Product Chats Podcast

How do you activate a brand to create authentic connections with your audience? 

In this episode, Jim Pietruszynski, CEO of SoulSight, shares the critical process of brand activation—bringing a brand’s identity, values, and messaging to life to deeply engage both B2B and B2C audiences. Soulsight is a brand design agency with over 30 years of experience building iconic brands for global leaders like Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, and Pfizer.  

The discussion highlights the unique challenges of B2B branding, where more human touchpoints exist within an organization, making brand activation tricky. Jim also touches on the importance of aligning a brand’s story with its mission, avoiding shortcuts like influencer reliance, and fostering emotional connections that resonate long-term. 

Tune in to discover strategies for communicating your brand, building authentic relationships with your audience, and creating change within even the most risk-averse organizations. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

What’s the secret to setting prices that truly reflect the value you deliver? 

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris reconnects with pricing expert Mark Stiving for an in-depth look at how understanding value can transform pricing strategies. From Uber’s segmentation strategies to the “good-better-best” approach, Mark shares real-world examples and actionable advice to help you capture more value through strategic pricing. 

Learn about the six key areas where you can identify pricing opportunities, and hear Mark’s recommendations on how to overcome the common fears around raising prices.  

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

Wondering how AI fits into the day-to-day work of product managers? 

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris talks with Dan Corbin, a Pragmatic Institute instructor and expert in AI-driven product management. Dan explores AI's transformative power and shows how PMs can use it as thought partners, problem validators, and data analysts. From market discovery to roadmap prioritization, Dan explains practical ways to leverage AI to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving product landscape. 

Learn how AI tools can support you in conducting customer research, validating market problems, optimizing data analysis, and creating a more collaborative development process. Dan shares strategies for using AI to enhance creativity and reduce cognitive load, while emphasizing the importance of retaining the human touch in product management. 

Tune in to learn how to integrate AI into your daily work and supercharge your product management skills! 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

What makes some deals a win and others a loss? 

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris sits down with Zach Golden, Director at Anova Consulting Group, to explore how win loss analysis can be a game-changer for product managers and business leaders. Zach explains how this powerful tool uncovers customer preferences, competitive dynamics, and product-market fit—helping companies refine their strategies and sharpen their competitive edge. 

Learn why qualitative research is essential, how to use storytelling to highlight customer pain points, and how sharing win loss insights across teams can foster collaboration. Zach also offers tips on turning customer feedback into clear, actionable insights that improve both product strategies and customer retention. 

Tune in to discover how win loss analysis can help you win more deals and make smarter product decisions. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

Ever wonder how to drive product success when you don’t have direct authority over your teams? 

In this episode, host Rebecca Kalogeris chats with Leah Zillner, a product manager at Intellum, about the wild ride that is product management. Leah shares her story of transitioning from program management to product, and how Pragmatic Institute’s courses helped her navigate the journey. From building market insights through client feedback to using tools like UserPilot, Jira, and BigQuery, Leah has tips that will level up your PM game. She also discusses the internal dynamics of product management, where trust and communication are key (especially when you can’t just tell people what to do). Leah talks candidly about learning from mistakes, ditching perfectionism, and building a supportive team culture. 

Ready to pick up some insider secrets on how to build relationships, communicate better, and juggle the challenges of product management? This episode has you covered! 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can you tap into the power of ‘catalysts’ to drive innovation and positive change in your organization? 

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, Shannon Lucas and Tracey Lovejoy, co-founders of Catalyst Constellations, discuss the concept of catalysts—individuals who connect ideas and take bold action to improve their environments. Drawing from their experiences at Microsoft and Vodafone, Tracey and Shannon share how organizations can identify and support these high-potential employees to drive transformation. 

They explore the challenges catalysts face, such as burnout and being perceived as disruptive, and offer actionable strategies to align catalysts with organizational goals, manage energy levels, and provide them with the training and frameworks needed to succeed. 

Tune in for insights on activating catalysts and harnessing their potential for organizational growth. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can organizations nurture innovation through structured processes and strong leadership? 

Host Rebecca Kalogeris speaks with Dr. Jeff D. Standridge, Managing Director at Conductor and co-founder of Cadron Capital Partners. Dr. Standridge explores the critical relationship between innovation and leadership, emphasizing that innovation is not just about groundbreaking ideas—it's about planned, repeatable processes that drive efficiency, customer satisfaction, and cost reduction. 

Learn how to align your teams around a clear definition of innovation and implement strategies like innovation sprints and the lean canvas to quantify risks and gain stakeholder buy-in. Dr. Standridge highlights the importance of defining the problem, understanding its scale, and ensuring that your innovations are real, capable of helping you win, and worth the effort. 

Tune in for actionable insights to foster a culture of continuous innovation and make smarter product decisions. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can product managers effectively navigate the complexities of B2B2C environments? 

In this replay episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris revisits her insightful discussion with Tiffany Wear Johnson, Chief Product Officer at NMI and one of American Banker’s Most Influential Women in Payments (2022). Tiffany shares her expertise on transitioning from a feature-centric to a problem-focused approach in product management, especially within complex B2B2C landscapes. Learn how this shift can help manage competing priorities among different buyer personas and improve overall product strategy. 

Discover practical strategies for using data and storytelling to understand product metrics, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and prioritize effectively. Tiffany also discusses organizing product teams around value streams to better understand the customer journey and drive impactful results. 

Tune in to this episode to learn valuable insights from a seasoned product leader and elevate your product management skills! 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can product operations drive efficiency and data-driven decision-making in your organization? 

In this replay episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris revisits her insightful conversation with Dan Corbin, a seasoned product management advocate and instructor at Pragmatic Institute. Dan discusses the critical role of product operations for today’s business environment and shares how it can streamline workflows, enhance data accessibility, and improve communication within product teams. 

Explore the three pillars of product operations—business and data insights, research methodologies, and operational efficiency—and discover practical tips for implementing these strategies in your organization. Whether you're a product manager, marketer, or data-driven professional, this episode offers valuable insights to help you optimize your product management practices. 

Tune in for this replay episode and learn how to elevate your product operations! 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can teams navigate the chaos of product development and effectively integrate customer feedback? 

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris sits down with Christoph Steinlehner, a product management consultant and expert with over 20 years of experience in design and product development. Christoph shares his strategies for turning chaotic meetings into productive discussions, emphasizing the importance of mapping thoughts and ideas to enhance team alignment and clarity. 

Discover how to integrate customer feedback into your product development process through Christoph's six-step approach, which includes impact mapping (learn more here), engaging cross-functional teams, and using visual artifacts like service blueprints. Christoph also discusses the pitfalls of traditional presentation styles and advocates for collaborative discussions that prioritize alignment over persuasion. 

Tune in for actionable advice on improving your product development process and fostering better team collaboration. For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can senior leadership teams overcome hurdles and improve collaboration? 

In this enlightening episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, host Rebecca Kalogeris sits down with James Scouller, a distinguished leadership coach, author, and former CEO with over 47 years of experience. James shares his deep insights into building and leading winning teams, drawing from his extensive experience and recent literary success with his trilogy, "How to Build Winning Teams Again and Again." 

Explore the psychological dynamics of team commitment, the importance of clear roles and goals, and the need for effective decision-making processes. James discusses how senior leaders can address challenges such as trust, open communication, and conflict resolution to foster a cohesive and high-performing team. 

Tune in to gain practical advice on improving collaboration and driving success within your organization. For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can experiential marketing drive purchases and foster personal connections in B2B marketing? 

Join us for an engaging episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, where host Rebecca Kalogeris interviews Sheila Rondeau, CEO of MogXP. With a rich background in marketing and experiential marketing, Sheila shares her insights on the importance of measurement, the impact of COVID-19 on in-person events, and innovative digital engagement strategies. 

Discover the necessity of driving purchases through experiential marketing, the value of a personal approach in B2B marketing, and how to integrate effective engagement strategies into your campaigns. Sheila's journey, from rebuilding Anheuser-Busch’s beer school program to leading MogXP, offers a wealth of practical advice and industry lessons. 

Tune in for actionable insights to enhance your marketing efforts with experiential strategies. For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts 

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How can AI be responsibly integrated into product development to meet ethical standards and human needs? 

Join us for an insightful episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, where host Rebecca Kalogeris interviews Cal Al-Dhubaib, a leading data scientist and entrepreneur specializing in responsible AI. 

Discover the challenges and solutions in leveraging AI to enhance product value while ensuring ethical practices. Cal shares his journey, the importance of identifying the right AI problems, the necessity of human oversight, and the potential of generative AI in creating user-centric products. 

Tune in for actionable insights to responsibly incorporate AI into your products and workflows. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts   

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

What makes a product manager truly successful? 

Join us as we explore the key traits of successful product managers with Paul Young, a seasoned expert and former Vice President of Product Management at Pragmatic Institute. 

Discover how understanding market problems, fostering emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking can drive transformation within your organization. Paul also highlights the importance of curiosity and thoughtful communication in leading successful product teams. 

Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to elevate your product management skills. 

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit: www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts   

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com. 

How do you define product marketing?

Francisco Bram, head of product and growth at Uber Eats, joins our host Rebecca Kalogeris, VP of marketing and product strategy for Pragmatic Institute, to chat about how he and Uber Eats defines this essential role, as well as the 10 commandments of product marketing.  You don't want to miss this one!

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Manager or Product Marketer certification here

"In Marketing, our job is to keep our ear very close to the ground, understand the process, listen to the buyers, listen to the customer, and always be thinking about what drives the customer."

-Mark Donnigan, Startup Marketing Consultant

In this episode of Product Chats, we are joined by marketing superhero Mark Donnigan. With a focus on growth-stage marketing, Mark has carved a niche in the tech industry as a consultant who helps B2B companies, particularly startups and those in the growth phase, to craft and execute successful go-to-market strategies.

His approach is deeply rooted in the belief that marketing is an integral component of business strategy, inseparable from product development and sales.

Key Takeaways:

Consistently Listen and Engage with Customers: The significance of staying attuned to the customers' needs and the market dynamics cannot be overstated. Engaging with customers regularly and genuinely understanding their business can unveil invaluable insights for product development and marketing.

Guide Your Buyers to Purchase: There is a five-step framework that guides B2B purchases. This process includes identifying problems, exploring solutions, building requirements, selecting vendors, and undergoing a validation process. Mark advocates for creating valuable, educational content tailored to each step of the customer's buying journey. This approach is vital for engaging potential buyers early and establishing your brand as a trusted advisor.

Leverage an Iterative Marketing Approach: Embrace a highly iterative marketing framework that focuses on executing in small chunks, measuring results, and refining strategies based on market feedback. This process ensures that marketing efforts are aligned with customer needs and market trends.

Understanding the Buying Process is Vital: Recognize the critical milestones in the customer's buying journey and ensure that your marketing materials and strategies support and facilitate this process, helping to guide the customer from problem identification to solution validation.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Mark Donnigan is a Virtual CMO and GTM consultant that designs and executes go-to-market and marketing programs that produce real business results for technology startup companies.

Dive deeper into Mark's insights and strategies by checking out his Minibook, "First Principles in Marketing for Startup Founders and CEOs." This guide is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a fresh perspective on marketing by breaking down problems to their core and building innovative solutions that meet and redefine customer expectations.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.

Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Manager or Product Marketer certification here

“The first thing I would recommend everyone to do who has an interest in the AI space, and I think lots of people have an interest in this space, is you should be using generative AI tools in your life every day as much as you can, and really remind yourself how much of a difference it can make.”

-      Isaac Lien, Co-Founder and Chief Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Officer at Grandpad

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep with Isaac Lien, Co-founder and Chief AI and Innovation Officer at GrandPad, exploring the company's strategic incorporation of generative AI to enhance their offerings for the senior market. Lien shares the journey of testing and integrating AI technologies within their product, GrandPad, highlighting how a user-directed approach has fundamentally shaped both the development and marketing strategies.

Isaac Lien, Co-founder of Grandpad, initially developed a math flashcards app for iPhone inspired by Steve Jobs. Motivated by communication challenges with his grandparents, he created Grandpad, facilitating video calls for the elderly. Recognizing the power of technology to improve lives, Grandpad later introduced "Grandie," which use AI to help seniors engage in seamless conversations, find inspiration, and discover new interests in an intuitive and user-friendly manner. The team focuses on effective communication and user engagement, incorporating popular games and news topics into Grandpad's offerings.

Looking ahead, Isaac anticipates evolving generative AI technologies, and emphasizes the importance of user feedback to guide feature enhancements. By staying informed and exploring new tools, it’s possible to capitalize on industry advancements.

Key Takeaways:

1. User Feedback is King: User feedback plays a critical role in Grandpad's product development. They have a group of users who actively advise them on what to build, ensuring that the product continuously evolves to meet the needs of their customers.

2. Market Solutions, Not Features: Marketing for Grandpad's AI-powered features is centered around Simon Sinek's "Start with Why" approach. They focus on explaining why the product is important and beneficial for their users, before diving into the technical details of how it works. The solution is what users really care about.

3. Know Your Audience Intimately: Grandpad emphasized the importance of deeply understanding their target audience and creating a product that specifically caters to their needs. In their case, they focused on older adults and designed a user-friendly product that addresses their unique challenges with technology.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

As the Co-Founder and Chief Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Officer at Grandpad, Isaac Lien brings a deep understanding of technology and a passion for making it accessible to older adults. With a background in computer science, he has been instrumental in the development of Grandpad's user-friendly tablet solutions designed specifically for the unique needs of this demographic.

Isaac's expertise in artificial intelligence and his dedication to incorporating user feedback have been key drivers in Grandpad's success. He has consistently leveraged advanced technologies, such as generative AI, to enhance the user experience and provide personalized, human-like interactions. Through his leadership, Grandpad has become a pioneer in utilizing AI to create more intuitive and engaging experiences for its users.

At the core of Isaac's work is a commitment to making technology accessible and inclusive for all users, particularly older adults. He has dedicated his career to developing solutions that empower and enrich the lives of users, ensuring they can seamlessly connect with their loved ones, access information, and enjoy a wide range of digital experiences.

You can learn more about Grandie at Grandie.AI and more about Grandpad at Grandpad.net.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and proprietary Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/.

Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.
Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

How can product managers blend pricing strategy, market segmentation, and portfolio?

Mark Stiving, Pragmatic Institute Instructor and pricing expert, offers practical advice to help product professionals elevate their pricing strategies and deliver value for customers. In this interview, Mark shares his extensive knowledge and unique perspective on how companies can leverage pricing as a powerful tool for business growth.

For detailed takeaways, show notes, and more, visit www.pragmaticinstitute.com/resources/podcasts

#ProductManagement #ProductPricing

Pragmatic Institute is the global leader in Product, Data, and Design training and certification programs for working professionals. Learn more at www.pragmaticinstitute.com

“When you truly grasp the impact of your words, actions, and behavior, that awareness fundamentally transforms your approach to everything.”– Dr. Jonathan Baktari, Healthcare CEO, Entrepreneur, Speaker

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chats series, host Rebecca Kalogeris engages in an insightful discussion with Dr. Jonathan Baktari, a seasoned physician, entrepreneur, and leader with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Baktari owns and operates several businesses, including multiple health clinics and a software service used in over 20,000 locations.

As a business leader, he relies on technology, data, and his trusted team to reach more people than ever before. He shares his extensive knowledge and unique perspective on the intersection of leadership, technology, and employee development.

Join us for an engaging conversation that blends healthcare, technology, and leadership, offering practical advice for product managers, marketers, and leaders looking to elevate their teams and organizations.

Key Takeaways:
1. The Leadership Dilemma: Dr. Baktari delves into the Peter Principle, which suggests that individuals are promoted based on their current role competence rather than their potential in higher roles. This often leads to leaders who excelled in previous positions but struggle with leadership duties. Great CEOs can make the critical distinction between someone who is proficient at a job and those that would make an effective leader.

2. Micro Mentoring: Dr. Baktari introduces the concept of "micro mentoring" as a superior alternative to micromanaging. By instilling the organization's philosophy and goals in employees, leaders can empower their teams to make independent decisions that align with the company's vision. This approach fosters a sense of autonomy and encourages proactive problem-solving.

3. Invest in Company Culture: The importance of investing in employee growth and fostering a supportive culture is often underestimated. Dr.Baktari emphasizes creating an environment that encourages continuous improvement and development. By prioritizing employee development, companies can build a robust and motivated workforce dedicated to achieving long-term success.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Dr. Jonathan Baktari is a distinguished physician with over two decades of experience in clinical practice, medical administration, and entrepreneurship. He has served as clinical faculty for several prestigious medical schools and has transitioned successfully into leading technology companies. Dr. Baktari is also the host of the Baktari MD podcast, where he shares his expertise on leadership, technology, and healthcare.

Listeners can follow Dr. Jonathan Baktari's insights and content on his podcast, Baktari MD, available on YouTube, Spotify, and other major platforms. Additional resources, including links to his podcasts and national interviews, can be found on his website, https://jonathanbaktarimd.com

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and proprietary Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/.

Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.
#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

“Consumers are our most valuable treasure trove of information, along with online reviews and some other data sets.”
-Tim Trapp, Director of Quality Engineering at Mattel, Inc.

In this episode, Tim shares all about product quality, specifically what can be learned from Mattel regarding the implementation of key product quality measures. Discussion topics include understanding customer feedback, the balance between cost, schedule, and quality, and the importance of monitoring both customer feedback and competitor performance. Don't miss your chance to gain insights from one of the most recognized names in the industry.

Key Takeaways:
1. User Testing for Competitive Advantage: Testing products with real users to identify potential issues and improve design is a significant strategy at Mattel. This includes formative testing, which is done early and often to shape the design of products.

2. Active Post Market Surveillance: Once the products are in the market, the quality team looks at post-market surveillance to understand how the products are performing in real life, which can inform future design and manufacturing decisions.

3. Corrective Actions and Continuous Improvement: A well-defined process for corrective actions ensures that any issues are addressed promptly and do not become repeat mistakes. This involves constant checking of products in the market and making necessary improvements.

4. Quality as Everyone's Responsibility: Tim emphasizes that quality is not just the quality department's problem but everyone's responsibility in the company. Striving for the best consumer experience should be a part of everything a company does.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Tim Trapp is a seasoned product executive with extensive experience in managing product quality across a diverse range of products. He has worked with and led multidisciplinary and multinational cross-functional teams, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex global landscapes. His expertise lies in being able to ensure the highest standards of product quality, compliance, and safety.

At Mattel, Tim has been instrumental in driving quality initiatives that have significantly enhanced product performance and customer satisfaction. His approach to quality is holistic, encompassing everything from initial design and user testing to post-market surveillance and continuous improvement. His insights have helped shape Mattel's product portfolio and maintain its reputation for excellence.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at pragmaticinstitute.com/product. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.

Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Manager or Product Marketer certification here

“It's all about setting up the right expectations with the company or the early user. So, it's not just giving it to them. It’s about being clear about what you expect in return early in the process.”

-      Neil Baron, B2B Product Management Consultant, Founder of Baron Strategic Partners

Join us for a critical discussion with Neil Baron and Rod Griffith, following their recent article in the Harvard Business Review (read it here) on extracting the full value of early user programs.

This episode unpacks the nuances of designing early user programs that go beyond mere functionality checks to validate problem-solving, target accuracy, and accelerate market readiness. The conversation delves into the importance of having a dedicated program owner (not a dictator) and the necessity of involving cross-functional teams to capture diverse perspectives.

Neil and Rod outline a five-step process for a successful program, from hypothesis definition and participant selection to setting clear expectations and leveraging feedback for product and go-to-market enhancements. Highlighting the tangible outcomes of well-executed early user programs, Neil and Rod share how these strategies have led to fast revenue times, increased sales confidence, and enhanced media coverage.

Key Takeaways:

1. Importance of Early User Programs: The discussion highlights the significance of early user programs in understanding market problems that a product can solve. It emphasizes that these programs should not be viewed in isolation but as part of a holistic approach to product development and market understanding.

2. Cross-Functional Collaboration: For an effective early user program, there needs to be cross-functional input and it should be considered as a critical step in the process. This requires buy-in from senior management and proper incentivization across the organization.

3. Value Proposition and Feedback: Early user programs are not only about the product, but also about understanding the customer experience, the messaging, and the value proposition. It's vital to set up a give-and-get relationship with early users, ensuring they understand the benefits they will get, and the company gets valuable feedback and data.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Neil Baron is the founder of Baron Strategic Partners, a consulting firm that helps B2B companies accelerate growth. He is also involved in running two forums for product executives, the Product Leadership Council in conjunction with Pragmatic, and the Boston Product Executive Forum, which is run in conjunction with the Boston Product Management Association.

With a wealth of experience in product leadership and management, Neil is passionate about helping companies create effective strategies for success.

Rod Griffith is the Chief Client Officer and Co-Founder of MarketReach, inc., a B2B marketing services company that designs and manages marketing programs, campaigns, and sales tools for a variety of technology companies. With a background in computer industry segment management and product management, Rod uses his experience to help companies translate their strategies into practical and successful market-facing activities. He is deeply involved in sharing his insights and learnings through various forums, including the Product Leadership Council and collaborations with Pragmatic.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:

Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and proprietary Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/.

Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.
Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

“Community-driven product development is not just about getting feedback, but about integrating community members and customers into the product development cycle itself.”

• Jake McKee, Community Driven Product Management Leader

• Anubhav Rao, Product Marketing at AWS

"Just start! People are going to hate your product at the start, but you will learn, and you will get better. Failure is a way of learning."
- Sean Gigremosa, Product Leader and CEO of Claritiv

In this episode of Product Chats, we are joined by Sean Gigremosa, a product leader, agile expert, innovation enthusiast, self-described product management ninja and CEO and founder of Claritiv. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities in product management, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the role of AI in extracting valuable insights from conversations.

Key Takeaways:

Talking Points: The conversation emphasizes the crucial role that dialogue plays in acquiring knowledge and generating insights. Sean underscores that 70% of knowledge is learned through conversation. However, notes from a conversation are like a game of telephone where each summary incorporates layers of potential bias. This is an issue because the actual problem could get lost.

That’s why he started Claritiv – an AI powered tool that listens and analyzes conversations across clients, prospects, and departments, allowing you to both pull analysis on specific topics, and find out what emerging topics are important.

Bias in Disguise: Sean shares the importance of removing personal bias in interpreting customer conversations, arguing that AI can provide a more objective analysis of these interactions. AI is only as good as the data being used to train, so believability and accuracy need to be regularly and continually reviewed. Just like children, AI can take on our biases.

Digital Twins, Not Identical: Digital twins are extremely valuable for product managers due to their capacity for detailed simulation and scenario testing. A digital twin is a virtual model that replicates a physical product or system. It can be used to run simulations to predict how a product or system might behave under different conditions. Digital twins can also be used to model and understand user behavior, helping product managers to better design products that meet user needs.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Sean Gigremosa is a product leader with expertise in agile methodologies and a passion for innovation. His journey from product manager to CEO provides him with unique insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field. Known for his ninja-like approach to product management, Sean is the CEO and founder of Claritiv, a company that strives to extract valuable insights from conversations using AI.

Discover more about Sean's work and Claritiv at Claritiv.ai for a free trial and experience how AI-powered tools can prioritize product insights from customer conversations.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:

Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.

Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

“Are we better than the competition, equal to the competition, or not as good as the competition? Do we know? Sales teams can help us answer these questions.”

• Steve Gielda, President and co-founder of Ignite Selling

• Diane Pierson, author of How to Innovate on Purpose 

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Manager certification here

"Disruptive innovation is when a company gets into a new category for them and attempts to engage customers on a different level or via a different set of products."
– Will Scott, Product Expert

In this episode of Product Chats, Rebecca Kalogeris and Will Scott discuss how businesses can approach and structure their thinking around innovation. They focus on the importance of understanding what problems a business is trying to solve, the outcomes they wish to achieve, and how they plan to grow.

Key Takeaways:
Takeaway 1: Innovation isn't just about creating something new; it's about understanding the problems your business is trying to solve and the outcomes you want to achieve.
Takeaway 2: You can view innovation through different lenses - such as customer needs, market maturity, and your business's growth strategies - to determine the right innovation vector for your business.
Takeaway 3: When thinking about innovation, consider the whole ecosystem, not just the product itself. How you package and present your product, as well as how easily customers can interact with your business, can all be avenues for innovation.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Will is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of international experience leading product marketing and management teams across hardware, software, services, and SaaS B2B companies. Originally an engineer by training, Will held senior positions with Cisco, Navisite and Capgemini, along with a range of full-time and fractional CMO positions through his own B2B product management and marketing consulting business.
In addition, Will was also previously a partner at the premier product marketing agency, Aventi Group, and an instructor at the Kellogg School of Management in their executive digital marketing and product strategy programs. Learn more about Will and other Pragmatic instructors here.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Manager certification here

“We can try to take a hypothesis-based mindset to the product that we're trying to build or the ideas that we have or the strategy that we have, and use things like user research or design prototyping to put it into play.”
– David Lifson

In this episode of Product Chats, product management veteran David Lifson joins us to discuss the nuances of product strategy, the challenges of merging with a competitor, and the importance of a hypothesis-based mindset in product development.

Key Takeaways:
Takeaway 1: David highlights the importance of focusing on outcomes over outputs in product management, emphasizing the need to align strategy and execution.
Takeaway 2: David shares insights from his experiences at companies of varying sizes and stages, from startups to large firms, including the unique challenges faced by a company that loses product-market fit.
Takeaway 3: David discusses the process of merging with a competitor from a product perspective, providing a peek into the complex decisions involved in integrating products, teams, and tech stacks.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
David Lifson is a seasoned product management expert with experience at Amazon, Etsy, and many others. He's worked at stealth startups, large companies, and companies at all stages and sizes. He's currently consulting for startups and focused on building great teams that deliver meaningful outcomes. Learn more about David's work here.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:
Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.

Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Manager? Learn more here.

#ProductManagement #ProductManager #ProductManagementCertification #ProductManagementStrategy #PragmaticInstitute

“My hope is that for product leaders and product managers is that in five years time you look back and you say, ‘tools like this have allowed me to free up my time so that I can do more high value work.’” - Paul Young

• The limitations of ChatGPT in its current version
• How ChatGPT can help product managers in their role
• Whether or not they are hopeful for new AI tools like ChatGPT

 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNJI2Tv2yxOLBI02nyJoprA
 Learn more about us: https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/
 Start your Product Marketer certification here

"Journalists are story builders, and you have to always be aware that what you're releasing has to fit the narrative of the story." – Mickie Kennedy

In this episode of Product Chats, Mickie Kennedy joins us to discuss how to craft compelling press releases by understanding the needs of journalists, focusing on storytelling, and considering newsworthy elements. He emphasizes the importance of including standout quotes, presenting data and numbers effectively, and using the human-interest angle.

Key Takeaways:

·     Product marketers and managers should focus on the narrative they're presenting with their press release, ensuring it aligns with the journalist's audience's interests.

·     Including elements such as case studies, testimonials, and relevant data in press releases can make them more appealing and informative.

·     Sharing media coverage with leads and customers can boost conversions and retention by leveraging the credibility that comes with earned media.

About Mickie Kennedy: Mickie is the Founder and President of eReleases, the small business leader for press release distribution, now celebrating 25 years in business. He is an expert at helping businesses increase their visibility and credibility and he’s here to share some valuable insights about how to hone your product release stories to make you irresistible to the media.

ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE:

Since 1993, we’ve provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals to accelerate innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and bolster revenue. Through our comprehensive methods and propriety Pragmatic Framework, we train professionals with the skills needed to accelerate their product management and product marketing careers, increase team efficiency, and boost revenue.

Our online, in-person, and on-demand courses are taught by industry experts with decades of experience at top companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Dell, Hallmark, Quaker Oats, and Dun & Bradstreet. We offer individual course training in product, design and data, and certification tracks for Product Management Certifications, Product Marketing Certifications, and the Pragmatic Product Master Certification. All attendees gain access to the Pragmatic Alumni Community, a network of over 30,000 alumni worldwide.

If you’re looking for product management or product marketing training or are pursuing a product marketing certification or product management certification, browse our certification paths at https://www.pragmaticinstitute.com/product/. Courses are available online, in-person, or on-demand to fit your schedule.

Want to learn more about becoming a Pragmatic Certified Product Marketer? Learn more here.

"Marketing is starting a conversation with someone that could be a great client." - Tom Schwab, Chief Evangelist Officer at Interview Valet

Tom Schwab is a trailblazer in the world of online marketing. With his extensive experience working with over 700 leading brands, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insight to the table. His role as a Chief Evangelist Officer at Interview Valet allows him to share his expertise and help businesses transform their product strategies.

In this episode, Tom Schwab and Rebecca Kalogeris delve into the power of podcast interviews as a platform for marketing. Tom shares invaluable insights on how to identify the right conversations to engage with one's audience, the importance of bringing value during podcast interviews, and the strategies for maximizing the impact of the interview afterwards.

Key Points:
1. The Power of Conversation: Tom emphasizes that marketing is about starting a conversation with potential clients and this can be achieved effectively through podcast interviews.
2. Lookalike Audiences: Tom talks about the concept of "lookalike audiences," where you can find groups of people who share traits or behaviors with your ideal customers. Knowing where to find these lookalike audiences can help you reach potential customers more effectively.
3. Importance of Understanding the Buying Process: Tom points out that more and more, things are being bought, not sold. He emphasizes the need to understand this shift and adapt marketing strategies accordingly. This means focusing on helping potential customers make their buying decision rather than trying to sell to them.

Eager to learn more about marketing tactics and how they can elevate your product strategies? Enroll in our Market class today and learn from industry experts to become a Certified Product Marketer.

"Data is the key to your success in this. Getting data about how your product is being used, getting data about the market and or customers or potential customers validation points on that data is absolutely crucial." - Mike Smart

• Strategic Planning Insights: Mike delves into the critical aspects of strategic planning for the year 2024, focusing on market dynamics, customer validation, and the crucial role of data analysis.
• Four Pillars of Success: He elaborates on the four pillars of strategic planning: aligning with business strategy, in-depth market research, rigorous data analysis, and the efficient use of technology and resources.
• Expectation Management: Emphasizing communication, Mike discusses the importance of managing expectations throughout the planning process.

"As a product leader, you want to be able to come to the table with information that will get you heard. Sometimes it's less storytelling, more data, and really knowing your audience and knowing who you are working with and the way in which they will receive information best." - Josey Borman

In this episode of the Pragmatic Product Chat Series, we are joined by Josey Borman, an EdTech expert and a firm believer in the power of education in product. Having transitioned from being a high school social studies teacher to a product and content development executive in EdTech, Josey brings a unique perspective on leadership, product management, and partnerships.

Key Takeaways:
- The Role of Data: Josey emphasizes the importance of data in making informed decisions, particularly in the area of product management and in deciding potential partnerships.
- Team Management: Josey shares insights on leadership, focusing on understanding audience diversity, nurturing team dynamics, and building relationships for success.
- Exploring Partnerships: Josey provides a detailed approach on exploring partnerships, considering strategic goals, core competencies, and the readiness of the organization to take on new initiatives.

Tune in to this episode to gain insight into Josey's unique approach to product management, leadership, and partnerships. Want to learn more about using data in product practices and decisions? Take our Insight course to turn your data into product strategies.

• Focus on Outcomes, Not Outputs: Learn why focusing on outcomes, rather than mere outputs, is crucial for a successful product launch.
• The Blueprint for Success: Discover Dave’s expertise in establishing clear objectives and fostering collaboration for effective product launches.
• Building Launch Expertise: Understand how BrainKraft equips organizations with structured approaches and governance for repeated launch success.
• Role of PMO: Dive into the critical role of the Program Management Office in ensuring consistent implementation of launch processes across various business units.
• Use Your Resources: Dave shares actionable tips for defining clear launch objectives and highlights BrainKraft's resources for further guidance.

• Keyword Planning: Find out how to use Google's keyword tools to figure out what your competitors are up to and spot trends before they take off.
• Ad Insights: Discover how to see every ad your competitor has run using tools like Google's Ads Transparency Center and similar features on Meta and LinkedIn.
• Staying Alert: Learn to set up Google Alerts in a way that most businesses miss, keeping you informed about your competitors and industry shifts.
• Tech Scouting: Use builtwith.com to learn what tech your competitors are using and how it can give you an edge, whether you're competing or looking for potential clients.

This episode is from our latest Product Chat webinar >> watch the webinar

• Personalization and Customer Data: Learn how personalization shapes buying decisions and why customer data is key to understanding different customer groups.
• Customer Segmentation: Discover various methods of categorizing customers based on their behaviors and attitudes, and the importance of regular evaluation.
• AI-Driven Personalization: Explore practical examples of how AI and machine learning contribute to personalization, like reducing customer churn and recommending products.
• Evaluating Model Success: Understand the need for measuring the performance of personalization models using different metrics and KPIs to align with business goals.
• Building a Strong Personalization Engine: Get actionable advice for creating a data-driven personalization engine that improves customer satisfaction and business growth.

• How influencer marketing is “word-of-mouth at scale” due to loyal niche audiences
• Vetting influencers carefully to avoid fraud and ensure an authentic audience
• Developing genuine relationships and allowing creative freedom for best results
• Measuring influencer impact through trackable links and other metrics
• Case studies of successful influencer campaigns and partnerships
• Why micro-influencers can sometimes outperform celebrity influencers

• Gain a thorough understanding of your buyers and how they like to buy so you can build product marketing strategies that deliver results.
• Align across go-to-market teams by effectively sharing and leveraging your buyer knowledge to prioritize the right product marketing strategies.
• Measure your strategies against the metrics that matter most to your organizations, focusing on outcomes and impact, not vanity.

• The role of collaboration in maximizing the benefits of collective effort, and how inviting diverse strengths in a team can lead to better problem-solving and innovation.
• The difference between “nice” and “kind”
• Why genuine listening and giving others the benefit of the doubt are steps towards understanding and practicing kindness.
• Exploring new tools to measure kindness to offer a glimpse into assessing and enhancing the compassionate culture within teams.

• How to gain alignment in an organization for marketing efforts
• Leveraging the 30, 60, 90 feedback rule
• What it means to use agile marketing plans
• Key components of positioning to communicate value
• Finding growth areas

• Strategies for creating inclusive and secure environments
• The importance of modeling vulnerability and admitting mistakes
• Practical ways to assess and measure psychological safety
• The role of working agreements in establishing behavioral norms
• The impact of psychological safety on team productivity and individual well-being

Check out Dan's recent presentation on psychological safety here.

• Mastering the Pragmatic Framework
• Building and sharing market expertise
• Uncovering strategic opportunities
• Implementation of market-driven strategies

• The myths of internal product management
• The difference between internal and external product management
• How leaders can empower internal product managers