Products That Count Podcast

How can product leaders build inclusive products from a cognitive and tangible perspective? In this podcast, Willow Innovations Product VP Melissa Pickering meets with Atomic Product Lead Sunaina Kavi to discuss the art of designing products for inclusivity. They discuss Sunaina's journey from academic studies to entrepreneurial ventures, revealing insights on data-driven decisions, storytelling, and revenue considerations. Explore how curiosity, diversity, and innovation can influence inclusivity in product.

This is episode 12 of the 2023 Product Awards Series, hosted by Ubiety Technologies CPO Nacho Andrade. In this episode featuring Dasera CEO Ani Chaudhuri, the focus is on data security and its growing significance in a data-driven world. Dasera specializes in automating security and governance controls for databases, data lakes, and data warehouses, both on-premises and in the cloud. Ani discusses their unique approach, including data usage analysis, and draws an analogy between data security and lending a car. The conversation explores the expanding data security market, the impact of AI on business, the role of diversity in leadership, the value of customer insights from sales teams, and the crucial partnership with venture capitalists. Ani also delves into the importance of creating a culture that embraces learning from mistakes and emphasizes the character and connectivity of a successful company. Listen up!

What are the commonly faced challenges of product management? In this podcast, join Bill.com VP of Growth Heidi Gibson as she engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Zeda.io Founder Prashant Mahajan on the intricacies of product management and the common challenges faced by product leaders across industries. With experience as a product manager and leader in dynamic startups around the world, Prashant shares insights from speaking with hundreds of product leaders, offering a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of product management. Dive into the transition from feature-focused approaches to customer-centric problem solving, strategies for effective communication and alignment within organizations, and the delicate balance between autonomy and accountability. Discover how a problem-solving mindset, clear problem definition, stakeholder inclusion, and strategic decision-making can shape successful product management.

In episode 9 of the CPO Rising Series, Experian CPO Gregory Wright shares his expertise in fostering innovation and growth. In conversation with host Renée Niemi, Greg highlights the paramount importance of alignment among cross-functional teams for streamlined innovation and market success. Experian's approach revolves around "jobs to be done" for clients in various credit lifecycle stages, utilizing data, analytics, and services to empower consumers throughout their credit journey. The Experian culture is driven by a mission of financial inclusion, collaboration, and innovation. Greg emphasizes the power of a product-led approach, with a focus on solving vital problems for clients and consumers. The podcast delves into the essence of product-led growth, shedding light on strategies like clear growth drivers, technological investment, and collaboration with sales teams. The episode emphasizes the value of testing and learning before major investments, and showcases Experian's commitment to consumer empowerme

How does UX design influence security and trust in tech? In this podcast, join Rownd Co-Founder and Lead Designer Rachel Radulovich as she takes us through her journey from graphic design to the tech world. With a background in blockchain and digital identity products at IBM, Rachel discusses Rownd's mission to streamline user authentication without passwords. Discover how UX design plays a pivotal role in making privacy and security accessible, building trust, and enhancing user confidence in signing in and signing up for products. Gain insights into Rownd's agile product planning, the challenge of balancing design in a fast-paced startup environment, and the rising trend of no-code/low-code solutions.

In this episode of the Product Divergence Series, host Nacho Andrade steps into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship with Prive Founder & CEO Alex Craciun. Drawing from his transformative journey transitioning from a product role at Uber to founding his own venture, Craciun delves into a myriad of invaluable insights. He deftly navigates the delicate balance between "substance" and "optics" in business, emphasizing the art of effective framing and the power of a compelling vision. Craciun sheds light on the significance of building a robust team and fostering a supportive network – one of many crucial startup insights shared here. His advice resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly product managers seeking to venture into the startup landscape. From the nuanced dynamics of marketing to the design intricacies of crafting a product, Craciun underscores the importance of collaboration across various functions. Moreover, he unveils the secret behind captivating pitches and the relentless pursuit o

What does it take to create impactful product-led transformations? In this podcast, Willow Innovations SVP of Product Melissa Pickering meets with IntoUniversity Partnerships CPO Namrata Sarmah to discuss her product management journey and the importance of putting the customer first, understanding their pain points, and building products that solve real problems for them. Discover how cross-industry experience and a diverse team can bring unique perspectives to product development and foster inclusivity on a global scale. Learn how impatience can be harnessed as a superpower, accelerating problem-solving efficiency.

The 8th episode of the CPO Rising Series features Harvey Performance Company CPO Greg Livelli. Our host, as usual, is the incomparable Products That Count CPO Renée Niemi. Above all, Greg speaks to Renée about navigating growth in challenging times. Along the way, Greg discusses his role as the Vice President of Product Management for Nidec's commercial and industrial motors business in the Americas. He also served as the Chief Product Officer for the Appliance, Commercial, and Industrial Motors (ACM) business. Greg emphasizes the importance of product managers as mini-CEOs, responsible for finding market opportunities and contributing to the company's profitability. Looking to the future, Greg discusses the evolving role of product management, data-driven decision-making, and the importance of focusing on profitable products for sustainable growth.

How can curiosity and adaptability drive success in product careers? In this podcast, Jonathan Ozeran meets with BCG X Product Lead Anne Jiao to discuss her inspiring journey in the product space. From her background in the entertainment industry to founding her own startup, Anne discusses how she leverages diverse skills in marketing, graphic design, and product management to excel in product development. She sheds light on approaching new challenges, using analytics for insights, and the rewards of helping clients succeed.

Episode 11 of the Product Awards Series features OmniSync CEO and Co-Founder Rupak Doshi. Doshi tells host Nacho Andrade about the company's focus on aiding life sciences and technology startups requiring research and development (R&D) to create innovative solutions is highlighted. Rupak emphasizes the importance of understanding the people behind the problems and tailoring solutions to their needs. OmniSync's success lies in securing grant money for startups' research phases, enabling them to build the best possible solution before seeking venture capital funding. With a background in life sciences and a fresh perspective on software development, OmniSync's product stands out as a niche solution with its focus on deep technical and scientific material. Rupak shares valuable advice for aspiring founders, emphasizing the need for passion, commitment, and patience in solving real problems rather than pursuing overnight success.

How can decision science principles revolutionize product management and drive user behavior? In this podcast, Join Bill.com VP of Growth Heidi Gibson as she interviews Duolingo Fmr. Director of Product Jorge Mazal to explore the fascinating world of decision science and its practical application in product management. Drawing from his extensive experience in the industry, Jorge shares valuable insights and real-life examples that highlight the power of understanding user behavior and leveraging decision science principles to design products that deliver exceptional outcomes.

In episode 7 of the CPO Rising Series, Glassdoor CPO Andy Chen speaks with Products That Count CPO Renée Niemi. Andy shares his background and path to Glassdoor, highlighting his experience in the digital industry and his role in companies like Travelocity and match.com. Chen discusses Glassdoor's transformation into a community for workplace conversations, drawing analogies to online dating platforms. He explains the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Glassdoor's talent strategy and product roadmap, emphasizing the company's shift to remote work and the importance of asynchronous collaboration. Chen also addresses revenue challenges and the company's long-term product strategy focused on building a community. He emphasizes the role of product in driving growth, understanding customer needs, and navigating M&A activities. Chen discusses the evolving relationship between product design and product management, with product managers focusing on the overall management of the product while relying on the exper

In this podcast, Ammunition Founder Robert Brunner sits down with Willow Innovations Product VP Melissa Pickering. Brunner is a design leader with experience in various industries, and he shares insights from throughout his career. He discusses his work at Lunar Design and his role as the former director of industrial design at Apple. Brunner highlights the importance of design in building emotional connections with customers, drawing from his experience with Beats by Dr. Dre. He co-authored the book "Do You Matter? How Great Design Will Make People Love Your Company," exploring how design influences brand perception and customer loyalty. Brunner provides advice for product managers, emphasizing the need to understand the design process, advocate for great products, and foster a culture of great design within organizations.

It's episode 10 of the Product Awards Series, hosted by Ubiety Techologies CPO Nacho Andrade! Here, Nacho speaks with inCitu Founding CEO Dana Chermesh. The focus is on the company's use of augmented reality (AR) to transform city planning and make it accessible to everyone. Chermesh's background in architecture and experience with immersive technologies in the Israeli Air Force inspired her to explore AR in urban planning. InCitu's mission is to improve the conversation around the future of cities by providing easy access to information and fostering engagement. The team prioritizes user experience and has shifted from an iOS app to web AR and QR codes for seamless access to AR experiences. Chermesh emphasizes the importance of passion and problem-solving in building great products. The podcast also touches on industry trends, the convergence of AR and city planning, and the need for responsible urban development.

How can product leaders design playful product experiences for users? In this episode, Willow Innovations VP of Product Melissa Pickering interviews LEGO Fmr. Product Design Leader Steve Geist on the art of designing playful product experiences. Discover Steve's unique ability to blend technology into play experiences, while always prioritizing the user experience and involving cross-functional stakeholders. Gain valuable insights into the design thinking process, stakeholder management tactics, and the importance of early prototyping and user testing. Explore how to create surprise and delight in product experiences and learn about Steve's favorite projects and proud moments.

Here is the 6th episode of the CPO Rising Podcast Series, hosted by Products That Count CPO Renée Niemi. In this podcast, Bose CPO Raza Haider discusses the company's focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences through various channels, including e-commerce and partnerships. Haider mentions that partnerships are sought when there are unmet needs that Bose's core products cannot fulfill. Additionally, Bose considers mergers and acquisitions to accelerate their plans. Haider highlights the evolving role of product management, emphasizing the importance of putting the customer at the center of decision-making. Purpose, people, profit, and planet are key considerations in product management, especially for companies with physical products, like Bose.

In this podcast, Product Director Jonathan Ozeran interviews Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Product Manager Anh-Vu Dinh on the challenges and considerations involved in internationalization and mobile app development. Uncover the role of technology, from mobile apps to augmented reality, and the evolving landscape of product development. Dive deep into the hybrid work culture, the impact of wearable devices on personal health, and the possibility of making a difference in the lives of those in need.

Here is the 9th episode of the Product Awards Series. Ubiety Techologies CPO Nacho Andrade speaks with Ellipsis Health CPO Melissa McCool. Listeners will explore the innovative use of AI and machine learning to detect anxiety and depression through voice analysis. McCool, a former social worker, recognized the limitations of traditional methods for identifying mental health issues and saw the potential for technology to scale interventions. The discussion covers Ellipsis Health's technology, which analyzes both spoken words and their delivery to determine levels of anxiety and depression. McCool shares her journey from clinician to product manager and emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and collaboration in product development. Listeners will gain insights into integrating behavioral health into primary care, managing cross-functional teams, and navigating a career in product management. Don't miss this discussion on transforming mental healthcare with AI.

How can product leaders navigate the challenges and opportunities of responsible AI in product management? In this podcast, Adobe Senior Product Director Heidi Gibson meets with Fiddler AI Advisor Natalia Burina to discover the nuances and challenges of integrating AI in product management, from leveraging existing capabilities to building AI-powered solutions from scratch. Gain valuable insights into the role of responsible AI in product management and the importance of fairness, privacy, robustness, explainability, and accountability in AI products. Explore the dynamic relationship between product managers and engineers, and learn how they can collaborate to overcome obstacles and create successful AI-driven products.

This is episode 5 of the CPO Rising Podcast Series, hosted by Products That Count CPO Renée Niemi. Here, Calix CPO Shane Eleniak discusses the company's transformation from a traditional systems entity to a software and services organization, a shift he led. Eleniak delves into the company's product-led approach, asserting that product strategy, customer value, and market needs drive their operations. He also explains his collaborative role with the Head of Global Sales and CFO, detailing their product management sales strategy, the generation of comprehensive P&L plans, and how these factors influence decisions on quota targets, product transitions, and investments. Eleniak's passion for creating new products, using technology to solve problems, and balancing business and product perspectives underpins his belief that this is an exciting era to be a Chief Product Officer.