The Estee Show - Product Management & Business Insights

Estee is a product management expert with an MBA who's navigated the startup world from the IC trenches to the VP role. She is a veteran of business initiatives that generated millions, but her biggest lessons came from failures that didn't pay off. From prioritizing short-term wins over long-term value or launching features without solid data, Estee has seen it all in Product Management. From big paychecks to unceremonious firings, Estee knows the highs and lows of this industry. Her outspoken approach brings you great conversations with industry leaders and the latest in the world of business and product management. Enjoy a product management and business program that is not afraid to be honest and rough around the edges. Welcome to The Estee Show!

46. The Israel-Gaza War with Uri Kurlianchik 02/23/2025

46. The Israel-Gaza War with Uri Kurlianchik Understanding the Israel-Gaza Conflict: A Deep Dive with Uri In this episode, we dive into a passionate discussion with Uri on the nuanced and complex Israel-Gaza conflict. The conversation covers the contentious hostage deal, the nature of war versus police operations, and the broader implications of the conflict. Uri provides historical context, comparing current events to World War II and other historical conflicts, and critiques the goals and strategies of both Israel and Gaza. The discussion also explores the political landscape in Israel, including the role of the Supreme Court and the prominence of political figures like Benjamin Netanyahu and Ben Gvir. Uri shares his personal background, his involvement in the political party Zehut, and his views on individual freedom. The conversation concludes with Uri's powerful message on the necessity of treating the enemy with respect and the importance of striving for victory in the conflict. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:34 Debating the Israel-Hamas Conflict 01:40 Hostage Situations and War Strategies 03:14 Historical Comparisons and Military Goals 04:50 Critique of Current War Tactics 08:32 Understanding the Enemy's Perspective 12:35 Potential Solutions and Political Commentary 15:45 International Perspectives and Final Thoughts 26:07 The Price of Hostages 26:31 Shoot to Kill vs. Neutralize 28:33 Death Penalty Debate in Israel 32:02 Political Landscape and Leadership in Israel 41:00 Personal Background and Political Involvement 50:41 Message to the Audience A bit about Uri: Uri was born in the Soviet Union in 1985 and for his sins was sent to Israel in 1989. He’s an avid hiker and has gone on hundreds of small adventures all over Israel. His day job is playing D&D with kids and teenagers in schools and community centers. Yeah, he can’t believe it either. His writing is deeply inspired by all of the above—the refugee experience, the exciting and secret places he found on his small adventures, and the cool stories woven with his young (and old) players. Also, he often makes stuff up. Uri’s RPG writing has been published by WotC, Paizo, Mongoose and other less savory venues. which, if you value your sanity, you’re strongly discouraged from pursuing. You’ve been warned. When not writing or working, he’s looking for strange new places or climbing trees for no reason. When not doing even that, he sleeps. Fitfully, like a dog chasing a rabbit in a dream. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/35391550

45. Understanding the H1B Visa with Rachel Windzberg 02/04/2025

44. Understanding Employer-Insurance Dynamics with Masoud Assali 12/26/2024

43. Unpacking Antisemitism on College Campuses with Shai Goldman 11/17/2024

42. The Paradox of Service: Can Great CX Mean No Service at All? With Ben Segal 10/30/2024

42. The Paradox of Service: Can Great CX Mean No Service at All? With Ben Segal Transforming Customer Experience: Insights from Ben Siegel In this episode, we explore the critical role of customer experience (CX) in business success with Ben Siegel. The discussion highlights the importance of integrating CX with product management, engineering, and marketing to create a cohesive customer-first approach. Ben emphasizes the significance of empathy, proactive service, and strategic investment in CX to not only retain customers but also to create brand ambassadors. Through real-life examples and actionable insights, Ben demonstrates how exceptional customer service can provide cost savings and enhance loyalty, even when product limitations exist. This conversation is essential for understanding the multi-faceted impact of CX on long-term business success. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:11 The Role of Customer Service in Product Management 02:09 Examples of Exceptional Customer Service 05:57 Creating a Customer-Centric Environment 08:46 Investing in Customer Experience 12:14 Balancing Customer Service and Profitability 21:12 Empowering Customer Service Teams 25:26 The Impact of Good Customer Service on Retention 29:22 Handling Customer Cancellations with Care 30:00 The Frustrations of IVR Systems 31:36 Amazon's Approach to Customer Service 34:13 The Role of AI in Customer Service 36:12 Cost Savings Through Good Customer Service 39:26 Building a Feedback Loop Between CX and Product Teams 42:36 Examples of Exceptional Customer Experience 54:30 The Importance of Empathy in Customer Service 58:10 Final Thoughts on Customer Experience Bio: Ben Segal is a dedicated advocate for customer experience (CX), renowned for his ability to turn challenges into opportunities. With over a decade of experience in the dynamic sectors of sports, entertainment, and technology startups, he has established himself as a key player in the CX landscape. His career includes significant roles at high-growth companies such as Freshly and Pair Eyewear, where he advanced from managing a small in-house contact center to developing a comprehensive global operation. During his tenure at these organizations, he was instrumental in scaling customer experience operations, contributing to substantial improvements in customer satisfaction. At Thesis, where he served as Vice President of Customer Experience, Ben played a crucial role in enhancing CX strategies that led to impressive growth metrics and elevated customer satisfaction levels. His leadership was marked by innovative project implementations and fostering a culture centered on customer-first principles. Currently, as the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) at Create CX, Ben spearheads initiatives aimed at transforming customer experiences across a diverse portfolio of brands. His responsibilities include overseeing customer interactions, driving service delivery innovation, and integrating AI and automation tools to improve operational efficiency. He is committed to nurturing a customer-centric culture and leveraging data-driven insights to refine the customer journey continually. Outside of his professional endeavors, Ben enjoys traveling across the U.S., attending Goose concerts, and cherishing time with his children, Dylan and Emma, while also exploring fine culinary experiences. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/33688112

41. Bad Managers and How Not to Be One with Rachel Windzberg and Dave Lifson 10/15/2024

41. Bad Managers and How Not to Be One with Rachel Windzberg and Dave Lifson Mastering the Art of Management: Insights, Challenges, and Strategies In this comprehensive episode, we delve deep into the multifaceted world of management. Drawing from personal experiences and professional journeys, Rachel, David, and other speakers examine the defining traits of good and bad managers, highlighting the impact on mental health and job satisfaction. They stress the importance of trust, clarity, and genuine care in manager-employee relationships and explore how effective one-on-one meetings can boost team dynamics and psychological safety. The conversation also touches on the role of managers in aligning team goals, acting as multipliers, and navigating challenges. Topics such as the pitfalls of promoting untrained high-performing ICs to managerial positions and the effects of organizational changes like removing middle managers are also discussed. This episode offers valuable lessons for both managers and employees aiming to foster a collaborative, productive work environment. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:34 Discussing Management Styles 01:55 David's Management Experience 02:43 Good vs. Bad Managers 03:13 Personal Stories of Bad Management 04:29 Characteristics of a Good Manager 10:36 The Importance of Collaboration 14:44 Values and Autonomy in Management 17:11 Reflecting on Management Challenges 17:46 Building Trust and Empowerment 22:09 Effective One-on-One Meetings 26:46 Navigating Organizational Dynamics 32:50 The Role and Value of a Manager 39:42 Challenges in Large Organizations 51:29 The Importance of Good Managers 56:47 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections David Lifson has led high performing teams at startups, public, and private equity backed companies, delivering high impact outcomes through clear vision, validated product strategy, and collaborative culture. He’s gone 0 -> 1 multiple times, as well as led teams supporting $350M in revenue. His experience leading teams spans 15 years, including four as CEO/GM and eight as Head of Product & Engineering. Dave has a bachelors and masters degree in Computer Science from Cornell University, and is based in Austin, TX. Rachel started her path to product management as an Engineer in the semiconductors industry. Prior to that, she was a Digital Marketing and Product Specialist at Fiverr, where she was one of the first members of the team to focus on marketing and product research. As a strategy consultant at BCG, she focused on private equity and operations. Rachel joined YouNow as a Product Manager where she focused on broadcaster experience and internal tools, and joined DataDog to lead monitors and alerting product. Rachel holds an MBA from Columbia and a BSC in Electrical Engineering from Tel Aviv University. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/33468587

40. Inside Fitbod: Habit Building in Fitness Tech with Josh Gnanayutham 09/23/2024

39. Weightlifting Insights from a Product Manager with Arianna Hoffman 09/03/2024

38. The Anti-AI vs. Pro-AI Debate with Shane Ursani 08/20/2024

38. The Anti-AI vs. Pro-AI Debate with Shane Ursani Navigating the Shifting Job Market and AI's Impact with Shane & Estee In this episode, Estee welcomes Shane, a director of engineering and AI enthusiast, to discuss the volatile job market and the profound impact of AI on the tech industry. They delve into the hiring booms and busts from 2022 to 2024, the intricacies of AI integration in companies, and the emergence of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot. They also explore the future of job roles, the significance of proprietary data, fundraising trends, and speculate on new AI-driven innovations. Tune in for a deep dive into how AI is reshaping the workforce and what it means for the future of work. 00:00 Introduction and Shane Welcome 00:51 The State of the Job Market 06:43 Impact of AI on Hiring Trends 14:58 AI Tools in the Workplace 20:21 Elon Musk and the AI Arms Race 28:49 AI Safety and Future Implications 29:49 Advice for Navigating the AI Revolution 36:30 Conclusion and Future Conversations Shane Ursani is a technical engineering leader with over 20 years of experience in developing and delivering successful enterprise applications. Currently serving as the Director of Engineering at Vizient, a leading healthcare performance improvement company, Shane has a proven track record of driving innovation and leading high-performing teams across various industries. As an AI enthusiast, he actively follows the latest trends in artificial intelligence, exploring open-source large language models, and building AI-powered prototypes to solve complex engineering challenges and create innovative user experiences. Shane holds an MBA from the University of Southern California and a BS in Computer Science from the University of Alaska Anchorage, combining technical acumen with strategic business insight. On a fun note, Shane was my engineering partner a couple of companies ago - and really showed me what kind of magic can be created when engineering and product work hand in hand. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/32648347

37. Deep Dive into Fractional Product Management with Aakash Gupta 07/30/2024

37. Deep Dive into Fractional Product Management with Aakash Gupta Unlocking the Power of Fractional Product Leadership with Aakash Gupta In this episode of the Estee Show, we explore the evolving world of fractional product leadership with expert Aakash Gupta. This deep dive follows our previous discussion on the topic with Ben Erez and expands on the insights found in an extensive 16,000-word article co-authored by Aakash and Jason Knight, host of the One Knight in Product podcast. Aakash discusses the intricacies of the fractional PM role, from pricing strategies and engagement setup to avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring successful outcomes. He shares lessons from interviewing 20 fractional PMs, offering real-world examples and guidelines. Tune in for an enlightening conversation whether you're in the product management field, considering a fractional career, or simply intrigued by the concept. Additional highlights include tips on balancing life and work, leveraging your network for success, and insights on the latest trends in the industry. Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the most respected figures in product management. 00:00 Introduction to Fractional Product Leadership 00:18 Deep Dive into Aakash Gupta's Article 01:37 Aakash Gupta's Background and Expertise 02:21 Target Audience for Fractional Leadership 02:44 Insights from Aakash and Ben's Experiences 03:37 Welcome Aakash Gupta to the Show 04:01 Understanding Fractional Leadership 04:59 History and Evolution of Fractional Roles 07:25 Challenges and Misconceptions in Fractional Roles 11:52 When to Consider Fractional Roles 15:55 Balancing Full-Time and Fractional Roles 18:46 The Importance of Referrals and Relationships 22:49 Setting Realistic Goals for Fractional Roles 25:39 Fractional Product Agencies and ROI 29:16 Responsibility in Providing Advice 36:33 Navigating the Perception of Product Managers on X 37:08 Controversial Post and Its Aftermath 38:55 Private Likes Feature on X 40:38 Networking and Building Connections on X 41:52 Understanding Fractional Leadership 42:53 Pricing and Strategies for Fractional Roles 43:47 Challenges and Opportunities in Fractional Leadership 50:09 Diversifying Revenue Streams for Fractional Leaders 54:35 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections 01:03:51 Final Thoughts and Career Advice Bio: Aakash Gupta is a former VP of product who spent 15 years in product at companies like , Epic Games, and thredUP. Nowadays, he runs the Product Growth newsletter, which is a newsletter on career topics for PM and growth people that goes out to 125,000 plus folks. Useful Links: Aakash’s newsletter: Linkedin: X: The article that inspired this episode: Episode 35 with Ben Erez: /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/32341252

36. How to Conduct Effective Reference Checks with Allison Yamamoto 07/16/2024

36. How to Conduct Effective Reference Checks with Allison Yamamoto Mastering the Art of Reference Checks: Deep Dives and Honest Insights with Alison In this episode, Alison delves into the intricacies of conducting reference checks, sharing her personal experiences and methodology for obtaining the most valuable insights. The conversation explores the importance of in-depth questions, how to detect sincerity versus bias, and the role of reference checks in the hiring process. Alison also shares practical tips on navigating backchanneling, dealing with potential red flags, and using silence effectively in conversations. Additionally, she touches on her side business focused on health and wellness for high achievers. This episode is packed with actionable advice for hiring managers looking to enhance their interview process and set new hires up for success. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:05 The Art of Reference Calls 00:24 Deep Dive into Reference Checks 01:17 Evaluating Reference Feedback 02:04 Setting Up for Success 03:50 Identifying Red Flags 04:27 Backchanneling Insights 04:57 Cultural Context and References 06:40 Effective Reference Questions 19:23 Handling Biased References 24:10 Importance of Reference Checks 27:51 Backchanneling Strategies 30:40 Understanding Weaknesses in Interviews 31:27 Evaluating Growth Mindset and Self-Awareness 32:13 The Importance of Culture Fit 33:28 Real-Life Examples of Improvement Opportunities 38:31 The Power of Silence in Conversations 42:19 The Role of Reference Checks 54:23 Red Flags in Hiring Decisions 59:04 Balancing High Achievement with Health 01:01:52 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways Bio: Allison is a founder, fractional CPO, and product advisor, who's worked at LinkedIn, Oscar Health, and various early stage startups. She's built and led high performing product teams, and coached other product leaders uplevel in their career and navigate the uncertainties in the job. Allison is passionate about women's health and has also developed a support program for high achieving women struggling with their relationship with food, exercise, and irregular periods. Allison's company: https://www.theallymethod.com/ /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/32156217

35. The Rise of Fractional Work in Product Management with Ben Erez 07/09/2024

34. Bonus: Product Management Lessons from the Presidential Debate with David Lifson 07/04/2024

33. Mastering Product Decisions with Napkin Math with Gaurav Hardikar 07/02/2024

32. The Intersection of Product Management and Design with Toma Lulgjuraj 06/25/2024

32. The Intersection of Product Management and Design with Toma Lulgjuraj Creating Quality Products: A Candid Conversation with Toma on Design and Product Management In this episode, Estee converses with Toma, the first designer guest on the show, about the integral relationship between design and product management. They reflect on how they connected through a humorously truthful LinkedIn post that Toma put up about the dilution of design quality during product development. The discussion delves into the challenges of aligning different stakeholders' priorities, the importance of shared values in achieving extraordinary outcomes, and the pitfalls of compromising on quality for fast metrics. Toma talks about the significance of maintaining high-quality standards and the impact of values-driven decision-making in organizations like Apple and Microsoft. The conversation also touches on the detrimental effects of MVP culture and how true product management focuses on creating excellent products rather than just checking boxes. The episode concludes with a lightning round exploring Toma's views on design podcasts, his admiration for Steve Jobs, and key takeaways for product managers to prioritize quality and fight for the product. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:24 The Designer's LinkedIn Post 02:44 The Importance of Aligned Values 04:54 Design in Tech Companies 08:34 Quality vs. Metrics 10:20 The MVP Debate 19:22 Top-Down Quality Culture 22:22 The Power of Value-Driven Decisions 23:13 The Problem with Compromising Quality 24:10 Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Culture 25:18 The Importance of Using Your Own Products 26:40 The Role of Product Managers vs. Project Managers 31:06 Creating a Strong Product-Design Partnership 33:59 Evaluating Quality in Popular Apps 37:45 Lightning Round: Insights and Inspirations About Toma: Toma’s journey to becoming a designer was unexpected. Originally from Australia, he studied law and business before life took a turn in 2006, leading him to Italy. There, he moved his first pixel and wrote his first line of code. Since then, Toma has brought his design expertise to tech companies across multiple continents, focusing on product and organizational strategy and design. Now based in Amsterdam, he is a Design Director at the European hospitality unicorn MEWS, where his teams spearhead the creation of outstanding guest experiences. Link to the image that inspired this episode: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7188806639368462337-QDrv?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31875377

31. Artificial Intelligence Strategies for Personalization and Pricing with Rachel Windzberg 06/18/2024

31. Artificial Intelligence Strategies for Personalization and Pricing with Rachel Windzberg Leveraging AI in Product Management with Rachel: Insights Beyond the Basics Rachel, an experienced AI product manager, shares her journey from electrical engineering to working at esteemed companies like Microsoft, Facebook, and Instagram. She discusses her career transition, the rise of AI, and the essential paper 'Attention Is All You Need.' Rachel dives deep into practical applications of AI for product managers, emphasizing productivity, personalization, and real-world examples like Spotify and e-commerce. She also explores the future of product management and engineering roles amidst AI advancements, providing valuable insights and advice for professionals in the field. Referenced in the episode: 1. Article about Shein: 2. Air Canada forced to honor refund policy invented by AI chatbot: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/tech-news-technology/air-canada-ai-chatbot-9170822/ 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:04 Rachel's Career Journey 01:21 Impact of AI in Product Management 01:49 Deep Dive into LLMs and AI Technologies 06:26 AI for Productivity and Personal Use 18:21 AI in Professional Settings 31:33 Future of Product Management and AI 35:48 Personal Insights and Hobbies 38:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell Rachel's Bio: Rachel started her path to product management as an Engineer in the semiconductors industry. Prior to that, she was a Digital Marketing and Product Specialist at Fiverr, where she was one of the first members of the team to focus on marketing and product research. As a strategy consultant at BCG, she focused on private equity and operations. Rachel joined YouNow as a Product Manager where she focused on broadcaster experience and internal tools, and joined DataDog to lead monitors and alerting product. Rachel holds an MBA from Columbia and a BSC in Electrical Engineering from Tel Aviv University. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31782757

30. Demystifying Corporate Speak with David Lifson 06/10/2024

30. Demystifying Corporate Speak with David Lifson Decoding Corporate Jargon and Navigating Workplace Dynamics In this episode, David Lifson returns to discuss the complexities and humor found in corporate jargon. The conversation covers the differences between real-world language and corporate speak, the creation of in-groups and out-groups through jargon, and the challenges faced by non-native English speakers. The hosts analyze popular corporate phrases and their hidden meanings, sharing their own experiences and observations. They also delve into the toxicity of certain workplace cultures, the impact of poor management, and offer insights on how to identify healthy work environments. This engaging discussion provides both comedic relief and valuable advice for navigating corporate communication and dynamics. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:12 Corporate Speak vs. Real World Language 01:23 Types of Corporate Jargon 02:09 Cultural Implications of Jargon 02:30 Literal Interpretations and Misunderstandings 03:59 Common Corporate Phrases and Their Meanings 04:28 Disagree and Commit 07:04 Digital Transformation and AI 15:40 Executives and Accountability 17:41 Breaking the Cycle of Toxic Work Environments 18:14 Red Flags in Job Offers 18:55 Defining Yourself Beyond Your Resume 19:41 Learning from Career Setbacks 21:29 The Reality of Startup Culture 22:42 Recognizing Toxic Job Descriptions 25:36 Effective Feedback in the Workplace 30:15 Understanding Communication Styles 34:54 The Problem with Bad Managers 35:17 Conclusion and Farewell Bio: David Lifson has led high performing teams at startups, public, and private equity backed companies, delivering high impact outcomes through clear vision, validated product strategy, and collaborative culture. He’s gone 0 -> 1 multiple times, as well as led teams supporting $350M in revenue. His experience leading teams spans 15 years, including four as CEO/GM and eight as Head of Product & Engineering. Dave has a bachelors and masters degree in Computer Science from Cornell University, and is based in Austin, TX. See former episode with David here: https://theesteeshow.com/episodes/episode-24#spotify /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31680162

29. The Art of the Sabbatical Career Break with Ali Sipher 06/03/2024

29. The Art of the Sabbatical Career Break with Ali Sipher The episode covers Ali Sipher's experience taking a 7-month career break. She discusses the importance of setting clear goals for the break, such as self-discovery and exploring new directions. Financial planning for 1.5-2x the intended break duration is recommended to avoid undue pressure. The initial months involved decompressing from the fast-paced work mindset and pursuing personal interests like getting certified as a phlebotomist. A major realization was how much time actually exists in a day without the constant urgency of work. The break allowed Ali to rediscover her core identity beyond her job and gain clarity on her values and interests. She advises taking at least 6 months for a true mental reset, and beginning the re-entry process 1-2 months before the intended return date. Overall, an intentional career break can provide invaluable self-awareness and perspective. Planning for a Career Break Set clear goals for the break - e.g. self-discovery, exploring new interests Financially plan for 1.5-2x the intended duration of the break Determine responsibilities to hand off or cover during the break Embracing the Break Allow time to truly disconnect and decompress initially Pursue personal interests, projects, certifications Expect a mindset shift - days feel longer, less urgency Rediscover your identity beyond work Lessons from the Break You have more time than you think for what's truly important Savor the mental break from constant urgency Gain self-awareness about your core values and interests Decide if/when you want to re-enter the workforce Re-Entering the Workforce Start considering re-entry 1-2 months before intended return Don't wait until burnout to take a career break Plan for a bit more break time than you think you'll need Expect to miss using your brain for problem-solving eventually Key Takeaways Career breaks allow valuable self-discovery and mindset shifts Proper planning (financial, responsibilities, duration) is crucial Be open to the break taking you in an unanticipated direction Decide when you're ready to re-engage based on your goals Ali Sipher: Ali Sipher is an accomplished product leader who loves complicated and unglamorous problem spaces (think: supply chain, healthcare, accounting). She’s delivered innovative products, unlocked new revenue streams, and optimized operations in leadership roles at Parsley Health, Walmart, and multiple startups. After taking a six-month career break, Ali started working as a product management consultant. This helped her realize how much she loves owning the day-to-day product work. Ali is actively looking for her next full-time role solving complicated and unglamorous problems. Interested in connecting? Reach out: /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31583987

28. From Glory to Turmoil: The Downfall of Boeing with Kathryn Creedy 05/27/2024

28. From Glory to Turmoil: The Downfall of Boeing with Kathryn Creedy The Boiling Crisis at Boeing: Unpacking Five Years of Turbulence In this episode, Kathryn and Estee dive into the ongoing crises and challenges confronting Boeing and the airline aviation industry. From crashes, the tragic suicide of a whistleblower to damning congressional hearings, Kathryn, an expert journalist with extensive industry experience, provides a detailed timeline and analysis of the pivotal events since January 2024. The conversation explores multiple Boeing aircraft incidents, including doors flying off mid-flight and wheels falling off upon takeoff, and scrutinizes the cultural and management issues that have plagued Boeing for years, emphasizing the shift from engineering excellence to profit obsession. Kathryn highlights the importance of public pressure on Boeing to enact meaningful changes, advocates for a complete overhaul of Boeing’s management, and urges passengers to vocalize their concerns to legislators and consumer organization. Bio: is a veteran aviation journalist and author who has covered every facet of commercial and business aviation. Kathryn has written for and is the author of Time Flies – The History of SkyWest Airlines. Her byline has appeared in Smithsonian’s Air & Space Magazine and top aviation publications such as Air Transport World, Aviation Week and Space Technology, Flightglobal, Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation and Airline Business. In addition, she has written for BBC Capital, CNN Travel, The Los Angeles Times, AFAR.com. Series of incidents: Door flies off Alaska Airlines 737 Max (January 2024) Wheel falls off United Airlines aircraft (March 2024) Whistleblower John Barnett dies by suicide (March 2024) Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announces retirement (March 2024) Concerns: Potential for more technical issues with Boeing aircraft Shift in Boeing's culture from safety-first to profit-driven Lack of transparency from Boeing regarding safety concerns Effectiveness of FAA oversight Historical Context: 1997 Merger of Boeing and McDonnell Douglas - potential cultural clash 2003 FAA recommendation on 787 Dreamliner battery casing ignored by Boeing (later implemented after incidents) 2018 & 2019 Lion Air & Ethiopian Airlines crashes involving 737 Max - questionable design choices and lack of pilot training on new system (MCAS) Blaming the victims (pilots) for the 737 Max crashes Current Investigations: Department of Justice (DOJ) considering criminal charges against Boeing for the 737 Max crashes FAA investigating Boeing's manufacturing practices Congressional hearings examining Boeing's safety culture Uncertain Future: Impact of investigations on Boeing's leadership and practices Need for stronger FAA oversight and passenger confidence /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31475517

27. Beyond Intuition: Framework for Evidence-Guided Product Management with Itamar Gilad 05/20/2024

27. Beyond Intuition: Framework for Evidence-Guided Product Management with Itamar Gilad In this episode of The Estee Show, Itamar Gilad, a former product manager at Google, Microsoft, and IBM, discusses his experiences and insights from his career. Focusing on his new book, 'Evidence Guided, Creating High-Impact Products in the Face of Uncertainty' he introduces the concept of 'evidence-guided' product management, contrasting it with traditional methods that rely heavily on intuition and fixed roadmaps. He emphasizes the importance of gathering and following evidence to make informed decisions, and addresses how his frameworks, including the GIST model and confidence meter, provide practical applications for prioritizing and validating ideas. Through anecdotes and historical examples from industry giants like Apple and Amazon, Gilad elaborates on the role of humility, testing, and iterative development in successful product management. He also shares his thoughts on organizational resistance to change and strategies to foster a more evidence-based, innovative culture. A must-listen for anyone interested in modern product management practices. Itamar's Bio: Itamar is a coach, author and speaker specializing in evidence-guided product management and product strategy. For over two decades he held senior product management and engineering roles at Google, Microsoft and a number of startups. At Google Itamar worked at YouTube and led parts of Gmail. Itamar is the author of the book Evidence-Guided: Creating High-Impact Products in the Face of Uncertainty. He also publishes a popular product management newsletter and is the creator of a number of product management methodologies including GIST Framework and The confidence meter. Itamar is based in Barcelona, Spain. You can find more information on his website: https://itamargilad.com/ 00:00 - Introduction and background on Itamar Gilad, author of "Evidence Guided Product Management" 02:20 - Definition of "fake door test" for measuring user interest02:50 - Definition of ICE/RICE prioritization frameworks 03:15 - Definition of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) 04:00 - Gilad's journey from being a product manager to writing his book 07:40 - Discussing the GIST framework (Goals, Ideas, Steps, Tasks) 10:20 - The importance of humility and not having all the answers as a product manager 12:15 - Examples of successful product launches at Google using evidence-guided approach 15:40 - Proper use of ICE/RICE frameworks and avoiding common pitfalls 19:20 - The role of experimentation and testing ideas before fully building them 22:30 - Leadership's role in embracing ambiguity and disciplined product development /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31385702

26. How to Break into Product Management at Top Tech Companies with Alex Rechevskiy 05/13/2024

26. How to Break into Product Management at Top Tech Companies with Alex Rechevskiy This podcast episode features an in-depth interview with Alex, a former product manager at Google, now running a business that helps experienced product managers advance their careers. Alex discusses the benefits and challenges of working in product management within the tech industry, emphasizing the value of having top tech company names on one's resume for career opportunities and compensation. He also touches on the cognitive dissonance experienced by product managers, the interviewing process, strategies for job seekers, and the role's requirements at large tech companies. Furthermore, Alex shares personal stories, including starting his YouTube channel and the impact of his advice on others. The conversation also covers topics like strategic ambiguity in tech companies, the importance of organizational and communication skills, and insights into succeeding in product management roles. Bio: Alex Rechevskiy was a Group PM at Google and has built and run products and product teams of all sizes. He has also coached and mentored hundreds of PMs at all stages of their careers and helped many clients land product roles at top tech companies. Alex writes on LinkedIn, makes videos on YouTube and runs a group coaching program called the Product Career Accelerator for serious tech professionals who want to grow their career and compensation. Links: Product Career Accelerator: group coaching program for getting into your next product role and growing your product skills & career () LinkedIn for daily product management tips () YouTube for practical and instructional videos () 00:00 Welcome to the SD Show: A Deep Dive into Product Management 00:27 The Unmatched Benefits of Working in Top Tech 04:39 Alex's Journey: From Google to Guiding Product Managers 04:58 The Realities of Breaking into Product Management Today 05:54 The Genesis of a YouTube Channel for Product Managers 11:02 The Interview Process vs. The Reality of the Job 13:50 Navigating the Complexities of Top Tech Companies 15:47 The Strategic Ambiguity of Monopolistic Tech Giants 19:19 The Culture of Respect at Google 20:09 The Impact of Google's Innovations on Humanity 20:46 The Challenge of Innovation and Risk at Google 23:01 Navigating the Job Market in Big Tech 24:33 Mastering the Job Application Process 31:12 The Interview Process: Strategies for Success 35:58 Preparing for a Product Management Role 38:14 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Final Thoughts /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31272962

25. Product as a Way of Thinking with Brody Clemmer 05/07/2024

25. Product as a Way of Thinking with Brody Clemmer A Journey from Radio to Product Management and the Essence of Product Thinking The script features an engaging conversation between the host and Brody Clemmer, a former radio host turned product manager, who shares his unique career path from working in radio to eventually finding a passion for product management and mental health. Brody discusses the accidental nature of many peoples' entry into product management, his own experience transitioning through various roles, and the importance of 'product thinking' across all organizational functions. He emphasizes that product thinking focuses on understanding and solving user problems, distinguishing it from product management which requires execution. Further, Brody shares how he implements product thinking in his current role at Koa Health through initiatives like 'product class,' aiming to foster a culture of problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration. The conversation also touches on mentorship versus coaching, the dynamics of therapy and mental health, and concludes with Brody sharing insights on personal fulfillment and career choices. 00:00 Welcome to the Show: Brody Clemmer's Unique Journey 01:38 From Radio Host to Product Management: A Career Evolution 02:34 Introducing Product Thinking: Beyond Traditional Management 03:37 Product Thinking vs. Product Management: A Deep Dive 09:30 Implementing Product Thinking in Organizations 15:41 The Impact of Product Thinking on Company Culture 19:20 Mentorship vs. Coaching: Brody's Approach to Personal Development 22:53 Therapy, Mental Health, and Product Thinking 29:26 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections Tools discussed in episode: Vistaly for consolidating and mapping user feedback Bio: Brody Clemmer lives in Philadelphia with his fiancé and their son - and is a generalist at heart. For work, he is currently the Lead Product Manager at Koa Health where he was the first US based Product hire, and is focused on the scalability and delivery of Koa’s products, ranging from mental health education to global clinical networks that support employers, payors, and multinational organizations in delivering mental health care for their members. Brody started his career out of high school, after making the decision to not go to university, first working in Radio, then TV Production, then landing at Apple for five years before starting his own business with a guy he met on Twitter. After selling the business at a personal loss, he found himself as the first product hire for a few “unsexy” companies in unknown industries like Executive Search, Leadership Consulting, corporate Sales Training, and finally making his way into Healthtech startups. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31167032

24. Product Management in Founder-Led Startups with David Lifson 05/01/2024

24. Product Management in Founder-Led Startups with David Lifson Product Management in Founder-Led Startups with David Lifson: From Startup to Scale In this episode, David Lifson shares his extensive experience in product management across different stages of company growth, including startups and major companies like Amazon and Etsy. Lifson discusses the challenges of being the first head of product for a first-time founder, emphasizing the importance of knowing what you're getting into and how it can be both a career-defining opportunity and a rollercoaster ride. He gives insights on founders' common traits, the pressures of early-stage startups, and the shift needed once a company reaches product-market fit. Lifson also touches on his journey from Amazon to Etsy, and founding his own company, providing valuable lessons on leadership, decision-making, product strategy, and the dynamics of working with founders. The conversation delves into practical advice for those considering head of product roles at startups, including setting realistic expectations, choosing battles, and understanding the real job you're being hired for. 00:00 Welcome to the SD Show: A Candid Chat with David Lifson 00:07 Navigating the Product Management Journey: Insights from Amazon to Etsy 01:26 The Harsh Realities of Being the First Head of Product 02:07 Traits of First-Time Founders: A Product Manager's Perspective 04:16 From Big Tech to Startup Life: David Lifson's Career Shift 06:52 The Founder's Imagination vs. Reality: Navigating Startup Challenges 08:11 Identifying Red Flags in Founding Stories 09:29 The Misconception of Product Market Fit 11:36 The Complex Dynamics of Founder Decisions and Team Impact 18:37 Evaluating Founders and the Importance of Trust 20:34 Reflecting on Success and Failure in Startups 23:10 Discovering Pregnancy Through Tech 23:44 The Value of Failure in Founding Teams 24:22 Debunking the 'Data-Driven' Myth 25:36 The Misuse of Data and A/B Testing 27:47 Navigating NPS and Ethical Dilemmas 31:16 The Role of a Founder in Product Strategy 34:39 Strategic Execution vs. Blind Action 37:48 Navigating Early Stage Product Leadership 39:55 Choosing Your Battles Wisely 42:54 Ethical Lines and Cultural Health 47:45 Working with Founders: A Multi-Layered Challenge David Lifson's Bio: David Lifson has led high performing teams at startups, public, and private equity backed companies, delivering high impact outcomes through clear vision, validated product strategy, and collaborative culture. He’s gone 0 -> 1 multiple times, as well as led teams supporting $350M in revenue. His experience leading teams spans 15 years, including four as CEO/GM and eight as Head of Product & Engineering. Dave has a bachelors and masters degree in Computer Science from Cornell University, and is based in Austin, TX. /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/31019298

23. Escaping A Cult and Embracing Engineering — The Incredible Life of Michael St. Claire 04/17/2024

23. Escaping A Cult and Embracing Engineering — The Incredible Life of Michael St. Claire From Cult to Code: Michael's Journey of Curiosity and Adaptation In this episode of the Estee Show, the host welcomes Michael, a multifaceted individual with a background ranging from growing up in a cult-like fundamentalist religious organization to becoming a chef and later transitioning into a successful technology engineer and chief engineering architect. Michael discusses his early life in a small mountain community, his experiences with being different from his peers, and how being isolated within a strict religious setting led him to develop a keen sense of curiosity and a drive for self-learning. Despite the challenges, his journey through various career paths, from culinary arts to technology, underscores the importance of adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the lifelong pursuit of learning. Michael also touches on his approach to parenting and education, highlighting the significance of hands-on learning and instilling values of hard work and sustainability in his children. Throughout the conversation, Michael's story exemplifies how overcoming adversity and embracing change can lead to personal growth and professional success. 00:00 Welcome to the Estee Show: A Deep Dive into Unique Backgrounds 03:51 Exploring the Cult Background and Its Impact 05:22 Childhood in a Cult: Daily Life and Restrictions 10:10 The Journey from Cult Life to Culinary Arts 21:01 Becoming a Minister While Pursuing Personal Interests 22:34 Transitioning from Culinary Arts to Engineering and Technology 27:19 Decoding the Best BBQ Styles Across America 27:41 The Unconventional Path to Culinary Expertise 28:37 From Culinary Arts to Tech Innovator: A Career Pivot 29:20 Navigating Challenges and Finding Love 30:10 The Birth of a Tech Entrepreneur 35:40 Crafting a Unique Leadership Style in Tech 36:54 The Power of Mentorship in Personal and Professional Growth 40:44 Embracing a Self-Sufficient Lifestyle and Homeschooling 47:31 The Importance of Curiosity and Adaptability in Team Building 52:49 Reflections on Adversity, Career Changes, and Personal Growth /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/30839643

22. Behind the Scenes of the Podcast Journey: with Franciska Kosman 04/09/2024

22. Behind the Scenes of the Podcast Journey: with Franciska Kosman Navigating Podcast Creation In this episode, Francisca is invited to lead, a veteran podcast host known for addressing hot topics in the Jewish Orthodox world. During their conversation, they momentarily experience an earthquake, which adds an unexpected twist. Francisca shares insights into the challenges of podcasting, including a discussion on uncovering and dealing with sensitive topics such as abuse within the community. She emphasizes the importance of journalism in bringing these stories to light. Additionally, Francisca provides a deep dive into the nuances of creating a podcast, from the initial idea to the execution, highlighting the technical and content-related obstacles she faced. She also reflects on the value of authenticity and having meaningful conversations on her podcast, which sometimes include difficult subjects that resonate deeply with her and her audience. The episode also explores the dynamics of podcasting in the business and entrepreneurial spheres, underscoring the significance of consistency, engaging content, and the technical aspects of podcast production. 00:00 Welcome to the Show: A Unique Podcasting Journey Begins 01:42 An Unexpected Interruption: Surviving an Earthquake Live! 02:09 Diving Deep into Podcasting: Stories That Matter 02:54 The Birth of a Podcast: From Idea to Reality 03:10 Exploring Untold Stories in the Business World 04:45 The Power of Conversation: Insights and Reflections 04:50 The Technical Side of Podcasting: Learning from Mistakes 06:18 Why People Listen: The Three Reasons 08:19 The Impact of Podcasting: Personal Growth and Cultural Change 13:05 Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Podcast Episode 14:35 The Art of Podcast Editing: Learning from the Best 14:55 Reflections on Podcasting Styles and Preferences 16:09 Mentorship and Growth: Elevating the Podcasting Game 16:53 Unlocking the Secrets of Podcast Consistency 17:32 The Art of Organic Conversations in Podcasting 18:59 Navigating the Challenges of Podcast Guest Dynamics 21:36 Exploring the Intricacies of Podcast Content and Editing 26:20 The Journey of a Podcast from Concept to Launch 30:01 Reflecting on the Impact and Future of Podcasting A bit about Franciska: Franciska (Freydie) Kosman, a Jewish Orthodox art-preneur and CEO and founder of Kay Productions. Her journey began as a singer and composer, evolving into an international artist with over 80 released songs. For over seven years, she has hosted the Franciska Show, a weekly podcast addressing crucial stories and Jewish community issues. Through Kay Productions, she assists others in launching and flourishing their podcasts, contributing to their success. Franciska lives in a burb outside of Philadelphia with her husband and three daughters. Franciska's music: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7i4w1FT5ZTVhLOS78ME1xH?si=wDIQsTorTPa7Bo9dpHlnYQ&pi=u-mHQqxnycTKKB Franciska's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5MLys3C3XhhR7uDTJa7eer?si=-dn2pYiMRTK7RbHJfdGOsQ /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/30741318

21. Can Product Managers Thrive in 'Feature Factory' Environments? with Ben Erez 04/02/2024

21. Can Product Managers Thrive in 'Feature Factory' Environments? with Ben Erez Navigating the Realities of Product Management This podcast episode dives into the complexities and challenges of product management, particularly in environments far removed from the idealized 'product-led' approach advocated by thought leaders like Marty Kagan. The episode discusses the controversy around current product management practices, emphasizing the difficulties PMs encounter when trying to implement change within their organizations. Ben shares his perspective and experiences, outlining the challenges of transitioning a company from being output-oriented to outcome-oriented, highlighting the risks and personal consequences PMs face in such endeavors. The conversation also covers strategies for PMs in 'feature factory' settings and the importance of aligning job performance evaluations with the realities of the work environment. Through this discussion, the podcast sheds light on the contrasts between the aspirational aspects of product leadership and the on-the-ground realities for PMs, offering insights and advice for navigating these challenging terrains. 00:00 Welcome & Introduction to the Product Management Controversy 02:34 The Heart of the Controversy: Product-Led vs. Feature Factories 04:28 Ben's Perspective: The Realities of Implementing Change 05:27 The Reaction to Ben's Post and the Broader Implications 11:23 Navigating the Feature Factory: A Telehealth Case Study 14:03 Strategies for Product Managers in Challenging Environments 17:52 The Art of Influence and Navigating Corporate Dynamics 25:22 Reflecting on Agency and the Role of Product Managers 27:21 The Ephemeral Nature of CEO Priorities 27:58 The Discrepancy Between PMs and Executive Satisfaction 28:56 Outcome vs. Output: The PM Dilemma 30:28 Navigating the Feature Factory: A PM's Guide 31:24 Empowerment and Rewards: The Key to PM Success 35:25 The Reality of Product Management in Different Environments 40:34 Supra Insider: A Community for Product Leaders 41:06 Identifying the Right Company Culture for PMs 46:23 The Challenge of Changing Company Culture 47:39 Final Thoughts: Navigating Product Management Ben's Bio: Ben Erez is an experienced product leader specializing in 0 to 1. He scaled startups, drove significant revenue at Facebook, and most recently led product and design at Continuum, a marketplace for fractional executive talent. He's currently advising and consulting early stage founders on product management. Ben’s Podcast: Supra Insider - Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TMmn1S1ATCD4U4brZowMI /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/30634353

20. Embracing Remote Work and Navigating the Waves of AI with Sam Szuchan 03/27/2024

19. AI Gone Wrong? Unpacking the Biases of Generative Models with Arven Sheinin 03/25/2024

18. Are layoffs in tech the new normal? With Gabby Hayes 03/11/2024

17. Prioritizing Fatherhood in a Career-Driven World with David Maywald 03/04/2024

17. Prioritizing Fatherhood in a Career-Driven World with David Maywald This episode explores the crucial role fathers play in families, with guest David Maywald sharing his personal experiences and observations. David argues that fathers are vital for children's well-being and societal good, yet societal pressures and lack of support often hinder their involvement. He challenges traditional gender roles and advocates for a shift towards valuing family time and offering flexibility for both mothers and fathers. The discussion touches on challenges faced by fathers, negative societal expectations, and the long-term benefits of prioritizing family over career. About David: David Maywald is a father to two children (son and daughter). He lives with his wife in Canberra, the national capital of Australia. David currently serves as a Non-Executive Director for five organisations, including Chair of a public company and board member of registered charities in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. He worked in the Investment Management sector for two decades as a Research Analyst and Portfolio Manager, for JP Morgan and Credit Suisse as well as for a successful start-up called RARE Infrastructure. David is a passionate advocate for the issues that impact upon men and boys. Key points: Importance of father involvement for children and society. Societal pressures pushing men towards career advancement over family. Lack of support and resources for fathers, impacting their engagement in family life. David's perspective on prioritizing family over materialistic values and career focus. Importance of ongoing flexibility and support for both parents. Books mentioned: The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind by Melissa S Kearny The Case Against The Sexual Revolution by Louise Perry The Life of Dad. The Making of the Modern Father by Dr. Anna Machin /episode/index/show/6c2fd474-c72a-4987-9105-1097f14588f1/id/30214063

The Estee Show - Product Management & Business Insights

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