Adventures in Growth

About Adventures in Growth

Adventures in Growth deconstructs success by telling stories from emerging leaders who have followed their own path. We’ll hear directly from innovators operating in the trenches at game-changing tech companies and break down how they’ve thought about building careers, leading outstanding teams, and designing the life they really want. Adventures in Growth is all about revealing the behind-the-curtain perspectives that aren’t part of the regular curriculum. Subscribe for weekly inspiration, insights and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://adventuresingrowth.co

Publisher

Dan James & Andy Hung

Category

business · business · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Jul 2023

Latest episode

5 Jan 2024

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Jan 2024

   E13 | Succeeding in Product Marketing and FinTech with Ed Lin | Former Head of Global Product Marketing for Payments and Point of Sale at Square, First Marketing Hire at Affirm

   Join us as we chat with Ed Lin, former head of global product marketing for payments and point of sale at Square, to unearth the nuances of product marketing in the fast-paced world of FinTech. Listen in as Ed shares his unique journey from finance to tech leadership, providing an inside look at how product marketing serves as the critical link between customer insights and successful go-to-market strategies. Whether you're a budding marketer or an experienced leader, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on how product marketing shapes the development, launch, and growth phases of a product, playing a pivotal role in customer acquisition and retention. In our conversation with Ed, we uncover the key attributes that define a successful Product Marketing Manager (PMM), from customer empathy and strategic thinking to creativity and cross-functional collaboration. Ed emphasizes the importance of leveraging customer insights, market data, and competitive analysis to inform product strategies, and highlights the different skill sets needed at various product life stages. He also sheds light on the nuances of B2B versus B2C marketing, underscoring the need for human-centric messaging and empathy across all audiences. For anyone looking to master the art of product marketing, this episode is an invaluable resource filled with actionable insights. Ed shares his perspective on the essential role of strategic prioritization for business leaders, the distinction between leaders and managers, and the often-misunderstood strategic involvement required in product marketing. Ed also touches on adapting leadership to remote work environments and the value of a mission-driven approach in FinTech. This episode is a treasure trove of advice for anyone aspiring to build a customer-centric company, adapt to leadership challenges, and navigate the complexities of the tech industry with strategic acumen. (0:00:08) - Insights From a Product Marketer Ed Lin's non-traditional journey to tech leadership, transition from finance to digital marketing, and insights on product marketing at Square. (0:12:59) - Successful Product Marketing Manager Key Attributes Successful PMMs need customer empathy, strategic thinking, and cross-functional skills to gather insights, drive growth, and adapt to B2B/B2C marketing. (0:21:38) - Go-to-Market Strategy and Differentiation in Business Positioning, pricing, and channel strategy are crucial for reaching and retaining customers within the Square ecosystem. (0:26:55) - Advice for Building a Customer-Centric Company Strategies for building a Voice of the Customer program, involving cross-functional teams, empowering PMMs, and effective leadership across both traditional and tech-focused companies. (0:34:50) - Adapting Leadership in a Remote Environment Leadership, team management, trust, delegation, minimal remarkable product, fintech, technology, financial access, underserved populations, incumbent banks. (0:47:53) - The Importance of Strategic Product Marketing Prioritization, leadership vs. management, career advice, debunked beliefs, and strategic involvement in product marketing. (0:54:10) - Continuous Marketing for Team Success Continuous marketing is crucial during economic downturns, emphasizing leadership, flexibility, and networking for professional development. Book Recommendation: ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ by Oliver Burkeman Content / Community Recommendation: Product Marketing Alliance Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardlin-sf/ <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=productmanagement&amp;highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7095420799871840256" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

2. 

   15 Dec 2023

   E12 | Unlocking Leadership Coaching Secrets and Redefining Success with Prakash Raman | Executive Coach, Executive Development at Linkedin

   Wouldn't it be refreshing to discover a path to inner peace amidst the relentless pursuit of success? Join us as we explore this intriguing concept with our esteemed guest, Prakash Raman, a high-performance coach to Silicon Valley's top CEOs and executives. Prakash shares his unconventional journey into the realm of executive coaching, revealing how he guides his clients towards inner tranquility while fueling their ambition. Engage with us as we delve into the distinctions between a coach, mentor, and manager, crucial skills such as effective listening, and the profound impact of seeing the goodness in people. As we navigate through this digitally dominated era, we examine the way this remote environment influences coaching sessions, and Prakash provides insight into the struggles of Zoom fatigue. We consider the pivotal qualities that make someone coachable, including an open mindset, an insatiable desire for personal growth, and a clear vision of one's values and goals. We also delve into the concept of life design and discuss how clarity, courage, and resilience can propel success in both personal and professional spheres. In the latter part of our conversation, we discuss self-reflection and compassion, skills that bring us closer to understanding ourselves. Prakash offers exercises like loving-kindness meditations and simple strategies to nurture self-compassion. We also challenge the idea of blindly following passion in career choices, emphasizing the link between intrinsic motivation and external validation. Our conversation wraps up as we explore the notion of life design and how it relates to career success, the importance of intentional decision making, and the elements of successful leadership. So, immerse yourself in our thought-provoking discussion and uncover a whole new perspective on success, leadership, and personal growth. (0:00:08) - The Art of Leadership Coaching Executive coach Prakash Raman discusses finding inner peace, defining success, and the impact of coaching on leadership and personal growth. (0:07:06) - Remote Environment's Impact on Engagement Zoom fatigue, coachability, life design, clarity, courage, and resilience are essential for success in coaching and personal growth. (0:16:25) - Developing Self-Reflection and Compassion Self-reflection, self-compassion, and exercises like loving-kindness meditations can bring clarity and growth in our lives. (0:25:36) - Passion and Skills in Career Journey Nature's role in career choices: understanding strengths, avoiding distractions, and focusing on intrinsic motivation and skill development. (0:31:05) - Life Design and Success in Leadership Life design is crucial for career success, considering all aspects of life, balancing goals, and cultivating habits for intentional and self-aware leadership. (0:44:46) - Exploring Coaching and Leadership Concepts Coaching and leadership benefits, qualities of a successful leader, managing emotions, and impact of AI. (0:51:29) - Challenging Convention and Personal Growth Challenging convention, defining success on own terms, networking hacks, recommended podcasts and books, and emphasizing personal and professional growth. Podcast Recommendations: Andrew Huberman, Michael Lewis, Tim Ferriss Book Recommendations: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman, Anatomy of Peace by the Arbinger Institute Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-raman/ #executivecoaching #coaching #leadership #entrepreneurship #startups #management #careers #personaldevelopment #personalgrowth #innerpeace #businessadvice #companyculture #teambuilding #remotework #adventuresingrowth

3. 

   30 Nov 2023

   EP 11 | Shattering Sales Myths: A Deep Dive into Revenue Operations with Todd Rode | Xevant, Stratasan, Mars

   Can you imagine a world where every department in a company is seamlessly working together to drive revenue? This episode explores that fascinating possibility with our guest, RevOps expert Todd Rode, who reveals the crucial role of RevOps in unifying every aspect of the customer journey. Todd peels back the curtain on the intricate relationship between RevOps and traditional sales, and the potential future of corporate operations. He also shares insights on how RevOps leaders can cultivate operational efficiency and foster a culture of servant leadership. Ever thought about treating your career like an athlete treats their sport? We take a deep dive into the realm of career development, where we explore this compelling concept. We discuss the necessity of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially in a remote work setting. We also challenge some common myths around sales, emphasizing the importance of deal velocity and the role of human psychology in closing deals. Whether you're looking to enhance your career trajectory or simply seeking to better understand your professional strengths, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Finally, we address the significance of process within both large corporations and small, agile startups. Drawing on personal experiences, we discuss how processes are critical to all organizations, debunking the myth that they're only necessary for larger entities. Winding down the conversation, we focus on authenticity, vulnerability, and empathy in the workplace, revealing a unique networking hack that could potentially unlock hidden job opportunities. Enlightening and engaging, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge that will inspire and inform your professional journey. So tune in, lean in, and get ready to revolutionize the way you see your career and work environment. (00:07) Understanding RevOps and the Customer Journey RevOps ties together customer journey, potential for corporate operations, optimizing journey, networking, authenticity, aligning metrics, and differences from traditional sales. (07:05) The Importance of Specializing in RevOps RevOps requires technical skills, project management, a service mentality, self-awareness, and assessments for career progression. (13:25) Efficiency and Customer Insights Maximization RevOps leader adds value through operational efficiency, servant leadership, and collaboration for success in an organization. (23:32) Understanding Self, Finding Right Career Fit Career development, networking, self-assessments, utilizing alumni connections, values and mission in a company, and career guidance. (31:45) Treating Your Career Like an Athlete Treating your career like an athlete: self-care, boundaries, exercise, rest, work-life balance, and prioritizing health for success. (35:08) Sleep Hygiene and Challenging Sales Myths Prioritizing sleep hygiene and challenging sales myths, while incorporating art and science, for a healthy workplace. (44:30) Myths in Companies Guest speaker shares experience in big and small companies, debunking myth that processes are only for big companies. (47:26) Balancing Agility and Processes Nature's processes are crucial for consistency and efficiency, market-based and product-based principles, scalability, and effective feedback utilization. (55:59) Authenticity and Productivity in the Workplace Evolution of leadership in corporate world, embracing vulnerability and authenticity, tapping into hidden job market, and recommended content. (01:01:14) Sales and Consulting Recommendations and Tools Experts in sales, revenue, and processes

4. 

   9 Nov 2023

   EP 10 | From Product Leader to Startup Founder With Stephanie Dorsey | Capital One, Metric Collective, Margins Capital

   Get ready to join me on an exciting journey with Stephanie Dorsey, the founder and CEO of Margin's Capital. Listen in as she recounts her compelling journey from Chief Product Officer to startup executive. Stephanie unveils the origin story of Margin's Capital, the motivation behind her leap into executive leadership, and her innovative approach to product team management. She shares valuable insights on leadership principles and how to evaluate new hires, emphasizing the need for prioritization, psychological safety, and the construction of trusted alliances. Venture further with Stephanie as she unravels her groundbreaking strategy to democratize investing for underserved groups. She lays out her company's mission to provide an alternative to traditional investments that requires no in-depth knowledge of the stock market or venture capital. The conversation uncovers the inspiration behind their diverse portfolio covering private equity, venture capital, spirits, venues, and hospitality. Stephanie explains the process of getting her company registered with the SEC and plans to make it accessible to retail investors. The discussion extends to why her company chose a risk-averse approach to investing for their target audience over focusing only on venture or private equity. Stephanie shares her experiences from transitioning from a large corporate environment to leading a startup. She speaks about the challenges she faced, and how it helped shape her approach to business. We also discuss the highs and lows of her career, emphasizing the importance of service as a leader and manager, and how networking played a crucial role in her success. In the closing segment, we have an open conversation where Stephanie shares her personal rule - to converse with everyone who reaches out, and encourages listeners to adopt the same. She also shares her unique approach to the first 90 days of a new job. Listen in to be a part of this enriching discussion and be prepared to have your views on financial success and doing good broadened. (00:07) Opening Doors Stephanie Dorsey shares insights on product leadership, prioritization, psychological safety, and building trusted alliances to open alternative investing to underserved groups. (10:07) Investing Strategy for Retail Investors Stephanie Dorsey discusses alternative investments, SEC registration, and a risk-averse approach to investing. (21:01) Transitioning to Founder From Large Company Stephanie Dorsey discusses corporate challenges, risk aversion, positives of working in a large organization, and the importance of collaboration. (36:15) Chief Product Officer's Challenges and Growth Stephanie Dorsey shares how she used facts to prioritize product investment and influence people, and her journey to becoming a leader. (48:51) Importance of Authority and Energy in Leadership Create a 90 day plan, listen more than talk, get quick wins, evaluate team members, build social capital. (57:51) Reflections on Career, Leadership, and Networking Stephanie Dorsey challenges convention, emphasizes service, networks, and recommends a book to shift money mindset. (01:06:25) Open and Personal Conversation With Stephanie Stephanie Dorsey encourages conversations with everyone, emphasizes the importance of servicing, and provides advice on starting a new job. Contact Details: Website: marginscapital.com Social Media: Instagram / TikTok / Facebook: @MarginsCapital Email: Sdorsey@marginscapital.com (http://Sdorsey@marginscapital.com) LinkedIn: Stephanie Dorsey (https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniedorsey/) Content Recommendations: Book: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel #Investing #FinancialSuccess...

5. 

   26 Oct 2023

   Ep 9 | Tales from a Successful COO, Kieran Luke | Lunchbox, General Assembly, BCG

   Imagine taking the leap from a secure job to a roller coaster ride of a startup; would you have the guts to do it? If you're someone mulling over a career transition or a tech enthusiast itching to navigate the startup terrain, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Our guest today is Kieran Luke, the accomplished COO at FoodTech Lunchbox. Kieran opens up about his unique career journey, the lessons he learned in the C-suite, and much more. We're unraveling Kieran's transition from consulting to tech, the value of networking, and the influence of mentors. He doesn't shy away from discussing the financial trade-offs of joining a startup, as well as the crucial role of a COO. You'll hear Kieran candidly talk about managing layoffs with transparency and respect, and why a CEO's role is often defined by what they are not. As we round off our enlightening conversation, Kieran shares his take on career development, the importance of adaptability, and the impact of standardized certification. He also shines a light on the value of an executive coach and the importance of investing in a company's mission. We delve into the nitty-gritty of financial risks in startups, and Kieran emphasizes the role of a strong team, a powerful mission, and self-acceptance in leading a successful organization. Not to be missed! (00:07) Exploring Startups and Tech Leadership Kieran shared insights on cash flow, bias for action, startup roles, financial trade-offs, scaling, imposter syndrome and career paths. (07:48) Transitioning Careers and Seeking New Opportunities Discussed importance of networking, criteria for career move, motivations for entrepreneurial path. (12:32) Transition From Consulting to Tech Skills Kieran Luke and I discussed networking, transitioning to tech, and unlearning habits for success. (17:23) Role of CEO and Career Development Kieran found motivation in creating quality products, and emphasizes the importance of having a good boss. (28:42) Key Factors in Managing Layoffs CEO role, downsizing staff, communication, respect, inspiring hope discussed. (31:49) General Assembly and Inspiring Leadership Lessons Kieran Luke discusses taking initiative, self-belief, CEO role, finding a mentor, and strategic decisions. (39:01) Developing Teams and Instilling Confidence Kieran Luke and I discussed self-acceptance, strong colleagues, a powerful mission, executive coaching, and investing in the mission. (45:17) Standardized Certification and Adaptability Importance Kieran Luke shares insights on career journey, CFA coding, B2B enterprise, CEO role, initiative, self-belief, self-acceptance, strong colleagues, and powerful mission. (52:00) Assessing Financial Risks in Startups We consider financials, equity, potential for big outcome, and self-belief when deciding to join a startup. Contact Details: Email: kieranluke@gmail.com (mailto:kieranluke@gmail.com) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieranluke/ Lunchbox: lunchbox.io Book Recommendations: The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins - Practical book on transitioning into a new leadership role Reboot by Jerry Colona - Self-help book on overcoming childhood insecurities and becoming a leader Podcast Recommendations: Trajectory - https://www.trajectorypodcast.com/ All-In - https://www.allinpodcast.co/ How I Built This - https://www.npr.org/series/490248027/how-i-built-this #Startups, #TechLeadership, #CareerTransition, #Consulting, #TechSkills, #CEORole, #CareerDevelopment, #Layoffs,

6. 

   12 Oct 2023

   Ep8 | Launching Cities at Uber, Creative Problem Solving & Innovating Quickly | Leandre Johns (COO at Flowhub, early GM at Uber)

   This week, we’re speaking with Leandre Johns, Chief Operating Officer at cannabis tech startup Flowhub, and previously an early General Manager at Uber. In keeping with the spirit of Adventures in Growth, Leandre charted his course to tech leadership via a non-traditional route, working in cancer research, prior to attaining an MBA at the Kellogg School of Management. Shortly after graduation, Leandre joined Uber to launch and manage the Dallas market as one of the first city GMs outside of the regional headquarters. He later worked in the public policy and vertical takeoff and landing vehicles divisions at Uber before leading operations at Metropolis and Flowhub, where he’s currently the COO. In this episode, Leandre talks about public vs. private approaches to problem solving, his measured approach to taking risks, and hiring well-rounded and diverse teams to fuel creativity. We also discuss the Uber DNA of data-driven innovation and moving quickly, and some of the early experimentation of different splashy offerings through the app, including Aston Martins, BBQ, s’mores, and helicopters. Welcome to Adventures in Growth! Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) (0:00:08) - Leadership and Professional Journey Leandre touches on tech leadership, risk-taking, diverse team-building, Uber DNA, Flow Hub COO role, and cancer research experience. (0:10:05) - Career Transitions and Evaluating Risks Leandre shares his journey from consulting to business school and tech leadership, exploring risk taking strategies. (0:17:26) - Professional Choices and Startup Speed Leandre shares his journey to tech leadership, insights on consulting and startup speed, and the risk benefits of investing in business. (0:21:41) - Risk Reward Calculus Leandre Johns emphasizes due diligence, risk appetite, and crafting an offer to reduce risk and create opportunity in the changing job market. (0:32:46) - The Decision to Join Uber Leandre shares his approach to due diligence before joining Uber. (0:36:05) - Uber's Culture of Experimentation and Innovation Uber's culture of experimentation is outlined, including building a grassroots following, feedback, 'best idea wins' and market tests. (0:50:36) - Uber's Experimentation and Team Building Uber innovated with drone BBQ delivery, Uber Fire, Uber Pet, and cost-benefit analysis to stay competitive. (1:03:06) - Replicating Uber's Success and Lessons Learned Leandre Johns shares his experience of joining Uber, taking risks, and creating innovative solutions to deliver barbecue via drone. (1:15.33) - Quickfire Questions We ask Leandre our set of quick fire questions about leadership, counterintuitive wisdom, and advice he would give himself 10 years ago. Book Recommendation: Premonition, by Michael Lewis Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leandre-johns Email: leandre.johns@gmail.com #entrepreneurship #startups #leadership #management #careers #personaldevelopment #businessadvice #companyculture #teambuilding #remotework #networking #operations #disruptivetechnology #mobility #innovation #cannabistech #adventuresingrowth

7. 

   28 Sept 2023

   Ep7 | From HYPR to Inspire: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Gil Eyal - Founder, Operator, Investor

   Join us on this episode of the Adventures in Growth podcast where we had the pleasure of conversing with Gil Eyal, founder and former CEO of Hypr. Listen in as we discuss the challenging world of startups, the impact of the tech sector downturn, and the constantly evolving property market. Gil offers insights from his journey to tech leadership, the complexities of navigating the market, and the importance of fostering a positive culture within your company. Experience the real and raw truth of being a CEO as Gil shares his experience dealing with influencers, brands, and managing investor relationships. From managing threats of lawsuits to keeping morale high in the workplace, he doesn't hold back. He also recounts the daunting process of selling his company, from the reactions of senior employees to the frustrations of getting everyone's agreement. Finally, glean insights from Gil's experiences in tech leadership, networking hacks, and the lessons he's learned as an investor and business leader. He candidly shares about his non-traditional route to tech leadership, working with influencers and brands, and the strategies he used to motivate his team. So whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an established CEO, or just interested in the dynamics of the startup and property market, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for a journey of entrepreneurial highs, lows, and everything in between. (0:00:08) - Navigating Startups and the Property Market Gil shares his experience transitioning to tech leadership, fundraising, product market fit, building a good culture, and the impact of the pandemic on the property market and tech sector. (0:09:38) - Career Exploration and Decision-Making Process Gil's journey to tech leadership, gaining experience, self-reflection, and understanding the market are discussed. (0:18:49) - Improving Product Understanding for Networking Success Gil shares his approach to market understanding, trade-offs, networking, interview preparation, and leveraging product knowledge. (0:24:18) - From Celebrities to Influencers Gil shares his journey from non-traditional background to tech leadership, creating Hyper to identify and evaluate influencers, de-risking the venture, and advice for finding support. (0:30:47) - The Stressful Role of a CEO CEO and Founder challenges, technological shift, working with influencers and brands, measuring performance, negative publicity, and threats of lawsuits discussed. (0:40:16) - Building a Positive Workplace Environment Gil shares strategies to motivate team, weed out toxic people, and maintain morale while working from home. (0:46:17) - Remote Work and Selling a Company Gil shares strategies for motivating a team, creating an enjoyable office environment, understanding the market, and valuing employees. (0:53:36) - Managing Investor Relationships as CEO Gil reflects on venture-backed businesses, the stress of running a company, being a number two, and being a more effective and efficient CEO. (1:00:53) - Successful Investor and Business Leader Lessons Gil shares strategies for tech leadership, working with influencers and brands, and motivating teams, emphasizing the importance of industry insight. (1:05:03) - Insights From CEOs and Networking Tips Gil discusses the reality of the CEO role, the power of connection, a social media hack, exploding a myth, and a networking hack. Gil’s Recommendations Podcast: Pivot with Scott Galloway and Kara Swisher Book: Buzzmarketing by Mark Hughes Product: claralabs.com - AI-powered personal assistant Contact Gil LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gileyal/ Email GEyal@silvprop.com - for real estate/proptech...

8. 

   14 Sept 2023

   Ep6 | Mastering Biz Dev & Networking: Insights from Kelsey Recht - Founder, Investor and Advisor

   In this episode, dive deep into the highs and lows of founder life. Discover the pivotal role of networking, the secrets to successful relationship building and biz dev, and gain invaluable insights for thriving in the dynamic tech entrepreneurship landscape. (0:00:08) - Sales and Networking in Tech Startups Kelsey shares secrets to success for leading business development, emphasizing sales, networking, customer feedback, and early-stage employees. (0:10:15) - Ideal Sales Hire for Early-Stage Startup Kelsey shares her experience hiring a salesperson for her early-stage startup VenueBook, discussing growth mindset, responding to objections, and customer discovery. (0:17:58) - Challenges in Early Stage Startups Kelsey advises on understanding corporate vs. startup roles, researching potential roles, and asking key questions about runway,identifying root pains, and raising plans. (0:26:39) - Networking and Conversational Work Kelsey shares advice on networking, emphasizing being curious and leveraging high volume and targeted knowledge. (0:37:19) - Sales Approaches for New Products Kelsey discusses the Challenger Sales Method and getting customer feedback to understand pain points and business opportunities (0:45:26) - The Importance of Go-to-Market Strategy Kelsey’s strategies for identifying business opportunities include customer types, networking, and assessing potentials. (0:49:58) - Building Connections Networking, assessing opportunities, leveraging references, customer feedback, cold calling, and creating connections are discussed. (1:01:28) - Quick Fire Questions We ask Kelsey our set of quick fire questions about leadership and being an entrepreneur. Contact Kelsey https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-recht/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-recht/) Kelsey’s Recommendation: Podcast - The a16z Podcast by Stephanie Smith Podcast - Freakonomics Podcast by Stephen J. Dubner Podcast - The Sweaty Startup by Nick Huber Podcast - My First Million by Sam Parr and Shaan Puri #Adventuresingrowth #Curiousoutreach #Networking #Founderchallenges #Techindustrysuccess #Buildingnetworks #Entrepreneurshipinsights #learning #Techblogs #Careergrowth #TechLeadership #BusinessDevelopment #RelationshipBuilding #HiringforGrowth #Salesperson #GrowthMindset #UnexpectedObjections #CustomerDiscovery #BusinessOpportunities #Networking Strategies #Go-to-MarketStrategy #CustomerFeedback #Cold Calling #Tech Entrepreneurship #Successful Founders #Making Decisions

9. 

   31 Aug 2023

   Ep5 | A CMO's Insight into Marketing, Leadership and Careers | Bryan Law (ZoomInfo, Salesforce, Google)

   This week, we’re speaking with Bryan Law, the Chief Marketing Officer at ZoomInfo. In keeping with the spirit of Adventures in Growth, Bryan has arrived via the road less traveled, including a stint in HR consulting and extensive international experience. After obtaining his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, Bryan assumed Leadership positions at Salesforce, Google, and Tableau, setting him up for success leading marketing at a multi-billion dollar company. In this episode, we discuss the value of pattern recognition, the importance of brand psychology, and approach to developing the right mindset as a first time CXO. We’ll take a deep dive into Bryan’s thoughtful insights on building and empowering teams, leveraging professional networks, and what it takes to build trust and credibility in the first 90 days. Welcome to Adventures in Growth! Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) (0:00:08) - Entrepreneurial Growth and International Experience We explore Bryan’s success in the tech industry by discussing pattern recognition, brand psychology, building teams, trust, and career journey. (0:10:08) - Networking for Career Success Bryan shares a story about his time in Mozambique about how he leveraged relationships to open doors for opportunity, building high performing teams and creating a winning environment. (0:16:52) - Career Growth and Mentorship in Marketing Bryan discusses the importance of team building and domain expertise as a CMO. (0:27:24) - Building a Mentoring and Coaching Culture Bryan describes how he sets expectations and provides feedback to foster a team-first culture with values of customer obsession, prioritization, inclusion, and data-driven innovation. (0:36:45) - Effective Leadership and Building Credibility Bryan shares tips on team structure, expectations, and networking to build credibility quickly within the first 90 days on the job. (0:46:38) - Quick Fire Questions We ask Bryan our set of quick fire questions about leadership, marketing, and networking. Contact Bryan https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanbasdenlaw/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanbasdenlaw/) Bryan’s Book Recommendations: How Brands Grow by Byron Sharp Building Distinctive Brand Assets by Jenni Romaniuk Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug The Leader's Brain by Michael L. Platt, Rudy Sanda, et al. #Adventuresingrowth #Leadershipinsights #Teambuilding #Brandpsychology #Internationalexperience #Networking #Marketingstrategies #Brandassociations #Cognitiveprocesses #Go-to-market #CMO #Strategies #Pattern Recognition #Trust #Credibility #Salesforce #Google #CustomerObsession #Prioritization #Data-DrivenInnovation

10. 

    17 Aug 2023

    Ep4 | Unlocking Success in Product Management | Mads Johnsen (LinkedIn/Uber/Calm/McKinsey)

    This week, we’re speaking with Mads Johnsen, the former Chief Product Officer at Calm. In keeping with the spirit of Adventures in Growth, Mads charted his course to tech leadership via a non-traditional route, working as a software engineer at Nokia before obtaining his MBA at the Kellogg School of Management. After grad school, Mads worked as a consultant at McKinsey, and held product leadership roles at Linkedin and Uber before joining Calm. In this episode, we talk about the impact of AI, the tradeoffs between specializing and retaining professional optionality, PM archetypes, and hiring from non-tech backgrounds. Mads has incredible perspectives on professional development in product management and the future of the CPO role, and we’ll take a deep dive into how he has built and led high performing product teams. Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) Timestamp: (0:00:00) - AI's Impact on Product Management Mads shares insights on product teams, PM archetypes, AI, and the CPO role. (0:10:33) - Impact of Storytelling to Create Strong Product Visions and Building Alignment Mads provides strategies for leveraging storytelling and metaphors to create a strong product vision and building alignment. (0:15:57) - Successful Onboarding and Documentation Standards Mads shares advice on taking advantage of the first 90 days on the job as an executive to build and lead teams.. (0:26:37) - Assessing Team Dynamics to Create High Performance Teams Mads talks about utilizing his skills to identify team members' mindsets and performance criteria and advice on building high performance teams, setting expectations, and succeeding in a new role. (0:34:06) - Product Management Skills and Archetypes Mads’ product management approach focuses on efficient documentation, communication, understanding domains, product archetypes, storytelling, and team success. (0:44:13) - Career Specialization vs Optionality Mads emphasizes the tradeoffs between career specialization and optionality, diversity of experience, and learning new skills. (0:52:11) - Product Leadership Mads discusses inspection, feedback, product reviews, and rewards to ensure high performance and bridge the gap between product and commercial outcomes. (1:02:43) - Quick Fire Questions We ask Mads our set of quick fire questions about leadership and he shares networking, growth mindset, and success measurement tips. Contact Mads: https://madsjohnsen.com/ (https://madsjohnsen.com/) Mads’ Recommendation: Book - How Will You Measure Your Life by Clayton M. Christensen, James Allworth, et al. Book - Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport Book - High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove #adventuresingrowth #personaldevelopment #productmanagement #AI #tech #CPO #second-orderquestions #creativity #adaptability #empowerment #accountability #incentives #inspection #feedback #careergrowth #careerswitching #performancemanagement #techinnovation

11. 

    30 Jul 2023

    Ep3 | The Power of Mentorship & Coaching in Talent Development | Jenn Yee (HelloFresh/HR Consulting/Founding Partner)

    In this episode of Adventures in Growth, we interview Jenn Yee, a writer, comedian, and expert in learning and development. We discuss the distinction between mentorship and coaching, the importance of talent in organizations, and the impact of HR on business success. Jenn shares her insights on how to build an engaged and productive workforce and challenges traditional definitions of success. Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) Timestamp: (0:00:00) - Mentorship and Coaching in Leadership Development Jenn and we discussed mentorship, coaching, taking over roles, and career growth. (0:16:38) - Startup Goal Balancing Organizational debt, leadership buy-in, founder's values, and team development are discussed to achieve long-term sustainability. (0:23:20) - Building Influence Through Relationships and Data We discussed building relationships, data-driven influence, and the value of employee engagement roles. (0:26:26) - Unconventional Path to HR Success Jenn shared her story of taking a risk and embracing unconventional career paths, understanding leaders' needs and challenges to create influence, and building relationships. (0:42:06) - Retaining Talent With HR Retention, employee engagement, productivity, performance, turnover, training, and investing in people are discussed. (0:45:06) - HR and People in Business We ask Jenn for what she believes to be the true definition of HR and discuss HR's potential to engage different generations, understanding leaders' needs, and increase employee engagement and learning (0:55:18) - Quick fire questions We ask Jenn our set of quick fire questions about leadership and misconceptions about people ops leadership roles. Contact Jenn: https://www.jennyee.me/ (https://www.jennyee.me/) Jenn’s Recommendation: Book - Designing your work life by Bill Burnett, Dave Evans Book - Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Podcast - Rethinking by Adam Grant Podcast - The Happiness Lab by Dr. Laurie Santos #adventuresingrowth #leadershipdevelopment #talentmanagement #mentorship #coaching #HR #peopleoperations #organizationaldevelopment #employeeengagement #businesssuccess #talentretention

12. 

    28 Jul 2023

    Ep2 | From Marine Corps Officer to Tech Leader | Mauro Mujica-Parodi (Salesforce, Narrative Science, McKinsey)

    Mauro Mujica Parodi, VP of Product Management at Salesforce, shares his insights on a range of topics including generative AI, leadership, and building trust within a team. He emphasizes the importance of creating great products, putting the unit first, and finding the right balance between hard work and smart work. Mauro also highlights the role of luck in success and the value of hiring adaptable individuals. Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) Timestamp: (0:00:00) - Generative AI and Creating Great Products Generative AI's exponential growth, creating great products, money and ethics in tech, and Mauro’s journey at Salesforce and Narrative Science are discussed. (0:09:21) - Leadership and Career Transitions Former marine's journey to tech, abstracting knowledge, lateral thinking, problem solving, information operations, marketing, and translating experiences for new contexts. (0:18:40) - Leadership Principles for Success Building trust as a leader involves forming opinions quickly, leading from the front, having a greater purpose, and understanding service. (0:28:11) - Finding Purpose and Balance in Work Motivating teams with purpose, assessing workloads, prioritizing life, hard work strategically, and creating a clear culture are discussed. (0:36:19) - Hiring Philosophy and Creating Value Hiring for success requires inquisitive, motivated people with sound judgement and self-awareness, avoiding 'brilliant jerks' and recognizing 'silent, quiet all stars'. (0:47:00) - Leadership and Optimizing Impact Leadership, ambitious visions, structural milestones, work-life balance, and principles are discussed to optimize progress. (0:50:41) - Building Agile Units and Hiring Athletes We emphasize adaptability, hiring athletes, intangible skills, and abstracted qualities for successful transitions. (0:54:21) - Quick fire questions We ask Mauro our set of quick fire questions about leadership and setting a high bar. Contact Mauro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauromujicaparodi/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauromujicaparodi/) Mauro’s Recommendation: Book - Waking Up by Sam Harris Podcast - The Knowledge Project by Shane Parrish #adventuresingrowth #Salesforce #generativeAI #AI tools #ethics in technology #leadership principles #unconventionaljourney #Marine Corps #techindustry #businessimpact #personalgrowth #teambuilding #curiosity #drive #self-awareness

13. 

    27 Jul 2023

    Ep1 | Adventures in Growth Podcast Intro | Hosts: Dan James & Andy Hung

    In the first episode of the Adventures in Growth podcast, hosts Dan James and Andy Hung introduce themselves and share their motivations for creating the show. They discuss their personal journeys into the tech industry and the inspiration behind their desire to share the stories of exceptional founders and leaders in startups and tech. The episode sets the stage for future conversations about building careers, leading teams, and designing a fulfilling life in the tech industry. About Dan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielhjames/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielhjames/) Dan is a product leader and entrepreneur, who has built and led teams in Fintech, Insurtech SasS and Enterprise. He cut his product teeth at Zynga, built products using ML, NLP and CV, before founding Canopy, a fintech company that provided collaborative financial tools and shared debit cards for family caregivers. Dan lives in the Bay, and advises startups in travel, insurtech, proptech and AI/ML. He is exploring the power of community, the application of AI and NLP in new ventures before he dives into his next (ad)venture. About Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-hung-712b721/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-hung-712b721/) A CMO and 4x marketplace unicorn growth leader, Andy started his career in tech as an early GM at Uber, launching and managing cities across the Midwest. He has since led marketing and advised high-growth marketplaces across energy, tech, healthcare, and real estate. Andy lives in Austin and is particularly interested in mobile behavioral economics, or why having a supercomputer in our pockets is fundamentally changing the way we think. Subscribe for free to receive updates, insights, and adventure from the next generation of tech leaders at http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/ (http://www.adventuresingrowth.co/) #adventuresingrowth #techindustry #startups #unconventionalbackground #journeys #leadership #growthmindset #lifedesign #C-suite #insights #careertransitions

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