innovation Teams 32:39 The Importance of Specific Goals 34:11 Project-Based vs. Team-Based Approaches 41:58 Writing Process & Creative Work 48:09 Balancing Work & Creativity 51:04 Homework & Plugs Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

Kevin Gentry chats with Phil Hornby, a product leader and coach with over 20 years of experience. Phil shares insights on collaboration, context-driven leadership, and the significance of coaching workshops. He discusses his journey from an engineer to a product manager and leader and provides valuable advice on effective decision-making, team empowerment, and organization design. Phil also reveals details about his upcoming book, tentatively titled 'It Depends,' which focuses on improving product decision-making. The conversation covers practical tips for building better product teams, addressing common challenges in product management, and enhancing leadership techniques to foster high-impact outcomes. Find out more: Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Phil Hornby on LinkedIn For Product People Taking Roadmaps Timeline: 00:26 Introducing Phil Hornby 01:16 Phil's Journey from Engineer to Product Leader 06:50 Challenges in Product Management 08:57 Phil's Coaching Approach 19:22 Workshops & Practical Examples 22:56 Analyzing Competitor Strategies 23:29 Measuring Success & Compromises 24:25 Effective Workshop Techniques 25:20 Empowered vs. Entitlement Culture 30:41 Hiring for Product Skills Over Domain Knowledge 33:38 Small Teams vs. Large Enterprise Teams 38:16 Aligning Teams for Success 47:02 The Importance of Product Coaching 48:25 Conclusion & Final Thoughts Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

This week on Product Coffee, Kevin interviews Ian Cairns, CEO & Co-Founder of Freeplay, a company that helps product teams with generative AI. Ian talks about his career journey, challenges of using AI in product development, evolving product management roles, and the importance of hands-on experimentation. He also explains how Freeplay supports teams in building AI-driven products, and provides amazing advice for product managers and leaders in AI. Episode Resources: Kevin Gentry on Linkedin Ian Cairns on Linkedin Freeplay’s Website Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 00:27 Meet Ian Cairns: CEO and Co-Founder of Freeplay 00:56 Ian's Journey in Product Management 17:04 The Inspiration Behind Freeplay 20:47 Challenges and Innovations in Generative AI 23:36 Exploring Dimensions of Quality in AI 23:51 Operational Workflows and Non-Engineers in AI 24:14 Understanding FreePlay's Customer Base 24:31 FreePlay's Product and Features 25:27 AI Integration Examples and Challenges 27:53 The Promise and Complexity of Multi-Step AI 28:42 Building and Learning in Generative AI 29:11 FreePlay's Approach to Product Development 29:48 The Evolution of Data Handling and AI 32:16 FreePlay's Vision for the Future 32:28 Current State and Market Fit of FreePlay 34:53 Team Dynamics and Operational Models 41:10 Homework and Plugs Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

This week, we are welcoming, Hannah Clark! A renowned content strategist and host of The Product Manager Podcast. Hannah shares her unconventional career journey from tech to content, and how she combined both worlds at her current tech-focused media company. They delve into Hannah's experiences with startups, discussing the challenges of scaling teams, managing pivots, and mitigating the risks of burnout. Key topics include the importance of transparent communication, active recovery, building strong leadership relationships, and the impacts of organizational stress on individual contributors. Practical advice is offered for both leaders and team members on maintaining engagement and actively managing stress in fast-paced environments. Episode Resources: Hannah Clark on Linkedin Kevin Gentry on Linkedin The Product Manager Podcast Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:15 Hannah Clark's Background and Career Journey 01:05 Life in Winnipeg and Personal Background 01:52 Startup Experiences and Challenges 04:03 Current Role and Company Structure 06:27 Discussing Burnout and Motivation 08:10 Strategies for Managing Stress and Burnout 12:39 Building Relationships and Communication 19:06 Practical Tips for Personal and Professional Growth 40:33 Final Thoughts and Homework Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin Gentry sits down with Elliott Poppel, a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background in venture capital, ad tech, and product management. Elliott shares his career trajectory, highlighting pivotal moments from his early days at a VC firm, his leadership role in pivoting App.io to a successful acquisition, to founding his own startups like RobinHealth. He delves into the lessons learned from both successes and failures, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. The discussion also covers his time at Facebook, where he navigated the complexities of working in a large corporate environment and contributed to innovative projects like the Portal device. Elliott offers valuable insights into go-to-market strategies, user research, and the significance of being open to change, providing listeners with actionable advice to elevate their product management careers. Dive in more: Elliott Poppel on Linkedin General Collaboration Kevin Gentry on Linkedin 00:00 Introduction to Product Coffee Podcast 00:28 Guest Introduction: Elliot Popple 00:58 Elliot's Career Beginnings in Venture Capital 01:17 First Startup Experience and Pivot to Enterprise SaaS 01:37 Founding Robin Health: An On-Demand Pharmacy 02:02 Joining Facebook and Founding General Collaboration 02:27 Early Career and Education: From Boston to San Francisco 03:05 Networking into Venture Capital 04:33 Challenges and Successes in Ad Tech 06:46 Pivoting to Customer Support Software 08:07 Lessons from Leading a Startup 09:41 Exploring New Business Models and User Research 13:21 The Reality of Startup Failures and Learning from Mistakes 18:13 Fractional Work and Modern Startup Strategies 20:39 Reflecting on Robin Health's Missed Opportunities 24:51 Transition to Facebook 25:01 Challenges and Learning at Facebook 27:01 Dynamic Ads and Team Dynamics 27:41 Navigating Facebook's Corporate Environment 32:20 Building 8 and Hardware Innovations 34:51 Founding General Collaboration 38:35 Product Development and Market Positioning 48:31 Final Thoughts and Advice Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin Gentry interviews Teresa Cain, an award-winning FinTech product director renowned for pioneering the two-hour design sprint. Teresa discusses her method for condensing the traditional five-day design sprint into a two-hour session, detailing its efficiency and effectiveness. She reflects on her journey, the impact of the pandemic on product development, and the integration of AI tools such as ChatGPT in the sprint process. Teresa also shares insights from her recent attendance at the Women in Product conference and touches on the evolving landscape of UX design in the era of AI and automation. The episode concludes with practical advice for product leaders and highlights Teresa's resources for implementing the two-hour design sprint. Find Teresa on the interweb: Teresa on LinkedIn Teresa's book, Solving Problems in 2 Hours: How to Brainstorm and Create Solutions with Two Hour Design Sprints Timeline: 00:00 Intro 00:30 Meet Teresa Cain: FinTech Product Director 01:46 The Evolution of the Design Sprint 04:04 Challenges with the Five-Day Design Sprint 05:57 The Two-Hour Design Sprint: A Research-Driven Approach 08:08 Implementing the Two-Hour Design Sprint 11:10 Understanding Your Users and Exploring Problems 18:18 Solutioning and Validating Ideas 22:35 Understanding User Personas 23:01 Challenges in Design Sprints 24:19 The Two-Hour Design Sprint Solution 26:38 Impact of AI and Automation on Design 32:49 Women in Product: A Growing Community 34:48 The Future of Product Management 36:51 Navigating Competitive Job Markets 37:50 Effective Roadmap Strategies 41:24 Homework and Closing Thoughts Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week on Product Coffee ☕️... Join host Kevin Gentry as he interviews Nick Jemetta, a distinguished product coach and mental health advocate, renowned for his outcome-focused approach in product management. With over a decade in the field, Nick shares his journey from telco to retail, through transformative experiences at companies like BT, Argos, and Ricoh, emphasizing the importance of proactive communication, stakeholder trust, and iterative improvement. Dive into practical insights on achieving success in product transformations, building effective teams, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. Whether you're looking to elevate your product career or lead your team through complex transformations, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Grab your coffee and join the conversation! Timeline: 00:00 Intro 00:27 Meet Nick Gemetta: Product Coach and Advocate 01:24 Nick's Journey into Product Management 06:13 Transformation at Argos: Challenges and Milestones 11:11 Building Trust and Effective Teams 25:24 Releases and Continuous Deployment 31:46 Practical Advice for Product Managers 38:58 Coaching and Culture in Product Management 41:05 Conclusion and Next Steps Check out our website @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.productcoffeepodcast.com/ ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin Gentry interviews Scot Przybylski, a seasoned designer and product manager with extensive experience in UX and product design. Scot discusses his journey from graphic design to UX design, his work with notable companies like Dish Network and Pivotal Labs, and the challenges and strategies involved in transforming traditional product teams into empowered, collaborative units. He shares insights on change management, the critical role of design in product development, and the importance of innovation and psychological safety within teams. Scot highlights specific examples of successful transformations and innovations in product design and development, offering valuable advice on managing relationships, fostering accountability, and driving organizational change. Find out more! - Find Scot on LinkedIn - Find Kevin on LinkedIn Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Product Coffee 00:27 Meet Scot: A Journey in Product Design 01:08 Transitioning to UX and Product Management 02:39 Challenges in Organizational Change 04:56 Implementing Agile and Change Management 06:56 Design's Strategic Importance 08:35 Wins from Design and Usability Improvements 11:27 Building Effective Product Teams 14:12 Facilitating Design Critiques and Psychological Safety 16:13 Fostering Innovation in Product Development 21:21 Empowered Teams and Leadership Training 25:20 Accountability in Product Teams 27:48 Design Practices for Product Managers 30:37 Coaching and Mentoring in Design 33:59 Final Thoughts and Homework Check out our website @ ⁠⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠⁠ ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Gleb Gordeev is on the show to share his journey in product management, from working in Germany to founding his product agency, CodeBusters, in Bali. Gleb discusses the challenges and rewards of building a remote lifestyle business, his approach to product management, leveraging no-code tools for rapid product development, and the importance of customer feedback in the early stages. Additionally, Gleb shares insights on work-life balance and the significance of starting with money-focused projects for aspiring entrepreneurs. The episode wraps up with Gleb's advice to learn about AI in product management and to attempt building a product or gathering sign-ups as a hands-on learning experience. Dive in more: Find Gleb on LinkedIn Find Kevin on LinkedIn Gleb’s Agency Kodebusters Timeline: 00:26 Meet Gleb: A Product Management Journey 02:08 Gleb's Transition to Bali and Remote Work 03:39 From Product Expert to Entrepreneur 05:24 Launching a Product Agency with a Unique Approach 07:39 The Power of Free Workshops for Client Acquisition 11:03 Crafting Effective Workshops for Product Discovery 14:01 Strategic Outreach and Building Trust with Clients 18:10 Exploring No-Code Solutions for Rapid Product Launch 23:56 Exploring AI's Impact on Product Development 23:59 The Future of Product Design with AI Integration 25:31 Revolutionizing Prototyping and Development with AI 27:21 Launching and Marketing Your Product: A Strategic Approach 29:45 Gathering Feedback and Iterating Post-Launch 35:42 Building a Lifestyle Business and Work-Life Balance 43:31 Final Thoughts and Homework Assignment Follow us on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, or ⁠X⁠ & check out our website @ ⁠productcoffeepodcast.com⁠ ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kenan, a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich background spanning from traditional Chinese medicine to technology, shares his unconventional journey into the world of startups and product management. Initially starting in the health and wellness space, Kenan co-founded Unified Practice, an EHR tailored for Chinese medicine, driven by personal frustration with existing systems. Now, as the co-founder and CEO of AlignWith, he discusses the challenges of managing product teams and go-to-market strategies, the importance of creativity in product development, and the role of customer support in product teams. Kenan emphasizes the value of preparation, the significance of having complementary skill sets in a founding team, and shares insights on allowing personal interests and professional endeavors to inform each other for better problem-solving and innovation. Kevin Gentry on LinkedIn Kenan Akbas on LinkedIn Try AlignWith at www.alignwith.io 00:00 Welcome to Product Coffee: A Journey into Product Management 00:26 Meet Kenan: From Physician to Product Pioneer 07:24 The Creative Process in Product Development 15:33 Align With: Bridging Product Teams and Go-to-Market Strategies 20:07 Redefining Customer Support in Product Teams 23:05 Final Thoughts and Homework: Staying Prepared and Open Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, we have the privilege of hosting Marty Cagan, a renowned expert in product management. Marty dives into the key ideas from his latest book 'Transformed' and shares invaluable insights with our listeners. Throughout the conversation, Marty explores the significance of case studies, addresses common objections, and delves into the dynamic between empowered product teams and shipping features. He introduces thought-provoking concepts like 'time to money' versus 'time to market' and highlights the critical role of psychological safety and ethical considerations within product teams. Throughout the episode, Marty underscores the urgent need for companies and individuals in the product space to adapt and adopt best practices from successful product companies in order to remain competitive and relevant. This podcast episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in product management and its transformative power. Find Marty here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cagan/ Find Kevin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingentry/ 00:00 Welcome to Product Coffee: Kicking Off with Marty Cagan 00:52 Diving Into 'Transformed': Insights and Feedback 01:41 Addressing Industry Objections and Empowerment 05:37 Global Product Management: Trends and Cultural Insights 11:28 The Role of Product Coaches and SVPG's Approach 14:41 Challenges and Learnings in Product Transformation 18:55 Ethical Considerations in Product Management and AI 25:38 Exploring the Impact of Generative AI on Engineering Teams 25:58 The Future of Product Teams and Leadership Dynamics 27:47 Navigating Psychological Safety in Competitive Product Teams 30:35 The Importance of Coaching and Developing Product Leaders 33:08 A Personal Journey: From Engineer to Product Expert 38:32 Addressing Listener Questions on Product Management Challenges 50:09 Final Thoughts and Future Endeavors Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week, we're thrilled to share an awesome chat with Noah Schutte, not just an entrepreneur, but also a software engineer, and technical recruiter. Noah takes us through his vibrant career journey, sharing a wealth of insights into product management, software engineering, and recruitment. He warmly recounts his first steps into entrepreneurship, his exciting transition into software engineering through a bootcamp, and his valuable contributions to Denver's buzzing tech scene. Fun fact - he developed a point of sale system for cannabis dispensaries and worked with a non-custodial cryptocurrency exchange. Noah then dives into how his entrepreneurial spirit sparked the creation of 'Higher Love', a staffing and recruiting firm. He passionately talks about the importance of mentorship, personalized recruiting, and the power of a strong personal brand. He also shares an interview preparation framework he authored, aimed at boosting self-marketing skills and perfectly aligning with what potential employers are looking for. We wrap up the episode with Noah's unique recruitment philosophy all about creating value-driven matches between companies and candidates, underscoring his commitment to nurturing authentic, meaningful career connections. Enjoy! Timestamps: 00:00 Kicking Off with Product Coffee Podcast 00:26 Introducing Noah: A Journey from Entrepreneur to Tech Guru 04:47 Noah's Entrepreneurial Ventures and Staffing Success 09:59 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenthood 12:23 The Transition from Musician to Full-Time Work and Parenthood 15:10 Insights into Software Bootcamp and App Development 19:11 Mastering the Job Market: Interview Prep and LinkedIn Tips 23:34 Mastering the Interview: A Deep Dive 23:48 The Art of Asking Questions During Interviews 24:13 Building Rapport with Hiring Managers 30:50 Crafting Your Personal Brand and Philosophy 36:36 The Importance of Critical Questions 37:50 Concluding Your Interview with Confidence 38:55 Maximizing Interview Success: Strategies and Insights 39:21 Leveraging Interview Preparation for Career Advancement 43:28 Practical Tips for Immediate Application 45:47 Exploring the Value of Personal Branding in Job Searches 47:49 Final Thoughts and Resources Where to find Noah Schutte: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahschutte/ Where to find Kevin Gentry: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingentry/ Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

On this week’s episode of Product Coffee, Kevin and Lou talk about the future impact of generative AI on product management. They delve into how emerging technologies, particularly generative AI, are simplifying coding and potentially strategy formulation, altering the landscape for product managers. The conversation covers the ability of AI to generate code and roadmap strategies, the risks and opportunities this presents, and the fundamental unchanged aspects of product management such as understanding market needs and customer problems. The speakers also share personal anecdotes to illustrate the evolution of technology and its application in real-world scenarios, including real estate development. They conclude by addressing listener feedback and emphasizing the value of curiosity and execution in the product management field. 00:00 Welcome to Product Coffee: Unveiling the Future of Product Management 00:26 Exploring the Impact of Generative AI on Product Management 01:54 The Evolution of Building: From Legos to Software 03:32 Navigating the Digital Transformation and Market Competition 05:19 The Unchanged Core of Product Management in a Tech-Driven World 08:28 Harnessing Data and Technology for Real Estate Development 13:09 Balancing Personal Projects and Market Opportunities 07:09 Reflecting on the Journey of Product Management 15:18 Engaging with the Community: Feedback and Questions 18:45 Closing Thoughts: Adapting Product Skills Across Industries Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of the Product Coffee podcast, Lou & Kevin discuss the importance of identifying market opportunities in product management. They emphasize the role of product managers in understanding how their products fit within the market and exploring unique opportunities. The conversation covers the necessity of market analysis, exploring alternatives, and understanding customer pain points. Through examples, including insurance and service industry gaps, the hosts illustrate how engaging with potential customers and comprehensively understanding their needs can reveal valuable market opportunities. They stress the significance of a maker's attitude towards innovation, the need for action over ideation, and the importance of moving from recognizing a market gap to taking tangible steps to address it. The episode encourages listeners to adopt a mindset of abundance and creativity, engage in customer research, and share their ideas to validate and refine them. 00:28 Diving Deep into Market Opportunities and Innovation 02:09 The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Idea to Action 10:33 Embracing the Maker Spirit: The Path to Disruption 23:55 Final Thoughts: Taking the Leap into Market Innovation Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️ Looking to hire strong product leaders at your company? - Schedule a time here to see what we can do for you!

In this week’s episode of Product Coffee, Kevin interviews Pieter van Noordennen, a product management leader with a deep focus on AI and machine learning. Pieter shares his journey from journalism to product management, emphasizing his transition into AI-focused roles and solopreneurship. He discusses the differences between generative AI and machine learning, the impact of AI on product management and engineering, and the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in utilizing AI technologies. Pieter also touches on personal aspects, including the influence of parenthood on his career decisions, and introduces 'product.codes', a community for tech-inclined product managers. The episode provides insights into the evolving landscape of AI in product development and management, encouraging listeners to explore AI beyond popular tools like ChatGPT. Pieter on LinkedIn Product.codes 01:00 Guest Background and Journey into Product Management 02:47 Personal Life and Interests 03:33 Exploring the Concepts of Generative AI and Machine Learning 06:32 The Impact of AI on Product Development and Innovation 07:45 The Future of AI Technology and its Exciting Possibilities 09:35 The Role of Creativity in the Age of AI 13:32 The Intersection of AI and Design 21:25 The Influence of AI on Content Creation and SEO 22:39 The Impact of AI on Content Creation 23:18 The Future of Quality Content in the Age of AI 23:51 The Balance Between Quality and Quantity in Content 24:28 The Shift Towards Subscription-Based Content 24:51 The Rise of Solopreneurship and Its Impact on the Economy 26:13 The Personal Journey of Becoming a Solopreneur 29:27 The Challenges and Rewards of Balancing Work and Family Life 35:49 The Importance of Community and Mentorship in Career Development 42:26 The Role of AI in Product Management 44:50 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️ Looking to hire strong product leaders at your company? - Schedule a time here to see what we can do for you!

Karthik Suresh, founder of Ignition shares his unique journey in the world of technology and product strategy, from his early days on Wall Street to transitioning to the tech world during a recession. He reflects on his experiences at Craft and Facebook, highlighting the different nuances of operating as a Product Manager in startups versus large organisations, and the pivotal role of PMs in leadership. Karthik also discusses the evolution of his AI-powered product management platform, Ignition, and how it is changing the landscape of PM and PMM work along with the stumbling blocks he's encountered along the way. Special Coupon Code for Product Coffee listeners: Ignition: Use the code, COFFEE25 to get 25% off any subscription for the first 12 months. 00:51 Karthik's Journey into the Tech World 01:13 Experiences in Wall Street and the Financial Crisis 02:50 Transition from Finance to Tech 03:49 Karthik's Startup Journey and Move to Facebook 05:30 The Birth of Ignition 06:27 The Importance of Taking Risks and Learning from Failures 14:09 The Differences Between Working in a Startup and a Big Company 23:36 Transition into Leadership 26:40 The Importance of Mission-Driven Teams 28:30 The Power of Motivation and Leadership 29:28 The Evolution of Leadership Roles 30:05 The Journey of Ignition: Building an AI-Powered Product Management Platform 32:23 The Role of Product Managers in Go-to-Market Strategy 40:52 The Challenges and Successes of Ignition 43:35 The Future of Product Management with AI 48:39 The Importance of Go-to-Market Plans for Product Managers 49:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for Product Managers Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️ Looking to hire strong product leaders at your company? - Schedule a time here to see what we can do for you!

On this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin sits down with recruitment expert, James Jordan gives insights on the product management recruitment scene. He discusses his company, Producto, and his approach to finding the right candidates. He provides helpful advice for product management professionals both looking for jobs and for those wanting to stay competitive in their current positions. Strengthening LinkedIn profiles, staying connected with the community of peers and regular self-assessment are among the key recommendations. James also touches upon trends in the industry such as transitions between roles, shifts in the job market and the importance of networking. 01:00 Understanding Producto: A Recruitment Company 02:40 James Jordan's Journey in Tech Recruitment 05:05 Challenges in Product Management Recruitment 07:04 Understanding Company Needs and Candidate Profiles 10:23 The Importance of Personality and Culture Fit in Recruitment 21:00 Navigating the Current Turbulence in the Tech Industry 26:04 The Current Job Market Vibe 26:33 The Impact on Senior PMs 26:50 The Consequences of Job Market Dynamics 27:10 Breaking Down PM Categories 27:33 The Challenges PMs Face in the Market 28:10 The Importance of Specialization 30:09 The Dilemma of PM Leaders 32:05 The Difference Between Startup and Enterprise PM Work 34:39 The Importance of LinkedIn and Resume Optimization 36:31 The Power of Networking and Relationship Building 41:14 Closing Thoughts and Recommendations James on LinkedIn / Producto Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️ Looking to hire strong product leaders at your company? - Schedule a time here to see what we can do for you!

Imparting valuable advice for career growth, Michelle Bassett talks about product management over a cup of coffee. The discussion turns to the sunk-cost fallacy, the importance of pivoting when necessary, and how making informed decisions can lead to career advancement. She shares her hands-on experience in marketing and entrepreneurship, while emphasizing the importance of understanding how numbers influence business outcomes. The conversation further delves into the impact of neurodivergence on professional journeys, the transformation of workplaces, and the emerging gig economy. Michelle encourages listeners to understand their business morals and consider the impact of their work on broader societal patterns. Check out Michelle here 🦄 00:26 Understanding the Sunk Cost Fallacy 02:34 Guest Introduction: Michelle Bassett, Marketing Expert 03:43 Michelle's Unique Approach to Business and Life 05:16 The Importance of Pivoting in Business 05:26 Michelle's Journey and Career Transitions 07:55 The Power of Data in Marketing 09:19 The Impact of Dyslexia and ADHD on Michelle's Career 09:42 Michelle's Unique Approach to Marketing 23:02 The Importance of Data in Product Strategy 27:28 Understanding Different Perspectives in Data Analysis 28:36 The Journey of a Multi-Disciplinary Professional 29:24 The Struggles of Fitting into a Single Role 30:56 The Importance of Pivoting and Self-Narration 31:48 The Challenges of a Diverse Career Path 32:06 The Power of Pattern Matching and Context Shifting 32:37 The Impact of Personal Background on Career Choices 33:30 The Struggle of Internalizing Criticism 33:52 The Importance of Optimism and Positive Self-Narration 34:44 The Role of Data in Decision Making 37:17 The Challenges and Opportunities in the Gig Economy 46:48 The Importance of Impact in Gig Work 49:33 The Power of Humility and Understanding in Consulting 50:15 The Importance of Business Morals in Gig Work 52:19 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️ Looking to hire strong product leaders at your company? - Schedule a time here to see what we can do for you!

Product Coffee introduces Caitlin Titus and Travis Hampton, who are both senior product managers with different experiences ranging from Ad Tech to B2B healthcare space. This episode delves into their career backgrounds, current experiences in the product management field, particularly with significant layoffs and job dissatisfaction. According to a CNBC study, senior product managers, albeit high-paying roles, are among those most likely to quit their jobs due to stress, turnover changes, and company performance issues. They discuss their different experiences with job interviews and case study prompts, underlining the importance of asking clear, open-ended questions and adopting an iterative testing process for job satisfaction. The hosts suggest different ways product managers can align high-paying jobs with their personal and professional goals and mitigate job dissatisfaction. Don't have the budget to hire Product people yet? Check out Abstraction for a subscription-style agency to help you build beautiful product experiences for your customers. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Backgrounds 01:18 Current State of the Product Industry 01:27 Challenges Faced by Senior Product Managers 03:51 Job Hunting and Interview Experiences 04:08 Navigating the Job Application Process 07:45 The Role and Expectations of a Senior Product Manager 09:28 The Importance of Clear Communication and Expectations 13:41 Measuring Success in Product Management 19:17 The Interview Process: Case Studies 19:47 Different Types of Case Studies in Interviews 24:45 Approaching Case Studies in Interviews 27:25 Incorporating Chat GPT in Prepping and Research 27:41 Challenges and Concerns with Live Chat GPT 28:01 Exploring the Use of Chat GPT in Interview Preparations 28:59 Addressing User Sign-On Problems 29:51 Navigating Interviews and Setting Benchmarks 31:00 Understanding Neurodivergence in Job Roles 31:28 Discussing the Value of Past Experiences in Interviews 32:41 Brainstorming Solutions to Job Dissatisfaction 33:40 Identifying Key Factors of Job Dissatisfaction 41:31 Creating More Meaningful and Fulfilling Work Experiences 48:10 Assigning Homework and Final Thoughts Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin welcomes Adam Oliver, Founder, and CEO of Crafted, a product development consultancy. Adam shares his product management journey, the challenges of transitioning into a leadership role as a founder, and offers insights on product development, advocating for a lean, iterative approach. He also discusses the importance of balanced teams, stressing the need for product design engagement. As a leader in times of economic uncertainty, Adam recommends a careful approach to spending and decision-making. He envisions AI and ML having an impactful role in product development in the future. Adam's company: Crafted 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:53 Adam's Journey into Product Management 02:25 Adam's Experience with Pivotal Labs 03:35 Adam's Transition from Real Estate to Tech 04:59 Discussion on Extreme Programming 07:13 Adam's Experience with Pivotal Labs' IPO 09:56 Challenges and Benefits of Consultancy Work 13:44 Importance of Regular Product Hygiene 17:37 Staying Scrappy in Product Development 23:34 Balanced Teams for Project Success 24:31 The Importance of UI/UX in Software Development 25:04 The Evolution of Software and the Role of Engineers 25:47 The Impact of UI/UX on Engineering Efficiency 27:33 The Role of UI/UX in API Development 28:38 The Slow Recognition of UI/UX Importance in the Industry 29:11 The Concept of Iteratively Shipping Products 31:55 The Role of Product Marketing in Bridging the Gap 33:45 The Shift to Profitability and EBITDA Focus 38:28 The Challenges of Transitioning to a Founder Role 45:59 The Future of Product Development

This week on Product Coffee, Kevin & Jake dive into the challenges emerging startups face in balancing product development and innovation. They explore patterns of organizational behavior that can inhibit innovation and stress the importance of continuous customer discovery. The conversation further delves into themes like ideal stages for engaging go-to-market teams, understanding market fit in relation to product stage and the role of product leadership in managing business expectations. The hosts conclude by inviting listener feedback on effective processes and strategies adopted in their organizations. 00:00 Introduction and Role as Interim Head of Product 00:11 Challenges Faced by Emerging Startups 00:40 Discussion on Airbnb and Product Management 01:19 Innovation and Decision Making in Startups 02:04 The Struggle of Companies with Innovation 02:24 The Importance of Portfolio Product Management 04:16 The Role of Market in Product Development 05:22 Understanding the Product Lifecycle 05:57 The Role of Market Understanding in Product Maturity 07:06 The Challenge of Finding the Right Problem to Solve 08:07 The Impact of Over-investment in Go-to-Market Channels 09:14 The Trap of Enterprise Organizations 12:04 The Importance of Continuous Innovation 13:26 The Role of Market Conditions in Product Success 17:46 The Challenge of Competing with Oneself 19:33 Understanding the Changing Needs of Customers 21:57 Perfecting Customer Understanding vs Perfecting the Solution 22:13 Struggles of Balancing Different Phases in Companies 22:27 The Importance of Continuous Discovery Habits 22:40 The Impact of New Processes and Techniques on Understanding Core Fundamentals 23:19 The Role of Process in Differentiating Competing Organizations 23:52 The Importance of Customer Discovery 24:03 The Impact of LLMs on the Content Industry 24:38 The Importance of Understanding the Problem Over Time 25:01 The Role of Customer Interviews and Market Understanding 26:15 The Importance of Broader Market Analysis 26:44 The Role of Culture of Experimentation 27:40 The Importance of Challenging Your Own Ideas and Assumptions 28:11 The Struggles of Day-to-Day Product Team 28:51 The Role of Leadership in Innovation 31:35 The Challenge of Demonstrating Value in Product Discovery 32:11 The Importance of Managing Business Expectations and Priorities 33:42 The Role of Risk in Product Discovery 35:45 The Challenge of Predictability in Product Management 38:14 The Importance of Engaging with Go-to-Market Teams 42:06 The Challenge of Perfecting Your Understanding of Your Customer Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin & Lou discuss the complexity of empowering teams to do great work. They reflect on the challenges of team structuring, providing proper context, enabling autonomy, and holding teams accountable. They delve into the realities of no perfect answers, the traps of agile thinking, and the rigors of constantly changing priorities. They also discuss the jokey benefits and pitfalls of reorganizing their teams to maximize efficiency and productivity, including the balancing act of altering team structures while making sure that any change doesn't disrupt performance too much. Finally, they exchange thoughts on autonomy, skill sets, team sizes, and resource allocation – all critical aspects to consider when committing to a certain customer problem. 00:26 Empowering Teams for Great Work 00:48 Challenges in Team Structuring and Accountability 00:59 The Agile Development Approach 01:30 The Pitfalls of Restructuring and Reorganization 01:52 The Traps of Team Organization 02:20 The Reality of Reorganization 02:46 The Impact of Reorganization on Team Autonomy 03:29 The Role of Context in Team Reorganization 04:27 The Necessity of Tactical Reorganization 04:56 The Slow Process of Team Transition 05:32 The Dilemma of Shaping Work to Teams or Teams to Work 05:54 The Importance of Consistency in Team Structure 06:07 The Constant Change in Agile Mindset 06:48 The Challenge of Autonomy and Skill Sets 07:14 The Reevaluation of Team Strategy 07:24 The Philosophy of Team Organization 08:36 The Reality of Team Priorities 08:49 The Theme of Current Reorganization 08:59 The Impact of Layoffs on Company Priorities 10:47 The Policy Changes in Team Structure 15:21 The Challenges of Resource Skill Strategy 21:51 The Role of Product Management in Organizational Changes 24:43 Homework & Final Thoughts Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of 'Product Coffee', Kevin & Taj discuss product outcomes and how teams can measure the success of their work, experimentation, and activities. The conversation focuses on the importance of identifying predictive directions or actions that drive business outcomes and the role of the product team in this process. Examples from sports and IT operations are used to illustrate the concept of setting up clear product outcomes to empower teams. Further, the hosts delve into the importance of defining a company or product's 'North Star' metric, understanding the value offered to primary users, and how to measure job success. 00:26 Discussion on Product Outcomes 01:10 Understanding Business Metrics and Goals 01:41 The Importance of Product Outcome 02:18 Sports Analogies and Product Outcomes 03:50 Breaking Down the Plus-Minus Factor 05:03 Challenges in Identifying Influencing Factors 05:29 Exercise on Identifying Product Outcomes 06:57 Understanding the User and Their Goals 08:47 The Role of Infrastructure in Product Outcomes 16:07 The Importance of Renewals in Business 18:00 The Role of Consultation in Product Outcomes 24:42 The Importance of Regular Check-ins and Adjustments 31:57 Understanding the Importance of User Testing 35:00 Homework

Artem Koren, Chief Product Officer at Sembly AI, joins the show to discuss how his company is using AI to increase team productivity in the workplace. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this special LIVE recording at Denver Startup Week, Lindsey, Jake, Patrick, and Jodi discuss the challenges and best practices of distributed team communication and collaboration in a hybrid work environment. They share their experiences transitioning from fully in-office to fully remote during the pandemic, and now settling into hybrid models. Topics covered include the pros and cons of synchronous vs asynchronous communication, how to facilitate connection and alignment across distributed teams, tools and techniques for improving documentation and knowledge sharing, and measuring team health and morale in a hybrid setting. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this enlightening episode of Product Coffee, product management leaders Lou, Kevin, and Jake delve into the intricate dance of product discovery and user research. From the vital need for a comprehensive understanding of user problems to the significance of strategic context, our panelists underscore the balance between micro and macro perspectives in product decisions. Unpack insights on the role of continuous validation, the importance of holistic market comprehension, and the leadership dynamics in product discovery. Plus, don't miss out on their invaluable take on customer interactions and data capture. Tune in to glean insights, best practices, and actionable tips for your product journey! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, we dive deep into the world of data strategy and how it seamlessly fits into the broader realm of product strategy work. Special guest Allegra Bishop, a seasoned product management leader, enlightens us on the intricate balance between qualitative and quantitative research. From the pivotal role of user research to pitfalls of incoherent data tracking, we journey through the foundations of setting meaningful product metrics. As Bishop aptly puts it, “Without qualitative conversations with users first, companies can't set the right quantitative metrics.” Ready to brew your product expertise with these insights? Pour yourself a cup and join the conversation! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode, we dive deep with Josefina Tous Bercovich from Vinoly, as she walks us through the intricate dance of product development. From understanding the client's idea and conducting market research to navigating technical constraints and continuously testing and iterating ideas, Josefina highlights the importance of striking the right balance. Listen in to gain insights on the value of user research, the necessity of being flexible and adaptable, and why sometimes, following your gut is the best approach to take. Whether you’re a product manager, a developer, or an entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and key takeaways that can help you navigate the challenges of product development. https://www.vinoly.tech Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

Dive deep into the world of team offsites with Kevin & Lou as they unpack their immense value in building culture and camaraderie, especially through major company changes. From personal experiences in exotic locations to actionable insights for team leaders, this episode sheds light on why offsites should never be 'business as usual'. Explore how effective offsites can result in actionable plans, serve as indicators of team engagement, and be masterfully organized for maximum impact. Whether you're a leader or a team member, you'll come away with a fresh perspective on how to make offsites a transformative experience. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week we have Bob Lamendola of Ricoh USA on the show. He talks to Kevin about the company's transition from a product-oriented focus to a customer-centric service model. They explore Ricoh's "co-innovation" approach, involving customers in the development process, and the role of internships in driving innovation. Lamendola emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with discomfort as a catalyst for creativity and growth within the organization. This engaging conversation offers a unique glimpse into modern technology transformation, providing valuable insights for leaders and innovators in the field. Check out Bob on Linkedin Follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week we explore the critical roles and relationships between product marketing, product management, and the process of taking a product to market. It emphasizes the importance of a dedicated marketing function, highlights the responsibilities of product managers in handling launches, and discusses a step-by-step approach for product release. Kevin, Jake, and Lou share experiences and strategies that emphasize collaboration, clarity in roles, understanding of the target audience, and continuous refinement in the product launch process. It aims to provide valuable guidance for both enterprise products and sales-driven approaches, focusing on successful product delivery and market presence. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

"And it was like, okay, we got Jewel, we got Taylor Swift. We got a couple other people. It was like, this is, there's something here. This is, this is a business. And so that's when we, we decided to make the leap and yeah."This episode of Product Coffee features Brian Peterson, an innovator and leader in the Colorado product space. Listeners can expect to hear about Brian's diverse and interesting career journey and how he has worked in product for two decades, founding his own startup and holding leadership positions at some of the biggest global music organizations. Brian will bring his experience to life with stories of building a product from nothing, and his insights into the early days of the music industry's disruption. Tune in to hear about Brian's journey and gain valuable advice about product management. Find Brian on LinkedIn here. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week, we have Kareem Mayan on the show! Kareem is a seasoned product professional and entrepreneur, and co-founder of Savio. Kevin Gentry and Kareem discuss his journey in product management, his experiences working in big name companies (MYSPACE), his entrepreneurial ventures, and his thoughts on product positioning and planning. Key Insights: Solve your own problems first when starting a venture for a strong foundation & real need. MVPs should be built by 2-3 devs, a product hat, & take 2-4 months. Leveraging a marketplace can be a powerful acquisition channel, especially for new products. Building a brand around an idea is a powerful differentiator in a crowded market. Listening to customer feedback & using it to inform product decisions is crucial for creating a product that meets customer needs. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

Join us this week as Kevin Gentry and Lou Cirillo discuss coaching and leveling up junior PMs. They explore the transition from APM to PM, developing diverse skills, handling increasing ambiguity, and the connection between team success and leadership success. They review the importance of product competency frameworks and the process of creating a strategic narrative. Gain actionable insights to guide junior PMs and enhance your own product management journey. Don't miss this episode packed with expert advice and practical strategies. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, we have Michael Agbar on the show, a product leader at Cledara. Kevin Gentry and Michael discuss the differences between product management in an agency setting versus an in-house setting, the process of product market fit expansion, and the importance of data-driven decision making. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week, Kate Syuma, Head of Growth Design at Miro is on the show!!! We cover career growth, user onboarding, community-led growth, and challenges in growth design leadership. Kate shares her insights on user segmentation and how asking the right questions during onboarding can provide valuable data for personalizing the user experience. She also mentioned the potential for expanding Miroverse in the future, stating, "It's happening on the background as we speak". 🙌 You can find Kate, here on LinkedIn. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week we discuss the over-leveling of Product Managers, its impact on design career paths, and how to identify and address these issues in the workplace. Here are some of the takeaways from this episode: Over-leveling of PMs can lead to poor expectations and career dissatisfaction Importance of clear roadmaps and strategy for PMs Balancing outcomes and outputs in product management Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin & Lou discuss the emergence of AI and its impact on product management. They share their experiences with AI tools like Chat GPT and how it has made their work more efficient and creative. Explore the potential of AI in content creation, user experience enrichment, and even product design. While acknowledging AI's limitations and ethical concerns, they emphasize the importance of product-led growth and the potential disruption it can bring to industries like journalism. How can you leverage technology to enhance your products and user experience? Let us know! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

This week we discuss the power of neurodivergence in boosting productivity. Join Kevin as he chats with Holly, a neurodivergent founder, who shares insights and strategies for leveraging her unique brain-wiring to excel in product management. From harnessing hyperfocus to managing dopamine-driven tasks, learn practical tips for maximizing your potential and finding your genius in the fast-paced world of product development. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on embracing neurodiversity and unlocking productivity. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of navigating ambiguity as a product manager. We talk about how to help product managers develop the skills they need to think critically and make decisions in the face of uncertainty. We also share some tips on coaching product managers to be more comfortable with ambiguity. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️

Ibrahim Bashir leads Amplitude's analytics product team. With a background in engineering, he transitioned to product roles, working at Amazon on Kindle and Kindle Fire, Twitter on platform strategy, and Box on developer products. Now at Amplitude, he helps build better digital products. Kevin and Ibrahim discuss product leadership in B2B and how PMs can access more proxies for user research and stitch together insights from sales, solution consulting, and professional services. They discuss discovery vs. delivery mode when experimenting. How CSMs are valuable partners for insights. Why achieving product-market fit early is crucial, especially in the SMB space, and why asking the right questions and understanding context helps improve product strategy. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibrahimbashir Twitter https://twitter.com/ibscribe Substack newsletter https://runthebusiness.substack.com/ Criya site https://www.criya.site/ibscribe Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter & check out our website @ productcoffeepodcast.com ☕️