In this episode of the Fireside PM podcast, I sit down with Karl Isaac, a branding expert and former Microsoft manager, to explore the intersection of product and brand. Karl shares insights from his transformative career at tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, and Adobe, where he spearheaded groundbreaking campaigns, redefined brand strategies, and led cultural shifts. They discuss the evolution of branding in tech, lessons from campaigns like “I’m a PC,” and how integrating brand with product management creates exceptional customer experiences. A must-listen for product managers and brand enthusiasts alike!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brands/

In a recent Fireside PM podcast episode, I shared insights inspired by a coaching conversation with a senior PM at a FAANG company. * She was navigating a significant challenge: adapting to a new manager with a starkly different style than her previous one. This conversation resonated with me deeply because it highlighted a universal truth in the workplace: a manager’s style can significantly impact your day-to-day experience—sometimes even more than the company you work for.

The 8 different types of PM leads, their pros and cons, and best fit companies to work at.

In my recent Fireside PM podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Goffman, a repeat guest and one of the most insightful voices in the product management (PM) space. Brian's career spans decades of innovation, from his time at LinkedIn, SmartThings, and Adobe, to his current role leading McKinsey's Software Excellence Practice. His unique vantage point—working across Web 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and now AI—makes him a treasure trove of lessons for anyone navigating the tech landscape.

In this conversation, we dove into career-defining moments, the evolving challenges of leadership, and how AI is fundamentally reshaping the PM profession. Brian shared profound insights and practical advice for professionals at every stage of their journey, sprinkled with the wit and wisdom that only years of experience can bring.

Welcome back to another episode of Fireside PM! Today, I want to share some hard-earned lessons that have shaped my career as a Product Manager (PM) and PM leader. These lessons, grounded in experience, have been instrumental to my journey and are relevant whether you’re early in your PM career or already leading teams. Let’s dive into these five lessons that, while challenging, are essential for sustained growth and success in product management.

Lessons from the Frontlines of Silicon Valley: How to Recognize Common Pitfalls and Stay Focused on What Really Matters

John Gusiff on brand experience.