The Estee Show - Product Management & Business Insights

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.

Navigating the Complex World of H1B Visas: Insights and Experiences Join Estee and Rachel as they delve into the intricate world of H1B visas, sharing personal experiences and discussing the contentious debate surrounding this critical immigration program. From the perspectives of employers and employees to the lottery system and potential reforms, this episode sheds light on the advantages, challenges, and future of the H1B visa in the United States. Discover the nuances of being on an H1B visa, the impact on spouses, and potential improvements to ensure America continues to attract the best global talent. Perfect for anyone interested in immigration policies, employment in the tech sector, and U.S. visa regulations.   00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Rachel 00:16 Discussing H1B Visas and Personal Experiences 00:59 The Debate on H1B Visas in the Tech Sector 02:46 Challenges and Realities of H1B Visa Holders 05:39 The H1B Lottery System 12:50 Nationalism and Immigration Policies 21:20 Improving the H1B Visa Program 33:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   About Rachel:  Rachel Windzberg 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 products. Rachel holds an MBA from Columbia and a BSC in Electrical Engineering from Tel Aviv University.  

AI and the Future of Work: An In-Depth Conversation with Masoud Assali In this episode of the Estee Show, Estee sits down with Masoud Assali, a staff product manager at Intuit, to discuss the intricate relationship between employers and health insurance in the U.S. and the broader impact of artificial intelligence on employment. Estee and Masoud delve into the increasing healthcare costs, the historical context of employer-provided insurance, and the implications of AI-powered prototyping on the job market. Alongside these themes, they explore the potential future of work, emphasizing how AI might disrupt the current employment landscape and the inevitable challenges ahead for employees. Join Estee and Masoud for this thought-provoking discussion that covers various facets of the future of work, healthcare, and economic sustainability. 00:00 Introduction to the Estee Show 00:40 Meet Masoud Asali 01:54 Healthcare Spending in the US 04:28 The Impact of AI on Employment 08:59 The Future of Work and AI 12:18 Employer-Provided Health Insurance Issues 16:02 Healthcare Systems Around the World 19:46 Potential Solutions for US Healthcare 28:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   About Masoud Assali:  Masoud Assali is a staff product manager at Intuit, working on AI-powered platforms. As an avid tinkerer, Masoud is passionate about building things, from gadgets and home furniture to software. Prior to Intuit, Masoud worked with the Vertex AI team at Google Cloud and Darmiyan, a YC-backed medical AI startup working on precision brain health.

In this episode, Estee and Shai delve into the unsettling rise of antisemitism on college campuses since the fall of last year, triggered by chants and protests calling for violence against Jews. They discuss a significant Congressional hearing involving leaders from top universities and their controversial stance on whether such chants violate school policies. The conversation includes an exploration of the ideological environment within universities, comparing it to the educational values in Orthodox yeshivas. The guest shares insights from his experience at Columbia University and reflects on the broader implications for Western values, student behavior, and institutional integrity. The discussion also tackles the role of administration, faculty, and the potential long-term consequences for American society, emphasizing the need for awareness and action against these growing issues.   00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview 00:31 Protests and University Responses 02:35 Comparing Educational Experiences 04:49 Critique of University Attitudes 08:55 Historical and Cultural Context 13:08 Normalization of Anti-Semitism 24:18 Future Implications and Solutions 31:22 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Shai's article: https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/arts-letters/articles/tale-of-two-academies Bio: Shai Goldman is a software engineer based in New York City. He spent three years studying Talmud at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Alon Shvut before going on to receive his B.A. from Columbia University in 2024. His article, "Tale of Two Academies," was recently published in Tablet Magazine and explores the difference between the yeshiva and university models of education in order to explain why today's top American universities are subsumed by backwards ideologies and pedagogical missteps.

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.  

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.

Unlocking the Future of Fitness with Josh from FitBod   Join us in this exciting episode as we sit down with Josh, a seasoned product manager with an impressive background in consumer tech, to explore the innovative world of FitBod. Discover how Josh's passion for weightlifting shaped his career and led him to FitBod, an app revolutionizing the way we approach strength training. Josh shares his insights on habit formation in fitness, the key features of FitBod, the role of AI in personalizing workouts, and the future of fitness apps. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and fitness buffs alike, this episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of technology and fitness.   00:00 Introduction and Josh's Welcome 00:21 Discovering Weightlifting and Fitness Apps 01:51 Josh's Career Journey to FITBOD 03:57 FITBOD's Unique Features and Habit Formation 07:25 The Science Behind FITBOD's Success 12:26 User Experience and Feature Requests 19:20 Future of Fitness and Personal Training 22:07 Lightning Round and Closing Thoughts   Josh's Bio: Josh is a product leader who has spent almost 10 years launching and growing consumer products. He started his career at Microsoft and then moved to Zillow where he led their personalization efforts from a nascent stage to a top driver of revenue and traffic growth. Next, he went to Lyft where he helped launch and scale 3 new consumer business lines from 0->1. He's currently Head of Core Product at Fitbod where he's responsible for the entire core experience. Josh is also a long-time fitness enthusiast and has competed in bodybuilding.  

From Fitness Class to Weightlifting: Ariana's Journey and Insights on Health and Tech In this episode, Ariana shares her transformation from a sedentary college student diagnosed with Lyme disease to a committed weightlifting enthusiast and product manager. She discusses the myths around weightlifting, especially for women, and emphasizes the importance of incorporating strength training for long-term bone health. Ariana also provides insights into her career path, the pros and cons of fitness technology, and her experience as a personal trainer. The episode touches on broader health topics, the impact of nutrition, and the role of government and corporations in the food industry. For those new to weightlifting, Ariana offers practical advice on how to start safely and effectively. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on fitness, health technology, and balanced living. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:08 Ariana's Journey into Weightlifting 02:15 The Benefits of Weightlifting 03:00 Misconceptions and Getting Started with Weightlifting 10:46 Fitness Technology and Wearables 16:40 Nutrition and Processed Foods 27:50 Practical Advice and Final Thoughts   Arianna's bio: Arianna has over a decade of experience in the health and fitness industry training Division 1 athletes in sports like soccer, gymnastics, and field hockey at Rutgers University and American University. She has a Masters in Exercise Science from the University College Dublin in Ireland and has helped hundreds of clients ranging from postpartum moms to kids learning healthier habits. She now applies her health and fitness expertise in the startup world as a Product Manager for a health tech company.

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. 

  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 Apollo.io, 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: https://www.news.aakashg.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aagupta/ X: https://x.com/aakashg0 The article that inspired this episode: https://www.news.aakashg.com/p/fractional-product-leadership  Episode 35 with Ben Erez: https://theesteeshow.com/episodes/episode-35-the-rise-of-fractional-work-in-product-management-with-ben-erez

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/  

Transforming Tech Careers: The Rise of Fractional Work with Ben Erez In this episode, we explore the revolutionary concept of 'fractional work' and its impact on career trajectories in the tech industry. Our guest, Ben Erez, shares his experience transitioning from a full-time product manager to embracing fractional work. He discusses his roles with Continuum, benefits of fractional engagements, types of fractional roles such as advisory and interim positions, and strategies for building a successful career in this field. The conversation also highlights balancing personal and professional life, especially as a parent, the value of maintaining a diversified portfolio, and the importance of pursuing work that energizes and excites you. 00:00 Introduction to Fractional Work 00:20 Personal Background and Initial Exposure to Fractional Work 01:02 Understanding Fractional Work 01:43 Real-World Experiences with Fractional Work 05:24 Financial Viability of Fractional Work 07:24 Advisory Roles in Fractional Work 16:25 Interim Roles and Their Challenges 28:28 Part-Time Product Management 30:58 Balancing Fractional Engagements 31:23 Challenges of Context Switching 33:01 Choosing the Right Tribe 35:00 The Owner's Mindset 36:54 PM and Interview Coaching 46:22 Navigating Parenthood and Work 51:16 Building a Fractional Career 58:31 Final Thoughts on Career Fulfillment   Bio:  Ben is a fractional product leader, interview coach, podcast host and newsletter author. He has been a 1st PM at 3 startups, and also worked for large companies including Meta. Ben is frank and insightful, and full of practical tips for anyone interested in fractional leadership.

Navigating Product Management Through the Lens of Political Strategy   In this bonus episode of the Estee show, David Lifson, a seasoned Chief Product Officer, joins the conversation to extract lessons from the recent presidential debate from June 27th, 2024. The discussion focuses on how product managers can learn from high-stakes political scenarios, touching on themes such as the importance of hypothesis-based thinking, planning for contingencies, managing expectations, and the necessity of effective communication. They also discuss leadership qualities, the need for adaptive strategy, and the value of surrounding oneself with diverse viewpoints. Lifson provides actionable insights for product managers on aligning strategy with execution and the critical role of messaging in achieving organizational goals.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:28 Analyzing the Presidential Debate 01:17 Hypothesis-Based Thinking in Politics 02:06 Lessons from the Debate: Execution vs. Strategy 05:50 The Importance of Setting Expectations 08:48 Leadership and Adaptability 10:55 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People 22:04 Effective Communication and Messaging 28:18 Final Thoughts and Takeaways   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.

Gaurav Discusses the Power of Napkin Math for Product Management In this episode, Gaurav Hardikar, VP of Product at HomeLight, talks about his journey through the real estate and startup scenes at companies like Zillow, Trulia, and now Homelight. He dives into the concept of 'Napkin Math' for Product Managers, advocating for quick and efficient decision-making over extensive financial modeling. Gaurav explains how this approach informs product prioritization and testing hypotheses swiftly. He also discusses his course on Maven, which aims to equip PMs with actionable growth strategies. Throughout the conversation, Gaurav emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting new approaches within various business processes. 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:53 The Concept of Envelope Math 03:46 Practical Applications of Napkin Math 05:46 Failing Forward and Iterative Testing 06:25 Prioritizing Features and Roadmapping 12:17 Training and Mentoring Product Managers 15:19 Integrating AI in Business Processes 19:33 Collaboration with Engineering Teams 29:10 Course and Educational Initiatives 32:34 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts Bio:  Gaurav is a Product Executive with over 10 years of experience building digital products. He started at Trulia and Zillow Group with a reach of 50MM+ monthly users, grew an established mobile commerce app (Shopkick), and helped take Brilliant Smart Home 0 to 1 across SaaS, embedded hardware, and mobile app platforms. He's currently VP of Product, Consumer at HomeLight where he owns Product, Ops, and Growth.  Gaurav's course - https://maven.com/insider-growth/pm-impact Link to Gaurav's original post that inspired this conversation: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ghardikar_as-a-product-manager-using-data-in-every-activity-7206363910474506242-BFxr

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  

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: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-data-science-artificial-intelligence-helped-shein-keep/ 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.

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  

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: alexandrasipher@gmail.com

  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: Kathryn B. Creedy is a veteran aviation journalist and author who has covered every facet of commercial and business aviation.  Kathryn has written for Forbes Online 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    

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